91. The parched desert of my nose

Reno times, my sweets and salties (of all my names for you, I think that's my favorite)! Family, grilling, visiting  restaurants we haven't been to in years (and being happy they're still the same).  But there is an aspect of Reno that sneaks up on you-- fast-- when you're not paying attention.

The verdancy of this backyard is a result of my in-laws' toil, and belies the aridity it exists in.

The switch from Cackolack to Reno's ground

is more than just a change of countryside.

Of course, some differences still abound,

from hillside rough to skybowl deep and wide.

We're so much higher here and so much dryer;

the sun burns down through clearer, sharper air.

And while it feels no harder to respire,

we're of the lack of moisture quite aware.

Your sweat won't linger long upon your skin:

the air sucks it away with thirsty greed.

Your nose feels tight, the boogers dry within,

your lips will crack; that nose might start to bleed.

This doesn't mean that Reno isn't great;

your body just needs time to acclimate.