Saturday, November 6, 2010

Joshua Tree National Park, California

Yesterday I drove up to Joshua Tree National Park and camped at Jumbo Rock. I woke up before sunrise to the yipping and howling of coyote resonating through the campground. After a few moments, the noise suddenly stopped. Up in the sky the stars faded into the gray light of early dawn. As the sun rose, a rosy pink glow reflected upon the sandstone, sky and clouds. This gorgeous canyon was directly behind my campsite. It was shear heaven walking by myself along the sandy floor as the canyon slowly came to life.
As I looked back towards the sunrise, the mountains in black silhouette sharply contrasted against the burning orange, red and yellow clouds.
At one point, layers of pink blanketed the dark hills. It was one of those moments in time that is forever etched into my memory; a moment of serene, natural beauty.
Erosion has contorted the rocky sandstone into a variety of shapes and sizes, some perfectly round, others square and angular.
This little desert fairy stopped to rest on a branch just long enough for me to take her picture.
Gambel's Quail run about the rocks, bobbing their funny little heads and chattering like prissy little girls.
Some things never change.
In back of my campsite there was a huge open area to wander about among the rocks, mountains and Joshua Trees. I found this one area where everybody and his brother left their mark with rock art. The rock tower above was actually very sturdy; who knows how long it has been there.
The Hopi believe that the spiral symbolizes the path we take in life's journey and the adversities we face along the way. We each have to walk our own path. Some days are very difficult; some days are fun and exciting; some days are just plain old days. Whatever we face, I believe it is important to live each day to the fullest, trusting God in the trials and enjoying each moment that comes our way. It can be done, trust me.

Copyright©2009 Susan Little, thecampingqueen72@gmail.com. All rights reserved. Use of photos requires written permission.

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