Living in Havasu

Summer in Havasu
Summer in Havasu

by Bobbi Holmes July 2005

        Havasu enjoyed an especially mild spring. Yet, when the first day of summer officially arrived, it was as if someone literally cranked up the thermostat 20+ degrees.  Our early mornings jumped from the sixties to nineties without skipping a beat.  I responded by retreating indoors to walk on the treadmill instead of around our block.

Summer in Havasu

       As if to tease us, the temperatures dropped the following week, and we were once again able to enjoy a cool morning.  Of course, we all know with Havasu inevitably comes high summer temperatures.  Those occasional cool mornings are a delightful reprieve, yet I don’t imagine they will last the entire season.
       Even if they don’t, it doesn’t mean we have to be chased indoors.  Outdoor living is still pleasurable at Havasu.  The trick - water.  Last year we enjoyed our 4th of July weekend outdoors.  It was spent poolside at friends, and we never felt the need to seek indoor air conditioning.  Last week, when the temperatures were trying to hit 120 degrees, we spent one afternoon on the lake with friends.  Although it was windy in the city, we headed south in the boat, and found a private beach and calm waters.  Sitting under our beach side easy-up, and swimming in the waters of Havasu, made us forget that some see summer in Havasu as hellish.  On that day, it was heaven.
       During the boat ride back to Havasu, one of our friends (whom we sold a Havasu house to several years ago, which they use as their vacation home) asked us “how do you ever manage to make it to work, living in God’s country?” 


       His question reminded me of one of the sad Havasu truths.  After moving to Havasu, many  residents forget how to enjoy this paradise, and their boats spend more time in their garages than on the lake.  This summer dust off your boat, and get back on the lake.  Isn’t it what you moved here for?
       Even if you don’t have access to a boat or a swimming pool, don’t forget about the lake.  Put on your swimming suit, grab a beach chair and head down to Rotary Park, or (if you are in the mood for some serious people watching) park your chair at the Channel.
       This summer, remember to enjoy Havasu’s great outdoors - but please, put on some sun screen!