Adventures Aren't All Riding Ponies in May Sunshine

Lest it seem that there's nothing to my little walk except strolling happily along sunlit beaches, let me share some of the other side of things:

New experiences: walking along the shoulder of a long, high bridge with interstate-speed traffic on one side and a plummet over a low barrier, into the ocean far below, on the other. Not recommended. Relieving one's self at the edge of a marsh known to be inhabited by crocodiles. One feels--exposed.

I spent a good part of the day a few days back huddled under a low bridge, sheltering from a sudden storm. It was...er...interesting crawling and climbing up under there with my pack on my back and my poncho dangling around my feet, trying to trip me up and send me tumbling down the steep embankment into the fast-moving channel below. I thought I might be spending the night there, and was going to post a picture for you, but it let up and I vacated the area.

The last few days have been pretty hard. Very few places to stop or to get refreshments, so I've been forced to go on (and on) seeking a place to sleep. A few of you know what it's like to ruckmarch until you absolutely know you can't go another step, then go on for several miles. Last night I was so exhasted that I was nauseous and delerious, and my feet currently have more moleskin than my skin.

No complaints, though. It's hard, but I love it. After all, adventure without hardship is just vacation.

 Key West Charlie, retired fireman and all-around good guy. Picture Bill Murray playing an old California stoner dude.

 Saltwater Marsh

 The rare and elusive Key Deer

 Well, maybe not so elusive.

 Gypsy Chickens

 Starfish

 I'm resting today

Tomorrow: Seven Mile Bridge. No shade, no water, no bathrooms, no place to stop and rest. And no separate path for bikers and hikers; just the shoulder.