by Lucy Bianchi

Created on: May 31, 2008   Last Updated: June 05, 2008

But it's a dry heat; the mantra of residents in the Valley of the Sun. Scottsdale, Arizona sits amid rolling foothills and sunshine. The lack of precipitation helps to create a lifestyle which embraces the great outdoors. People revel in its beauty and often plan outdoor events,with no thought to a rain date.

As summer approaches, residents brace for this hot and dry season. Low humidity makes 95 degrees pleasant, but there are too few summer days with temps that low. Respecting the sun and its heat is paramount and residents adapt by embracing water activities. There are an amazing number of boats in this land locked state. House boating on area lakes is a favorite vacation getaway. Swimming pools and water parks abound. Afternoon tee times become very reasonable for avid golfers who don't mind the heat. If you prefer indoor activities there are the always cool Indian Casinos, several upscale malls and Old Town Scottsdale for the consummate shopper.

By the end of September temperatures are dipping below the 100 degree mark. Fall is when Scottsdale becomes a climatic paradise. The arts and crafts festivals begin anew and people can venture out of the water for fun and exercise. Once again, Scottsdale's resorts team with visitors. Horseback riding, tennis, hiking, backpacking and a myriad of other outdoor activities rule the recreation scene. Baseball and soccer fields are used day and night. This is a golfer's paradise with beautiful courses and perfect weather. Snow birds are beginning their annual trek to this pleasant retreat.

Thanksgiving means landscapes dotted with colorful lights which signal the approaching holiday season. Shopping for gifts in 70 degree temperatures feels odd but you never have to shovel the sunshine! Sleds are uncommon Christmas gifts but bikes, skate boards and scooters can be put right to the test Christmas morning as families gather in this pleasant place. Scottsdale residents settle in for the short days of winter as they pull out sweaters and long pants. People taking leisurely walks are a common sight during these cool days and fireplaces burn pecan or mesquite wood to warm the nights.

By mid-February the threat of an evening frost is gone and spring is announced. It's time to trim rose bushes, and wild flowers soon appear on the hillsides. Pools are being cleaned and refurbished; patios and outdoor furniture are spruced up for the barbecue party season. Boats are readied to reenter the water and children are looking forward to the end of school.

Scottsdale is a beautiful place to pass your days and is a vacation magnet. Even during the heat of the summer there is plenty to do. The dry weather gives rise to a healthy and active lifestyle. It's no wonder many retires chose to spend their winters in this easy climate with the laid back style. They join the young families and business people who make their home in a modern city tinged with the flavor of the old west.

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