Camelback Mountain

I started my day early, but not too early, since I did not set an alarm and wok up when I felt like it, and it was 6:43 here, but 9:43 in Baltimore, so in fact I slept in. I walked toward Camelback mountain, which is the only elevation I could see after walking out of the hotel. I had no idea how to get to the trailhead, but kept the mountain in front of my nose, and encountered quail and rabbits on the way to the 'Cholla' trailhead. There were several hikers on the trail, and I climbed a bit, but turned around, since I had no water, nor had I told anyone where I was going, nor was I equipped with proper footwear or clothing.

It was a lovely morning, bright with sunshine and warm but hot sweltering, and it felt good to be out and get my requisite dose of Vitamin D. It was reassuring to see mountains all around, since even having walked around Scottsdale, I was overwhelmed with the flatness of everything, and missing any perception of elevation. There are in fact mountains in each direction.

I joined the meeting in my sweaty walking clothes for breakfast and a panel I paid little attention to. When I returned to my room I had to pack as well as shower and change, and I came to the talk late. I am frustrated by the lack of facts and useful information at the meeting. There are almost no physicians here, and I understand why. I questioned being here, but stayed for most of the day. When I finally could not sit any longer, I took another walk looking at the vegetation and more rabbits and quail (obviously doing well here) before another body treatment/massage (I could get used to this!).

I like the desert, but it is very very hot. I did not realize when I was walking yesterday that it was 100 degrees, so very extreme!!!! I can imagine it being oppressive and overwhelming after a while, but people here seem to like it and appreciate it. The hikers at Camelback this morning were all enthusiastic and energetic and all had ample water with them. I guess hiking at 7 AM makes perfect sense. The mall attracts most of the population. It is truly a gorgeous mall, as malls go, with great stores and nothing tacky or tasteless in it. Shopping is clearly a favourite pastime here, and evidently the locals are able to afford the best stores. There is no evidence of economic difficulties here. Scottsdale is clearly upscale, I am sure Phoenix is different. I like that everything looks so clean and crisp here, so different from Baltimore, and the East coast.

When I visit the west I am reminded that I am a westerner, and I have always been a stranger on the east coast. I wonder when I will move back, to Utah or California or British Columbia or anywhere west of the Rockies. I know I need mountains, or some sort of elevation, but I think that is the only requirement.