A Newbie's Reflections of Tucson

This was my first trip to Tucson. Nothing is better for the soul than being surrounded by friends and family who share the passion for Swarovski Elements. Here are some tips and vignettes of my trip.

1. Take classes!

I had the pleasure of taking classes held by my sister Ambassadors, Debra Saucier and Anna Elizabeth Draeger. They are phenomenal woman who have such an eye for colour and design. It doesn't matter how old you are, how long you've been beading or your level of expertise - you will always learn something new taking classes.

2. Schedule in time for bead shopping.

I definitely underestimated my bead shopping time. You will need to at least double your allotted time! As you wander the rows and rows of delicious new products, you will inevitably run into friends and start chatting and comparing what you've bought. They will show you something that you missed and then you will want it. And want it NOW! So make sure that you plan your shopping excursions carefully. Don't try to hit every show - because there just isn't time. I explored The Best Bead Show, Too Bead True Blue and the Tucson Bead Show. That was only 3 shows and I know that I missed alot of vendors.

3. Bring lots of moisturizer.

I'm from Toronto, Canada where there is a lot of humidity. Tucson is dry. Very, very dry! I brought moisturizer, but the air just sucked the moisture right out of me. I drank buckets of water too! I can not emphasize this enough. Even though I was warned, I was shocked at the damage that was done to my face. After many at home facials, I still feeling the affects of the climate. Also, be prepared with an antihistamine. I was not accumstomed to the sage bush pollen in the air and had a nasty allergis reaction. Between the dryness and the allergic reaction, I wanted to scratch my face off! My face and eyes may have been swollen and red, but I could still spot a Swarovski crystal a mile away!

4. Layer your clothing.

Although Tucson is SUPPOSED to be a lot warmer than Toronto and there is no snow there, when I was there a cold snap happened. It had not been that cold in Tucson since the 1800's! I left my parka back in Toronto and I could have used it. It was so cold, that pipes were bursting and even the local schools closed. Just make sure that you bring at least one long sleeve shirt and a sweater.

5. Bring comfortable shoes.

I admit that I ended up wearing my running shoes most of the time. Walking through the hotels and tents for hours on end can do a number on your tender tootsies, so be as practical as possible.

6. Take time out for yourself.

As I was travelling across an entire continent to a place I'd never visited, I was determined to explore the countryside a bit and see what Tucson has to offer. I researched some horse ranches prior to my arrival and am I glad I did. Using Trip Advisor, I found a great place and went on a horseback ride through the desert. To see the cactus up close was amazing! My soul was singing!!

I could advise you to keep to a budget - but if you're like me - you know that's just not going to happen!

I am starting to save my money so that I can go back next year. Hopefully, you'll join me!!

Dixon Chick out!