Death Valley National Park

Well, here it is May and we just took our first road trip is 2023.  Scratching off a “must-do” from the short list, we visited Death Valley National Park.

Billed as the Hottest, Driest and Lowest national park, it might not seem too inviting.  But none of that deterred us and I’m so glad it didn’t.  It was strikingly beautiful, perfect weather and a chance to celebrate with the dearest of friends.

Here’s the scoop:

Lake Las Vegas

The drive from our house to Death Valley is about 6 ½ hours, so breaking that up, we drove to Lake Las Vegas the day before our planned trip.

Big Red got loaded up for yet another adventure and off we went.

The Westin resort was a fantastic place to stay and I highly recommend it for a Vegas stay that is far away from all the activity if that’s not your scene.

We didn’t get much time to enjoy the amenities, but the rooms were so quiet and comfortable.  This is the slow time so occupancy was low and we really started our vacation in a relaxing atmosphere.

Our room had a “lake” view.  Friends who live on real lakes around the country would argue about this being a lake, but it was lovely to look at.

The Oasis at Death Valley

Next up was our visit to Death Valley and the Inn is the first place you encounter as you enter the park, so we stopped and were able to get an early check in.

Death Valley is truly a hot desert, but there are springs that feed oases and this resort sits atop one.

The Inn is historic, built in the 1920s but recently renovated and quite gorgeous.

Our room’s patio had a view of the mineral spring-fed pool.  Which is where we spent a lot of time.

And which brings me to the next yummy part of my story.

Anniversaries Galore

Celebrating DF Jann and Ali’s 40^th (!!!) wedding anniversary was the highlight of the occasion.  And then their cousins’ (who are also DFs) Gail and Lane were celebrating their 25^th and more family (more DFs) Angie and Lynn have an anniversary the same week.  Jann’s adorable sis, Beth, joined us and it was like one big happy family.

We were treated to a fantastic dinner at the Inn’s restaurant and our server got a few pics for us.

Death Valley National Park Highlights

We gathered into two cars to visit the highlights over two days.

• Badwater Basin
• Artist’s Drive & Palette
• Devil’s Golf Course
• Natural Bridge
• Sand Dunes
• 20 Mule Team Borax Works and Canyon

Plenty of pool time, happy hour, exploring (the ladies) and golf (the gents) wrapped up our visit.

The weather was absolutely perfect and the company unsurpassed.  We could not have asked for a more perfect first road trip of the year!

Around Town

Here in Anthem, Friday evening concerts billed as Music in May began May 5^th. And as is our custom, we got our camp chairs and set out to enjoy some music.  Thaddeus Rose was the band this first night and they were quite good, covering just about every popular song I could think of.

It was nice to see friends, neighbors and the community out enjoying the evening and the dance floor was packed.

The full moon on the walk out of the park was huge and orange and awesome.

Mother’s Day

Ryan took care of the house and the kitty girls while we were gone.  When we got home I was surprised by a beautiful vase of fresh flowers for Mother’s Day.

I cannot wait for the tiger lilies to open.  The orange roses tipped in pink are stunning.

If you spy on my table a new lazy Susan, I picked this up last week at TJ Maxx.  It’s really pretty and sturdy,  I’m hoping it will encourage us to eat more at the table.

The placemats are also new from World Market.  By ordering online and picking up, I saved 15%.  These are nice because I can use them indoors or out.  I give them a wipe off with a soapy dish cloth after use. 

The rustic look they add to the kitchen is just right.

Wrap Up

Thanks for coming along on my little travelogue.  The unpacking is done, the laundry put away and the cleaning all finished up, so we’re ready to enjoy the weekend.

What’s going on in your world?