The Weigh-In

Today's project was to gather everything we plan to take on our 16 day trip with 10 days back packing. Our big unknown is the weather and trying to pack for the potential rain, snow or sunshine.  Today, it is snowing in O'Cebreiro, raining in Sarria, and fair and in the mid 40's in Santiago. Last week it was in the 50's in O'Cebreiro and 60's and sunny the rest of the way. Every experienced Camino walker says to take as little as possible and aim to carry no more than 20 pounds. We have been practicing with 20 pounds in our packs. The first 4 miles is easy, I start feeling ready for a break at 6 miles and ready to be home at 8... so I have been "hoping" I would carry around 16 to 18 pounds. Here is a picture of our stuff - poles, clothes, water, camera, ipad, shoes, toiletries, umbrella, rain gear, packs, pack cover... etc. We can't think of much to take out. Mark is at 24 pounds and I am at 21. Mark's camera adds about 3 or 4 pounds of added weight. But, I can't imagine the professional photographer making this journey without his 35mm. P.S. We are not taking Kate but she sure wants to go.