This is my mom and dad. THe people who had the most influence on the woman I have become and one of the reasons I feel the need to do my camino. Since this IS Father's Day, I need to honor him by saying that each practice walk I do, I feel him enjoying my joys at things I see or things that happen. He was more quiet and not outwardly social unlike my mom who would talk to a wall (I get that from her, happily!) Yesterday, I witnessed a baby osprey get fed by its mama. It was an awesome sight! And dad was with me in that moment. He loved nature and appreciated it. He found God in nature; my mom in the Catholic church . I take more after my dad in that. (After honoring my mom for years as lector, youth minister and catechism teacher!) God's glory is all around us... in the breeze at the ocean, the smiles of strangers, the nod of a head as I walk along the beach for stretches with no one but the other beach addicts, the simplicity of the garden, the fluttering butterfly... I could go on.
We, in my family, welcomed a new baby in January- Kevin Joseph, my bro's first grand. He was baptized last weekend in a beautiful ceremony. Mom and dad were there, too, I'm sure. I missed them as it always overshadows the happiness of an event that they are not physically present. I see shades of my dad in my brother and I hear my mom's voice in my head as events unfold. She had the best laugh.
My practice walks (I did 12 miles yesterday- stupidly in flip flops which were comfortable in one way and allowed my claustrophobic feet to breathe- but also produced blisters) allow me time to visit with my parents, to pray and uplift all who need a little help from the Big Guy and to have new experiences. I walked along Rockaway to the next county ( I am expanding!) and visited my friend briefly. Couldn't wait to get home, shower and REST!
As the week progresses, the official school year ends for my 4 and 5 year olds...some will not return for the summer. My son finishes out his freshman year and I get ready to have two weeks to chill! ANd walk!
Buen camino!
We, in my family, welcomed a new baby in January- Kevin Joseph, my bro's first grand. He was baptized last weekend in a beautiful ceremony. Mom and dad were there, too, I'm sure. I missed them as it always overshadows the happiness of an event that they are not physically present. I see shades of my dad in my brother and I hear my mom's voice in my head as events unfold. She had the best laugh.
My practice walks (I did 12 miles yesterday- stupidly in flip flops which were comfortable in one way and allowed my claustrophobic feet to breathe- but also produced blisters) allow me time to visit with my parents, to pray and uplift all who need a little help from the Big Guy and to have new experiences. I walked along Rockaway to the next county ( I am expanding!) and visited my friend briefly. Couldn't wait to get home, shower and REST!
As the week progresses, the official school year ends for my 4 and 5 year olds...some will not return for the summer. My son finishes out his freshman year and I get ready to have two weeks to chill! ANd walk!
Buen camino!