happy 100 Arizona

I know it's Valentine's Day for 49 out of 50 states, but it's also Arizona's 100th birthday! How fun for my little state. When I was in school, I always got a kick out of the fact that Arizona got its statehood on February 14th. Pretty cool.

So, what do I love about Arizona?

1. Sure, it's hot in the summer, but you don't have to shovel sunshine, right?

2. Variety: you can golf one day and ski the next. We actually have (I'm pretty sure) around seven different climate zones in the state.

3,  Desert camping. Yes, we camp up north during the summer, but the camping trip pictured was New Year's Day weekend. Yes, that's January 1st. Camping and hiking in the desert is awesome.

4. Our dramatic sunsets. No lie - this photos is straight out of the camera. Sweet.

5. Wearing shorts and flip flops year round. Well, not so much on the shorts for me; but yes on the flips. Hee.

6. Location, location, location. You thought I was going to say "friends", right? Well that is certainly true, but unique to Arizona is how close we are to great destinations. Whether it's a quick shopping trip to Flagstaff (pictured), or six ladies jumping in the Suburban for a 6 hour ride to California. Love how close we are to LA and San Diego. Lucky.

7. You have probably picked up from reading my blog that we spend a LOT of time outdoors. From parties in the front yard, to bonfires in the back, outdoor life can't be underestimated. Year round beautiful weather and nary a bug to be seen. Love that.

8. Saguaros: love the majesty of these cacti. Only found in our state. Did I say that I loved them?

9. Great eats. We may not be "known" as a great food city, but we have many, many gems that just aren't found in other places. Authentic mexican food is just the beginning.

10. It might be Tristam's influence (he's an architect), but I love the Southwest's style. We have such great homes, resorts, and businesses here in Arizona. It would take a lifetime to see them all. Such fun.

So, there's my Arizona pitch. Any other Arizonans want to speak up? Or, if you have visited here, what did YOU love?

Happy Birthday, Arizona!
Later. 

Comments

[jessica]

Agree, agree, and agree! Although I would add one more thing: it's also a shopper's paradise! Ha!

[Alice Golden]

Have loved visiting Arizona... my grandparents retired to New Mexico and the southwest is a beautiful part of the country... I think New England's fall foliage, oceans, and snow are pretty good too... however, you have us beat - hands down - on the no bug thing... mosquitos have put a big damper on many a summer evening. Happy 100!

[A Facebook User]

Love this great state too! I love the signs that have gone up around the freeways too! I need to get a picture of one! :) Can I say Last chance? ;)