Let’s take the “switchback"

This weekend we took our longest hike. 9.7 miles in the North Carolina Mountains. We hiked from Bass Lake, outside of Blowing Rock NC., to the “Fire Tower”. It was an amazing hike. We saw Mountain laurel, high meadows with free flowing blowing high grass, like waves on the ocean. It was mesmerizing. 

Bass Like 

There were many, many horses on the trail, with us. Gorgeous Palomino horses, among other types, having the time of their life. And just to make it that much more magical, their were people flying kites. We were now about 4+ miles into the hike and Vic and I were “high” on the hike, and loving it.

Hiking takes more head than heel. —EMMA ‘GRANDMA’ GATEWOOD, at age 67 first woman to thru-hike the Appalachian Trail (1955), 1887–1973.

Our path, off the Blue Ridge Parkway

We have not had a nice Spring in North Carolina, this year. It has been cold and wet. This bad weather has lingered into late May. But yesterday was one of those extraordinary days. The day was sunny, a slight wind, and low humidity. The Gods were shining upon us.

When we reached the top, you could see for miles, and miles. Based on our location you could see Grandfather Mountain, Boone and probably the edge of Tennessee. Another couple were also resting at the top. They were enjoying an afternoon glass of wine.

Vic and I had are usual snack, nuts, fruit and some chocolate. On the way down, our dog Nestle, found the “switchbacks”. Vic was hesitant to take them but we followed the dog and cut off  some distance. We invested in a Camel back water system for backpacks. It is a bladder filed with water that is inserted into the backpack. There is a tube that comes out of the pack that you drink from. Great invention!

We met with our local Camino group before our trip. One gentleman, Kevin, had just returned from his pilgrimage. He completed the entire trip in an astounding 25 days! Let me remind you that the entire Camino is over 800 km long. That is amazing! 

He gave us a few more pearls of wisdom. He told us what many already have, pack LIGHT! I am beginning to get the drift about packing light. He used his phone and did not take an Ipad or similar device. He told us about the daily evening service at the Cathedral in Santiago de Compostela. Following the pilgrims prayer, there is a private tour of the relics of St James. I am so looking forward to the Mass at the Cathedral. 

The musical and visual highlight of the Mass is the synchronisation of the beautiful "Hymn to Santiago" with the spectacular swinging of the huge Botafumeiro, the famous thurible kept in the cathedral. Incense is burned in this swinging metal container, or "incensory".

Just above Mose Cone house on the Blue Ridge Parkway

As we continue to prepare for our Buen Camino, we are anticipating a spiritual adventure.