1st time road tripping to Western New Mexico

I’ve been reducing my social media presence for quite awhile. When I retired earlier this year, I stopped using Facebook altogether. I use Instagram rarely, Youtube sparingly, leaving this little blog is my only way I try to connect with the world online. A month or so ago though, somehow my Instagram algorithm picked up a solo traveler finding some unique outdoor places in Western New Mexico. It triggers a little road trip in me, and so earlier this month I left the Phoenix area and went a road trip through the lonely highways of the Southwest.

I pass by the copper mines of Morenci and Clifton, crop topped mountains showcasing vast swaths of exposed earth. The road climbs high up into the mountains of the Gila National forest. State lines are funny things. There is no noticeable differences between States as I cross into New Mexico from Arizona. The Indians and their heritage understand this in a way others never will.

I find lakes hidden in the forest, and take long walks around the water, no destination in mind. Walk for a awhile, have a picnic with the morsels in my backpack, and set up on a rock to eat. I find time is at a standstill out here, only the sound of flutes and the faint beat of a drum that floats with the wind.

Leaving during the week is so quiet in comparison to the weekend road trips of my past life while working. I have no stress about trying to do as much as I can in the short amount of time available. If I do something, I am happy. If not, it does not really bother me. I have no real goals except to just be present in the moment, aware of my place in the universe as I drive along the empty highways of the Southwest.