Joshua Tree: Day 2

Day two of the Joshua Tree adventure began before sunrise. The only "luxury" item I brought was my French press, and it was worth it. I enjoyed my 'elixer of awakening' with fellow WTC peeps as the sun rose. I tried out a freeze-dried granola pack I bought at REI, which was tasty, but cold on a chilly morning.

After breakfast, it was break-down camp time, then off for the day's adventures.  My phone died the previous night, so the only photos I have are provided by classmates. Day two involved more rock scrambling, then a hike across Rattlesnake Canyon. With guidance and the leaders spotting us during the tricky spots, we scrambled up to an overlook with breathtaking views, had a snack, and a lesson on geography, then back down we went for one more navigation lesson.

For our final task, we hiked to a large rock cluster and were ushered through an "obstacle course" for lack of a better term. The leaders stood at points within the rocks and showed up various techniques for ascending and descending the rocks.

Then, at about 3:00 pm, it was back to camp. We packed up the bus and off we went. Feeling tired but accomplished, I settled in and watched the sun descend into the western horizon.

It was the best kind of tired. A peace settled over me as I got comfy and listened to the rest of the novel.

We hit a bit of traffic and got back to Glendale close to 7:00 pm. I loaded my stuff and was on my way home.

I'll admit that I was initially nervous and insecure about this trip.  I wondered if I would be adequately prepared and be able to take care of myself. Apparently I was. I was worried about over-packing, but, with the exception of a rain jacket, I used everything I brought and all worked out fine.  No, wait, more than fine, it was pretty awesome.

I try to embrace challenges whenever possible. Challenges invite growth and teach me about myself. I feel grateful for this weekend.

To quote Eleanor Roosevelt, "You must do the thing you think you cannot do.”


Peace, 

C