Post Script – Camino 2015

20150510_021352A ‘camino’ is a ‘way,’ and The Camino is a way full of struggles. but the incredible thing about The Camino is how it resolves those struggles for every Pilgrim. It was not the struggle of The Camino that brought us home early, but the struggles of those we love,at home, and our desire, even need, to help assist with, and in, those struggles. The Camino de Santiago will remain – frequented by Pilgrims from all over the world – reduced not in the slightest by our absence – yet calling many more to increase its wonder and effect upon all who make the trip!

Why did we go? What was this particular trip all about? did we not “hear” correctly? Were we too selfish in our desire to “get beyond ourselves”? One can ask lots of questions when doubts rise up in one’s soul. Perhaps we’ll get some answers; but probably not. I must say, however, that “The Angel of Burgos” will be in my memory forever, and a wonderful memory it is!

Some have asked “Do you recommend The Camino de Santiago”? That’s a tough question, because I only recommend it if “the unction” is there; only go if God calls you to go; because the trail is not easy, but the rewards are manifest and many. The Camino takes care of the Pilgrims who walk it, so if you go do so without fear, but only if you HAVE to go because of, well, “the unction.”

Day 12, 2015

An 8 hr flight to Philadelphia- customs- re-entry- and a 6 hr flight to Portland. Too much seat time for this Heiney! Add in the 9 hr time change and time between flights and somehow it got to be Tuesday when I thought we left Wednesday morning. hmmmm. this once-seasoned traveler is off his game; glad to be home.

Day 11, 2015

A taxi back to Burgos, then a nice bus ride to Madrid. Difficult time at the airport due to “restricted” tickets, but finally we get flights out the next day. Too much time sitting around with our minds now back in full gear about home. I already miss the serenity of walking…

Day 10, 2015

A nice walk from Burgos to Hornillios, about 13 miles. Not a hard trail today, but pretty hot. We keep feeling the need to return home to help with family issues- a conflict not easy to resolve. After 7-8 miles we both agree and now must find a way off the Way.

Day 10, 2015

They say the Camino takes care of its Pilgrims. Today we planned to walk 13 miles into Burgos, and to follow an alternative path along the river to city center and the albergue municipal. We did so, but upon arrival it was full, as we’re the surrounding hotels. So we began to walk west out of the big city when a lovely young woman on a bike took notice of us. Seems she has a heart for pilgrims having done the Camino herself last year. She led us to a wonderful hotel on the Camino about 2.5k out of town which will make tomorrow shorter after today’s longer walk.

image

Day 9 cont.

We are in Atapuerca, 1 day walk from the big city of Burgos. This is a nice hostel with 6 bunks in our room. We got 2 low ones! A row of 5 common shower stalls keeps pilgrims minding their own business which is easy when so very tired. So, u may ask, how far did we go today. 13 miles just doesn’t sound like a full day…until u carry a full pack and several water bottles! Same distance for tomorrow. May the Lord be as present with you as we feel Him! Buen camino.

image

Day 9 sort of done

What a great day today. Yesterday almost did me in…so hot. We were rescued by an angel, I am sure. Today we needed coats and gloves so walked faster and finished early. Tomorrow is to be warmer so we’ll see.

image

Day 8, 2015

Very hot today for Skip, Carol doing fine. Does 2 yrs make a difference? We think so. Going along today for a planned 14 miles we were “rescued” by a guy in a van selling lodging up ahead! We let him take us 8k, or 5 miles, praising God! Cold drinks and a siesta were welcomed.

image

Day 7. 2015

Having a few problems with posting, but u knew that! Spain is wonderful and the pilgrims are from everywhere. What happens every day is special…   I’ll try to post a picture of 2…  We love you all!

image

image