Found the Duck Tape (see the 40-Days Out post). The standard grey tape rolls are too heavy – so I went with a fancy-pants design that gives me less on the roll (lighter) but is still the quality tape I need for hiking.
A few days back, my head was spinning with the realization that I leave for Europe in just a couple weeks. I had to sit down and write a few lists. I’m one of those list people. Unlike 2021 when the borders were just re-opening after the pandemic and my list was peppered with COVID-related precautions and restrictions were gradually being lifted but travel still required jumping through hoops, this year is quite simple.
Supplies:
Adjust Backpack: Which, to me, meant making the drive to REI to have the backpack expert there professionally fit my new Osprey pack to my frame. I did this last Saturday and it was completely worth the long drive in highway traffic. Tyler, the on-staff pack guy, measured my back and adjusted tabs on my pack that I didn’t even know existed. It now fits snuggly to my frame and the weight is carried close to my back rather than swinging to and fro, which would cause discomfort just burns energy. Since I’d bought the pack online in their member’s sale in March, there was no charge for the service.
Pack: Actually pack – not just “have a concept of a pack” (which we all know isn’t really the same thing.) Since I’m putting my pack in a duffle-bag to check it onto the plane, there’s a temptation to just throw everything into that outer duffle bag and assume it will fit in the backpack. No. Actually pack. I’m happy to say that everything actually fits – with room to spare.
I’ve also used the complete checklist that I had in prior years to make sure I’m bringing everything I need. Apparently a worthwhile activity as I was missing some really basic stuff, like sunglasses and my water bottles. There are a few things that will need to wait until the morning of my departure to go into the pack – like my essential chargers.
Shoes. Specifically, break in the new shoes. I’m averaging about five miles per day. I walk with a friend in the morning before work, at the lunch hour, and in the evening. Mostly in the nearby park. It’s helping as the shoes are much more comfortable. I can tell the spots on my feet where I’ll need duck tape – but at least I’m not learning this on the first day out on a steep incline.
Leave behind:
Things from that list that I’m leaving behind this time, on purpose:
Pepper spray. Never used it. If I have reason to feel nervous at any point, I can stop into a local hardware or hiking store (there are plenty) and get whatever is legal there.
A sun hat. Only ever really used this on the Meseta, where there is no shade. I’ll be stopping this year’s hike in Burgos, the last town before the Meseta. Will take it when I’m crossing the desert again, but no need this trip.
At home:
Clean the coop and run for the hens. Needs to be done with the change of seasons anyway – but want to have it dealt with so my son has a clean environment when tending to the chickens.
Refinish and hang the back door between the backyard and garage. The current door is SO warped. It’s no longer aligned properly and has locked shut behind me when I’m in the backyard. I found a solid oak door at the ReStore and want to have it refinished and installed before I go.
Prep and plant a garden. Prep, to me, means cordoning off the raised beds so the chickens can’t access them. Otherwise, I’d just be setting them up with a fresh salad bar. While that may have its merits – that’s not my intent.
At work:
I have a list of things to do before I leave – many of the items listed wouldn’t make sense to most people who aren’t in my role. But, suffice it to say I’m trying to think ahead to what my bosses will need so we can avoid surprises.
I think that’s it! Pretty simple.
Can’t believe I’m this close to departure!
More later…
And this year I’m again walking for charity:water. Please join me if you’re able…
https://www.charitywater.org/marilyn-peterson/marilyn-s-camino-for-water-2026
I love reading your updates! I didn’t know about having your pack fit. That sounds so helpful. I think I would have trouble packing both for your visit to see April and Brian and then for the Camino in such a disciplined way. Always impressed by the thought and care you put into ensuring a successful trip.
Thanks for the note, Brenda! I appreciate it. I hope you’re doing well.