The Prep

I want to write a little about my preparation for my journey because in retrospect, I did all the right things. I did not experience any significant problems or pain ...not to say there wasn't pain, but, it did not stop me from walking or continuing my journey. I was very blessed.

Taken from the train, Bayonne to St. Jean Pied de Port

On The Way, I did experience burning in my lower legs at night and my feet were tender and sore at the end of each day. I could be awakened at night with my aching legs and lie for hours not sleeping, but miraculously, they would recover over night and I could continue the next day. It was probably the first stages of shin splints, which many pilgrims suffered from far worse than I.  Ibuprofen 600mg (anti-inflammatory) also helped tremendously. You can buy it over the counter in Spain, along with Ibuprofen gel to rub on sore areas. That is what I used along with some essential oils for my knees and feet. I managed to battle one small blister the entire trip on the inside of my left heel. The skin was so tough that it never broke and was usually gone each morning, only to appear  that evening when the boots came off. I can also thank my mother for inheriting her foot condition that I am sure, saved me from many blisters.

Rolands Fountain, Stage 1

Along with my prep and inheriting my mother's feet, I also give credit to using the trekking poles. I think that they saved my knees, hips and ankles from a load of stress and protected me from going over on an ankle with 20 lbs on my back while negotiating steep rocky paths. I also credit my good fortune with the fact that I stayed very much in the present and concentrated on where my feet were going. One had to consciously take the time to look up at the views as one walked as you did not want to lose footing.

My pack was as full as it could get and I did not end up discarding much along The Way. Including about 1 1/2 litres of water, the pack weighed about 20 lbs. Maybe a bit more as I carried 3 books most of the way...Duh.. In retrospect I would buy a slightly larger pack  (mine was 32 litres) with the ability to spread the gear out within it and carry the weight higher. I would also look for one with better padding on the waist belt. It should also have a better covering for rain. However, it did get me there and I am grateful.
More on the pack and what I took, later...