Tuesday Tidbits #349 Desert Living

~ Nancy

Hello Dear Friends

Here we are back together again on Tuesday. Welcome back!

Moon Sightings

Did you get a chance to catch the Beaver Moon? It was a remarkable sight, as it orbited closer to Earth than any other full moon this year. It was incredible! The following pictures were taken with my iPhone in the early morning when the moon was setting.

It was dancing with the Bougainvillea.

I just can’t help but smile when I see the moon. A quiet calm settles over me while I look at its steady glow.

“The moon is a friend for the lonesome to talk to.” — Carl Sandburg

Desert Ride

There’s just something about hitting the Arizona desert trails with friends. We did just that. We started early when the air was still cool. We noticed that all was green again, as the area had experienced a wonderful monsoon season late in the summer and early fall.

We enjoy riding the dirt trails through the mountains, hills, ravines and canyons.

The saguaros, which are the classic symbol of the Arizona desert, greeted us back home again. I think a few even waved hello.

Do you see the saguaro waving?

“Don’t just ride the trail — leave your mark in the dust.” — Unknown

Our friend’s son climbed to the summit flag last year. That’s a climb!

“Only in Arizona can the cacti stand taller than your troubles.” — Unknown

Some other friends greeted us along the way as well. Spotting cattle out in the desert is sometimes a surprise to me. But as you can see, they have plenty to graze on. Life seems to find a way out here, and it brings a sense of peace.

Seeing the old cattle corrals makes me dream of the old ways of living in the Wild, Wild, West.

“The cattle may wander, but a true cowboy always finds his way.” — Unknown

Castle Hot Springs

We drove past the posh Castle Hot Springs Resort, which is in the middle of the desert. It is located in the Bradshaw Mountains in Yavapai County. This remote luxury retreat offers an all-inclusive stay —deep in the desert. I am sure the peacefulness of the desert’s rustic nature and the night sky is the lure. The newly constructed cabins have outdoor spaces with outdoor tubs, ideal for soaking under the stars. But let’s not forget the natural Hot Springs that you can swim in—another lure for many.

It was built in 1896 as a high-end health and wellness spa resort, and many high dignitaries came here for their winter getaway. Some of those dignitaries included the Rockefellers, the Vanderbilts, and the Astors, and even John F. Kennedy stayed at Castle Hot Springs when he was injured in World War II. He supposedly liked the Hot Springs for his back injury. It was closed and run-down for many years, but it has been revitalized in recent years. We saw a lot of activity when we drove by. We chatted with a woman who works there and was on her way home after her shift. She says the place is constantly busy. Some people arrive by helicopter about three to five times a week, as the road out here is quite rugged.

Entrance to Castle Hot Springs.

I took this peeking through the gate. What a lovely stroll between the palm trees.

I took this picture a while back when they began the renovations to the property. It was much easier to get a photo back then because it’s now much more secluded.

Golden Tree Colors

We did see a few trees dressed in Gold! Fall colors can happen in the desert.

Thank You

That’s A Wrap!

Thanks for joining us for another Tuesday over here at Two Trails One Road.

We are wishing all of you a wonderful week ahead. Enjoy what this upcoming week brings to you. And whatever you have planned… make every day count and be thankful for your Blessings. Take good care of yourselves!

Linking up with Life and Linda

Talking About it Tuesdays

Sunday Stills

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Two Trails become One Road in Arizona. Read All About the Adventures of this Arizonian.

40 thoughts on “Tuesday Tidbits #349 Desert Living”

  1. Your photos are stunning! Thanks for taking us along for the ride. The moon pictures- with your iphone? I’m impressed!! The moon was amazing looking. Ok, the dessert- I want to go and see it you! You’ve captured a lot of beauty and I like your commentary as well. A very enjoyable read and feast for the eyes- especially the eyes of this Midwest gal who doesn’t see sites like the ones in your post :).

    Reply

    1. Oh, the Southwest is definitely worth seeing! Hope you can come one day. Arizona is filled with lovely sights everywhere!
      Thank you for visiting, and thank you for enjoying your time here!

      Reply

  2. You would probably be looking at snow in PA, had you stayed there! We got it here in Michigan. This looks like a wonderful drive, a delightful time and beautiful territory!

    Reply

    1. It took about four shots to get that one. Plus, imagine me in my nightgown and slippers because this was in the early morning. 😂🤣
      Thanks for the visit!

      Reply

    1. Arizona should be on everyone’s destination list. There is so much to see here! And it’s the Wild, Wild, West!
      Thanks for stopping by.

      Reply

  7. The Castle Hot Springs Resort would be a wonderful stay. Your moon shots are stunning. I always enjoy your rides through the desert and the saguaros are fascinating. I did see that one that was waving to you! I love the golden tree color. Our low this morning was 20 degrees, leaves are coming down. Have a lovely week my friend!

    Reply

    1. Oh, my Pam and Butch, please stay warm! Thank you so much for all your kind comments. The desert is fascinating for sure.
      Enjoy the week, my friend.

      Reply

  9. Hi Nancy! I did go out to see the Beaver Moon! It was beautiful. You sure have the best of both worlds, and I love that for you. The resort entrance looks amazing, but I would not like to ride in a helicopter to get there. I’m still praying for you and your surgery. Please tell me again when it is scheduled.
    Have a beautiful week waving to the saguaro. 🌵😊

    Reply

  10. The moon was beautiful. I’m glad you’re enjoying the cooler weather, which looks like it might get much cooler very soon. Hurrah! The saguaro look fat and happy from all that rain. I’m looking forward to getting out a bit myself.

    Reply

  12. Beautiful scenery Nancy, where the mountains meet the desert! I was going to say the same thing Jeanie said, you’d probably be in a deep freeze and snow if you were still in Pa. Yes, that moon was big and beautiful last weekend. Thoughts and prayers for you as you prepare for your surgery. Take care. ♥

    Reply

    1. Thank you, Mary, for your prayers. Thank you also for your sweet comments. And yes, our place in Pennsylvania is covered in snow. Have a great week ahead.

      Reply

  19. Beautiful photos Nancy. The desert has it’s kind of beauty. I love visiting and seeing the different sights. We hope to visit friends in Fountain Hills, Arizona in January. The moon shots are fabulous. Prayers for your upcoming surgery. Thanks for sharing at Love Your Creativity. Hugs

    Reply

    1. It’s always so good to hear from you, Linda. You will enjoy Fountain Hills. It’s a beautiful place with a gorgeous fountain! Thank you for the sweet comments. ❤️🥰

      Reply

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