I have an envelope filled with intentions. Some people may ask why. As a person who believes strongly in the power of prayer I am bringing them to Fatima, the place where it is believed, and the Catholic church has attested to, that an apparition of the Blessed Mother appeared there to 3 children. I am bringing prayers as this is considered a holy place ..where miracles occur. I am bringing all different types of prayers... for better health, an easy passing. money, financial security, long life, love, a finding of one who is lost. Mary is believed to be able to intercede on our behalf to Jesus and God. I believe that there are miracles. I feel it is an honor and blessing to take these prayers with me. To those who gave me a prayer, thank you for entrusting me. I do so with great joy for you.
Our first day was my hardest emotionally. I (and Eddie) were enjoying lots of things about the beginning of our walk. we came upon a public fountain (which are along the way, many sponsored by families or the village). My feet needed a break and there was cold refreshing water so we drank and I soaked my feet. Didn't dry them well and that was a bad move... The smell of eucalyptus forests and the sight of pussy willow and butterflies and wildflowers that first day was incredible. My legs bleeding under the skin, swelling and the start of blisters as well as running out of water in the heat was scary and made me feel like believing I could do this to fruition was unachievable. I cried to Eddie while in a bar to eat a bocadillo and have lots of juice as I was dehydrated. I lamented that I was out of shape, too fat, too old and crazy to think I could do this.... We got a taxi to go the remaining 5 kms to Porriño. A good night's sleep brought a new and hope-filled perspective. It was a better day. My feet were sore but I could manage. Leaving Porriño early, we stopped and got some empanadas and water bottles were filled and ready. I had belief in myself, confidence was the key and with Eddie's support I knew the next few days were going to lead us into Santiago. This past weekend I attended my 30th reunion from St. John The Baptist . it was lovely to see old friends and reconnect with acquaintances on a different level. Beautiful experience. I was missing so many who were not there- some because of other commitments, some I suppose don't want to revisit the past and some who have left this life. When you go back to revisit that which was left behind, you have the opportunity to remember and reflect. Life has been filled with challenges since those innocent, naive days of h.s. but I wouldn't change a thing. All that has occurred has made me the woman I am. It is good to remember.
It's my birthday , I'll cry if I want to and cry i did. I was missing my mom and dad, carvel ice cream cake, my boy and family. Not necessarily in that order. Maybe. It was a great day for walking. The weather and vistas were some of the best and I was looking forward to a great seafood meal in Pontevedra. Eddie and I were having as great time just hiking along along the easiest paths. There were times where I wanted to just soak in the scenery but the destination-driven hubby marched on ....and on and on. This day's walk was strenuous at points with ascents and descents that were hard on knees, feet and ankles. But there were so many beautiful moments, it was worth it. Walking these paths required thought and caution. This was our second night in an albergue. There wer more pilgrims here. It was a lovely building. Pepple were respectful and fairly quiet. The manboy in the bunk next to me went to bed in his bikini drawers. Eddie was a bit surprised. I wanted to giggle!
I had thought we would meet lots of people but for the most part Eddie and I were alone, together. Since he was a faster walker, we both spent hours alone, interacting intermittently. There is a peace that comes from that, and it is important to have that time. My best friends are the ones who I am not uncomfortable being quiet with.... because they are ok with just "being." Eddie and I have that down. We saw many pilgrims once we were in Santiago but along the Camino just a few. Even most of our albergues stops were done with minimal pilgrims in residence. My next journey I hope will include more pilgrim interaction because I think it would be lovely to meet and know a few. Here are some people along our Way... Here is a photo of a kind pilgrim and his sons. The gentleman stopped as I was hobbling along slowly. These small kindnesses bolstered me to keep one foot in front of the other. God bless! |
AuthorSome names I go by... mom, honey, sister, friend. Sadly, I am no longer anyone's daughter. I am a Special Ed preschool teacher by profession... lover of life by choice! Archives
March 2014
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