State visits completed

I was assigned Arizona and Alberta as my two spots to visit as the international representative. First, off to the desert and Arizona. I made in time for the Life Experiences photo journey to the Desert Botanical Gardens. What a glorious day to be outside as the weather was perfect, filled with billowing clouds and a soft breeze. The desert as a wonderful array of colors and many cacti were blooming in whites, yellows, bright pinks and oranges. A few wildflowers with a cornflower blue color, similar to the Texas Blue Bonnet, were blooming. We spent the afternoon getting tips on making better pictures with one's camera and it was a remarkable introduction to the state of Arizona.

The first evening new chapter officers attended training and the gala opening started off the convention. On Saturday the state had its general session, executive board meeting, arts auction boutique and the Birthday Lunch to honor founders. Workshop and forum sessions filled the late morning and early afternoon and the Rose Banquet finished the night. The state achievement award was presented and a reception was held after the event. I saw members sharing genuine fellowship, learned about the state's effort with collaborative connections, a mentoring project in schools with retired members helping teachers and students. Everyone in Arizona made this a remarkable journey. I'm thankful for the new friends and the adventure.

On to Alberta, a Canadian province, and they really like being called a province. The conference was for one evening for those that came in early and all day Saturday. On Friday night, a PJ party was held. Members showed up in the pj's for refreshments, games, singing and fellowship. On Saturday the day was full. They had a special guest speaker in the morning from "A Better World." He shared the experiences he has had over the past year working to help education world wide. It was eye-opening, joyous, heart wrenching and inspiring.On Sunday and Monday I became a tourist. Debbie Johnston, state organization president, and Margaret Beames took me to the Canadian side of the Rocky Mountains. What a treat. It was quite cold but beautiful. I so enjoyed meeting members from new places. I will see some of them again in Spokane.