I did not get stronger and more prepared all on my own for this Camino. I had lots of cheerleaders and coaches.
To Abbie and Angela and Skye and Erin and Joel’s Team, thanks for shoving me along at PT and at the gym in strengthening, increasing VO2 Max through HIIT, cardio training, balance work, and stretching. I am wwaaaaayyy stronger than when I came limping in from physical therapy in June. I have pretty much mastered doing two or three knee pushups, which may be the high point of my upper body life. My knee pain decreases with each squat Abbie and Angela make me do, and my knees feel the least arthritic that they have since last fall.
Evidence that the strengthen and sculpting has paid off this trip already:
To Joe and Jimmy and Ank and Stephanie and Megan and Tommy and Kathy and Judy and Timmy and UMatt and Trina and Giuliana and Isabella and the Kent Senior tour to Mount St. Helens, thanks for shoving me along the trails and making me laugh and making me go faster than I really want to, and for making me learn the ten essentials. The distances and altitudes you made me cover prepared me well for this. I practiced for Portugal at Crystal Mountain, Mt. Peak, Deep Lake, the Okanogan, the Academy, Paradise at Mt. Rainier, Ruston Way, Mercer Island, Soos Creek, the Himalayas, Croatan National Forest, and Denny Creek. UMatt had us at almost 16,000 feet, and today I hiked at 16 feet. How could I not be ready after all that help?
To UMatt and Bill and Bobby and all the salespeople at REI, thanks for teaching me about gear and helping me find the right stuff for my needs, my metabolism, and my safety. You folks are expert wilderness coaches, and I have benefitted from your coaching.
And of course, my best cheerleader is Joe. He is always supportive and encouraging for me to stick to my training Plan. He always looks for the best in me and cheers me on to do my best. Can’t wait to pit ourselves against the Grand Canyon, Joe.
