If lines at the post office and at some popular eateries are the measure of the return of the species, wintrus-snowbirdus then the town is seeing the signs of the annual influx.Down at the post office, in all its essential wisdom management has left poor Reuben all by himself to handle the crowds that throng in, signing up for new mailboxes, sending out seasonal packages, and generally cooling their heels in the typical 35 minute lines that come each winter. If you weren't facing a monopoly, it's likely you'd take your business elsewhere. To a degree you can: If you're just looking to buy stamps--and since there are no stamp dispensing machines in the lobby--take yourself down to the General Store about a half-mile east on Main Street (B-10) and you can get them quickly.
An unseasonable cold snap settled down over the area, and looks to be with us for a few days. Line ups at the propane retailers are common. In the past we had touted the folks at the RV Pit Stop. Trouble is, the proprietor of many years, Charlie, was forced to sell out when his health gave him problems. Seems like the friendliness of service and low prices went right along with him. We've found better prices and really nice folks a few blocks closer to the B-10 at The Jerky Store and More. LP prices are typically a dime a gallon less, and they take credit and debit cards, unlike the Pit Stop. Bob and Alice are cheerful, caring folks, who not only serve up fast gas, they have some excellent grub in their deli. I'm particularly fond of their teriyaki beef sticks.
If good food can be measured by the number of cars in the parking lot, then bypass Sweet Darlene's on Main Street and drop in next door to The Jerky Store and grab your meal at La Casa Mi Rancho. Yes, Mexi-food headlines the menu, but there's plenty of "American" food on the menu. But there's still no substitute for The Big Fish Fry up the block at the Grubstake Bar and Social Club. Just a single order of the gigantic proportions served up at the 'stake fills up our two hungry souls, and the fish is NEVER fishy. Big crowds do you in? Give 'em a phone call and make it "to go."
Free dry camping in Death Valley Junction at the Amagosa Opera house. I talked to Rick, hotel manager and he said they have 268 acres around the hotel and everyone is welcome. They have water and dump site across the street from the hotel. Stay as long as you want. I am not sure how the weather is in winter but you can look it up.
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