BajaNomad - San Diegan To Hike Baja Peninsula

San Diegan To Hike Baja Peninsula

Pages: 1 .. 10 11 12 13 14 .. 16

bajacalifornian - 2-1-2011 at 06:00 PM

Same here . . .

David K - 2-1-2011 at 06:13 PM

Okay... SPOT signal received, and I will now produce the maps... stand by!

Feb. 1, 2011

David K - 2-1-2011 at 07:02 PM

Mike, Don-Kay and Solo walked 16 miles today!

They are camped just off the highway to La Purisima, east of La Poza Grande.

New Map:

Feb. 2, 2011

David K - 2-2-2011 at 07:30 PM

Mike, Don-Kay, and Solo walked south of La Poza Grande junction about 10 miles and are just over a mile west of the highway.

Mike did not activate his tracker, so I will presume they walked along the highway. Perhaps they will now continue west to the old (pre 1956) road and take it south to Santo Domingo?

Feb. 3, 2011

David K - 2-3-2011 at 05:15 PM

Well, today Mike and company quit early and only walked about 5 miles... maybe 6...

Mike turned on the tracking device today so we can see his route in an area of many road choices. They continued west just over a mile to the old (pre-1956) road to La Paz then turned south on it...

Just 4 or so miles on it they came to what looks from space to be a busy cattle ranch whith many cow tracks radiating out in all directions... Looks like a spider web, from high above!

Jeff, that ranch looks to be about 5 miles north of Santo Domingo, on the old, old road. The AAA map shows it, as you can see below... My ealier estimate of when they may arrive in Lopez Mateos is not going to fly if they only do 5 miles a day very much. They are about 35-40 miles from Lopez Mateos taking the most direct dirt roads shown on my maps...?

BajaGeoff - 2-3-2011 at 05:46 PM

Go Mike! Having driven down to Insurgentes and back last year it's really hard to comprehend he has walked all that way in the last few months.

oladulce - 2-3-2011 at 06:12 PM

The wind and amount of dirt in the air this afternoon was hideous and might have been too sketchy for DonKay to walk safely with those packs.

David K - 2-3-2011 at 06:22 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by BajaGeoff
Go Mike! Having driven down to Insurgentes and back last year it's really hard to comprehend he has walked all that way in the last few months.

Yup! Mike began on October 1, 2010 near Tecate.

In case some haven't noticed it, at the end of each month, I have posted the total miles they have walked southward... Here is what I posted 3 days ago:

This is the estimated distance south Mike has traveled... actual miles walked are probably higher with up and down gullies and side walks from the trail he is using.

OCT. Tecate to Colonia V. Guerrero: 219 miles (26 walking days, 8.4 avg. miles per day)

NOV. Col. V. Guerrero to Punta Maria: 192 miles (25 walking days, 7.7 miles per day)

DEC. Punta Maria to La Bocana: 171 miles, walking (16 walking days, 10.7 miles per day)

JAN. 2011, La Bocana to south of Comondu: 233 miles, 22 days walking, 10.6 miles per day)

TRIP TOTAL Jan. 31: 815 MILES

Add to that Feb. 1-3= 32 miles (so even with a short day today, he is averaging over 10 miles per day).

David K - 2-4-2011 at 12:16 PM

11:00 AM (PST)/ NOON (MST) Friday 2-4-11:

I just logged on to Mike's SPOT tracker, and he either forgot to turn it on this morning or is still at the ranch about 5 miles north of Santo Domingo.

Just FYI for any Nomads in the Lopez Mateos region...

Feb. 4, 2011

David K - 2-4-2011 at 05:21 PM

Mike, Don-Kay and Solo walked about 11 miles today and are camped at a ranch, just over a mile south of the historic little village of Maria Auxiliadora, a couple miles northwest of Villa Ignacio Zaragoza on Hwy. 53.

Two more days of good progress like this and they will be in Lopez Mateos Sunday PM...???

bajacalifornian - 2-4-2011 at 08:02 PM

Smoke Signals

This afternoon, we ran up to Valle Santo Domingo to hear rumor of Mike. Domingo is a quiet spread out village. Dirt boulavards, schools and a cell tower prominent, wherever you are. Came by three guys visiting (one was working) building a block wall in front of Minisuper El Gallo. Earlier in the day, family of the mason had come into town from La Banqueta, at the east end of estero Santo Domingo. (Two Pangeros pulling a boat). They spoke of un pero, un buro y un senor in the morning, they had stopped for. The man waved as he passed in front of their truck, about a km east of Banqueta. We surmised Mike will camp near Estero San Vicente, and on into Lopez tomorrow after noon.

We returned from Domingo passing flat scrub land with intermittent well organized ranches with oranges and cattle. Also large corn fields for tortillas. Big mesquite trees lined both sides of the lane in places. On the Lopez Road, lots of osprey were in their nests above the power poles.

San Vicente is a far reach from Lopez by VHF for sightings. Early tomorrow, we plan to travel the Baja Mil road with a Snickers and beer for Mike. The road will take him by Rofomex, and on in just outside of town.
___________

David K's update reveals Mike passed one turn to move west, (across the highway from the road to San Javier . . . that coming in abeam the label Santo Domingo on the bottom map, north of labeled Colonia Purisima, and also the Baja Mil route), and most direct. Currently he is passing through ranches. Chances are better for us to find him where he stops tomorrow, in the afternoon.

shari - 2-4-2011 at 08:27 PM

dont forget a nice cold 6 pack of Tecate!!!!!!

David K - 2-4-2011 at 09:40 PM

It would be nice if he was shown a direct route to Lopez Mateos instead of going south until he bumps into the paved road west... Maybe the ranchers will help?

David K - 2-5-2011 at 09:52 AM

I hope Mike remembers to turn on the tracking feature so we can see his route today... Hope also that Jeff finds him!

BAJACAT - 2-5-2011 at 10:20 AM

I hope he doesn't get pull over in Ciudad Costitucion for speeding...
I think Don-Kay tags are expired...

David K - 2-5-2011 at 02:33 PM

They won't be going through Constitucion, so no hassles there!*** (update: Maybe he is going directly south?)

I just checked SPOT, and Mike again forgot to activate the tracking feature (or his route is a secret)! :light:

In a couple of hours we should see his evening location, and I hope it is midway to Lopez Mateos.. and I might be able to guess what road he is using.

Jeff (bajacalifornian) was going to try and find him again today, so he may have something to share soon?

[Edited on 2-6-2011 by David K]

bajacalifornian - 2-5-2011 at 04:20 PM

Fresh In! Mike was spotted in Ciudad Insurentes moments ago. Questioned by the spotter, "Aren't you going to Lopez?" Mike responded, "No, it would be two day away."

For now, this outpost is turning the lights out.

BajaGringo - 2-5-2011 at 04:21 PM

:?:

David K - 2-5-2011 at 05:53 PM

I don't have a clue...

As of 5:53 pm MST, no SPOT signal (yet)...

longlegsinlapaz - 2-5-2011 at 06:26 PM

If no one has been in direct contact with Mike since he left San Juanico, then there's absolutely no way he could know that his fame has spread, or that towns he'd originally planned to go through might be planning warm welcomes, let alone TV or radio interviews. With the cold windy weather conditions lately, it is very possible that travel conditions for the group have been utterly miserable & Mike might have replotted his route to get south in the fastest manner possible. I wouldn't blame him if that's the case!

If he was that close to my location, I'd go try to find him & confirm his current intentions rather than simply "turning the lights out." Give him the benefit of doubt, it's possible that one of the trio needs medical help & that could be why he made a beeline for a larger town. There are innumerable reasons he might have changed his original route. I can understand bajacalifornian's & Lopez Mateo's disappointment, but was Mike even aware any hoopla was planned for his arrival there? :?:

David K - 2-5-2011 at 06:47 PM

Yup, too bad Jeff didn't find him yesterday when he tried...

Mike left the highway on the afternoon of Feb. 1 and moved over to the old road as a first step to head to the coast... Today, he returned to the highway and just followed it south, it would seem... So why did he leave the direct route in the first place?

Maybe, they need to be kidnapped like Shari and Ron did at Vizcaino? There just may be a pressing reason to head south along the highway instead of following the mangroves of Magdalena as he was originally talking about doing?

Regardless, Mike is a big boy, so let's just hope he was aware of the fiesta planned for him and he opted out or he didn't get the word and will regret not being found before now???

His GPS SPOT arrived here just after 5 pm PST... and I have made the maps...

Feb. 5, 2011

David K - 2-5-2011 at 06:50 PM

Mike and company walked about 13 miles south to Ciudad Insurgentes and are at a home just a couple blocks west of the highway and a half dozen blocks north of the Mex. 1 intersection.

bajacalifornian - 2-5-2011 at 07:27 PM

Well, I don't get to drink Mike's whiskey after all. Nearing Loreto, I received a call with the following news: Profe Angel of Lopez, instrumental for much of the arrangements for Mike, found him by chance at a Pemex in Insurgentes. The Profe will pick Mike up at 10AM tomorrow, along with a horse trailer. He's bringing Mike to Lopez for his party. Mike will spend the night as planned, and return to Insurgentes Monday, Don-Key in tow. Will post images of the festival tomorrow.

bajacalifornian - 2-5-2011 at 07:59 PM

More: When the Profe Angel met Mike, Angel said nothing of a fiesta, only that the town wanted to see Mike . . . and the school children in particular, wanted to see the burro. Mike will exit the truck one Km outside of town and walk in, as the children were expecting. They are a big part of the reception.

woody with a view - 2-5-2011 at 08:25 PM

kinda like keeping the Padre Navidad story alive for the ankle biters?

David K - 2-5-2011 at 10:53 PM

Well wonderful... a surprise party for Mike!

rob - 2-6-2011 at 10:49 AM

Jeff - could you let Mike know that there is are alfalfa and barley sandwiches waiting for Don-Kay and Mike at Rancho la Aguja? Have U2Ud you a contact number if you need it.

Thanks

rob

David K - 2-6-2011 at 06:22 PM

Looking forward to hearing from Jeff today and how it all unfolded??

Super Bowl Halftime Now... 21 to 10, Green Bay

[Edited on 2-7-2011 by David K]

Feb. 6, 2011

David K - 2-6-2011 at 07:13 PM

Looks like Mike, Don-Kay and Solo got a ride into Lopez Mateos today...

The AAA map is tilted, as Lopez Mateos is actually south of Insurgentes (see Satellite map).

BajaGringo - 2-6-2011 at 07:25 PM

Wonderful!

shari - 2-6-2011 at 09:43 PM

good going Profe...Mike LOVES being burronapped for parties...you wont regret it and the kids will love it...well done amigos....hi MIke!...missya man

David K - 2-6-2011 at 11:17 PM

Jeff???

We are anxious to hear (and see) how the day went and hear about how Mike is doing... as soon as you guys are done sipping whiskey, of course!

What is Mike's course south? Does he know a welcome (albeit a quiet one) is waiting for him at La Aguja a couple weeks down the coast ('rob')?

Mike: remember to turn on your tracker when you are going cross country or off the main highway... if you want us to know. You did a couple of different days and that was great.

Thanks!

Mike Whale Watching Today ???

David K - 2-7-2011 at 04:59 PM

There were 6 tracking blips sent from Mike's SPOT device, all on Magdalena Bay just offshore from Lopez Mateos... :light:

BajaNomad - 2-7-2011 at 06:31 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by David K
There were 6 tracking blips sent from Mike's SPOT device, all on Magdalena Bay just offshore from Lopez Mateos...

Feb. 7, 2011

David K - 2-7-2011 at 06:54 PM

Mike must be having a good time in Lopez Mateos today (and yesterday)!

Night #2:

surfdoc - 2-8-2011 at 12:30 AM

Hopeing he caught something bigger then the Corbina in Asuncion....

Wonder how they got DonKay in the Panga..

shari - 2-8-2011 at 07:49 AM

woooo hoooo...super bowl, whale watching and no doubt some great gatherings in Mag Bay...glad Mike is getting some fun time in for a bit!

Feb. 8, 2011

David K - 2-8-2011 at 08:04 PM

Well Mike is still enjoying the friendly village of Lopez Mateos! Night #3...

Mike... how about some sharing of your fun activities with your amigos here on Nomad?

rdrrm8e - 2-9-2011 at 01:03 PM

What happens in Lopez Mateos.........
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
Stays in Lopez Mateos!

[Edited on 2-9-2011 by rdrrm8e]

bajacalifornian - 2-9-2011 at 06:13 PM

Just back from Lopez. Images are downloaded. Need time now get the journal downloaded. More tonight.

longlegsinlapaz - 2-9-2011 at 06:21 PM

"k....waiting patiently....this ought to be worth the wait! :yes:

Hope Mike isn't too hungover! :lol:

Feb. 9, 2011

David K - 2-9-2011 at 08:00 PM

Mike, Don-Kay and Solo are once again 'on-the-road'!

They walked 13 miles from Lopez Mateos to a mile from 'Ramaditas'...

They should make it to the next Nomad's house in a week to 10 days... 'rob' at La Aguja.

[Edited on 2-10-2011 by David K]

bajacalifornian - 2-9-2011 at 11:16 PM

Pick it up @: 2-5-2011 @ 5:53 PM . . .

"David and clues", the night I made the "lights out" comment.

Sonia & I left for Loreto. In the mountains there was signal enough to ring the phone, but without comment (was dead).

Outside of Loreto,we got the call & we knew the morning's plan . At 5 we would return, day of the 6th.

2-5-2011 @6:47 PM

David . . .

Confirmation came & there were too many options to find him. Ask him, "the distraction by which, he missed his corner, his turn to Lopez?"

2-5-2011 @6:50 PM

Having missed his turn & walking on 9-10 Km, he elected to forge ahead.

2-6-2011 @ 10:49 AM

Mike is definately headed for Rancho la Aguja.

2-6-2011 6:22 PM

"the 6th was a magical day . . .
away mi computadora"

On that day we went from a drive to Insurgentes, the pick him up, return to Lopez, staging area, parade to the whale dock with speeches (you'd been proud of him . . . he genuinely finished with, "Viva Mexico!, and God bless America!", as he always does." The Super Bowl, meals offered, by the town. And Mike's Whiskey. (Mike, "I think", was rooting for the one". . ..)

Frustrated as you were, 2-6-2011 @ 11:17 PM

Mike will show intermittent trail marks and turns, down the road.

2-7-2011 @ 04:59 PM

Indeed, Lopez gave Mike a Key to the Pueblo. He did breakfast, whale watch,

BajaNomad 2-7-2011 @ 6:31 PM

We had another great evening, away from the internet.

2-7-2011 @ 6:54

"surfdoc, stand by . . . no disrespect, . . . & welcome"

2-9-2011 @ 1:03 PM

yes, kind of. See notes later.

2-9-2011 @ 1:03 PM

I'm really happy to hear from you. Thank you, for your patience.

2-9-2011 @ (no se, 8: AM

Fish Packing Plant tour on the 8th, Tuesday

(Started first with pancakes that Mike made, went on to) again, this tour of the plant. Much to say.

After that, a "State Dinner" with Lobster, Corvina, and "oven" & birds.

9 Feb, Wednesday

This morning, coffee & breakfast, packing and "off" . . . to a truely special event, on a dirt road leading out of town. We stopped by a school of 148 students. Much more later. Part of the ceremony, a young lady . . Rosario Parre Rivera, presented a speech she had preparred, through the microphone, in English. She & the other students had studied text in Spanish of early San Diego articles. They had become enamored . . . his walking the Baja to prove it safe. She expressed an invitation to all Americans. She too, wished to express the specialness of her village. Much more later.

Gabriel picked me up at Mike's turn to the right, along the concrete power poles, the Baja 1000 couse. Gabriels comment was, "follow the track markers. From the race".

I returned to Loreto on the Autobus. Snapped a shot @ the turnoff, I'd last left my friend. Tomorrow I've a day to relax and show pickures.

Meal @ Pickup

"Packin' @ Pickup"

Solo's 2nd ride in a vehicle. Would prefer'd to walk.

Staging Area

"I need some sleep".

surfdoc - 2-9-2011 at 11:40 PM

:lol:

I've seen that look on Solo a few times...
Like the first time we "hijacked" Mike... My 2 pups miss Solo.. they did welcome her into they're truck very nicely!

Standing by for the rest of the story!

David K - 2-9-2011 at 11:44 PM

Umm, thanks Jeff... maybe because it is late, but I am not understanding your post very well?? Sorry amigo!

Thanks for the photos... !

We see that on 2-7, he was sending signals out from the bay... maybe whale watching?

Anyway, I am sure the town treated him well... What an adventure!

bajacalifornian - 2-9-2011 at 11:45 PM

Personal thoughts. This could go on awhile.

-if ever there was a man of the "right stuff" for this trip, it is he. The man that sings to the sky, songs with lyrics he's make up. Songs to Solo & Donk (my favorite name, a nickname Mike calls him), and the both of them. Same time, he could be a badger.

-he has endured obstacles. All of us, will need to wait for disclosures, in his book.

-rarely do any of us meet, a human so dedicated to his animals.

-Mike has his chit together.

bajacalifornian - 2-9-2011 at 11:48 PM

David. Pull up two pages on your computer. Follow Nomad in order on the left page, scroll down the right page for answers based on date & time of post. It answers all comments in order. Tomorrow I'll fill in the "more later" stuff.

David K - 2-9-2011 at 11:49 PM

Very cool!

By-the-way, as of today, Mike's mileage total walking from Tecate is 885 miles!

rob - 2-10-2011 at 09:11 AM

That's going to be a tough welcome to beat! Meeting with the local coyotes, our only neighbors at Rancho la Aguja, to plan something.

bajacalifornian - 2-10-2011 at 09:14 AM

Rob, you have it made. No need to share Mike. Don't gotta plan nothing. Solo will handle the coyotes tambien.

wilderone - 2-10-2011 at 09:36 AM

"After that, a "State Dinner" with Lobster, Corvina, and "oven" & birds.

9 Feb, Wednesday

This morning, coffee & breakfast, packing and "off" . . . to a truely special event, on a dirt road leading out of town. We stopped by a school of 148 students. Much more later. Part of the ceremony, a young lady . . Rosario Parre Rivera, presented a speech she had preparred, through the microphone, in English. She & the other students had studied text in Spanish of early San Diego articles. They had become enamored . . . his walking the Baja to prove it safe. She expressed an invitation to all Americans. She too, wished to express the specialness of her village."

Oh my goodness - such influence and wonderful things that are coming from Mike's trip. I love this. Isn't that a special saddle on that horse? Probably done up especially for Mike's celebration?

Bajacalifornian, David K, Graham and others - I do think there should be some focused thought on plans for the end of the trip. I would like to be there (where?) if I can. Could a bunch of us walk the last mile with him? I like your other ideas too.

bajaking76 - 2-10-2011 at 09:58 AM

Okay Nomad help me finish this one... :smug:

Inspired by a dream...
no one knows but he...
He of strong character and nomad instincts..
his companion, sure of foot and tight lipped...
his best friend, a stray that found his way...
an inspiration of sort...
Baja's modern-day cowboy...
...... :light:

Santiago - 2-10-2011 at 10:13 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by bajaking76
Okay Nomad help me finish this one... :smug:

I'm no good at these so I'll let others finish but I do have a mild request of you; please change your avitar. This is used by AmoPescar, a long time poster from back in the day when we would boot up our 'puters using 5" floppy discs in the A drive. That long ago.
Thanks

bajaking76 - 2-10-2011 at 10:26 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Santiago

Quote:

Originally posted by bajaking76
Okay Nomad help me finish this one... :smug:

I was unaware that avatars where individuals sole proprietorship...whatever the case...it is done. :cool:

shari - 2-10-2011 at 11:19 AM

oh I am soooooo very happy Mike got the recognition and dinners he deserves!!! Key to the city...hahaha...awesome! thanks so much bajacalifornian for hosting and organizing all those great things.

As I mentioned earlier, i wish nomads could organize a wonderful finish line fiesta in Cabo...love the idea of walking with him, rooms in a hotel together etc...lets start a new thread about this and get to work!

bajacalifornian - 2-10-2011 at 01:13 PM

Shari, kindly thank me not for organization. All for Mike was by the people, and
for the people . . . of Lopez.

[Edited on 2-10-2011 by bajacalifornian]
woops, this is the wrong place . . .

[Edited on 2-10-2011 by bajacalifornian]

shari - 2-10-2011 at 01:25 PM

OK, how bout a code thread like "end of the line" he probably wont read that and we will all delete our posts in this thread about the surprise party!!! and thinking in stealth mode. someone he doesnt know should start the thread cause if I start it, he just might read it...step up to the plate amigos...let get to party planning 101.

Any pilots out there wanna swing by and pick juan & I up to go to the shindig?

[Edited on 2-10-2011 by shari]

bajacalifornian - 2-10-2011 at 04:27 PM

We can talk more about this special dog. Began as a dog with no name & a broken
lead . . . to a doll named Salsa.
Ended when she stepped all over his stuff while packing. Had to restrain her at the school, or she'd still be with Donk.

Feb. 10, 2011

David K - 2-10-2011 at 07:42 PM

Mike and the crew walked about 12 miles today and are camped a mile north of the Puerto San Carlos highway...

bajacalifornian - 2-10-2011 at 08:19 PM

Early Staging Area

The Parade

Please note: a neighbor building a new house nearly across the road from where Mike stayed, Alex Linke, was running around on his 4-wheeler catching images I couldn't get. Like the "band in the bed" of our truck. I'll pass his images on & others as time passes.

Assembly at the whale dock, after the parade.

Breaking Loose

from the parade. We were headed for the Super Bowl. Mike's bottle as well. He was parched, & had much to share.

Watching The Super Bowl

Mike, my wife Sonia and Solo.

A new girl shows up . . . head over heals in love with her new found brother Donk.

It Came To Be

Donk

Dialing It In

Pictures like this are important to the people. I've known Lauro & Amalia ten years now. People ask, "Are there restaurants there?" Yah. They prepared breakfast for Mike.

Sergio Garcia presented the VIP whale tour to Mike.

Mike shoving off with Sonia Petersen, Sergio on the right . . . headed back to the stand. Rodrigo, Sergio's son is the Captain of our tour. Note: Mike with his "spot devise" on his right arm.

Of course there were whales . . .

Gaby was also on the Island with his family.

Back At The Ranch

Provisions

Yes. Lopez has stores.

Gearing up for a tour of the fish packing plant. Left-Right: Martin has worked for the plant now 20 years and
his father before him, Security, Mike & Sonia.

No photos allowed.

From now on when I smell the "fish flower", I'll fill my lungs ad think of the heads, guts, and all non-consumable parts and pieces going into the ovens, mechanically brought through the grinder (size of a V.W.), then up to the hopper filling bags below with protein for pigs, cattle, & nutrients for flowers.

The State Dinner

L-R Carla, wife of Profe Angel, Mike & Sonia.

The appetizer, missed last night is Callos Media Luna.

Gunfight at the Governor's home.

Profe Angel left, and his suegro Profe Ofelio right.

Ofelio is Angel's father in law. Cowboys since birth. Have ranches. Star (Estrella), Angel's horse is in fowl. Colt is due 15 days from 2/6/2011. What a gorgeous animal it will be. (Oven behind).

Treasure, End of the Rainbow

Lobster, corvina and a drawn butter salsa on the side. Lobster is from the fish camp at San Lazaro.

Birds as promised. "Ask BigOly".

Packin'

Ready To Roll

Alfalfa is on the top.

The School

Mike & Maria Rosario Parrra Rivera.

Mike and "Viva Mexico!, & God bless America".

Good-byes from the school and on to the trail.

On To The Trail

From the Autobus

"A good friend is up this road . . . "

Skipjack Joe - 2-10-2011 at 08:41 PM

This whole thing has become ridiculous.

BajaBlanca - 2-10-2011 at 08:46 PM

great to see mike and company are still on the trek and doing well !!! he is so far from la bocana now and so much closer to la paz.....

HI MIKE. HI SOLO. HI DON KAY !!!

we are doing our share of traveling too since we have started our mainland monthlong trek !! when you are done with your trip, take a look at our blog .... our journey so far has been incredible - ferry to los mochis, colima, puerto vallarta, acapulco, puerto escondido, bahias de huatulco, oaxaca city and tomorrow we start off to CHIAPAS.

I think Mike, that you are an inspiration to all those kids along the way who see you walking !! maybe it makes them dream just a little bit about doing some exploring of their own.

hope Don Kays shoes are holding out .... bye from your amigos in la bocana.

Skipjack Joe - 2-10-2011 at 08:53 PM

The lesson from all this is that if you want to have a meaningful experience don't let the whole world know about it.

shari - 2-10-2011 at 08:59 PM

Oh Man....those pics were fabulous...thank so much...I must admit my eyes misted over seeing him walking out of the school with all the kids around him. What a fantastic experience for him and the locals. I am thrilled they honoured him in the way they did...he must have been very touched. Excellent photo journalism...thanks again....MIKE>>>WE MISS YOU MAN.

Stickers - 2-10-2011 at 09:15 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Skipjack Joe
The lesson from all this is that if you want to have a meaningful experience don't let the whole world know about it.

I disagree Joe, if you want to make a contribution to the people of Baja, let the world know about it.

Show the world that a man a dog and a donkey can safely walk 1000 miles in Mexico and only find friendly faces, kindness and good times!

That is truly a meaningful experience.

.

shari - 2-10-2011 at 10:11 PM

thank you stickers...very eloquently put. I also disagree Skipjack...Mike has been blessed with an amazing amount of meaningful experiences in the last few months....more than most people ever have in a lifetime....hell... Mike IS a meaningful experience!!!!!!! :light:

Skipjack Joe - 2-10-2011 at 11:08 PM

You have your values, Shari. I have mine.

The whole thing has become a rollicking carnival.

I preferred it as a man vs nature experience. There is very little left of that. I no longer know what the point was. It's certainly not an adventure any longer.

Yes, they're all very 'sweet' and adorable and huggable.

wake up and dream!

Mulegena - 2-10-2011 at 11:44 PM

I'm totally over the moon catching up with Mike and Friends' adventures. Even my friends who have never been to Baja are aware of the significance of his journey. They are asking me how he's doing whenever I see them.

What a great interchange of culture and what fun all the way 'round. I think by his presence in Baja he's stirred the hearts of so many people to dream deep... and awaken!

This is something special... oh, I think I got that meaning across already, but yeah, this is extraordinary.

somomule - 2-11-2011 at 04:43 AM

Hi all the pictures and stories are great. MY contribution to this site has been to valuate as best as possible potential problems or issues I may see or hear regarding Don-Kay.

Whoever sees Mike next please tell him that Don-Kay's shoes need to be pulled, feet trimmed and re-shod. The toes are longer than the shoes and toes are starting to get too long for the shoes. In short order they will pull the nails through the outside of the hoof. Having him re-shod if this happens will be difficult for awhile. So best to get it done ASAP. Also the breast collar needs to be higher up on his chest. Pack saddle breast collar should be mid to mid high on the chest. It looks like it may have gotten too small from Don Kay losing some weight and MIke may need to have it made shorter or adapt a makeshift breast collar. I brought this up to another member via a u2u message when asked for some suggestions for Don Kay but never heard back. Just want to be helpfull!.

Thank You,

[Edited on 2-11-2011 by somomule]

[Edited on 2-11-2011 by somomule]

shari - 2-11-2011 at 07:55 AM

Yes Igor, we all have different views from where we sit...what i was disagreeing with was the "meaningful experience" statement...and of course what is meaninful to one may not be meaningful to another. Mike is getting lots of man vs nature time in but sure enjoys his days of comradery when they present themselves....he is a very social fellow and brings joy and laughter wherever he goes.

I wonder if Mike will check mail in the city today...if so, he could probably get DK's nails trimmed and painted there...

caboguy - 2-11-2011 at 08:56 AM

I have been reading this from the beginning and really enjoyed it. It brings a smile to my face to see what something so simple means to the folks in the small towns he passes through. If there is anything negative about this, I sure don't see it. I am sure that this is turning out much different than Mike thought it would, but I am sure he has got enough time alone in the desert to last a lifetime. I for one am envious, I have been traveling south for 20 years and have to admit to taking the quickest route most of the time. Next time, it will be different, and probably because someone walked the walk.

wilderone - 2-11-2011 at 09:50 AM

love it, love it, love it. Love the pony and Mexican flag parade into town; the fish fry - the school childrens' bon voyage.

We gotta get going on the plans for Mike's "final mile" and party. Skipjack - you don't have to come - what a sourpuss I gotta say.

TMW - 2-11-2011 at 11:27 AM

I think it has been a great experience for everyone. It may at times have taken on a carnaval kind of atmosphere but everyone has learned something and had fun doing it. People along the way were excited to be part of it. Much was said about the care for Don-Key and we learned a great deal. As many have said it is a lot better than reading about the criminal elements below the border. Not many among us would dare to try such a walk and yet here we are with him all the way on a day to day journey and the meetings of very fine people all the way down Baja.

[Edited on 2-11-2011 by TW]

mtgoat666 - 2-11-2011 at 11:44 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Skipjack Joe
The lesson from all this is that if you want to have a meaningful experience don't let the whole world know about it.

maybe the interaction with people along the way constitutes "meaningful experience." maybe not. depends on how you look at things.

desertcpl - 2-11-2011 at 12:29 PM

well I for one have been following this from the time that Mike and Graham had been planning this, I think this is a great story. Mike was not asking for all the warm welcomes and hospitality from the people in Baja, it just happened ,Baja has had so much bad press, the people of Baja are proud of their country and want to share there story with others, VIVA MEXICO

Skipjack Joe - 2-11-2011 at 01:56 PM

I'm just saying that the northern half of the journey was more in the spirit of what it was to be. It's morphed into something else now and is less interesting.

Sorry if you disagree about my viewpoint but I think you will agree that it's not what it had likely intended to be. And that's likely to do with the daily spot signals being sent. They were intended as a safety precaution and have resulted with baja's entire population lining their pathway. You may find this to be a positive unintended cosequence. I don't.

TMW - 2-11-2011 at 02:51 PM

$500 a night, what a bargain. Cabo is so cheap.

Cypress - 2-11-2011 at 02:58 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by somomule
Hi all the pictures and stories are great. MY contribution to this site has been to valuate as best as possible potential problems or issues I may see or hear regarding Don-Kay.

Whoever sees Mike next please tell him that Don-Kay's shoes need to be pulled, feet trimmed and re-shod. The toes are longer than the shoes and toes are starting to get too long for the shoes. In short order they will pull the nails through the outside of the hoof. Having him re-shod if this happens will be difficult for awhile. So best to get it done ASAP. Also the breast collar needs to be higher up on his chest. Pack saddle breast collar should be mid to mid high on the chest. It looks like it may have gotten too small from Don Kay losing some weight and MIke may need to have it made shorter or adapt a makeshift breast collar. I brought this up to another member via a u2u message when asked for some suggestions for Don Kay but never heard back. Just want to be helpfull!.

Thank You,

[Edited on 2-11-2011 by somomule]

[Edited on 2-11-2011 by somomule]

bajacalifornian - 2-11-2011 at 03:06 PM

Rob: Kindly collect daughter's contact number for me. This could be a U2U but leaving it for folks down south.

2) More on his daughter.
On the trail, Mike is unable to make arrangements for the daughter meeting him. He's hoping some how, some way . . . she will find assistance from the airport there. Rob @ La Aguje will be in position to learn her contact number and forward by U2U locals in the South.
Mike has asked her to sign up with BN, introduce herself & seek the same.

bajacalifornian - 2-11-2011 at 03:49 PM

Cypress,

Mike is fully aware of the shoe needs. Only man in Lopez for the job was in the mountains. However, one nail was dressed that would occasionally scuff the contra lateral hoof/ankle. Has guidance for help ahead.

rob - 2-11-2011 at 04:27 PM

Jeff - will pass on all messages!

Going into town tomorrow to pick up a bale of alfalfa and Shari's suggestion of donkey speed - Cantador. We have a laundry, a bed and hot water (and whisky).

There is no local store here, so we could use some suggestions of what to get Mike in La Paz - any of you guys who have met him have any idea what he stocks up on?

One other question - round about next Thursday afternoon I plan to take a ride up to Punta Conejo to see if we can spot him (depends on his progress by DK's maps) - is it kosher to offer Mike and Don Kay a ride? Or is the whole point to do the journey strictly on foot? I have a trailer suitable for Don Kay.

Your thoughts please.

rob

bajacalifornian - 2-11-2011 at 05:52 PM

Walk with him but he'll accept no ride, unless it is in reverse.

Walk from your ranch, out as far as you care & wait for him.

[Edited on 2-12-2011 by bajacalifornian]

Santiago - 2-11-2011 at 05:58 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by TW
$500 a night, what a bargain. Cabo is so cheap.

That's pesos, right?

Feb. 11, 2011

David K - 2-11-2011 at 07:30 PM

Mike, Don-Kay and Solo walked 12 miles today... and thanks to the SPOT tracker, I could see the route he has been taking. They are camped about 5 miles NE of Medano Amarillo.

Oh, and they are walking through desert and there are no crowds of people along the road cheering them... :rolleyes:

jbcoug - 2-12-2011 at 12:40 AM

Skipjack,

Who is to say what the initial experience was to be. I'm sure Mike, and Graham before him, really didn't know exactly what to expect. I'll bet when it is all done and finished, he'll say it was all good, no matter what we were thinking it could or should be. The only negative feeling I have is jealousy. This man is experiencing more deeply personal sharing with people and creatures than we will ever know. For most of us, we can't even dream that big.

John

oladulce - 2-12-2011 at 12:56 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by rob

There is no local store here, so we could use some suggestions of what to get Mike in La Paz - any of you guys who have met him have any idea what he stocks up on?

He was tired of drinking warm water and burnt out on Crystal light and was happy with some Gatorade powder I gave him. Besides that, except for dry dog food for Solo and a couple of flakes of alfalfa, he didn't want to add anything else to his load.

Natalie Ann - 2-12-2011 at 09:21 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by David K
Oh, and they are walking through desert and there are no crowds of people along the road cheering them... :rolleyes:

David and whomever it was called Skipjack a sourpuss....
Is it necessary to be sarcastic or call someone names just because he disagrees with you?
I find that to be in poor taste.

Not lookin' to start a fight, I'm just sayin'.

nena

Natalie Ann - 2-12-2011 at 09:54 AM

Reading comprehension problem, DK.
You are the one I referred to as being sarcastic.
And just because everyone does not agree with you,
no need to get your panties in a bunch.
You're with the majority on this one... take a long deep breath and relax.

nena

vandenberg - 2-12-2011 at 02:58 PM

Maybe what Igor was trying to say, that everything was an adventure, enjoyed by most on the forum, till he got a little too close to the "attention grabbers".

Natalie Ann - 2-12-2011 at 06:00 PM

DK - If you wish to continue this conversation, start another thread. We can discuss it there. Or not.

nena

Feb. 12, 2011

David K - 2-12-2011 at 06:35 PM

Mike and company walked 13 miles today, but only about 4 where productive, in the right direction (south)!

Instead of following the Baja 1000 course (as they have since leaving Lopez Mateos), they turned northeast to San Agustin and a bit beyond, before turning back south. They are camped about 3 miles north of El Refugio tonight.

Perhaps they needed supplies for Don-Kay at San Agustin?

Here is the 2010 Baja 1000 map in the area...

vandenberg - 2-12-2011 at 08:30 PM

For whatever it's worth DK, you're doing a wonderful job, which surely, by most forum participants, is highly appreciated.

Roberto - 2-12-2011 at 08:48 PM

1. Skipjack posts an opinion. He makes it clear it's his opinion.
2. "Someone" posts criticisms of his opinion and says he should withhold anything that is not positive.

and Skipjack is the one at fault? Of course David ** ***** ** **** ***** *** can't understand this perspective. If it's not in agreement with him, the other side must be wrong. THIS is why I have foregone contributing to this site. Next he will be claiming it's a left-wing conspiracy and Skipjack is a liberal, and he will show a bunch of photos of his toy truck and posting coordinates to all the spots Mike has been. And the groupies will cheer.

Skipjack, for what it's worth, I agree with you. You suggest SPOT is the cause. I would suggest that there are other contributing factors - like alcohol. I know this is superfluous, but hang in there.

[Edited on 2-13-2011 by Roberto]

[Edited on 2-13-2011 by Roberto]

[Edited on 2-13-2011 by BajaNomad]

Diver - 2-12-2011 at 10:58 PM

So it's Saturday and what else is new ?

1. DK blasts someone who has a differing opinon than his own.
2. DK defends his position - he is never wrong.
3. DK deletes past offensive posts after some castigation.

Kinda like expecting your 2 year old to spill his water glass - it's destined.

I'm not sure what Mike had planned for his trip but I am sure that his plans have morphed into something unexpected and hopefully wonderful to him. After all, it is HIS trip; we just choose to be along for the ride.
Like an astronaut that visited my son's school recently, Mike has become a person of interest to some folks and kids in Baja; so be it.

Perhaps his book will enlighten us further, if and when ...
I'll probably wait until I can get it online for free.

BUT, I do appreciate the time DK has taken to post his maps and details.
Mike should pay DK some royalty for helping to make him famous !
After all, here we all are, checking on this thread, day after day.. :biggrin:

Just a little "Reality by Diver" :lol:

Carry on !!

Skipjack Joe - 2-13-2011 at 12:20 AM

I don't know what I can say that I haven't already said.

You are intelligent enough David, to know perfectly well what I am saying and trying to get across.

You feel that this thread is threatened unless each post is a high five. I disagree with you on that as well.

Nobody is dissing Mike. How could I when the situation is out of his control. He's become a celebrity down there. And that notoriety has destroyed the essence of the journey.

When a man decides to cross 1000 miles of desert on foot with nothing but what he can carry it tells you a great deal about what he's after.

I don't want to remove my posts because they are a valid outlook on the journey. Even if you don't agree with them.

At first I thought, what a great idea. With the aid of the internet we can share every campsite and coffee break with Mike. See what he sees and almost know his thought every moment of the day. But now I see that the net is actually interfering with his life.

bajacalifornian - 2-13-2011 at 01:13 AM

*A BAND OF KIDS*

Briefly, a war silenced,
And hope was heard.

David K - 2-13-2011 at 08:19 AM

Thanks Jeff and thanks Igor... Igor, nothing personal (like your friends are trying to make of it)... I was just hoping you might see the positive side of the villagers in Lopez Mateos wanting to celebrate the 'fearless' American walking for 4 months... in a desert place. Have a great day!

Bob H - 2-13-2011 at 09:45 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Stickers

Quote:

Originally posted by Skipjack Joe
The lesson from all this is that if you want to have a meaningful experience don't let the whole world know about it.

RIGHT ON!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Bob H - 2-13-2011 at 09:49 AM

I just went back and looked at the very first photos of Mike. He has trimmed down quite a bit. Amazing! Whatg a journey and lifetime experience for him.

Barry A. - 2-13-2011 at 01:45 PM

It's all good----------no matter the "jury's" interpretation and speculation.

Very fun to share ALL of Mike's experiences, thanks to David and others. Looking forward to more------------

Barry

Pages: 1 .. 10 11 12 13 14 .. 16