Roncesvalles (via Deb)

This is a quick update posted by Al's wife Deb who is at home in Raleigh. Internet is pretty spotty so he asked that I post this for him.

Al reached me today via Skype from Ronesvalles.  This is the location at the foot of the Pyrenees Mountains on the Spanish side.  His journey took him a 4000 foot increase then 1,000 foot drop over around 25 km. He said the trip down the mountain was far more treacherous than the trip up.  Al expected trial by fire for the first few days but he said this portion of the walk was more difficult than he had anticipated.  I do hope the worst is over.

He has already met some great people. Doug and Maddy from Prescott, AZ travel at his speed while 2 guys older than him are faster walkers - Theodor from Germany (who is tolerant of Al practicing his rusty German) and Hans from Holland. Although they walk at different speeds they meet up along the way for breaks and are at the same alberge (hostel) for the night.

Al's Spanish SIM card has not worked and he is around a week from Pamplona where he expects he can have the problem solved. If any of you need to reach Al I have his old cell phone with his US number on it and I can convey a message when he calls.

It's only been 4 days and I miss him.  It seems it's always me who leaves town and Al at home with the dogs.  Now it's my turn.  5 weeks is a long ways away!