A common man marvels at uncommon things. A wise man marvels at the commonplace. CONFUCIUS

Wednesday 6 January 2010

Packing The Essentials


Well, I'm half-prepared, for a change. Normally, due to personal circumstances, I more or less just get up and go (which, I can tell you, has caused me more than a few problems in the past - too heavy a backpack, and painful, pinching walking boots, being just two). But this time I'm carefully packing only the lightest and most essential items. And I've splashed out on a brand new pair of Goretex-lined Merrell Mids - half-way between a walking shoe and a walking boot - which are lighter and much more comfortable than any hiking boots I've ever worn before. In fact they fit like a pair of old slippers. You can slosh through the snow in them and still keep your feet dry. And there's plenty of snow round here right now in which to practise...

(The pic shows Alison Raju's two guide books to the Vía de la Plata; a virgin Credencial del Peregrino, just waiting to be stamped; the blue plastic crucifix and rosary beads given to me by the Bishop of Le Puy at the start of my 1st pilgrimage in October 2007; and the simple coquille pendant I bought from a nun in the sacristy of Le Puy Cathedral, again in October 2007.)

8 comments:

The Weaver of Grass said...

How soon do you go Robert? Pack plenty of warm clothing - but I am sure you don't need me to tell you that. Bonn voyage whenever it is.

Raph G. Neckmann said...

Best wishes for a fulfilling and enlightening walk, SW. Glad you're sticking your neck out for your dreams!

Anonymous said...

Fantastic thoughts and picture. I remember giving my rosary to Fray Luis at Oseira Monastery as a small token for his kindness there.

You probably haven't thought that far ahead, and forgive the intrusion, but have you considered which route you will take after Zamora?

On a wall today, graffitied in snow, I read "Snow is a peace of heaven". I'll photograph it if it is still there tomorrow. I hope you get some glimpses of heaven on the Camino.

Andy

Tramp said...

Good luck. I'll be reading about your progress with interest.

The Solitary Walker said...

Thanks, all...

Andy, love the positive graffiti :) And, after Zamora, it has to be Ourense. Oh, yes!

Word identification: eouskis. Mmm... seasonal...

Rachel Fox said...

Underground, overground, wombling free...have a great adventure.
x
word veri = unbleste
Make of that what you will...
x

Anonymous said...

I walked from Zamora via Ourense in October. It was really good! Contact me if you need any information.

Andy

The Solitary Walker said...

What I make of it, Rachel, is this: I'm a member of the Great Unwashed, the Great Unblessed (which is probably true). Or: I'll remain blister-free! Now, blessed without blisters... That would be a fine thing :)

And Andy... thanks...