We are staying at an RV resort near the foothills in Yuma, Arizona along with my brother and sister-in-law. It is a 55+ community, and I am the youngest winter resident. They call me “the youngster.”
It is warm and sunny most days. The temperature dips enough at night so that we must run the heat but rises quickly with the morning sun shining in our windows. Most days we need to open our windows to let in cool air.
We have a resident Road Runner who hangs around the park because some dear old soul feeds him.
I spend my time participating in water aerobics for my fibromyalgia pain, walking the Westie around the park and in the desert, bicycling, joining the craft circle, reading, writing, trying new recipes, hanging out in the laundry room (I’m not allowed to use my own washer here), and listening to the wisdom of the dear old women.
On my dog walks I pass park models belonging to permanent residents and hear someone playing old songs on a piano, or the strains of Bobby Gentry singing “Harper Valley PTA” on the radio. Everyone loves Duncan the Westie. He is a happy little dog who likes everyone he meets whether they are two-legged or four-legged. He always brings a smile to the faces of those we encounter.
The residents love cards games, billiards, shuffle board, bingo and the popcorn machine. Our chuckwagon happens to be located right next to the shuffle board court. The teams are made up of men and women; women who wear rainbow decorated and sparkly sun visors.
The U.S. Marine Corps Air Station is located in Yuma, and from time to time we see impressive jets flying overhead in formation. Sometimes we hear the Marines target practicing on the proving grounds.
We drink reverse osmosis water; water that has been through a filtration process because the water here it is full of minerals rendering it undrinkable. There are water stations all over Yuma where you can purchase RO water for around 50 cents per gallon. We have RO water here at the park. Donations for the water are encouraged.
We are very fortunate to have found a church we really like. The beliefs, atmosphere and dynamics of churches are all so different that it can be hard to find the right fit, but Legacy church suits us.
We took a weekend trip up to Surprise, AR to visit with our RV friends Trevor and Roni for a weekend. We always enjoy their company and have fun together. We had an outdoor picnic on a beautiful day in December! The visit ended too quickly.
Dick and Donna's house is on the same street, kitty-korner from us which makes it very convenient.
We are living peacefully enjoying the sunshine and mild temperatures. It’s nice to sit still for a good length of time absorbing this desert experience and getting to know the folks around us.
G and my brother Richard.
Surprise, AZ
