In Search of Solemint

A canyon junction west of Soledad and south of Mint (named for purple sage) – this scoured maze of Canyon Country where I rode bareback down arroyos, leaving hoofprints in sand. Today, I’ll stop at the general store – does it still sell bubble gum and dry goods? Recollection is so fuzzy in 9th grade. Who cares for canyons on the late-bus under stars? Today, my map shows no way to get there. Everything’s re-engineered, highway widened for commuters; interchanges. Do canyons still exist under terraced multi-something homes and quick stops? Where is Solemint? Next off-ramp, I’ll drive to the end of the road. Walk till I find sand unbulldozed, eroding like time. I’ll listen for birds in the arroyo, a promise of water. I’ll climb higher and look for purple sage. Sniff deeply. I’ll feel cold wind off the passes. Can I still taste Solemint?