I treated myself to a weekend at
La Paloma Hot Springs and Spa. Wow! I hated to leave, really hated it, but once the manager dragged me out of bed and threw my stuff in the road, it started feeling like I couldn't stay.
This place is pretty affordable for the relaxation you'll enjoy. I booked an economy room for $60/night (no in-room shower). There's no turn-down service, and you won't be tidied while you're out at the lake. Reuse your towels - it's good for the earth. Just relax in the 108° mineral water that flows up from the ground under you. Hang around the courtyard in your bathrobe. Seriously, it's encouraged! Watch the flaps.
You can get additional services, if you'd like; Annie funded my massage. You can get a facial or tarot readings, if that sounds like fun.
The town is just plain quirky. The people are
weird and
friendly. My friend
Sue showed me around the joint, bought me coffee, and introduced me to her cool friends. I am very grateful, Sue, for
everything.
I can see myself spending more time in TorC.
I took the scenic route home through the Gila Mountains and Silver City. Along the way, I picked up these folks:
 |
| Daniel, Abby, and Aloric |
They had been on the Continental Divide Trail for six days, and were hoping for a ride to Silver City to rest up, drink beer, and sleep in a bed. Sissies.
I just don't pick up hitchhikers, but apparently hitchhikerhikers are my soft spot. Blame it on the woo-woo and the hot springs. We rode together for another hour, and I dropped them off at the McDonald's in Silver City.
 |
| Caballo Lake, New Mexico |
 |
Caballo Lake
|
Silver City is another place I'd like to explore. It's a
college town, but I saw no trace of students. Is the semester already over?
Things may begin to look and feel different here on the blog. I know I will! I'll let you know what to notice; it'll be like pointing out the moving parts on the diorama.
~~~~~
