Tree of Life
What a crazy fun thing to come across quite by accident! The Tree of Life in Olympic National Park.
Tree of Life
Tree of Life: A Timeless Connection to Nature
The iconic Tree of Life, prominently situated in Olympic National Park, stands as a magnificent symbol of resilience and interconnectedness in the vast, colorful tapestry of the American West. Its majestic presence reminds us of the enduring spirit of nature, showcasing how life thrives even in the most challenging conditions.
I discovered this amazing tree by chance while visiting Olympic NP three summers ago. After I set up camp at Kalaloch Beach on the Washington state coast, I checked my map for nearby potential photo locations and realized I was only about 200 yards away from this famous tree! Many locals knew it well, as there were lots of people taking pictures and even a wedding engagement shoot happening that evening. This image was featured on my annual calendar later that year.
Even though most of the roots are openly exposed to the elements, I guess there are still enough of them clinging tenaciously to the soil below to absorb the necessary nutrients, ultimately providing the tree of life with… life.
Fountain of Youth
After an unhurried week soaking up coastal views, I'm headed back to Texas. Tonight, I’ll stay at the Fountain of Youth RV Resort by the Salton Sea, a charming spot in the Southern California desert for relaxation in the mineral baths and pools.
Rejuvenating mineral and salt water pools for RVers and Vanlifers
In my last post, I wrapped up an incredible camping experience along the stunning California coast and began the journey back to Texas. My next planned stop is the Fountain of Youth RV Resort, nestled by the Salton Sea, where I look forward to rejuvenating in the soothing hot mineral pools and baths. After soaking up the relaxing vibesat FOY, it's just a quick ten-minute drive over to Bombay Beach, where I can immerse myself in the vibrant and ever-changing art installations that reflect the creativity of the local community.
Leaving Carlsbad, I opted for Interstate 8, tracing the Mexican border in Southern California, eager to explore a section that was completely new to me. To my astonishment, I encountered swirling snowflakes and diligent snowplows clearing the roadway—a surprising contrast to the typical desert landscape expected in this region. As I drove through an area known as Rock City, the highway weaved past stunning boulders and dramatic terrain that bore a striking resemblance to the iconic Joshua Tree National Park. It was a reminder of the diverse beauty that lies waiting just off the beaten path.
Rock City area on Interstate 8
Passing through the boulders and snow, I decended in elevation into the desert and began looking for a post office to mail postcards to my family and sweetheart. The hamlet of Ocotillo, population 215, has one just off the highway according to google maps, so I stopped there to take care of that errand. In my travels I see so many post offices where I would expect them, in tiny rural towns and out of the way places. Some are very photogenic, unfortunately, the Ocotillo post office isn’t one of them.
The Ocotillo post office. Well worn but with paintings of local desert plants on the front wall.
From Ocotillo it’s only a short jaunt to the Salton Sea and my destination for the day, the Fountain of Youth RV Resort. My first visit there was in December, 2021 with several visits since then. This place is a keeper for RV’ers and #vanlifers.
What to do at the Fountain of Youth
At the Fountain of Youth RV Resort, there's no shortage of activities to keep you engaged and entertained. While soaking in the rejuvenating salt water pool, hot mineral pools and soaking tubs is certainly a favorite pastime, the resort offers a dynamic range of community events each day. Join in on a spirited game of pool volleyball or challenge friends to a friendly match of pickleball. For those who enjoy games of chance, there's plenty of opportunity with poker and other card games happening regularly. For me, I spend my time in the soaking tubs.
FOY has many amenities to make your stay comfortable. Guests can use the on-site laundry, the general store offers essential supplies, and there's even a limited hours post office for easy mail services. An RV dump station is available along with potable water for filling your tank. Bathrooms are kept clean and hot showers are included.
Sometimes the evenings come alive with music that sets the perfect mood for a night out. On Saturday nights, head over to the Sunset Grill, where you can savor delicious food and enjoy the company of fellow resort-goers as the sun sets in the background. Don’t miss out on street dancing and the lively karaoke sessions that follow, adding a splash of fun to the mix. With so much to do, every day at the Fountain of Youth RV Resort is a new opportunity to connect with others and create lasting memories.
In my next post, I’ll be writing specifically about the nearby artist community of Bombay Beach with lots of photos of the art installations I’ve captured over the years.
Van Life and landscape photography on the California coast in January
Returning to the California coast in my van, I’m filled with excitement to photograph it’s beauty and reconnect with my beloved camping beaches.
A full week of beach camping on the Central and Southern California Coast
After several months away, I finally made my way back to California from Texas, eager to reunite with the ocean. This road trip wasn't just about soaking in the sun and landscape photography; I also had appointments to attend and visits with friends and family lined up along the way. The anticipation of reconnecting with loved ones and the calming presence of the sea filled me with excitement as I hit the open road. Each stop along my journey reminded me of the deep connections I hold in this vibrant state, and I looked forward to embracing them all once again.
The Curlew and Sea Mist of Morro Strand State Beach
Reconnecting with the California Coast at Morro Bay
Taking JOY, my van, to Morro Bay feels like a homecoming as I head for my first stop on the California coast. This stretch of beach has become a familiar canvas over my five years of living the nomadic van life. From my campsite, I can stroll about two miles down the sandy shore to Morro Rock, though I typically don't go that far. Instead, I relish the journey, pausing to capture the quirks of nature—like a sand dollar adorned with a barnacle or the graceful movement of a Long-billed Curlew. Each step is an opportunity to explore reflections shimmering in the wet sand or to gauge the rhythm of the sea mist curling around Morro Rock.
Golden hour at sunset is my favorite time to take these walks, where the light bathes everything in a warm glow. On my first evening here, I opted for a minimalist approach, bringing just my 100-400 lens, ready to immerse myself in the thrill of photographing birds, this time, the Long Billed Curlew. This place, with its ever-changing shoreline and wildlife, never fails to fill my heart with joy and inspiration.
Important Notice to My Valued Visitors
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Thornhill Broome Beach Camping-The Rocky One
After three nights camping at Morro Strand Beach, JOY and I travelled south about 3 hours to another beach I love returning to, Thornhill Broome. It’s another beach where you’re right on the edge of the sand with an unobstructed view of the Pacific Ocean and those tranquil sunsets every evening. There’s one thing to note about this campground however, the Pacific Coast Highway runs just over the chain link fence about 30 years from camp. The sound of the traffic doesn’t bother me at all, but some people will find it too objectionable. At night the traffic dies down tremendously.
Thornhill Broome is just north of Malibu and with the sad and catastrophic wildfires still burning in the LA area, I was unsure how that may affect access because all the homes along the PCH in Malibu had been early victims of the Palisades fire a week prior. It was extraordinarily windy the afternoon I arrived and happened to catch a strong gust in the video below.
Why was Thornhill Broome Campground Empty?
In years past, this popular campground was difficult to book, so when I first saw it empty when rounding the bend in the PCH from 2 miles away at Point Mugu, I wondered “what’s up with this?” No wonder I was able to get a campsite so easily when I booked it while in Morro Bay only two days prior. It was virtually empty. Only one other party camping here! Maybe it was due to the raging fires happening just south of me in the LA area. Or, my other visits were during Covid and many more people were out in RV’s vying for the few sites available. Could be both.
There’s also a third possibility; the rocks on the beach. There have always been lots of softball sized and larger rocks on this beach. They add to the uniqueness of this beach, not just for photography, but just listening to the sound of the rocks rolling around in the surf. You don’t hear that everywhere. Well, being my first visit here since the wild winter storms a year ago, I saw how much things have changed.
My campsite this time was #10. I used to camp in #1,#2 or #3 but they no longer exist! Campsites one through nine are wiped out, as nature reclaims part of herself. The storms also changed the beach in another way, as it seems that many many more of those rocks have been deposited making it difficult to access the surf unless you walk south a couple hundred yards where it’s possible to pick a path through them. All these rocks make this beach less appealing to families with children and people who want easier access to the water from their campsite.
My time here was short, two nights and one full day, which gave me two sunsets and two sunrises for photography. I didn’t do any sunrise photography out of laziness and because of the unappealing nature of the light at that location, that time of day. So, on my second morning, I just made the bed, coffee and got back on the road South through Los Angeles where active fires have traffic in a state of flux.
Carlsbad Beach Campground
Okay, so this was the only disappointment, if disappointment is even possible on the west coast. At Morro Bay I ran into another Vanlifer guy, Steve. In our short exchange he inspired me to try Carlsbad Beach State Campground. He had just stayed there a few days before. Also, I was heading to Carlsbad the next day anyway to visit a friend and some family.
Looking at the online registration, I could get the last “premium” site for $70 or, $55 for a site just across the narrow road that runs down the middle of the campground. Treating myself to a premium site, right on the beach sounded like the right thing to do since this was my final stop on the coast and I don’t know when I might be back again.
Assuming that for $68 (they give seniors a whopping $2 discount at all state campgrounds) that the site would have electricity to plug the van in. Nope. All the premium site got me was a commanding view of the beach 100 feet below me. So you’re not directly next to the beach camping here as it appears when looking at the campground on a map. The campground is on a bluff above the beach. Had I been only slightly more inquisitive, that feature would have been revealed. It wouldn’t have changed my decision to stay there though because I’m in Carlsbad mainly to see some of my peeps.
Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park
On my second day in Carlsbad, visiting Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park was a delightful experience. My son and his partner picked me up from my campground, and the three of us set off to explore the unique blend of history and nature that Leo Carrillo Ranch offers. With its picturesque adobe buildings and stunning landscapes, we wandered through the ranch, appreciating the lush gardens and rich history of the area.
After soaking in all that beauty, we met up with my friend Pam, adding to our group's joy. The day culminated in a fabulous Thai dinner, where we shared laughs and delicious dishes, making it a perfect end to our adventure of the day and my time on the west coast.
Tomorrow I head East to The Fountain of Youth
The Fountain of Youth RV Resort is such a fabulous place to stay in the middle of… not much. For me, the draw is; the hot mineral pools and private soaking tubs. Photographically, there’s an abundance of opportunity within a 10 minute drive at Bombay Beach on the Salton Sea, full of every changing art installations. I’ll tell you a lot more about that with many photos, next time.
Watch this space…
New year, new intentions
“The majestic landscapes of Death Valley are calling my name for my annual photography excursion there. This will be the “big photography event” on this road trip so I’m gearing up for more Death Valley adventures on my way…”
Welcoming 2025: Intentions and New Adventures
Like many, I found myself asleep long before the clock struck midnight on New Year’s Eve. We tucked in around 10 PM, only to be jolted awake by an impressive barrage of exploding fireworks as 2024 slipped into 2025. The loud celebration took me by surprise, since I’m used to a quieter way of ringing in the new year. Okay, I’m old and I guess this is the way it’s done in Texas.
Happy 2025!
As the firework echoes faded, my excitement for 2025 came into focus. Instead of the typical New Year’s resolutions, which, let’s be honest, often fizzle out, I prefer to set intentions. They feel warmer and more inviting, a guiding star for what’s to come.
This year, my sweet lady and I have united our aspirations: to cultivate more Art and Love within our home. She paints, bringing colors and emotion to life on canvas, while I capture the stunning landscapes of the American West through my lens. Our intention will be to create together—more paintings, more photographs, and, above all, more love and connection in the shared creative space.
Next Road Trip is a Big One!
As for my January plans, in a few days I’ll be heading to California, making time to visit family in Northern and Southern California, attend some medical appointments and finish off my tooth implant in Mexico. But between all that, I’ll be on the lookout for captivating photography opportunities along the way. The majestic landscapes of Death Valley are calling my name for my annual photography excursion! This will be the “big photography event” on this road trip so I’m gearing up for more Death Valley adventures on my way back to Texas.
My First Adventure to Death Valley’s Racetrack
When I made the photograph below, in 2015, it was my first time to the Racetrack Playa. My Jeep was almost new to me then and negotiating this 27-mile long and lonely desert road, paved only with sharp lava rock, felt like a good test of her. Upon arrival, my next task was locating those famous moving rocks. Turns out that I had to hike something like a mile or more from the parking area before running across this fine example of the mystifying legend of these moving rocks.
Photography conditions that afternoon were so good that I spent the night there, staying up late to make other photographs of these amazing moving rocks under the light of the full moon! Some of these moonscape photographs are in my Death Valley Gallery. Conditions that night were perfect, even offering me a rare moonbow to incorporate into some of my captures.
So, I’ll be going back to Death Valley later this month, sadly, not in the Jeep. Instead I’ll be in the comfort of Joy and staying mostly on the paved and less treacherous roads during the day, scouting out new photographs to share with you, staying comfortably warm in Joy’s coziness during the cold desert winter nights.
Zooming Rock-Racetrack Playa, Death Valley National Park, California
The Loosely Planned California Leg
While I’m in the Bay Area, I hope to sneak away to the coast for some camping and seascape photography. The Texas landscape is beautiful in its own way, but there’s something I deeply miss about the rugged coastline. I can’t wait to capture the waves crashing against the shore, with the sunset painting a colorful backdrop.
Sunlit Symphony of Sea and Stone.
February Family Ice-Fishing Plans are Firming Up
Mark your calendars—I'll be sharing photos and stories from my adventures beginning around January 10th and continuing until I return home at the end of the month.
And let’s not forget about February, where another ice fishing adventure in the Colorado Rockies awaits. More details on that to come!
Here I am from a couple winters ago, the ice fishing newbie.
Cheers to you and and Living an Intentional 2025!
Here’s to a powerful and magical 2025, filled with love, creativity, and breathtaking moments! Keep an eye on this space to watch my 2025 journey unfold.
Epic White Sands Road Trip
“…we witnessed the most exquisite colorful sunset I’ve ever seen at White Sands. Just when we feared that the heavy cloud cover would kill any chance of a colorful sunset, the sun dipped below the horizon and found a miraculous opening through the clouds, resulting in a stunning 360° sunset, enveloping us in vibrant hues”
Angelic Twilight
In this magical hour, time seems to pause. The vastness of the landscape is both humbling and uplifting, reminding me of nature’s grandeur and the beauty of solitude. Just before the first stars twinkle into existence, the world around fades into a peaceful hush, and the tranquil beauty of angelic twilight offers a moment of serenity that lingers long after the sun has slipped away.
Our Quick Marfa Adventure
We started our week of adventure, driving over 400 miles to Marfa, in West Texas, where we enjoyed a lovely dinner and cocktails at the St. George Hotel. Marfa is a little island of art galleries and installations which I’ve already explored twice since moving to Texas a few months ago. This time, however, there wasn’t time to linger here. After that long day of driving, we opted for a low-key evening and settled in for the night, sleeping in the van. Rising early the next morning, we set out in the dark of night, to catch the sunrise at the Prada Marfa roadside oddity and indulge in a bit of “window shopping” before continuing to New Mexico and Carlsbad Caverns.
Prada Marfa
The sky was beginning to lighten in the East when we arrived. It didn’t take long for the pastel hues of pinks and purples in the Belt of Venus to paint the sky as we explored this unique art installation.
Each step in Marfa felt like a delightful embrace of art, culture, and nature, setting the tone for the exploration that awaited us at Carlsbad Caverns, less than 3 hours away.
Exploring the Faces of Carlsbad Caverns
This trip marked my fourth visit to the stunning Carlsbad Caverns while it was Terre's first time there. We took the elevator down to the Big Room, where we embarked on an incredible one-mile-plus hike. The sheer beauty of the fascinating rock formations took our breath away. The play of light and shadow on the stalactites and stalagmites created a magical atmosphere that made it impossible not to marvel at nature's artistry.
We had a blast making faces out of the various formations, snapping pictures and sharing laughs along the way. Every corner we turned revealed another stunning sight, from the towering stone columns to the delicate drapery of cave formations. Each moment was a new delight, and we soaked in every single second of it.
In my prior visits I was surprised and happy to learn that I could take my tripod into the caverns, which I did to help with the low light situation. This time, however, I noticed a new sign in the visitor center saying tripods and monopods aren’t allowed. When I quizzed the ranger about the new rule he said that someone with a tripod broke one of the features in the caverns, so new rules were quickly adopted. Wasn’t me… honest!
Some of the faces we saw in the limestone formations
These are all taken with our iPhone. In my New Mexico gallery you'll find some photos I took here on earlier visits.
That afternoon, after emerging from the caverns, we checked into a new RV resort in Carlsbad, which turned out to be one of the cleanest and friendliest places we’d ever stayed. Those sparkling bathrooms and showers were a real treat after a day of exploring. It’s the little things that can make a trip even more enjoyable, and we were grateful for the comfort and cleanliness that the resort provided. As we settled in for the evening, we agreed that we would definitely return if we found ourselves in the area again.
A Scenic Journey to White Sands
The next morning, we made the short drive over to Alamogordo, New Mexico, where we were excited to meet up with a group of photographers, led by Joseph Thomas of Rhapsody in Light Photography, for a week of shooting at White Sands National Park. Taking a road I had never traveled before, we went through Cloudcroft up in the mountains, making a quick stop at an old, decommissioned train trestle for a photo op. The trestle, with its weathered wood, offered a captivating contrast against the backdrop of pine trees and White Sands NP in the distance.
As I framed the shot, I couldn't help but appreciate the tranquility of the scene. The soft rustle of the pine needles and the whisper of the wind made it feel like time stood still. This moment reflected not just the beauty around us, but the journey we were embarking on with fellow photographers, eager to capture the stunning landscapes that awaited us at White Sands. Driving onward, our excitement built with every twist and turn of the mountain road descending into Alamagordo.
Old wooden railroad trestle at Cloudcroft, New Mexico with White Sands in the distance.
A Touch of Luxury and some Pistachios in Alamogordo
Instead of staying in our van like we had the previous two nights, we had reservations to enjoy the comfort of a brand-new Hilton hotel for the remainder of the trip. This has been my best experience in Alamogordo yet! The hotel felt like a little slice of luxury after our days on the road. We discovered a charming restaurant nearby, D H Lescombes Winery & Bistro, where we were well hosted and served. It was so good, we ate there twice. Pro tip; for Friday nights, you must make reservations 24 hours in advance.
One morning I decided not to shoot with the group because we had some errands to do and we picked up some delicious pistachios for snacking and gifting. Alamogordo is ground zero for pistachios, which is Terre’s favorite nut. From our experience shopping at both of the highly advertised pistachio operations, by far, the best one is Pistacioland, home of The World’s Largest Pistachio. Better vibe and better prices.
Ungodly Early Mornings at White Sands
As for the photography side of things, our mornings were early and energized. Waking up at 3:30 AM to meet the group by 4:30 AM became our routine. We brewed our coffee in the room and set off to White Sands, where the park ranger greeted us and opened the gate at 5 AM. Pre-arranging our access allowed us to hike to a stunning spot just in time for sunrise—something that always excited me, as the park typically opens only after sunrise. With the special permit in hand, we finally got to capture the breathtaking scenes as the black sky lightened, creating soft pinkish atmosphere, complementing the dunes perfectly.
We finished our morning shoots about 8:30 AM each morning in time to get back to the hotel for breakfast. In the afternoon, we would leave the hotel around 2:15 PM to get to White Sands and hike out to our sunset/blue hour spot.
Captivating Moments at Sunset
The afternoon sunset shoots were the highlight for me. One day, we were captivated by the rare sight of a sun dog, a phenomenon that painted the sky with a dazzling halo. On another occasion, we witnessed the most exquisite colorful sunset I’ve ever seen at White Sands. Just when we feared that the heavy cloud cover would kill any chance of a colorful sunset, the sun dipped below the horizon and found a miraculous opening through the clouds, resulting in a stunning 360° sunset, enveloping us in vibrant hues.
On the final night shoot, there were no clouds at all, allowing the light to transform into a soft, angelic glow. The experience was nothing short of magical, and it was incredible to soak it all in. This may be my favorite photograph from the trip.
The soft enveloping angelic light on our final twilight shoot
Saturday Morning Reflections at White Sands
Saturday morning marked our last shoot of the trip. We wrapped up a bit early so we could enjoy breakfast before embarking on our 10-hour drive back to Austin. Each moment we spent at White Sands was filled with wonder, capturing the breathtaking landscapes that the American West has to offer. The ethereal beauty of the white dunes, the dancing light, and the vast open sky offered an endless canvas for my camera.
As I wandered through the rippling sands, I felt a renewed sense of inspiration. Every angle revealed something new—the way the sun sculpted shadows, the way the colors shifted with the sun's ascent. It was a privilege to immerse myself in such an otherworldly environment, allowing me to not just take photos but to truly experience the landscape.
This trip didn’t just yield images but rekindled my love for landscape photography. Each click of the shutter was a moment paused in time, each captured scene a testament to the raw beauty of nature. I left White Sands with not just new photographs but a deeper appreciation for the stunning vistas that define the American West.
As we finally set off on our long journey home, the memories of this trip filled my heart with gratitude. I look forward to revisiting these enchanting landscapes, time and time again.