Desert Landscapes

If you’ve ever seen Blazing Saddles by Mel Brooks, you may recall one of the first scenes in the movie; railroad workers in the scorching desert being driven by a stern taskmaster, a blistering, parched, scene. One worker drops from exhaustion and dehydration. Taggart barks out, “Dock that Chink a days pay for nappin’ on the job, can’t be more than 115!”

I could never really relate to that scene until last years trip to Las Vegas, teaching Diamond Grading class at AGS. We endured 115-degree days for weeks on end. This year, thank goodness the weather is more temperate.

Returning to the same hotel it’s apparent that things change from year-to-year. New buildings sprout up, employees move on, businesses change and empty lots are filled - but what remains untouched is nature’s beauty - the glowing landscape of the Mojave Desert in Nevada! Without fail, my early morning walk treats me to panoramic views of the mountains in Summerland bathed in the golden sunlight of Red Rock Canyon.

For those early risers visiting Las Vegas as dawn breaks (about 6:30 am) make it a point look to the west. At first, completely by accident you stumble upon golden hues of red, orange and browns that cascade the landscape. The stark beauty of the desert panorama is awe-inspiring. Nature’s beauty is everlasting it completely outshines the lights of the city - Enjoy!

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