First Week in Borrego Springs

 

This past week has been next to perfect.  The sun shone, the temps were mild, and the wind rarely blew – all the makings of a perfect day!

We did head out on a couple of off-road trips.  We started with one of my favourites – Grapevine Canyon.  We decided to run it in the opposite direction than our usual trip and what a difference – it was as if we had never been on it before.  To start, we came across a huge coyote melon patch.  We have seen them in the past but always just a few on a vine.  Apparently the flowers are much like that of the pumpkin but they are not edible and the flowers do not have a pleasant smell.

This was quite a display. One big difference is that the road is in much different shape than in years past as much of it has been graded (much to Gerry’s chagrin as there are no longer boulder challenges).  I, on the other hand, tend to enjoy the scenery.

Then we were off to Coyote Canyon and to see the changes.  As a result of previous heavy rains, the trail is blocked about half-way due to water.  We did take a walk and it is amazing to see the power of water.  You can see where water had been running in wide washes, big boulders have been moved, and normally sandy washes have become beds of large and small boulders.  Certainly not somewhere I would want to be during a rainfall.

Then we took a short trip to an overlook of some badlands – Vista Malpais.  The weather was not real co-operative as it was overcast with the odd little drizzle. 

Or course with a bit of a drizzle I wasn’t real anxious to hang around for very long just in case it did start to rain.  But we can always do it another day!!

The evenings have been quite pleasant so we often have a fire.  One evening we decided on impromptu bush pies and smores.  Now that is a meal for kings.  And it was so much fun with our friends, Chris & Rick.  Desert First!!!

Most days we go for a walk and sometimes, we go up the mountain which is just behind us.  There is quite a collection of rock art in some areas.  We met a fellow up there who is paying tribute to his son, Clark, who has passed away. 

The next few days are calling for rain which means it will be time for some indoor chores.  But then again, something else may come up.  As I come to the end, I hope everyone has a great week ahead and hopefully, the dreadfully cold arctic air is in the past.