A few weeks ago Jennifer, Dave, Lawrence, Alpana, Melody and I planned a trip to Joshua Tree National Park. I never relinquish an opportunity to travel, especially to some natural wonders around the States. We started off the day by meeting at Dave’s, since he was going to be the designated driver for the day, after we also wanted to go grab some breakfast before we headed out. So off we went, with me in the back and the others piled in a Yukon XL.

Breakfast with Dave, featuring meat pies and potato balls from Portos in Burbank.

After two hours on the road, we arrived at the trail head for Lost Palms Oasis.

I guess you need to keep your feet dry in the Vibrams if you don’t have socks. Here is Lawrence puffing his feet prior to the hike.

The next few photos are from our hike in. I just got a feeling like I was in some sort of Dr. Seuss book.

Dave navigating for us, and offering a knowledge bomb on the botanicals of the area.

Appropriately placed catcus.

Twin Palms.

It’s amazing to see these boulders lying around everywhere. Usually we see mountains form, but in this desert landscape there were bunches of large rock formation lying around.

Vibram Fail.

Melody, Alpana, and Jennifer.

Posed? or a candid explorer.

We found some interesting animals that resided in the area as well, like this lizard.

Group Photo!

This looks to me like eroded rock, which would form some sort of water outlet during rainfall.

I finally see some sign of life and spring with the magnificent colors of this cactus.

Some more in bloom.

Destination, Lost Palms Oasis.

Our little rest area for lunch.

Group Photos! I love the different colors, and solids.

Before we headed back to our car, we decided to hike up Mastodon Peak leaving Jennifer to fend for herself in the car.

Alpana at rest.

After our hike, we followed the road through the park to the Cholla Cactus Garden. This looks to be an ideal area for some sunsets or sunrises.

Alpana… with her bright decision to kick the Cholla Cactus buds.

Group Photo!

Lastly, we headed to Hidden Valley for another quick hike.

The Gals.

Melo.

The sun was beginning to set, and the colors were beginning to pop and glow.

Lawrence creating his 360 panorama.

Team USA Dave.