WHY WE LIKE SEDONA!

When we first arrived and settled in, on 'weather days' we used to grab our camera and run outside to take pictures. Rain running down the 'slick rock' and glistening in the haze of the clouds. Our first snow. The little quail families that putter around under the bushes. It was like we could build an album just from our front porch!

Then there's the drive home from Flagstaff or Cottonwood at night, and seeing the little lights of Sedona in the distance. It felt and still feels like a litte fairy-book village at night, so quiet. The town 'shuts down' about 6pm or so and then it's a few cars now and then. And a big starry sky to amaze.

They call it 'GumptionFest', where some experienced musicians put together an annual festival for new-comer musicians and artists. High school students up on stage playing their hearts out. We stroll among new poets, with a crowd intently listening.

Habitual living. Doing the same thing over and over and over. But mornings in Sedona. Each day seems to break the 'habit'. Crisp air. Birds arriving (where DO they sleep?). The local rabbit peering around to see if the hawk is awake yet. Yes, Sedona breaks the habit of living.

People SO intent on their opinions. When we first arrived, we wondered WHY Sedonans seem to get SO emotional? We thought it might be the red rocks! All that rust! Actually, Sedona attracts 'thinking people' and thinking people get down to business! And when the letters to the editor in the Red Rock News get a little too 'snoozy', the editor steps up to the plate, requiring an apology the next day. People care here.

Putting on your hiking shoes, a leash on the pooch, and heading out the door. Hiking. We find this so amazing. We're used to loading up the car, driving an hour or so, and then wondering whether the car will be safe. Even more amazing is what you see during the hike. The rocks, plants and little animals. Goodness, life is great!

Wandering into the Sedona Art Center to see what's new. Deciding to explore the galleries just in case a new artist 'just can NOT be believed!' And best of all, visiting the homes of the artists and seeing what art really is. People and dreams. Where 'its not just a piece of art'.

Car needs fixing. Call the mechanic. 'Yas, bring it in about ten and ve'll take a look.' It's 10:45 and the mechanic arrives. Smiles. We shake hands, discuss the problem and he gets to work. Sedona is a slower pace of attitude. Relax!

Lamb-stew and hominy. Mmmm that sounds good. Check the gas gage, and head up to the Hopi Reservation. Chat a little with server about autumn approaching. After the meal, checking out the jewelry shop next door and getting a 'fix' of piki bread. This is what is important in life.

Honestly, Sedona is whatever you make of it. If you're expecting it to 'feed you', you'll be disappointed. Spend a year, and you're gone. But Sedona lets you grow. Learn new things. See your own weaknesses. Plus stengths in others. It's a good little town to become you.