I left the Prado with enough time to once again traverse Calle Mayor and get to the Church of Santiago before evening prayers were over. I tiptoed in at the end(?) and listened in dumb fascination to the Spanish catholic service (neither of which I am fluent in). After the wine & cookies were consumed, … Continue reading 3rd time lucky

Ah, Madrid. The tourist attractions are few compared to other international cities, but it is incomparable as a city made for walking, eating, and people-watching. And for two glorious days this just what I've done. I napped off my jet leg, meandered the warren of streets around my hotel, laid in bed all morning to … Continue reading Madrid

This is a bit boring, but it's all about where I'm going, where I'm staying, and a couple of nice maps so my mom can follow me along.The route I'm walking in Spain is a little different from my first Camino.  Back in 2006 I started on the Camino Frances in St.-Jean-Pied-du-Port (see upper right … Continue reading Where exactly is Allison walking?

I  leave in just 3 days, so I thought I'd better get off the pot and think what I'm taking on the Camino.  Wait, stop laughing!  Okay, I'll take that back.  All of you who have hiked with me this winter know that this is all I've thought about (and talked about!) for weeks and … Continue reading Decisions, decisions

Not the music, but the plethora of computerized, mechanical, and electrical gadgets that are necessary for our everyday functioning. I'm trying to narrow it all down to just my iPhone for my trip to Spain = alarm/music player/book/puzzles/email/blog posting/and, oh yeah, a phone. We'll see if this email gets posted... Thanks, AllisonSent from my iPhone

The countdown has begun! Less than 2 weeks to go before I leave for the Camino de Madrid and I'm  busy making lists, checking the route, packing, and trying out new gear(!). The training has slowed down a bit but then I don't want to be burned out on hiking before I start on a … Continue reading The countdown has begun!