Phew! That was a lot of work!
Designing maze puzzles for my sisters was a favorite childhood pastime. Now I have the chance to build a labyrinth and have chosen the respected Tohono O’odham Man in the Maze pattern.
The desert gardens south of the Ranch House are extensive. A fire pit, horseshoes, bocce ball, stargazing patio and a profusion of wildflowers are playfully encountered along the meandering paths. The desert landscape, like the Ranch House, seems to absorb activities without feeling crowded.
There is a very special place bordered by mesquites to the east and south, the path to the north, and creosote to the west. The area is a natural 32-foot arena. Two creosote, some weeds and a few wildflowers lived here. This area will be the future home of the El Rancho Merlita labyrinth.
Day 1 – My daughter, Valerie, and I dug up the creosote for transplanting. 2 hr.
Day 2 – My husband, John, and I dug up all the weeds. We staked the center and marked the circle with the radial points. 4 hr.
Day 3 & 4 – Decomposed granite was spread about 1” thick to create a clean smooth level surface and watered to begin compaction. 5 hr.
Day 5 – More watering.
**Next step: Lay out the path.
Tags: B&B, Bed & Breakfast, Inn, Labyrinth, Tucson, Tucson AZ
