Preparations

I've been training for several weeks. I try to walk several miles each week with my backback loaded: around my neighborhood, in Portland's amazing Forest Park, to work and back, down to the waterfront, etc. I carry several of the things I'll bring with me, and I add ballast of whatever kind I have on hand to bring the weight to 18 lbs, or so. I've been averaging a little more than 4 MPH in the city, and a little less on trails. I don't intend to maintain that kind of pace on the Camino, but I want to push myself right now. The reality of that first long leg  -up and over the Pyrenees, and all the way to Roncesvalles-  motivates me to be as conditioned as possible.

My well-worn Kelty Redwing developed a "stress tear" at the shoulder strap that I needed to repair last night. I decided that the big needle I used to repair it will be one more item that I'll bring along on the trip. Who knows when I might need it again...

My new Keen Targhees felt a little tight yesterday. I'm hoping the 8.5s are going to work. If I have to trade up to 9's I'll need to do it soon to get them broken in. Maybe I'll call REI later today to check into it.

I think I have everything I need for the trip, and maybe a few things I just want to bring along.

Packing List

Wearing:

hiking pants, short-sleeved shirt, quick-dry undies, thick socks, boots, belt

In the Pack: 

2 pairs quick-dry undies, long-sleeved shirt, short-sleeved shirt, light weight shorts (2), thick socks(2), liner socks(2), rain jacket, fleece, bandana, long-johns, sandals, hat, Netbook w/charger & USB storage, nail clipper, plastic bowl (w/lid), IPod w/connecting cord, soap (in soapbox), plastic fork & spoon, camera w/extra AA batteries, Vaseline, coffee w/filters & drip-cup,  phone, case & adapter, paper tape, paper, pencil, toothbrush, toothpaste, trail mix, string (for clothesline), disp razors (2), Rx Meds, safety pins, travel towel, Ibuprofen, headlamp, Aspercreme, dried fruit, whistle, tweezers, leather treatment, scissors, backpack cover, band-aids, zip-lock bags, needle, thread, sun screen, sleeping bag w/bag liner, Chap-stick, water bottles (2), clip-on sunglasses (in pouch), AM/FM personal radio, toilet paper

I'll buy a cheap Swiss-Army style knife when I get to Pamplona.

You see why I'm training with an 18 lb. pack.