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  • 569. Siena Rest Day

    After the accumulated effects of walking, my body wants a rest. Siena is my designated rest space. In my opinion, I find Siena to be captivating. I still can picture… Read more

  • 568. Pilgrim’s Searching for More

    She is in her early 50’s. She may be 5 feet tall; she may weigh 100 pounds. She declares “My pack weighs 5.8 kilograms; I can’t carry anymore.” There is… Read more

  • 567. Pilgrims’ Shame

    During the first week of my walking the Via Francigena, two older women sensibly took trains to avoid the cold rain. Yet, they felt apologetic. They felt shame, not for… Read more

  • 566. Revisiting Lucca

    A refreshing, low-key rest day in Lucca. The desire for such a day is strong. Managing each day, finding the trail, staying on the trail, wondering if I’ll be able… Read more

  • 565. The Feet’s Perspective, Part 2

    The nights lodging at Berceto is refreshing. When I have these feet resting level with the brain, whether it is ten minutes or ten hours, I feel better. The rest… Read more

  • 564. The Feet’s Perspective, Part One

    It’s my turn. I get to describe the two days walking to and over the Apennines. I want to let you know what it is like being feet and carrying… Read more

  • 563. Ms. Grandma “Mario” Colombo

    I should pay attention to yellow flashing caution signals. Embrecht, an older Dutch guest, and I sit down for breakfast. Emmanuelle, our host, asks, “Would you like coffee?” We both… Read more

  • 562. Visual Awareness

    Visual awareness can be so pleasing. As I begin my ascent of the Apennines mountains, I have various collections of photos from my walk so far. Here is a collection… Read more

  • 561. Buildings, Piazzas, and Deserted Farms

    Not every building Is a religious structure. Here are a few more photos of other buildings that struck me. In Pavia as in Sam Gimignano, there are extremely tall towers.… Read more

  • 560. Meeting Danielo Parisi

    I’m anxious. I’ve thought about the next day for months. Samwillie, my BnB host’s son, makes the phone call. “Si, si, 10 AM.” Contact with the legend! He agrees. Tomorrow,… Read more

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