Arizona. It's more than just a desert.-

I Actually cannot believe this day has come. I have finally been approved to live and work in the United Kingdom. I can finally be reunited with my husband! Even writing this now, it seems like a dream. I've been waiting so long for this to come, that I honestly can't believe that it's happened. I am so excited for my next adventure, but that means the end of this one.

I never thought I would get to live here, in Arizona. To tell you the truth I never really had the desire. I always thought why would I live in a desert where it's dusty and brown, but when my parents relocated here in February of last year they asked me to join them. I had just moved back to Iowa from Los Angeles and trying to save money for my wedding. Iowa is great, I grew up there, but they were trying to sell there house. So in September of 2014 I decided, what the hell, lets do this! Guys, it's absolutely amazing. I've found out that it is so much more than just a desert, and the people here could not be more friendly. A lot of them are actually non-natives, many actually from the Midwest!

And speaking of Midwesterners, I got the best gift this Tuesday/Wednesday. My cousin and Best friend missed her connecting flight and was stuck in Phoenix. It was like the stars aligned for 24 hours and it was the best day (or second best day) ever. I've been here since September, but I haven't really had a chance to be a tourist. I've taken hikes with my parents and I actually got my wedding dress in Old Town Scottsdale, but I never really got a chance to see everything. This was the perfect excuse and I loved every minute of it. If you ever get a chance to come here make sure you make your way down to old town. It's got amazing restaurants and a great cowboy vibe. Hit up Salty Senorita for some tacos and the Sugar Bowl for an ice cream dessert. One of our favorite places was the Mexican Imports shop. We were obsessed with these cute Frida Kahlo shopping bags and they have a ton of colorful and amazing knick knacks to brighten up your life. I also really enjoyed hiking at Santan mountain. There are actually several places to hike in AZ. Some are a lot of work like Camelback, and others like Santan are a bit easier.

I'm really going to miss living here. There's so many cool restaurants, shops, and mountains to climb. I'm glad my parents are here so I can visit whenever I need a bit of sunshine.

Follow me on Instagram! @Chorstmann and on Twitter @Chelhorstmann