The long road trip to Chaco Canyon in northwestern New Mexico is always a great opportunity for introspection, letting go of day-to-day cares, and clearing your head before entering the canyon (always a good idea—more on that another time).
I'm heading off on a (long) road trip from San Diego to Santa Fe, New Mexico, and, of course, Chaco—so thought the following account was fitting. I'm posting it in four short parts over the next few days.
The photo is one of many versions I have taken over the years of the amazing and beautiful Pueblo Bonito doors. The ancient Chacoans were gifted architects and masons.
The Road to Chaco—A Journey to Myself (Part 1 of 4)
By Christina Solstad
Little did I know when I set out that mid-December morning what a journey I was embarking on. Oh, I thought I knew. I thought this was about spending a week at Chaco Canyon in the high desert of New Mexico—one of my favorite, magical places to visit.
I had been there many times before, and I always came away knowing more about myself. This would be my first time alone.
I wasn’t thrilled about the long, 15-hour drive without a companion. I had always had someone to talk to and share the driving with. I was the one who could usually manage only two hours at a time—in the daylight.
Night driving and the long stretches were better left to my driving companions. My role was backup. So I came armed with plenty of tapes to keep me company and the resolve to take frequent breaks.
The morning of my departure I was both excited and nervous. I felt this would be a special trip. It was still dark; the cold air was damp in my lungs. I shivered as I packed the final few things, with the help of my husband. I delayed leaving as long as I could.
Something felt different today. He felt it too. His hug goodbye was longer; he pulled me a little closer. I watched him as I drove away, a funny feeling in the pit of my stomach—a feeling of anticipation. What would this trip hold for me?
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