Enjoyed a wonderful send off party last evening. Many of my friends and colleagues attended; and I also made some new friends. As far as the pilgrimage, my level of excitement is currently in slow burn mode but anticipate that level will gradually increase as my departure date approaches. At today’s worship service, John and I were called to altar and the congregation prayed for my safe travels and return. I pointed out to the congregation that my pilgrimage has actually been two years in the making and it was just last year that I was in an Intensive Care Unit praying for John who had been diagnosed with a life threatening illness. But John made a full recovery and is currently in remission and I and John both felt comfortable enough for me to go ahead with my plans to walk the Camino.
So as date of departure approaches, I am beginning to envision the articles of clothing I plan to take. I know I must pack lightly as I will be carrying all my stuff in my backpack. According to posts from those who have traveled before me, there are places where you can wash your clothes or have them washed by someone for about 3 Euros. So far, I am taking 5 pairs of dry fit underwear & t-shirts, 6 pairs of guaranteed “blister proof” socks, 2 pairs of REI polyester pants with zip off bottoms to make shorts, 2 kaki shorts, a rain jacket, a sweat shirt, 1 pair of hiking boots, 1 pair of Ultra sneakers, and a pair of flip-flops (for the showers), and toiletries (including 6 weeks of my medications). Needless to say, there may be changes!
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