REFLECTION, RUMINATION & RHETORIC FROM THE ROAD: SANTA FE

7. Road Fever High

Pulling into Santa Fe, I discover (again) that road-tripping produces the most amazing natural high—and I’m not talking mountain or high-desert altitudes.

Here’s the formula for a Road Trip High:

First, you need at least six days of driving and overnighting (ideally, three different destinations) behind you. No doubt that you (like me) sleep less well, fewer hours in a new setting away from home. That sets the foundation.

Second, you have already driven at least six hours between overnight destinations. The road is mesmerizing, especially if bordered by spectacular scenery.

Third, you arrive someplace outside your normal comfort zone. This produces an adrenaline rush, which, coupled with weariness, induces bliss.

Optional: Add fasting, a healthy alternative to fast-food shacks along the way.

Upon arrival: A margarita (substitute cocktail of choice) is a doozie.

Add this: If you are seriously looking to be shaken and stirred beyond a cocktail, find a piece of Moldavite (perhaps crafted into a piece of silver jewelry) and keep it close to your skin. When you retire for the night, place it beneath your pillow—and fasten your bed belt.

Truly transformative.

Molda-what?

A green tektite glass deriving from a meteorite that crashed 14.8 million years ago into what is now the Czech Republic, renowned as “the emerald that fell from heaven.”  

Some believe the emerald green chalice (Holy Grail) used by Jesus during his last supper was carved from Moldavite.

Due to an unusually high frequency, this cosmic gem is utilized for its transformative powers by mystics, Wiccans and energy healers. (Amateurs are instructed to steer clear of Moldavite until they are fully versed in the meaning, use and power of crystals.)

Paradise Found in Santa Barbara sells Moldavite chips, which they package with a card depicting “The Gemstone That Fell to the Earth” and this printed description:

They have been prized by humans for thousands of years and are still given as gifts from royalty to royalty. Moldavite was the green stone in the Holy Grail and has the power to quicken one’s spiritual evolution… Sleeping with Moldavite activates the Dream State.

Lately, the price of Moldavite has been skyrocketing (even more than everything else…).

Lest I get carried away, back to Santa Fe, which is about art galleries. And also the artists drawn to this town for its stunning sunsets and natural beauty.

The Meyer Gallery on Canyon Road (art gallery heaven) is my favorite.

From Southwestern…

…to the whimsical…

…to the spiritual…

…to the natural…

…to the Anasazi Bar…

…where Joseph the Bartender mixes me an Old Elk Bourbon Manhattan, a true work of art—and a heartwarming prelude to delectable elk loin at Geronimo on Canyon Road.