Day 6

So it turns out Tim had a rough night, and therefore so did Mayzie. There was so little wind at Joshua Tree when we put the tent up last I decided not to use the guy lines. I guess the wind picked up in the night as Tim got scared with the rustling of the tent.

As a result of that, and the early morning heat we were all up early. We assumed this would be good; Breakfast, strike the tent, pack the car, 2+ hours of driving and then the Pacific Ocean. Of course that was too much to hope for.

We wanted to get a “Joshua Tree” bumper sticker. The town we were camping at, Yucca Valley, they didn’t have any. Not even at the visitor center. Although the lady there was kind enough to call around some local businesses and check for me. She was also rather amused when she asked if we would be” …decorating our car with bumper stickers and then selling the car in Boston?”, and I replied “Yes.”

After driving 30 or so minutes out of our way to obtain an elusive Joshua Tree bumper sticker, we headed to our next campsite. All I really have to say about the drive is that California drivers are idiots.Bloody tourists. 

When we arrived at the campsite it was nice and quiet. Our site was in a good location. Mini lizards scurrying around all over the place. We knew it would get busier, unlike Joshua Tree, but didn’t realize how busy.

Have neglected thus far to mention how scared of bugs Ryan is. He really needs to get used to them as they will get worse the further East we head. Every time he sees one he makes a silly noise and flaps his arms around. Oh boy.

After the camp was setup we headed to the Pacific Ocean. It was about a 20min drive. First time I have ever seen it. Bloody cold. The air temperature was only about 80. I got my feet wet. Tim didn’t even get that far. Mayzie ventured in a bit further than I. Ryan, however, was a complete daredevil and practically laid down and let the waves cover his body. We purchased him a boogie board. See how he does tomorrow.

Since we had emptied and left the roof bag back at camp, we took advantage of a car wash. Surprised and happy the writing stayed on.

After dinner we returned to the campsite, and oh my how it had changed. People everywhere. Scratch that, LOUD people everywhere. Because of all the wildfires in Colorado and how dry Arizona is, we didn’t even consider campfires would be allowed. We were wrong. Ryan was a little sad as he wanted me to start one, but we got back too late – Tim was asleep in the car all ready. So we will purchase some wood (no gathering allowed) and have a fire tomorrow.

This campsite had showers and we took advantage. Unfortunately cold water only and a push button for 30-60 seconds of water at a time. I could feel my chest starting to tighten up with the cold water (I’m asthmatic) but I was OK once I got used to it a bit. Ryan was fine. Mayzie was a little shocked by the cold water too. We let Tim sleep. So he is still dirty. Really dirty. Really really dirty!