Well, here we are….the journey is complete. 198 miles for Pat and myself, 210 for Rick.
What began as a curiosity last year has turned into an adventure.
One step at a time, one town at a time, one day at a time. There were mornings when my feet questioned my judgment (many mornings), hills that were determined to test my resolve—-and almost won, and a backpack that somehow got heavier each Camino day.
The Camino has a funny way of teaching what you need to learn. The physical load stays much the same, but the worries, distractions, and clutter of everyday life become a distant thought. You trust your kids learned all the life lessons you shared as they were growing into adulthood.
You learn what is important. You learn what can wait. You learn that most days, it’s important to just get up, show up, and trust the process.
This pilgrimage pointed out a few weaknesses—some physical, some not. It also reminded us of strengths forgotten.
At an age when you are expected to slow down, the Camino doesn’t make exceptions. It expects something different than your usual comfort zone response. There is still more to discover, more to experience, and more adventures waiting just over the next hill.
As for myself, I am grateful for every mile, every conversation, every Pilgrim that I was blessed to meet, every church bell, every musician along the way, every dog needing a belly rub, every café stop, every beautiful view, and even every ache and pain.
Most of all, I am grateful for the friends who shared this journey with me. Family isn’t always determined by lineage. Sometimes it is forged through decades of laughter, loyalty, and showing up for one another, struggles…..mile after mile.
When I started this journey, I thought I was walking to Santiago. I realize now that Santiago was only the destination—- there was more. The real journey and growth came when thinking and considering —the quiet moments, the unexpected kindnesses, the lessons learned, and the confidence gained with every step forward.
They say that the Camino leaves footprints long after the walking ends—-I am now a believer.
Buen Camino!!!!
Thank you all for being part of the Camino journey. I hope it was enjoyable for you—-as we reflect I believe we all agree it was enjoyable for us (for the most part). Injuries took a bit of the joy away, but now that we have arrived we all reflect on good memories. I hope we have inspired you to take that risk and do that thing. Life is short and not promised to anyone. Blessings and safe travels
