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THE IRON SPRING - First stop was the Iron Spring. With iron-rich water bubbling up from the natural pebble floor, the Iron spring is considered to be beneficial to the blood and immune system. At 107 degrees, it's got to be doing some good! A Native American legend tells that the giant rock in the iron pool guards the place where the ancient people of the mesa once received food and water during times of famine. THE SODA SPRING - The rock wall in the enclosed Soda "steam" pool creates a delightful cocoon-like ambience, with soft echoes encouraging a sense of calm and relaxation. Or so I'm told; the three ladies on their "Girlfriend Getaway" in this pool apparently found it a challenge to understand the "Quiet Please" signs on the wall, gossiping without drawing breath. Echoes or no echoes, the water from the Soda Spring is said to relieve digestive problems. THE ARSENIC SPRING - The arsenic water is believed to be beneficial for relief from arthritis, stomach ulcers and to heal a variety of skin conditions. Water from the iron and arsenic springs is blended in various pools throughout the property. Just don't swallow! After a good soak in the mineral pools, we covered our bodies in detoxifying earth from the Mud Pool and let it dry as we basked in the New Mexico sunshine. Pure bliss! But remind me next time to leave the Norma Kamali swimmers back home and take the Kmart specials along instead - mud's hell on lycra! FACT: New Mexico's state constitution officially states that New Mexico is a bilingual state, and 1 out of 3 families in New Mexico speak Spanish at home. Best part of the day Dinner at Ojo Caliente's Artesian Restaurant after hours of soaking and detoxing. Set in a charming atmosphere, seasonal South- western flavours blended with global influences in a meal that rated as one of our more memorable dining experiences in the Southwest. Worst part of the day The hour-and-a-half's drive back to Santa Fe after such a luxury-filled self-indulgent day. We kicked ourselves all the way back to our B&B as we fought to stay awake. Moral of the story Go the whole hog! After soaking to your heart's content, followed by a Mud Bath and treatment or massage, enjoy a fine meal at Artesian Restaurant and stay the night at Ojo Caliente Resort & Spa. The experience will be priceless!