Beginnings

September 16, 2024

Where was my pen again? In which bag is the camping stove? I'm still not familiar with the packing system. Fortunately, I can call Sofia for help, as she took the lead in packing - she’s just better at it.

Speaking of the camping stove, I tested it for the first time on the Hirzel hill during the second day of cycling. It would have been helpful to practice beforehand. Anyway, I opened the fuel valve for too long, and the whole stove caught fire! Even the board I had found and placed underneath it burned. I quickly turned off the valve, and the flame gradually extinguished. After that, I managed to cook lentils. The entire process - unpacking everything, cooking, and repacking - took an immense amount of time. With practice, I’m sure it will go faster. The subsequent nap lasted so long that I had to hurry to arrive on time at the campsite in Murg by the lake Walensee. Since I’m meeting Sofia in Trieste for a weekend after about two weeks, the first few days are tightly scheduled.

Along the lake Walensee, I pass through several tunnels. It doesn't matter. I only have tunnel vision at this point.

In fact, I reach Murg just as darkness falls.

We tested the tent for the first time at my parents' house the night before. Now, I have to set it up alone for the first time in the dark. Luckily, I can call my phone-a-friend, Sofia, again. The reception is already closed, so I don’t have a badge for the shower or kitchen. Physically exhausted, I also feel feverish, with a sore throat and headache. What if I get sick? And right before crossing the Alps! “I will not get sick,” I tell myself. I no longer have the energy for cooking on my camping stove. Fortunately, someone lets me into the shower area. At least there’s a hot shower. I also use the hot water to mix some oats with a bit of honey and eat it as porridge. No, it’s not tasty, but whatever. The main thing is to get calories with as little effort as possible.

I wake up at 4:45 AM. With bad weather forecasted for later in the afternoon, I planned to leave early regardless. So, why not pack up and go right away? Thought and done. The campsite manager is also an early riser and insists on charging me the full amount, even though I don’t have a badge. No matter, I’m off.

Along the way, I book a great hotel with a spa in Klosters - this gives me new motivation. As it turns out, I even know the owner by chance: I met him three years ago during a cycling tour on the San Bernardino. With the prospect of relaxation at the hotel, I manage to reach Klosters, completely exhausted and hungry, despite an involuntary “mountain biking route,” steep climbs on gravel, and bad weather. While navigating the seemingly easy last few meters on the escalator at the train station in Klosters, my bike slips from my grip, and I fall over. Aside from a few scrapes, I’m fine.

Yes, beginnings are difficult. I’m pushing through.

Borders

Letting go