This is an interesting thread and I'm enjoying getting to know everyone. Had to chime in here.
Liz, your description of desert nights reminds me of our Tucson nights. As soon as it is warm enough, Alan and I will spend our evenings in our lounge chairs looking up at the night sky. We watch satellites and shooting stars while imagining exactly what's out there in our universe. It's so peaceful and much more fun than watching television! Although I enjoy the desert, it's the mountains that really speak to me.