It was bound to happen, another Camino. It happens every time I return from Spain. I begin to think about my next Camino. The last time was in 2018, 5 years ago. I had planned to go sooner, but Covid struck and that put and end to plans for 3 years. I spent countless hours trying to figure out how to get to Spain during Covid, but it was just too much of a hassle. In the middle of last year, things travel wise began to open up and I made the decision to go. Cathie wanted to go also, but back problems prevents her from walking long distances. So, I am on my own again, to walk at my desired pace of slow.
I bought the plane tickets back at the beginning of November, which saves a bunch compared to the prices now. Having done this before, I know how to get there and I'm familiar with the logistics of the whole thing. There is comfort in having been there done that. More relaxing so to speak. And to remain in my comfort zone, I will be walking the Camino Frances again. I have made reservations for the first third on the Camino and I will continue to "reserve ahead". This allows me to take my time walking each day knowing that I have a place to stay at the end of the days walk. I'll be strolling along at 10 to 14 miles most days and although not in the plans, a taxi if needed.
Training has been ongoing, but nothing too strenuous, just 3 to 4 miles most days. I will get in better condition as I walk along the Camino. I will be turning 75 later this year and I don't want to hurt myself. I am motivated to go again as it gives me time to think and reflect on my life and to plan the next Camino. Oh, and to meet new people from all over the world. On the Camino in 2017 I met Harry, who is an inspiration for me. Here is what I wrote at the time:
I met Henry a couple of nights ago in Viana and I along, with others, shared dinner with him. Henry comes from California and is 87 years old, or should I say young. Thirteen years ago, Henry's wife died, and at the age of 74 he walked his first Camino. He has walked the Camino from different starting points twice a year since then and said he will continue to do so as long as he is able. Besides the French route starting in Saint Jean Pied de Port, there are many routes throughout Europe ending in Santiago and Henry has walked many of them. He has walked from London, crossing the channel to Calais and walking the length of France to SJPDP then on to Santiago. He has walked from Paris, Le Puy, France and from Southern Spain. And remember he does this twice a year. Some of these routes are over 1500 miles! Obviously he is extremely fit. He said he started this year in SJPDP, so I asked if he spent the first night in Orrison as we did. Told me, no. Why would someone stop after just five miles? He always ops to do the full crossing of the Pyrenees in one day. Now that's inspiration.
Henry would me 92 now and I bet he's still walking.
So, I leave on Easter Sunday, fly to Madrid where I will spend a couple of days recuperating from the flight. Then take the train to Pamplona where the following morning I will began walking. Not crossing the Pyrenees this time as I have done that before. If I get an itch to walk a portion of one of the many other paths to Santiago, I hop a bus and go do it. It is my intention to be flexible. I have never walked from Santiago to the coast as many pilgrims do. I am hoping to walk to Muxia even if I have to "skip ahead" in order to do so.
Go ahead and follow along, make comments, ask questions. I will be posting as I walk, when I get the urge say something. If you're reading this you may have notice in the upper right a place to send me a message. Don't be shy. Or click the Follow Button.
