Thoughts from Santander

Today it is raining so we are taking the morning to pause, rest, regroup and reflect. We have walked something like 200 miles so far (most of those Camino miles but some around town). We are on day 15. I have never walked this many days in a row and definitely not this far before and I’m not sure I want to again. It is remarkable the number of people we have met that are on there second or third plus Caminos! We are in the minority as first timers.

My Cousin in Germany’s 15 year old son asked me in all honesty, trying to understand why. The day we were leaving he asked, “Is this fun for you?” Those words keep ringing in my head. The answer so far is…well it depends.

When we are getting started in the morning and stuffing our things in our packs and walking that first two km. No

Once we’ve warmed up and come to some amazing views of the countryside or cobble street roads or views of the coast. Yes

Walking along highway stretches of tarmac with no shade or breeze and cars going by fast. No

When we make it to the albergue and see the new friends we are making and sit and share stories and have a beer. Yes

I still can’t say I know why I am walking this. And I have had moments when I want to quit because it feels too hard. But then something changes and the next day I want to keep going. I have heard it compared to childbirth and that you forget the pain only to remember it the next time around, in this case – every morning. I do have three children so that was true for me.

One step at a time, one day at a time, we will see where we end up.

I do know that i think about home a lot…more than just my bed and couch…all of you. I think about school starting and all the prep that everyone is doing. I think about fall coming and the changes that will bring. I think about the fires and smoke. You are in our minds and hearts. We love you and miss you.