I travel not to escape life, but for life not to escape me

  As we pulled into our campsite at Rockhound State Park, nestled in the rugged Chihuahuan Desert near Deming, New Mexico, we were excited for an adventure filled with geological wonders and breathtaking landscapes. Little did we know, our journey would also involve an unexpected encounter with the infamous Africanized honey bees, or "killer bees."

The landscape beckoned us to explore its hidden treasures. Spanning over 1,100 acres, Rockhound State Park is renowned for its rich deposits of gemstones and minerals. Armed with a shovel and empty pockets, we set out on the Thunder Egg Trail, eager to find the park's famous geodes and thunder eggs. We marveled at the unique geological formations and vibrant rocks, unfortunately not finding any pieces of jasper, quartz, or agate along the way.

Deeper into the park, we stumbled upon a promising area near a cluster of rocks. As we crouched down, a faint buzzing sound grew louder. Realizing we were near Africanized honey bees, we knew it was time for a hasty retreat. Keeping calm, we slowly made our way back to camp and the safety of our Airstream.

Once safely away from the bees, we took a moment to catch our breath. The encounter reminded us of nature's unpredictability. Undeterred, we continued our exploration on the Jasper Trail, enjoying stunning views of the Florida Mountains. Although we didn't find any gemstones, the park's geological diversity was incredible.

As the day ended, we made our way to the campground. We set up our BBQ, made dinner, and settled in for a night under the clear desert skies. The stars shone brightly, and the tranquility of the desert provided the perfect setting for reflection. We felt gratitude for the day's experiences—the thrill of discovery, the beauty of nature, and even the unexpected encounter with the killer bees.

Our adventure in Rockhound State Park was unforgettable. It combined the excitement of rock hunting with the beauty of the desert and the thrill of encountering nature's wild side. As we packed up our small collection of stones, we knew we had made memories to last a lifetime. Rockhound State Park truly offers a unique and stunning adventure for rock enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.