SUCCESS!

Although it seemed impossible, yes, with some advise and thoughtful analysis I was able to lighten the load of the backpack.  Right now the weight is 11.25 pounds.  I have walked everyday with the full pack!  And I can do it and not have a sore back the next day.  The hilly terrain on the other side of town is where I have worked out the most.  I hope this pays off when I get to the Pyrenees.

While in Pennsylvania getting Votzy settled in his new home, I got some more suggestions for things to have with me....just-in-case. The best came from niece Stephanie.  She introduced me to www.RoadID.com.  They make a simple, easy-to-wear ID bracelet with your custom information and contacts. I also picked up some reflective tape and a flasher/reflective light to put on my pack.

Also while in Pennsylvania, nephew Nick tutored me in texting on the cell phone  to be used to make

Nick, the tech guru.

room reservations, how to down load pictures more efficiently and quickly to the computer. Which brings me to what to do with all those cords.  Things that require charging that I will take 1) MP3 player(spanish lessons 20-30 and a little music) 2) Cell phone with Spanish Sim card, 3) Digital camera.  No tablet, no smart phone and no hair dryer! I did purchase a light weight plug/converter and a three outlet plug cube.  And, oh yes, A SINK STOPPER for the clothes washing routine.(thanks Charlie B for that suggestion).

Another really helpful website I used recently was RailEurope.com.  They mapped out my train trip from Brussels to St Jean Pied de Port, France.  Showed me how to change trains in Paris including the Metro to take from one station to another.  Tickets arrived last week with coach and seat numbers assigned.