In the Beginning – May 31, 2022

  • Ottawa-Montréal Camino #1
  • Ottawa to Orleans
  • Distance: 13.2 miles
  • Time: 6 hours 45 minutes
  • Ascent: 387 feet / Descent: 379 feet
  • Weather: 75 degrees, clear skies

Six adventurous semi-strangers came together to walk 145 miles from Ottawa to Montréal. We are composed of two friends, a brother/sister-in-law, plus two others. We are bonded by smiles, laughter, and an eagerness to experience the walk.

Elise, Michel, Martina, Arnold, Danielle, Linda
Notre Dame Cathedral, the start of the Ottawa-Montréal Camino.
National Art Gallery across from cathedral. Would eight legs get less exhausted than two legs for walking?
Ottawa to Orléans 13.2 miles.

Up in Smoke – May 15, 2022

Since Covid-19 Pandemic, all my travel plans went up in smoke. Two weeks before departing for Canada, I kept my anticipation in check. Avoiding Covid could not be taken for granted.

Coach Mark had prepared my training program for Ottawa’s Half Marathon, a perfect send-off before beginning the Ottawa-Montréal Camino. Toni joined me for days and days of walking in preparation for the Camino. I could only hope it will all come to fruition.

UVA’s Master Mile marked my first collegiate track meet. Teammates Will, Scott, Coach Mark and me. May 1, 2022 UVA Track
Long walks in Free Union.
Toni paused to take in the beauty of Free Union.