It’s July in Arizona and that means we have “Weather”. Things like rain and wind – strong wind…and dust storms. This is big news for us because it’s usually Hot, Dry and, well….Hot.
In Phoenix,the arrival of a summer dust storm is often called a Haboob. As in, there is a Haboob rolling in from Casa Grande. We even make the national news from time to time.
Courtesy of ABC 15 news
I lived in Tucson for 25 years and we never had these. I’m guessing it’s because Tucson is surrounded by mountains on all four sides of the city. Phoenix is a bit more spread out and the “mountains” don’t form the same pattern.
Did you just detect a bit of mountain snobbery there? Why, yes you did! I freely admit it and am not ashamed to say that for me, in Arizona, there is nothing like Mt. Lemmon. It was there I experienced many a ditch day from the boredom of my high school years. It was there I took my children to escape the oppressive heat of the brutal Arizona summers. Most importantly, it was there I introduced my daughters to the man, that less than a year later, I would marry. It is one of the most beautiful spots in Arizona to gaze upon as the sun is setting. The mountain range turns a dusty purple and you can see such depth and dimension in all the hidden canyons and rock formations.
I include this on my wine blog Why? Well, because I love weather. I love the clouds, the sky, the stars, and magnificent rain storms…..I should have been a Meteorologist. In fact, in 5th grade that’s what I wanted to be when I grew up. And because I can’t stop pulling out my iPhone, snapping pictures and filtering them through Camera+, I feel compelled to share the beauty I find with you.
The Wine…
If I was drinking wine during a summer monsoon storm it would be a Viognier (Vee-own-yay). I first tried this floral, fruity white wine at Trefethen Vineyards on a wine country trip about 4 years ago and fell in love with it. I find it delicate in aroma, but it definitely has enough body to stand up to Thai or Chinese food, as well as heartier fish and chicken dishes. You don’t hear much about this Amazing varietal but if you get a chance to taste – do so! Darioush is another favorite Viognier of mine. We purchased several bottles last year when visiting the Napa Valley area. We made an unexpected (but most enjoyed!) stop at this Persian style winery on our way back to San Francisco.
The Music…
So, the music I would be listening to during this storm would be an instrumental ditty called Pretty Donna by Collective Soul. They are one of my all time favorite groups! Did I mention I LOVE Collective Soul? Yes I did and Yes I do!!
One last note – today was my Grandson’s last day with me and I couldn’t believe what he asked for…..his chocolate chip cookie…..the one from Sunday, well over a week ago…..the one that I ate just after he left for a several day visit to my Mom’s house. I had to do some serious distracting on that one! Check out my earlier blog post about his cookie here.
I leave you with a picture of my silly greyhound Crystal paying homage to the Sleep Gods….She loved having my grandson around. He, however, wasn’t so sure about her. I suppose it can be intimidating have a dog stare you eye to eye when you are standing.
Yes, She really sleeps this way!
Enjoy your week and Cheers to you!
My Love Affair With The Vine 