On March 6, my 82-year-old mother and I embarked on a journey from grey, rainy Michigan to the dry, sunny landscapes of southern Arizona, along with our two enthusiastic dogs and an array of art supplies. The road wasn't easy, with three days of relentless wind and rain hindering our sightseeing adventures. Our snapshots of the Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, Texas, were taken from the safety of our car, as stepping out would have felt like being swept away by the wind and sideways rain. Fortunately, on the fourth day, the weather cleared, treating us to breathtaking views of New Mexico and Southeastern Arizona, particularly enchanting as we crossed the Dragoon Mountains and descended from Chochise’s Stronghold to our new valley home.
Meanwhile, my husband Ken had been in Arizona since January, living in an RV and tirelessly working on building our new house, sometimes with the help of a visiting friend or family member, as well as a few small crews. Despite the challenges, he managed to erect walls, install doors and windows, put up a roof, establish water and electricity (via solar power), and even set up a functional toilet. While our living conditions were still basic, with a temporary kitchen equipped with a camp stove and a compact fridge, the progress was remarkable considering the short time frame. However, it meant we would continue to sleep in the RV for the time being.
The transition to our remote seasonal home brought a mix of emotions. I felt immense joy and relief at being reunited with my family in this new setting, yet I also felt overwhelmed. Emerging from a long bout of depression, compounded by health issues and the upheaval of relocating my business across the country, I found myself grappling with heightened anxiety and a sense of disconnection. In a spontaneous move, I decided to set aside my phone for what ended up being three weeks. It wasn't a deliberate choice; rather, my attention naturally shifted towards more immediate concerns—building our home, creating jewelry in my new workshop, prioritizing healthy meals, and embracing restorative sleep—all while immersing myself in the beauty and history of my new surroundings.
Three weeks later, our little house boasts a fully functional bathroom, two cozy bedrooms, and laundry facilities, marking a significant milestone in our journey. The cacophony of static and noise in my mind has subsided, replaced by a newfound clarity and sense of purpose. I felt reinvigorated, shedding old habits and embracing healthier ones. As I woke up each morning refreshed and free from anxiety, I realized the transformative power of disconnecting from the digital world and reconnecting with the simple joys of physical labor, creative efforts, and mindful living.
Now, as I seek to rebuild confidence in my business and personal relationships after my unanticipated hiatus, I reflect on the lessons learned. While I might approach things differently in the future, I wholeheartedly endorse the value of disconnecting from technology for meaningful periods, immersing oneself in the natural world, and allowing space for inner turmoil to unravel. To all who have supported me with care, patience, and understanding, I extend my heartfelt gratitude.