weekend reading....

Upon the discovery of the Wall Street Journal Weekend Edition, I have also discovered how this weekend issue has the best section of any newspaper, Off Duty.  I thoroughly enjoy the Travel section of the New York Times and even the Sunday Styles, but the Off Duty section of the WSJ has it all.  From food to fashion, design and adventure or travel and gear, it’s just what I love to read.  It’s a comprehensive guide to what I want and want I want to do this weekend.  I can find a place to start a new adventure, make dinner for friends this weekend and dress myself head to toe in the seasons fashions.  It allows me to dream and brainstorm ideas of things to do and see.  Though the price range is a bit out of my budget, it’s no deterrent, that’s what dreaming is for.  As an avid reader of ReadyMade, the DIY Bible, I see things a little differently.  Though Chanel may sell a crocheted purse for thousands, I have the knowledge to make one myself and am able to take pride in the work I have done.  Many think craftiness is kitschy, a dead art but the recent resurgence of young, crafty, homegrown demographic is growing.  Many think being artsy and crafty are the same, and they can be, but I tell you I am no artist, just someone who enjoys making something for one’s self instead of buying a bunch of garbage made in China.  When they say we should support “Made in USA”, develop a hobby, even if it is making your own jam from fruit bought at the local farmers market or Whole Foods.  As the weeks go by I find myself looking forward to this piece of paper that brings me so much joy.  I read what blouse looks good with my loafers for the office holiday party but also how Lambrusco is not dead and though maybe a lost art, the importance of writing a “real” Thank You is one of the most genuine things a person can do.  I have even pondered the likelihood that my dad would enjoy some fine canned fish, he does love his kippers.  But there is more to it than consumerism, pointers on how to enjoy the mood of a burning fireplace, with no flip of the switch or how to properly shine your shoes.  The layout is great, the photographs, eye-catching, and I am always left wanting more.  Now the waiting game begins......until next weekend.

           -LuRee

     ~WSJ~     ~ReadyMade~    ~Style~     ~Travel~    ~Made In USA~     ~Crafty CoCo~    ~Austin Craft Mafia~

thumb butte....

Starting the day a bit lazy, I awoke later than planned.  I believe my days off tend to start this way, a bit unfortunate.  But then the day happens, a dizzying whirlwind of adventure, spontaneity and some good wholesome fun.  Grabbing some grub from the Ranch before heading out, Melinda and I chat about the day ahead.  Leading the way we take Highway 89 north toward Prescott.  The road is long and winding the entire way, my kind of highway.  From Congress Highway 89 clings to the Bradshaw Mountains, over Yarnell Hill and into People's Valley.  Ranches line the roadway, set to a backdrop of mountains in the distance.  Upon arriving in Prescott, the increase in elevation is apparent.  The air a little thinner, the day is chilly and breezy, the kind of weather that turns your nose and cheeks pink.  We decide to head to Thumb Butte, Gurly Street leads us west out of town.  A small recreational area sits at the base of Thumb Butte, there are multiple day use picnic areas, parking and a few trailheads from this site.  Thumb Butte, trail 33, is less intense if hiked to the right, this is a more gradual increase.  The area is a great spot for outdoor activity that is close to town, many people bring their dogs here for a walk.  Depending on the season is it possible to climb to the top of the butte.  In winter and spring, hiking is permitted, however climbing the butte is not, the closure is due to Peregrine Falcon nesting.  On this day, we are lucky enough to see a falcon floating on the breeze, hunting.  Educational exhibits dot the trail and we are also able to learn about the flora and fauna of the area.  Different types of cacti and shrubs are scattered throughout the hike.  And trees such as Alligator Juniper, the bark of which looks of brown alligator skin, is quite intriguing.  The types of plants at this elevation (5354 ft.) greatly varies, a crossover area, it contains both desert and alpine species.  After the hike I make a quick stop in town for hot water to make tea, a great way to warm up, then set a course for home.

Resources:
< City of Prescott >
< Yavapai County Native >
< & Naturalized Plants >
< Trails.com >
< US Forest Service >