In Bordeaux waiting for a train

Bonjour. I made it safely to Bordeaux, and I'm sitting in a picturesque cafe across from the train station. I went for a short walk but the neighborhood appears a little sketchy as neighborhoods often do near train stations. Lots of iron bars on windows, sex shops and a peep show. Decided sitting at an outdoor cafe was a good choice.  People are friendly, accept my limited French and are generally quite helpful.
I was delighted to see my hiking poles come through the baggage check unscathed.  A good start to the journey.
Even though many things seem different here, lots of things are just the same as at home. iPhones everywhere you look, Ford cars and Hondas, burnt grass from a drought. I saw a great light rail system in Bordeaux, running up the middle of the street, grass covers the track bed except on intersections, it may be similar to the Byron strip/NCC proposedal by the city of Ottawa.
I'm off to catch my train, will buy a bottle of water first, can't find a fountain and given that you have to pay 0.50€ to use the toilet I doubt free water will be an option.
I am booked into a hostel in St Jean Pied de Port tonight, they have agreed to wait up for me... I feel very fortunate. My walk will begin tomorrow with a short 8 km climb in the Pyrennes to Orisson. Thanks to David & Michael for suggesting I break the first and most difficult day of walking into two sections while I recover from lack of sleep and jet lag.
Onward, my real journey is about to begin.

At the Airport

I'm now two hours from boarding and a little giddy at the airport. My backpack is less than 14 pounds, though I have to admit it feels a little heavy... nothing a little more training won't fix, it's okay I can start on Friday :-).
I don't think I have ever packed so little for so long, in fact, I think I usually carry more when I go away for the weekend. A big thanks to all who helped me to choose my belongings with care.
Many people ask, why do the Camino? At this stage, I am ready for the physical and mental challenge of the pilgrimage. Walking each day, carrying the pack will allow me to find my strength, I will not put words to the alternative. Living without the routine of my charmed life (friends, food, running, community) will open my thoughts to new ways of thinking. This is my hope, to learn something new of myself by engaging with my surroundings, while being outside of my comfort zone.
Thank you for the many well wishes I have received. You will be in my thoughts, willing me on!
Warmest regards,
Suzanne

12 Days to Lift Off

I'm excited to share my upcoming pilgrimage through Spain. Preparing for this journey is taking a little longer than I originally anticipated. At this point I'm trying not to panic, just like a good long run, I need to breathe and focus... and know that it will all work out.
Everything I need for about 44 days must fit into my backpack and be light enough that I can comfortably carry it for 25 to 30 km per day walking (expected days of walking: 34 total). Weigh scales are perched on the dining room table to remind me that every item counts, no matter how light it seems in the comfort of my home, it is important to assess if it is essential since I know that with every step the weight will become greater.