With relatively uneventful walks to Carron de Los Condes and Calzadilla de la Cueza behind me, I am now at the halfway point to Santiago. As I think back to that first day, a part of me replays the long grueling walks, the daily routine of getting up at 6 am, eating bread and ham, and sleeping in a different bed every night - not to mention that there are 3 more weeks ahead of me - and groans, "long time coming!" Another part of me recalls the excitement of each day, the peaceful walks, the charming towns, and the wonderful people I have met - along with the reality that I already have travelled 250 miles by foot - and shouts back, "how did I get here so soon?"
When I started this journey, I was motivated by the desire to abandon all creature comforts and prove to myself that I could overcome the physical challenges of walking 500 miles with a 20-lb backpack. But when you actually walk the Camino, you are naturally drawn into a larger pilgrimage. Your fellow pilgrims become part of your experience - and, in some cases, part of a Camino family. Bill is now the token male in a family dominated by 5 women but he does not seem to mind in the least.
I earlier introduced you to Mary and Lisa. They have known each other since they were 3 years old and have remained close friends. They are always there for one another and, in my mind, continue to pass the ultimate test of friendship by sharing a room. As you may recall, they came to Bill's rescue the day I needed "nursing" care and that alone has made us part of a Camino family. Mary and Lisa are upbeat and determined to weather any storm to get to Santiago.
You also met Mary and Cela - the Minnesota twins who are related by marriage. They are tough walkers who like to start early, take few breaks, and at times had already showered when we strolled into town. They are both from very large farm families and can be counted on for amazing stories during those long walks. Mary and Cela are the first to extend a helping hand and look out for us like siblings.
I have learned a lot already about life, friendship and trust from our Camino family - and I am only halfway to Santiago.
~ Buen Camino, Carol ~
Carol Ann, finally catching up on your daily blogs. What a journey and the weather looks spectacular. I sent you a photo from my mini hike in AZ last week. Just that little walk in such beautiful countrynside made me appreciate even more what you are experiencing daily. And! You still look like your hairdresser joined you. Just beautiful and clearly very happy! I am so proud of you and your many milestones but this has to be the most challenging and rewarding. Sending you love and hugs!
ReplyDeleteCarol,
ReplyDeleteI can't believe you're already half-way there! We are sitting poolside in Hawaii reading your blog, smiling, laughing with the occasional tear. Camino Jim is beaming with pride. We love you friend and can't wait for stories from "part II." Buen Camino!
Robin
Carol,
ReplyDeleteI'm glad you're so successful in your episode and I hope you do the last part as successfully as the first one. I'm sure your husband is proud of you. We're very proud of you and may God bless you. We love you, Mom and Dad
Half way! Great accomplishment and the added benefit of finding you're Camino family. I remember it well ... They will always share a special memory. Buen Camino.
ReplyDeleteCamino Cayenne,
ReplyDeleteTonight is the last night mom, dad and I will check for your post as a family trio. I will be returning to Wyoming tomorrow. So, most likely, you will not be getting further notes from mom and dad on your blog. Eric, Melanie, Linda and Chris check and enjoy your blog, even though they do not write regularly.
Time is short and much life is packed into your special days on your Camino journey. Each day is a unique gem of pilgrim friends, Camino trail and life, an experience about which you will marvel upon looking back, an experience that only a tiny fraction of the world's people have travelled. What a wonder you are! Love, Suzetta XXXOOO
Sweetheart,
ReplyDeleteI am so very proud of you for the way you have handled this adventure. And, like you always do, find a way to let others share in your achievements. Your stories and photos help all of us share in this wonderful experience without the blisters, strange beds, and exhausting challenges. The half way point means to me that you are now headed home and I continue to count down the days. Keep up the wonderful accounts and the great photos.
Your Hubby
Carol,
ReplyDeleteCongratulations on being half way. Already quite an achievement!! You are awesome and your pics of the land, landmarks, and other pilgrim friends are inspiring! I'll bet that the friendships you've made on this journey will be as comfortable and long lasting as ours😍👯❤️. I think of you every day and really look forward to seeing you soon! Love, prayers, and thoughts are with you each step of your way,
Lori and Jim
Great blog. Great pictures. I miss those end of the day gatherings ... It's what it's all about, celebrating the days victory. Safe travels, enjoy. Buen Camino. Jim.
ReplyDeleteSo glad you have met such nice pilgrims! Love the stories and photos. Big hugs!
ReplyDeleteXXOXXOXO
ReplyDeleteCarol - I am so delighted that you invited me to be a virtual partner on your journey - one that I have often thought of taking, albeit in smaller segments and with reservations for 5-star hotels at either end! Your photographs and narratives are gorgeous and inspiring. I am in awe of your stamina but also of your technical ability to share such wonderful words and images from half the world away.
ReplyDeleteWishing you continued joy on your journey - Kathleen M.