Algodones Mexico

This border town is an easy and safe crossing into Mexico. Many cross the border to have dental work done at a fraction of the cost in the US, myself included. The town is not pretty, in fact I often feel sad for those that cross the border and feel this is a good representation of Mexico, because it is not. It is a product of the demand of tourism and lacks the craftsmanship and artistry that is typical of Mexico. Sure, you can get your Kalula cheaper, the Agave syrup is also less expensive and there is no shortage of cheap Mexican silver. But you will not find the beautiful silver that is unique from all the masses and the art is missing, even the rugs are low quality. The people are friendly and the tortillas are good but like most border towns, this is missing the heart you find deeper in the country.

Squaw Lake and Senator Wash

Our second time in this area but this time, we elected to go into the fee area near the lake. So far, I'm loving this. There are bath rooms in good condition, water access and views of the lush green river area in the otherwise stark desert. I can see signs of Burrows and last night enjoyed the song of the cayotes. The only difference so far is we are missing the eclectic group of people we met here the first time around. Gone is Bobby, king of the Lakota and Tilly. Gary thinks he saw Al's rig, he had a heart attack the last time we were here, the care the volunteers took to save his life and make sure his belonging were cared for while he was in the hospital was above and beyond what you might expect of a good friend, let alone a total stranger.

The area was full last time we were here, not so this year and many of the spaces are a winter retreat (for 2weeks) for our neighbors to the north. One thing I have learned is that if you want to find a nice place to camp, that is less expensive, follow the Canadians. Today was a day to relax with a short hike, tomorrow a longer hike to see if any one we know has returned and to explore the Libary (no Liberian on duty to check the spelling) and perhaps a kayak. The lake leads to a series of channels that eventually enter the Colorado River. As I post this blog, I can hear the coots along the bank just below of site and last night I noticed herons flying over looking for a palm tree to roost in for the night and then a morning hunt for the perfect fishing hole.

The Slabs

For those who like to boondock in the SW, the Slabs are a "must see" kind of experience. The Slabs are located near the Salton Sea and in one of the poorest counties in CA, sitting just outside the equally tired city of Niland. It is hard to describe the Slabs, one hardly knows where to start but here we go.

Once A former military base, it was dismantled leaving just the concrete slabs that were barracks and begat the name. Now it is home to many that need or want to live free of charge, including the homeless, down on their lucks, former druggies, people with mental issues and when ever you have free, you have snow birds. Some say there is a third world feel to the place and a lawlessness, which was verified the moment we drove in with a squad car shaking down some youth. There are many areas filled with trash and make shift buildings here and there between old motor homes, there is even word that a resident is digging under one of the slabs and has plans for a multi room home. But there is also a community that takes care of those that want and need to be a part of a social group. And there is Salvation Mountain, a interesting folk art installation. Roughly three stories tall and about 100 feet wide, on a constant state of repair and a bright spot in an otherwise drab desert landscape.

Art that brings back the past in Borrego

As you drive along the desert roads in Anza Borrego Desert State Park you may be lucky enough to spot a Turkey Vulture circling above hunting for food or maybe even some Bighorn Sheep. There are some other amazing sights along the highway that harken back the time of the ice age and before. Scattered in the desert are sculptures placed in various locations in the northern part of the park near the town named the same, Borrego Springs. These amazing sculptures were created by Ricardo Breceda for the owner of the Galleta Meadows in Anza Borrego, owner Avery (of Avery labels...)

Thanks to a commission by Avery the artist created ancient statues of beasts from the past in steel. From raptures to sloths, tortoise to dragons crossing under road, this part of southern Cal has a homespun charm along with a lot of dust. If you like your ATVs, dirk bikes and Off road vehicles this is the place for you. I know there is much to see in this grand state park but you need 4 wheels turning or a lot of energy and a good face mask to see it. If we come this way again, we will be sure to stay at least one day in the pay area of the park to access the trails from the park. And we will never come over a holiday again, the park is too close to San Diego and LA and over run causing a choking dust everywhere.

A new New Years Tradition

Burn the Christmas tree on New Year, that is how they do it in the desert in California.