What makes me think I can do this?  It is true that I did a 1000 mile trip last year and have done things relatively similar. On the other hand, I do have some creaky joints. One of my brothers doubted he could do this as his joints, especially his hips, would make it difficult.

   Here is a summary of my joint situation: Worst is the right knee which is chronically bad. Next is the left ankle due to my fall in October (!).  

Substantially less of a problem are left knee and right ankle which are also chronic.   And again, much less of a problem are the wrists and shoulders.

As everyone is retired (I think), I suspect there will be similar aches and pains.