We've often read that as people preparing to walk the Camino get to the last 3 weeks their anxiety grows exponentially and they question everything they have done...gear, fitness, purpose, etc. I think we've experienced bits of this along the way, but there has been surprisingly little...however I guess there is still time! Whatever...we are going.
Looking back its been an excellent 11 months preparing (normally I'd have said, "for this journey"), but the preparation has become part of the journey...the parts in France and Spain are just a continuation of what we originally started. The winter weather co-operated brilliantly, fewer heavy rain days than usual and spring and summer provided excellent, dry walking conditions. We've walked at all times of the day; early mornings before work (just Geoff), daytime walks on weekends and evening walks under all conditions. It added up to 2,900 kms of walking with just 800kms to go...the hardest part.
We have been able to test almost all of our gear with the variety of weather experienced. I say 'almost' as we still haven't weather tested our wet gear. After settling on our gear late this spring the amazingly dry weather started and has carried all the way through the summer and into September. However, our strategy is so far holding up well...hope for good weather in Spain! I sure wish weather.com would get on board...they are forecasting rain for our first 3-4 days. For those interested, Annemarie's final pack weight is 14.5lbs and my pack weighs in at a trim 18lbs, both before water and food. Worst case, with sustenance added (food & 1 liter of H2O) we will carry about 17lbs and 20.5lbs respectively.
The support from family and friends has been very appreciated, although I think its fair to say that most generally wish we'd just get on with it!! Also the support from our massage and physio team has been huge...the difference is that they have to listen to us talk about it...a hazard of the job I suppose;) The reality is that without a bit of support and encouragement the journey would be more difficult to undertake, so "THANK YOU" to all. We had a huge boost last night as Erin arrived home from Santa Barbara to see us off. It was a big surprise...at least for Annemarie and I...it seems everyone else was in on the plan.
That's about it for now as we continue to sit in a holding pattern waiting to launch. We will pack up our gear tonight and sort out final details. As folks here go to sleep on Sunday night we will be starting our journey into the Pyrenees.
Our next post will be from across the pond.
Anxiety low, hearts calm...
Buen Camino!!
Geoff & Annemarie, As I look forward to having the family gather here fri. evening I can't help thinking about Sat.as you head off on this great adventure. You are very well prepared in all areas, strong and healthy with great determination. God bless you and care for you each day, you will be in our prayers. Looking forward to your first blog. Love M.
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