Day 19

New Year's Eve came early for us so we could get to the Indian Canyons south of Palm Springs. There are four canyons that come out of the rocky barren mountains, each containing a fresh water stream  lined with Palm Trees and other flora. There is an admission fee that gets one into all four canyons. It is a two day process to just get a taste of all four. We started with Andreas Canyon, the best one, in my opinion.

The air was quite cool at first, but the sun was warm. It was actually warmer in the canyons, which surprised me. Perhaps the rocks that tower on the south facing side were still radiating their heat from the summer months.

There is a stark contrast between the lush greenery of the canyon floor and the arid desert only feet away. The streams were running cold, clear and full, still from the recent rains. Evidence of the floods of last week was everywhere.

The towering Palms here are magnificent, rooted firmly among the rock falls from the sheer cliff faces above. There were only five of us here today as some where a little 'gun shy' from their freezing experience of yesterday. It was so much better today, lower altitude, sheltered from the wind, and warm sunshine from perfectly clear blue skies

This is a truly beautiful place, with so much variety and contrast. The trail at the second canyon, Palm Canyon, was littered with people. There were traffic jambs along the trail continually, unlike the first canyon. The trails among these canyons are extensive and we only scratched the surface.

In the afternoon, everyone but Keith, Liam and I, went to see the "Narnia 3D" at our local theatre. We then ordered, 'on line' our dinner from the famous PF Chang's Chinese Bistro. We had a sweet time finding parking at "The River" where everyone was going out for their New Year's Dinner. I drove round and round the parking lot while Keith went in and picked up the 'take out'. The throngs of people were amazing. There are many very fine restaurants right in that area and everyone was lined up 100 deep. A 1 - 2 hour wait for a meal here at a popular spot is not unusual. No reservations taken. With a 2 year old, ordering in was the only way to go. 

Tonight after dinner we said our farewells to the gang that is leaving tomorrow and then into the hot tub for a last warm soak. Another wonderful day in paradise, spent with those we love the most.