Joshua Tree

There are those extraordinary places we visit once in our lifetime, for an hour or two, crossing the experience off a list.

 Then there are those we visit, again and again,

encounter in various seasons, and for different occasions.  

They become familiar, but no less magical.

These photos are from my first trip to Joshua Tree in 1992.

I was unaware then how many times I'd return.

After I purchased a desert home less than an hour's drive from the majestic rocks, my visits became more frequent, but no less spectacular.

I wonder about those who live in the shadow of places I still want to venture --

Stonehenge, Yosemite, Petra.

What is familiar to them flutters in my dreams.