I started at about two o’clock this afternoon. It was nice and warm, but now – an hour after the sun has gone down – it is cold. In fact today was the first day I took off my shirt and walked without anything on my upper body. It was comfortable, and I hope the few Chinese people I met did not find the sight too uncomfortable!  Although my arms, face and neck are pretty tanned, the rest is as white as ever.

I was excited about testing the new boots. My feet noticed the harder surroundings and although there were no blisters, there was more friction than they are used to. It’s too early to see how they will work in the long run.

Walking the Great Wall was pleasant today. Desert like landscape, but fields here and there. Don’t know if you are reading this John M, but I passed three places today that all had a ‘School of agriculture’ look and feel. Have taken some pictures that I will pass on.

I ordered three meals before setting off today and ate less than one, so food will not be a problem the next few days.

The hydration system I have been using got a leak at the connection between the water bag and the pipe. I’m half to blame because I filled it with boiling water to wash it. It can withstand boiling water, but when I was letting the water flow through the pipe, the pipe was bent at an awkward angle and the connection gave way. Luckily Trude brought an insulated hydration bag, so I will start using that soon.

Time to eat a little and put on some more wool. It is pretty chilly. My winter sleeping bag is in Datong in the Eastern part of the next province Shanxi. I’m hoping to get as far as possible before going there to pick it up.

13 kilometres today