This past weekend I escaped the eternally foggy Bay Area to visit my friend Carmen in the land of blindingly bright desert sunshine, Las Vegas. Instead of nightclubs and casinos, we ventured west to the colorful rock formations of Red Rock Canyon.

The weather was mild and perfect, and the vibrant rust red colors of the landscape were so breathtaking against the blue sky. We hiked the Calico Hills trail and bouldered through the sandstone quarry. What a treat being able find yourself standing in the remains of millions of years shifting dunes and gaze up at the splendor of geologic formations to realize the insignificance of you and your problems. It’s therapeutic and humbling. Can’t wait to come back.

Thanks for a great weekend, Carmen!