As I was stretching, clambering, grappling over rocks in Kirishima National Park, I replayed in my head the most recent encounter with a fellow hiker. The woman had made the usual greeting, then a look of dissonance flashed across her face. I’d seen that look before when I’ve thoughtlessly put a shoe on tatami, or…… Continue reading Travel Gear: Hiking Pants
Category: Move
My First OLLE Hike
Followed symbols through farms, villages, woods, and by the ocean in southern Kyushu. My first-ever OLLE hike.
Hiking Above Clouds
When I pulled open the drapes this morning, I decided to drop my plan to go directly to Kagoshima City. Instead of yesterday’s unrelenting rain, sunshine was trying to penetrate mist. It was time for a bonus hike.I had less than 60 minutes to dress, pack, slow down enough to enjoy breakfast, then check out…… Continue reading Hiking Above Clouds
Finding Japan
The flight attendant showed me a handwritten note: “we will be landing [in Kagoshima] at 9:30 [a.m.].” I’m the only non-Japanese customer, and, by the look of it, just about everybody else on this 737 is flying for work. I like traveling with Japanese people because they are generally quiet, calm, and are considerate in…… Continue reading Finding Japan
Clinging On
Rusted corrugated metal shuddered as it clung on, as I balanced on rusty a’a scree. 55 mph gusts on a coastal walk.
Sky on Fire
Sky on fire as I walked to work.
Fresh Snow Run
Ran on fresh snow in sunshine.
Jogging in Snow
Jogged in light snow.
Temperatures Dropping
Jogging kept me warm as temperatures here in Minnesota start to drop well below 0°F.
Three Lakes Walk
Walked around three Minneapolis lakes.