The boredom of the short – relatively speaking – drive to 29 Palms CA was alleviated by some interesting licence plates and bumper stickers. The scenery afforded small specks of beauty to about 1/2 way and then the route got progressively more interesting as we travelled from urban suburbia to rural areas.
Once checked into our motel 6 room (more about that later) we headed for Joshua Tree NP. And what an afternoon it was!!! The park includes a portion of the Mojave desert and a unique flora and fauna. On arrival at the toll booth we were welcomed by a fellow who had fond memories of vancouver as a young man. Listening to him reminisce – it was apparent that hallucinogenic substances were probably involved ….. was a blast from the past. Once the entrance fee was paid, we went on a circle drive around the park. This in an amazing place and should be on everyone‘s list.
The Joshua Tree is not a tree but a member of the Yucca family with the same irritating sharp leaves that CJ discovered while we were trying to take a selfie next to one. No real damage ensued, no blood was drawn but they are not the friendliest of trees. They come in all shapes and sizes. Interestingly enough the different shapes are due to winter cold snaps and pollination histories. A straight tree is straight because it has never flowered – which is a result of warm winter weather. Freezing weather causes the ends of the branches or central leaders to freeze, creating branching and flower buds. The Yucca moth is the JT pollinator – a very advantageous relationship.
We entered the park around 3:30 – the late afternoon light is amazing. This is a holy place, the sense of spirituality is strong here. These trees are 150 years plus old and have a sense of timelessness to them – as does the entire site.
The afternoon ended as shown – an amazing day in a spiritual place.
The Motel 6 – hmmmm. After airing dogs, stepping around roachs and other things we headed for our room, put dogs quickly in the room and locked the door. We are surrounded on all sides by an extended stoner family, a fellow a few doors down with some challenging life experiences is wandering around outside and the pot smell is drifting in under the door…. We plan to sleep on top of the sheets tonight…. We have a reservation at the Holiday Inn suites near the Grand Canyon tomorrow – thank you Cindy!
Ah the adventures of traveling!!!!
