Buying our shoes.

With the backpacks purchased, we turned our attention to the items we would put in the them.  To say the space is limited would be an understatement.  We began looking on other travelers' blogs to see what items they considered essential, and we determine that there would be very little space for shoes.  Basically, we'd have to have the shoes on our feet plus a pair of flip flops to wear in the shower, on the beach, and to the temples.  The shoes on our feet would have to be very versatile.

We definitely won't need hiking boots because we won't be doing any serious hiking.  Phyl had difficulties walking a fairly easy path in Belize and still bitches about that today, still has mud in her teeth, so she definitely won't be climbing mountains.  It occurred to me that we should investigate those ugly, but oh-so- practical sandals that have the big rubber part to protect the toes. We've seen them a lot around here.  After an exhaustive internet search, it seemed like Keen had the best reviews and since we could not find them cheaper on line, we went back to REI. 

As we stared at the wall of shoes, we were shocked by the abundance of ugly sandal styles and colors.  We each sent the tall, lanky sales boy off with a list of shoes for us to try.

G - Geez, I cannot believe we're going to spend $100 a pair for these ugly sandals.  I've never paid $100 for even a pair of beautiful shoes.
P- They are the only shoes we'll be wearing for at least  a year, so they need to be sturdy and comfortable.
G- I'm trying these first because I like the pretty mossy green color.
P- OMG! That pair is so square and wide, you look like you're wearing the box.
G- How in the hell can a pair of shoes make my long, skinny feet look like bricks?  It's a no go on these.  And if they make MY feet look like bricks, you are totally screwed with your little Flintstone feet.
P - I have cute feet!  My hands and feet are the only petite things on my body, so I am definitely not wearing shoes that make them look big and fat.
G- Well, I like the smaller rubber section on this pair, but ............
P - But look at your Tree Sloth toes!  That pair is risky.  I think the toes that are not behind the rubber might try to escape.
G-  Yeah!  Walking will be a problem if my toes are all scraped up.  Can't get these.
P- I think this pair makes my feet look cute and they are so light I'll be able to RUN FAST AND JUMP HIGH!

Phyllis                                                                                

We have worn them a few times, and we must admit that they are very light, with good arch support, and very comfortable.  Good thing, because we'll be walking them all over the world very soon.

Gina