A truly spectacular hike follows. It had narrow edges, steep climbs, incredible views, fascinating sights, testing moments, weather that appeared rough and worsening but remained reasonable for most of the day and finally, a desire to repeat the adventure...when rested. The great honor bestowed upon the family in Spain, expanded and explained, follows at the conclusion.
It's not that far...a quick couple of thousand feet down...what's your problem?
Odd few edges...actually, for most of the way we were on edge...actually, edges.
Heading up, we turn around and ascertain where we began.
On and surrounded by high mountains.
Through the gap, too.
A little ocean below, too, for the warm days, while in the early stages of the ascent.
For those who prefer fresh water, then there's an alternative in the distance and far below.
We like a desert environment, so that's provided, too. The Spanish can be very accommodating.
Jen returning, the path below. Shows how steep it really is.
At the top, for the weary, accommodation provided, too.
Or, perhaps remain at the trailhead and think of walking into town for a colorful lunch.
I think if one went over the edge, one could land 'up a tree'. One of us studies the supposition.
Meantime, where is Moses when you want to cross a river...okay, a stream? The funny thing is that a person tries hard to avoid getting the boots and socks wet. However, should it happen, then these crossings become a lot simpler; just walk through the stream and forget about wetness. The idea is one can only be wet once. It's more far important not to be wet behind the ears.
Arches, too.
Found this a very attractive sight from the top.
The colors were that rich and bright—it seemed artificial. It's fascinating to see where people live. Frankly, it would make sense to us, too. Will we miss Starbucks, you might ask?
Only a little way up but nearly mesmerised by the sight.
The widest section from where, soon after, the incline feels vertical.
When we arrived at the trailhead, we thought the peak shown below might be our destination. Ever the optimists. Turns out that wasn't even half-way up and miles short.
The underfoot had many different types of materials.
Destination somewhere at rear/top.
We suspected something was up during various visits to the internet before leaving US shores. A rumor was circulating in certain circles, the social media block(heads), that after 70 years, our family would be recognized, finally. I was to be the official representative for the clan. In addition, as we would be in Spain at the time, more specifically, the Canary Islands, it made sense that I act as the ‘family man’ or (person, for gender fussy types) to be present for this grand event. That we were to receive an award of this magnitude stunned us—still does. Could it really be true? Deep inside of me, I realized I had earned it and the honor would be fitting. Of course, I have tried to maintain my usual level of humility, even though under the circumstances, it’s awfully difficult—testing might be a superior expression.
Jenni has a habit of coming across a little too smart at times. She added, acerbically I thought, that I should not get ahead of myself which of course, I assured her, I don’t and won’t. ‘After all,’ she added, ‘with your attributes, you have much to be humble about.’ I gather there was a little Winston Churchill in her comment but what do I know. I believe she might be a little envious although I don’t know why because she did adopt the family name. I get ahead of myself…oops!
Since arriving in Tenerife, we had yet to be contacted. I found this a little surprising, even odd. However, knowing the local culture intimately, contacting me should be imminent, just a matter of time—what do they say: ‘mañana’. Therefore, I have been patient as we continue to drive around the island in our vehicle and hike extensively in this beautiful place. Thus far, by the way, all hikes have been unique, something quite different from anywhere else we’ve visited.
Today, it happened. We were returning from a hike, an experience may be more fitting, when lo and behold, a sign on the freeway confronted us. It was a wondrous sight, still is. We don’t remember seeing that sign previously, so we believe it was erected overnight. The honor bestowed upon the family, well, really me. Sainthood! Furthermore, a precedent no less—a living saint. Rather than go into detail, they say 'a picture is worth (paints) a thousand words' or thereabout. Scroll down to get an understanding of the great honor. I could exaggerate or fabricate but the photograph supports the facts.
Be aware that while the ‘w’ is missing, clearly, there was insufficient space to include it on the signboard. Anyway, the 'w' is silent, perhaps just like me. I can live with it. After all, I don’t even desire the honor. My reputation and deeds in and of themselves, say it all (an extensive list follows). Nevertheless, it’s nice to be recognized and for that I’m most grateful to the Spanish nation.
Muchas Gracias!
Should there be a presentation ceremony in our honor or perhaps a major holiday declared in Spain, please join us should you be passing this way. Remember friends, no pressure...but it would be nice.
Extensive list of accomplishments:
Cheers,
Jenni and Jeffrey
An insight into the diversity of the island: From two hikes to be published soon.
From Las Carboneras.
And Teide Park.
Mount Teide, Spain's highest, a volcano.
