In anticipation of another long walk, I’m beginning to explore what the Via Francigena has in store for me. I don’t think there are backpack services, but is it a thru-hike?

CaminoLeslie H ColeJanuary 12, 2021Camino, Pilgrimage, Cafe, Spain, Trough Hike, Via Francigena, Camino FrancesComment

We All Carry Something

Part of the joy of a long walk is unburdening ourselves of the weights we carry.

Spain, Camino, 2014Leslie H ColeNovember 17, 2020Semana Santa, Spain, Slow Travel, Camino de SantiagoComment

Palacio de Cristal

The glass and iron palace in Madrid’s Parque del Buen Retiro was created in 1887 as part of an exhibition on the Philippines, at that time a Spanish colony.

motherfailLeslie H ColeAugust 7, 2015Spain, Retiro Park, MadridComment

Here They Come!

Balconies all along the route are rented to San Fermin festival goers to watch the daily running of the bulls (and some crazy humans).

2014Leslie H ColeJuly 7, 2015Spain, Pamplona, Running of the Bulls, FestivalComment

Spanish Trash

A nice, English-speaking representative came to our door a few weeks ago to explain the system: The magnetic key is to keep folks from using the compost container as a trash can.

Leslie H ColeJuly 3, 2015Artika, Spain, TrashComment

Only in Spain

I passed a coiffed woman in a fur coat and heels, shopping bag clutched like a trophy with a long, slender animal leg sticking out the end of it, hoof still attached.

motherfailLeslie H ColeJune 12, 2015Barcelona, Madrid, Pamplona, SpainComment

Not Your Mother's Blog

I’m not one for iconic celebrations, and Mother’s Day is too much like painting a target on my torso and asking my family and friends to take aim. Instead, I think I’ll start a blog.

motherfailLeslie H ColeMay 10, 2015Motherfail, Parenting, Mother's Day, Cooking, SpainComment