[Image]  We joined the gathering at the Transit of Venus party at Great Basin National Park on June 5. Folks were taking a break from the telescopes to let clouds go by.

Once they cleared, we peeked through the telescopes. To me, the Transit of Venus isn't a spectacular sight, just a little dot in front of the sun. What I do really like is watching Venus move and thinking about the history of what it's represented to the astronomy world.

To see that change in movement, we took a break and went into the visitor center to see the exhibits.

[Image]  Desert Girl was ready to run! Her babysitter had done her hair in French braids, and it was absolutely adorable.

[Image]  Desert Girl liked the border collie resting under the sheep camp.

[Image]  She also liked the kangaroo rat.

[Image] The spadefoot toads were another attraction. I always get a little uneasy when Desert Girl pets the fake rattlesnake, and try to make sure she knows that she should never do that in the wild.

[Image] Then it was time to head back outside. Ranger Steve was really helpful getting the kids positioned looking through the telescope.

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We're all set to join in the activities for the Astronomy Festival at Great Basin National Park June 14-16. And as a bonus, the Snake Valley Festival will be held June 15-17, so there will be lots of great things to do this weekend!