Live Like A Tucson Native – Leave Town When The Cowboys Come!

Seems like I am meeting lots of new folks who have just moved or are in town. February is a nice time to move here - and this month is typically known for the Tucson Rodeo and the Rodeo Parade. It’s a time when we see lots of cowboys/girls, hats, boots and ropes. And folks – those aren’t natives – those are tourists or “out of towner’s” participating in the rodeo!

So what does a true Tucson native do during rodeo? Well, we leave town! Which leads me to other things to know about living like a native:

At some point – you are going to get cactus needles stuck in you. Here’s what not to do: take a hot shower hoping the needles come out and don’t use duct tape. Here are things that do work: a comb – it will remove jumping cholla cactus needles – the most common one that people “run into”; for teddy bear and other cactus type needs, pour white glue on the needles, gently spread it, wait for it to dry then peel it off.

The best cactus defense? Prevention. Stay back. Also, you will only do yard work one time with shorts on if you run into cactus - cover up from head to toe! And one more thing – do not wash “cactus” clothes – toss them or keep them separate from other laundry. Cactus needles do not wash out – they just stick to other clothes!

Invest in tinted windows and a window shade for your car. Not only will it save your back side and hands from burns, it helps out the AC during hot summer months.

Lizards, geckos, whatever you call them – they do look cool. And often people want to “catch” them. But don’t. These guys are delicate and their tails will easily tear off at the slightest touch. So save a gecko and don’t touch!

Making sun tea. If you want to get sick – leave it out in a jar all day long with any fruit slices of choice. If you want to do it right and enjoy it – leave it out for an hour!

Get used to the idea of wearing long sleeve shirts in 110 degree heat – and hats and sunglasses. Buy products that contain sunscreen and find a good dermatologist before you need one.