From the Old North State we call home, to the tropical vistas and sounds of Hawaii I recently shared, our family travels have brought us through another major transition in climate and scenery. We now find ourselves in the heart of the Arizona West. 

Visiting this area again, this year has been a much-anticipated event. As we enjoy the privilege of caring for our grandchild, while my daughter completes another round of in-person studies for her fellowship in integrative medicine, we find ourselves looking at “our mountain” with deep satisfaction, awe, and reverence. 

I think I shall never tire of this view! 

The legally protected, wild Saguaro cactus can be found sprouting high on the rocky hillsides of the mountains. 

Knowing that some Saguaro can take up to 10 years to grow just one inch, and that it may take 50–75 years for its first arm to appear, gives one pause to contemplate the very meaning of life. 

Some Saguaro cacti can live up to 300 years. So, how old do you think this one just outside our Airbnb backyard might be? 

The accordion-like folds of the Saguaro expand to hold water, allowing these giants to weigh several tons when fully saturated! 

The peace of our former tropical views has given way to the mystical pull of ancient rocky mountains and the surrounding growth of all types of cactus. 

I literally stand in wonder, resting in the quiet power of these structures around us. The sky seems to take on new hues, the clouds are closer, and our silent mountain seems to speak to my soul. 

Next week, I’ll be sharing the results of our personal experiences with auricular (ear) beading and acupuncture! 

I’ve already seen an impressive result from an acupressure technique used on a 3½-year-old! 

In a different level of health out West –

Deidre