Day 3

*The continued story of our donkey trek*

Our rest day did wonders for us and we are ready to hit the road again. Brad and I tack up the donkeys while we let the kids sleep in a bit.  Today we are headed to Refugio Perugia - a rustic lodge on the South side of the Pian Grande. Some people tell us it will just take 2 hours but we have heard it is more like 5. 

Today there is no protection from the sun. No forests or overgrowth to lower the temperature. We follow a trail that sits just below the spine of the mountains surrounding the valley.

Every few minutes we cast a glance back to Castellucio as it recedes in the distance. There is no place in the world I would rather be. The kids are taking it all in. Brad can't believe he had his doubts about the trek. 

I think of the people who decide to remain in Casteluccio during the harsh winters. It is easy to understand how this place gets under your skin. 

Swallows dip and soar over our heads. Butterflies circle in front of us and grasshoppers jump at our feet. It seems a parade of critters is escorting us to our next destination. 

Judith is up to her old tricks. Elliot has learned to use a firm "Come on Judith!"

We meet two mountain bikers on the trail and finally get a family picture. 

We take a break on a windy pass and let the donkeys graze freely. They have no interest in taking off if there is something green or brown to eat. When we carve open a cantaloupe, however, they all have to be held on a lead line - they love human food and will run you over to get to it. 

Watching a thirsty and sweaty donkey drink is so satisfying - kind of like watching your child eat a good meal. 

We have a few false peaks and keep thinking we are "there" so we continue to put off lunch. 

We know we are close when the donkeys pick up their pace on the way down a hill. Luna even attempts to get down and roll in anticipation of getting untacked and released into her pasture - totally impossible with the saddle bags on her back! Sorry Luna!

We hear a hee-haw from a donkey some where off in the distance and Mozart (our castrated male) responds with a studly call back. 

It is at this point that I take over leading Mozart down the hill and Nadia leads Judith. He is doing the run walk and need a firm "Whoa" every few steps to show him who's boss. 

There it is - Refugio Perugia - five hours later. Our refuge for the night. It looks inviting and has a great reputation for it's food. In the meantime "Whoa Mozart!"  You're dragging me down the hill.