Sometimes, you just need to continue a good trip. That’s exactly what Nanook and I did on our recent trip to Yucca Valley, and let me tell you—it was everything I needed. I love the desert. I always have. Its beautiful, scary and mysterious.

We left Springville, CA, ready for some desert magic, and landed at the perfect little hideaway—an Airbnb called “Cryptic Cabin.” Tucked away among Joshua trees and cholla cactus, it was the kind of place that instantly makes you slow down. The house itself was roomy, comfortable, and full of that quirky desert charm, with a great kitchen where I cooked a few meals to enjoy in peace. There’s something about making breakfast in a quiet place like that—just coffee, the soft morning light, and nothing but the sound of the wind through the trees.

But the real magic happened at night. The hot tub under the stars? Absolute heaven. The desert sky is so dark and vast, it almost doesn’t seem real. I’d just sit there, letting the hot water soak away the day, looking up at millions of stars overhead. It was quiet, except for the occasional coyote howl in the distance, and Nanook curled up nearby, totally at peace. Moments like that? They stick with you.

Of course, we did some exploring. Pioneertown was our first stop—a funky little Old West-style town built in the ‘40s as a Hollywood movie set. It’s still got that dusty, time-warp feel, with wooden buildings and a saloon straight out of a cowboy flick. Naturally, we had to stop for a beer and take in the scene.

Another day, we hit Joshua Tree National Park, It did not disappoint. The landscape is otherworldly, with giant rock formations, spiky trees, and endless blue skies. We checked out Skull Rock—a boulder that looks exactly like a skull (a little eerie, a lot cool), and Heart Rock, which felt like a sweet little love note from nature. Nanook and I took a couple of walks, just wandering and taking it all in. There’s something about the desert that makes you feel so small, but in the best possible way.

We also took a drive out to 29 Palms and wandered around Joshua Tree Town, both of which have this laid-back, artsy vibe. The kind of places where time slows down, and you just enjoy the little things—quirky shops, friendly people, and that unmistakable creative energy that the high desert seems to attract.

After four nights, it was time to pack up and make the seven-hour drive back to Santa Cruz. Long haul, but Nanook was the best road trip buddy, just snoozing in the backseat while I sang along to old-school tunes.

Speaking of music—my favorite memory from this trip? Dancing around the cabin to The Supremes on the record player. No reason, just pure joy. One of those moments where everything feels light and happy, and you want to freeze time for just a little longer.

Next up? Palm Springs, then Sedona for six days. It’s a big trip, and I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t a little nervous. But me and my trusty husky? We’re ready for the next adventure.

Until then, I’ll be dreaming of desert stars and dancing to old records. 🌵✨

~Peace Out, Charlotte & Nanook