Jeff & Phil met way back in 1999 in Burlington, Vermont. After enjoying many recent years in San Diego, the couple opted for a move to a low-key, desert life. They began a successful vacation rental with VRBO in the winter months and have opened their doors to visiting writers during the summer months via The Desert Rat Residency. Together, they have planted many species of cacti on the property and continue making improvements for everyone who visits.

“The Desert Rat Residency for Writers reminded me who I am as a writer - full of joy and possibility and love for creation. The experience was as much spiritual (however a person defines that word) as it was imaginative. Whether you need introspective time to hear your own voice or whether you want to take in all the magic, life, and history of the area as a spark for inspiration, my time in the desert was pure nourishment. I walked away a stronger writer. I felt cared for in the best way. I can’t recommend this residency enough.“

— Bryan Borland