Reflections

Our museum coyote, who came out to say goodbye my last day of work

Changing times are always a good time for reflections.  Looking back on what’s worked, what hasn’t, what was surprising.  I live in the second hottest place in America (beaten only by Death Valley) and it’s a place that no one lives during the summer if they can get out.  Tomorrow I join the exodus and head back to the East Coast- at least for the summer.

I took this position 10 months ago and have come to love the desert, the mountains, and the rhythm of the area.  Seeing so many different plants and animals and developing the eyes to see the story the desert has to tell about the life its lived.  It’s a crazy place, and certainly not for everyone, but I love it.  I was given the opportunity to help build a new museum and the archives for that museum- pretty rare nowadays.  It’s been amazing.  I’ve learned more about developing an archive and the little things that go into creating a sustainable museum in a town of 200 people than I could have imagined at the beginning.  I’ve learned how much I enjoy researching and helping to build an exhibit, and the pleasure I take in watching other people enjoy it when I give tours.  I’ve worked with a lantern slide collection instead of just hearing about it in class. I’ve learned a little about the different levels of politics even a small museum must deal with to get things done. I’ve expanded my idea of what makes a successful event, and that it’s ok to be a little crazy when the occasion calls for it.  Not every event can have a Jugless Jug Band, but it’s almost as popular as a taco cart when they come.  I'm currently working on my first article to be published (hopefully) in a peer-reviewed journal and a conference presentation for the spring with my co-worker and roommate, Jessica Brody- which would be somce very exciting firsts if we selected!

I’ve got crazy stories that I will hopefully remember forever. Like the sidewinder who wanted to come to the latest Star Gazing Party we held.  Watching windmills rise (and fall) and the controversy they can cause.  Climbing trails and rocks I never thought I’d be able to do and being thrilled when I could do it.  Learning that cars need to have coolant, or at least water, added to them to function properly (long story, and I wasn’t driving!)  Exploring an ancient oyster bed in the desert, driving to a casino on a mountain to get a glimpse of a comet, and seeing some of the most amazing night skies that it is possible to see.  

I’ve met people I hope to stay in touch with the rest of my life, been adopted by multiple grandparents and the wonderful Hitch family, and fallen in love with an adorable little Pomeranian.  I’ve seen snakes, hawks, coyotes, and even the elusive big horned sheep.  I think I’ve gained a certain amount of confidence in myself and my work that only comes from being treated as an equal in a work environment and knowing that, in the end, while there are plenty of people who have travelled more, or have more or different experiences, than I have so far, I can still be their equal.