Joshua Tree, California

I traveled to Joshua Tree, CA with Sam and her Mom for a couple days of incredible rock climbing and getting lost around Joshua Tree State Park.  We stayed in the most eclectic “rock house” which belonged to Sam’s Mom’s best friend from college, Kelly.  Two generations of college best friends allowed for an adventuresome trip.  We stocked up on Trader Joe’s yum yums before heading to the “land of broken dreams” as Kelly deemed it, which I thought had an authentic vintage wild west feel.  

As a college student, this trip not only posed as an incredible experience for I got to see beautifully preserved joshua trees and gorgeous orange rock.  The genuine feel that I had left earth and been hypnotized by the serene laid back aura truly mesmerized me.  Joshua Tree California could potentially be one of the most beautiful places on earth.  

We packed hearty, grainy lunches everyday to fuel our newly emerging climber muscles.  Our go-to sandwich incorporated every necessary food group.  Now that I’m reminiscing on how well the mustard and pesto complemented each other, along with the melted cheese oozing into the bread, my mouth can’t help but to water.  I think it was the best sandwich I’ve ever had.  Not bad for desert food!

One evening, we roasted an assortment of vegetable that had been coated in balsamic vinaigrette (very easy to make).  To recreate the roasted marinated veg, mix together olive oil, basil, balsamic vinaigrette, and mixed vegetables in a glass baking dish.  Throw it in the oven for 20 minutes at 450 degrees F.

Joshua Tree, California… land of broken dreams on the outskirts of Hollywood, hidden from tourists, and a heaven for explorers.  Don’t forget to stop at Trader Joes in Palm Springs and get fro-yo out of the wall at the end of each day!

Safe travels.