Joshua Tree NP, Part 3

This picture from Joshua Tree NP is looking to the southwest, with the Santa Rosa Mounains and Mount San Jacinto in the background. The city of Palm Springs sits at the base of Mount San Jacinto. In about the middle of the picture is the San Adreas Fault, which continues to the south and north to San Francisco.
The Choachella Valley stretches for about 50 miles along the Santa Rosa Mountains.
Out of the picture to the left, is the Salton Sea, which is over 200 feet below sea level. Needless to say, there is some very interesting geology in the area.
Warmest regards, Gus

Joshua Tree NP, Part 2

Betty and I sat in one of the Joshua trees yesterday. Although the "tree" is really not a tree but a species of the yucca. I must say, with the spiny leaves, it was not comfortable sitting on the branches. Joshua trees grow about an inch per year and can grow to 40 feet in height. The trees will begin to bloom next month (February) with clusters of cream-colored flowers.

Warmest regards, Gus

Joshua Tree National Park

Today, Betty and I visited the Joshua Tree National Park in Southern California. This park was named a Monument in 1936 by President Roosevelt and then became a National Park in 1994. The park protects 794,000 acres, almost three-quarters of it designated wilderness. This park is where the Mohave and Colorado (Sonoran) deserts converge.
I will include more pictures tomorrow.
Warmest regards, Gus

Palm Springs, CA

I am in Palm Desert, Ca, at the Palm Springs Thousand Trails Resort. The weather has been really nice, in the 70s during the day. I have not done too much since arriving, but tomorrow I will attend the FMCA Western Region Rally. I will meet up with lots of friends there.
Sami is excited because she gets to run everyday with her friend Holly, a Golden Retriever.
Not much other news here, but do want to wish the best for you in 2012!
Warmest regards, Gus