Walking Across Italy

Today was supposed to be an easy day. We hiked just over 10 miles, but it took us about 5 hours. That’s because the last 5 miles were all downhill, and the trail was covered in rocks. Downhill is difficult on the toes, but rocks make it slow to navigate.

I can’t tell how many flights of stairs we climbed or how many steps I’ve taken today because my Apple watch ran out of juice after only 2 hours! I guess I have to use Low Power Mode all day long.

There was a good highlight today. We actually stopped for a light lunch at an outdoor restaurant. I had a salad (because I had just devoured a piece of pizza that I bought at a bakery that morning), JP had some foie gras, and the others had a bowl of bacon and scrambled eggs. Regardless of the different orders, we all enjoyed actually sitting in a chair for lunch.

This morning I stopped at a small general store in town and bought a new pair of the plastic nubs that go on the end of one’s walking sticks. It made me think about how essential this little piece of plastic can be. As a result, I offer the following for your enjoyment.

There is a small nub at the end of my pole,

That touches the earth, like a shoe sole.

On grass, on mud, on gravel, or wood,

This tiny nub grabs, and holds for good.

On sunny days or when it’s raining,

He soldiers-on without complaining.

He leaps ahead with my every step.

And boosts me up when I need some pep.

When rocks cross my path, he’s heaven sent,

To give me sure footing on my decent.

But even this strong and virtuous nub

Is no match for asphalt’s treacherous rub.

While usually silent as he hits the ground.

I began to notice a clickity sound.

It seems my pole had pierced my friend.

So now our journey must come to an end.

Goodbye dear nub. You mastered your calling.

I am so grateful, you kept me from falling.

A friend asked me what I do to keep myself entertained on these long daily treks. You just read it. That was composed on the trail today.

The other thing that happened on the trail today, was that our shark (Juan Pablo) got so far ahead of us that we voted him off the island. But don’t worry. We found his replacement. a lovely french lady named Magaly who, unlike JP, walked WITH us, all day. She actually likes spending time with us!

Stay turned to see if Juan Pablo is allowed back in OR if he gets deported back to Colombia.

Buenas Noches