Desert Rats

On Friday we, loaded up Popup Penny and headed East for the long weekend. The last time we visited this place, O was just learning to crawl and we were braving the camping thing with a 9 month old. This time, we had two kids, one dog and three full days to play.

As soon as we crested the hill and the kids could see the big open playa, Fifi let out he biggest squeal of delight I have ever heard. I don't know if she was coo-coo from the long ride or just so happy to be camping again, but her comedic timing struck again and we all belly laughed.

 

I feel extremely at home on the desert. The playa is where I learned to drive, where I learned to watch the stars and look for UFOs. Although this isn't the Black Rock Desert (where I grew up), this smaller version is very much a happy place for me.It is called the Smith Creek Playa, located just outside of Austin, Nevada.

 

There is something truly otherworldly about being in a place so flat and desolate. It's like being at the ocean, only quieter. You can hear your heart beat, your breath and the wind in your ears. I practiced my yoga and went for two during our stay, pretty amazing on both accounts.

 

The weekend consisted of lots of time on the bicycle for O. Tons of running around trying to keep up with the big kids for Fifi. We all did some land sailing, rocket launching, kite flying, hot springs dipping, mud playing, giggling and visiting with friends.

I think I might be raising desert rats, and I'm cool with that.