Dear friend Nic was wed to Jared this past weekend in Death Valley, California. I camped in the middle of the valley at Furnace Creek, saw a bazillion stars, watched wild horses frolic on the horizon, cried my eyes out during both the wedding and the reception, walked upon the salt flats at the lowest point in North America (282 feet below sea level!), scrambled up beautiful rocks and drove through Red Rocks Canyon. It was an amazing experience.

I arrived in Las Vegas on Friday, flying over Red Rocks Canyon and into the city. From there, joined by travel companions Michelle and Ron, we picked up our rental car and drove down the strip, stopping to eat at one of the casinos. I’d never been to Vegas before and I can honestly say that I would be delighted to go back. What a strange world! From there, we drove into California to Death Valley, a three hour journey. The temperature was nearly 90 degrees. We arrived in the park and made our way to the camp site. That night, there was a wedding rehearsal dinner and, later, a roaring campfire. Michelle, Ron and I made plans the next day to hike before the wedding. We were out in the park at 8am and visited several points of interest until well after 1pm. First was Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America, followed by the Natural Bridge, The “Artists Drive” known for its colorful rock formations and then Zabriskie point, another beautiful ridge along the once immense Furnace Lake.

Then, it was a quick bite to eat (all I can say is Nutella and Blueberry Jam open face sandwiches!) and an even quicker shower, and it was off to Nic and Jared’s wedding at Furnace Creek Inn, a man-made oasis in the desert.

Furnace Creek Campground

Badwater Basin and Salt Flats

Natural Bridge

Artists Drive

Zabriskie Point