CaminoDeSantiago 2017

Linda's Camino Has Begun I took Linda to the airport yesterday. She has started her camino. It was both a joyous moment for me and one tinged with a bit of enviousness ... as I wait to start my camino in mid-July. None the less, I felt great pride in her for this is a momentous decision to devote one's body and soul to a 500 mile undertaking. I only wish that I was with her. Goal for the Day Feeling just a bit sad and lonely, I thought to get Zeke out for a walk or to head to the YMCA for an exercise session. Neither happened. For some reason, I just completely crashed on the couch when I got home. Meaningful Moment How about a sinful moment? Couldn't resist the DD Boston Cream donut on the way out of the airport terminal. Random Thought of the Day Been slow to motivate myself. Continuing to work with the VA physical therapist and the Strong Sports Medicine physical therapist to increase flexibility and range of motion. Feeling pretty good in my health, but havin

Making My Lists Here are some standard lists to prepare for the camino. Clothes Quick-dry: Light weight pants with zip-off legs (2) Technical shirts (4) Undershorts (2) Clothes (other) Cold Weather outer shirts (2) Fleece jacket (1) Shoes: breathable hiking (fully closed), hiking sandals (close toe), sneakers, flip-flops Other: quick dry towel, rain slick, sun hat, neck gaiter  Med kit: foot care (moleskin, needle, antiseptic, antibiotics) generic (bandaids, sterile gauze, ...) medicines (ibuprofen, sleep aids, claratin, fiber supplements, epi pens) Electronics: tablet mobile phone solar charger usb cables (2) european electrical outlet adapter w/usb ports. Accounts: Notify banks that I am out of country (so they don't cancel credit/debit card) Hold mail Confirm medical insurance coverage and procedures for overseas claims Pay rent Goal for the Day Keep training. Work on this laissez-fair attitude that I've developed, probably as a resu

Linda's Countdown It is dawning on me that in less than 2 weeks, Linda begins her grand adventure on the Camio de Santiago Camino Frances. I will miss her when she leaves for Spain, but at the same time, be excited for her and the experiences she will accumulate. Goal for the Day Our training continues. Last night we did six urban miles which presents its own challenges. The constant hum of traffic, the pounding on the sidewalks, the somewhat gritty city scape (as opposed to a scenic trail) can wear one down. On the other hand, we saw three wonderful waterfalls, all located in the heart of Rochester. Last Monday we did a Mendon Ponds hike that turned into a disaster. We planned on six miles thru the northwest part of the park: Northern Meadows, Fern Valley, West Esker and Devil's Bathtub. However the mosquitoes were out in full  force. They absolutely attacked in swarms, and we were without insect repellent. I thought that I had some in my bag, but I did not. A coupl