Facing Arizona: The heat in Arizona is like nothing I had ever experienced

Editor’s note: Facing Arizona is a series that will appear on KTAR.com and social media  — follow KTAR News on Instagram and Facebook for updates — highlighting unique and everyday people across our state and give you a glimpse into their lives.

“I was on vacation in Arizona, in the spring, when I decided to give desert living a try. I moved here [from Hawaii] three months later (in the throes of summer!) and really couldn’t wrap my brain around how hot it was. Hot like nothing I had ever experienced in my life. I didn’t think I would make it here and contemplated the idea of abandoning my life plan.

“But, in a flash it seems, almost ten years have now passed. In that time, I’ve really made a life for myself out here in the southwest. I’ve had children who call this place home. I’ve made really good friends who have become like family. I’ve worked for two really amazing organizations, in positions that have challenged me to be the best leader I can be while supporting Arizona’s youngest citizens and their families as they traverse the education landscape. In Hawaiian we have an expression — “no ka oi,” which loosely translates to “the best.” We often use it to describe where we are from. In my case, I say, Waianae no ka oi! It’s a tribute to my hometown, and in honor of my family who for generations has called that place home. So, while Hawaii fills the biggest space in my heart and is always home, Arizona has been good to me and I hope to be here a long time more.” — Nicol Russell