“Where are we, Jen?”
‘Cangas De Onis.”
“Thanks, dear—these place names get me sometimes…actually, most of the time. We live and pass through
so many towns and villages, most looking alike except for restaurant names, which change. Nevertheless,
it is very comforting seeing so many people sitting on the pavements/sidewalks having lunch and dinner.
An awful lot of talking, drinking and smoking must take place each day. We are probably envious as we come
down from the mountain dog-tired and return to the apartment after greeting people with a ‘Hola’ here
a 'Buenos Dias’ there. I keep count of a lot of things, mostly irrelevant information. For instance, this week
on the trails, actually only the one mountain was busy, we received ten warm greetings in response to ours,
83 grudging greetings, nine non-committals and four outright ignores. We are not despondent because the trend
looks positive.
Carrying on with the counting, in New Zealand I find myself counting sheep—in fact, I’m still counting from
our last trip as I did not complete it. In Oregon, a person counts trees; in Spain of course, it’s restaurants
and South Africa, lost wattage and stolen copper wire. So you can see I’m kept busy—never a dull moment.
Are we there yet? No, but we're having fun, aren't we? Jenni approaching (slowly) peak of Sohornin
on a misty day. A sharp ascent and we suppose descent, too.
Attitude now that we have nearly reached the peak in fog (lake bottom left...well,
was there when we commenced).
On a rather dull day, the sun peeped out for seconds to give us a little color at Lake Enol.
Not a large distance but steep as all...
Flora is looking great in the wilds but not without prickles.
Our trip to Spain opened with some awkward moments and a few difficulties. We continued plodding along
and things improved immensely. Currently, we are enjoying incredible experiences and would be surprised should
we not return to the peninsula soon. It’s a fascinating country for our purposes. In fact, it’s an amazing world
we inhabit. While every person has their own lifestyle, tastes and preferences, we find that getting out of
the channel, a term we coined for routine living, allows us to enjoy (and endure) a great number of different
opportunities that are there for the taking. Sure, there are financial constraints for many of us, family to care
for, careers and commitments including a whole host of other limitations. Nevertheless, one sets one’s priorities
and it appears that ours are focused on adventure through travel and other avenues. As we mentioned, it’s an interesting
world out there, not easy but there are rewards, excitement and something for everyone—you just have to identify it
and reach for it.
Don't I know you two? Mind you, all humans look alike.
'Hey, Jen, that's higher than I thought. Did you bring the flashlight?'
There's a story behind these three youngsters. Mom, went off shopping and was heard to say, "You
wait here and especially don't talk to strangers'.
Some of the scenes in Picos de Europa are a knock-out. More to follow next week.
The editor said it would make a nice shot. I wondered why she was going to tread on the loose stones (not in picture)
to the island. "No," she answered, "You go stand there." This is a regular occurrence, being ordered about a lot.
A sad editor. I suggested she step on the rocks to cross the water. Apparently, not well received.
Position number 3: Billy, the Goat. Runner up: Benjy, the Goat. And the winner of the pre-eminent
showoff contest in Spain is...Jeffrey, the Goat.
Even our directions have improved. Over the last three days, we have undertaken three tough but
spectacular hikes, at least the latter two, and have arrived at the trailheads without a misstep. We are
in the North-western section of the country, the region that houses Picos de Europa, a string of mountains
that 'blows the mind' and challenges the lungs. Without making a bet, we might say this is one of the most
beautiful areas we have visited. The hiking is superb, the small towns and villages full of character and
the weather, ideal. The Cares Gorge is considered one of the best experiences for hikers and we concur.
We walked through the gorge on a rough but well made trail cut into the mountains. We left from Poncebos
and were able to reach Cain. The return journey, including the walk to and from the car park and around
the latter town came in at a shade under 15 miles. It's big distance but enjoyable, unique and an experience
to savor. (That blog to follow next week.)
While the politicians do what they do best.
Nature produces repeating spectacles.
Peace and tranquility, a house with a view.
Cheers,
Jenni and Jeffrey
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