BRIEFING by Sir Antonio Irastorza

Dear Lions,

I am surprised that time goes by so quickly, only last November we were having the Annual Dinner to celebrate 10 years since the “Lions Expeditions” started, May 2011 is coming close and so it is appropriate to write a few lines. I am very happy to hear news from some of the participants of this year Expedition; in a message I received this morning, one of you told me that he is training very hard every day with running, cycling and swimming; another has told me that he plans to run 3 marathons before going to the Pyrenees. I just want to send a note of advice, it is great to train but do not over do it, or injure yourself we need every Lion. It is on the other hand very important that we all try to play some sport or do some exercise at least twice a week to build up the stamina.

As you all know, the Lions’ Expedition” is much more than doing something difficult or going to a wild spot in the mountains. It is all that but it is more about going away to be a few days with this group of friends were we will share adventure, conversations, camaraderie in an extraordinary environment. Trying to make the others have a good time, at the same time trying to see God in nature, in our work, in our family. Giving thanks to God for the many benefits he showers upon us. Coming back to our daily occupations and family with renewed optimism and keenness.

As you all know, this group of adventurers go as a group; and I promise you and your wives that we will bring you back.

Ave Caesar, muriturus te salutam!

Sir Anthony Irastorza

GET IN FIT, NOW.

Dear Lions,

We are closing in on the next expedition. Alastair has suggested that we need to get into shape through serious training. So here goes:

Train physically and morally.

Physically I suggest that you start by doing some exercise every day. It needs to be exercises that tire. I have started by doing some bends, press-ups and stretching each morning. Matthew would do well to resend the exercise guide that he distributed last year. I shall talk to him. Get out on the bike. Do some uphill work.....

Another idea concerns the matter of diet. I am sure we will find the way to eat a little bit healthier between now and May. In this period at least, less liquor, grease and fluffy buns and much more fruit and veg.

So what can one do on the “moral” front? (you know how the Romans used to say: mens sana in corpore sano). Well, I suggest you take a topic and go for it. Such as being more optimistic and positive? In reality, every problem presents an opportunity. It may not be obvious, initially but if you look carefully through the cracks, there is – more often than not – a chance to do something better. Perhaps, by helping someone else have a more positive take on life. For the Lions never leave a friend behind...
This is a trait that we can put to good use in many ways: for example, smartening up the way we treat our customers / clients so that they come to see that we are interested in their individual needs.

You might think all this comes very late with barely six weeks to go. It’s never too late to improve. Now, on your bike!

Diego Barroso, our Marketing Correspondant, with Fergus's help...

Wild flowers of the Pyrenees

The wild flowers of the Pyrenees are justifiably famous. Known as the flower garden of Europe the alpine flora is spectacular throughout the summer and a must for all wild flower lovers. The abundance and variety of wild flowers is incredible and our walks take us through meadows of gentians, iris, orchids and asphodels.

Phil and our other guides love the alpine flora and will identify and explain the wild flowers you’ll see on our holidays. If you’re a wild flower lover our Lakes & Valleys and Discover Ordesa holidays will be perfect for you.

CLICK in the link below to see all kinds of flowers we my find in our Lions Expedition...

http://www.hikepyrenees.co.uk/flowers-pyrenees-alpine-flora.html