Many people have asked me that…. And I often ask myself. But I never doubt the ‘draw’ of the Camino de Santiago, which is powerful for many Pilgrims to be. Some walk the Camino for religious reasons. Some to reflect and deal with issues in their life. For me it’s a bit of everything.
It’s 3 a.m. and I’m lying in bed in Saint Jean, not able to sleep. Outside, the rain is pouring down and I can hear it pattering on the roof. I wonder if the rain will still be this strong when I start to walk, but I’m not too worried because I have really good waterproof clothing.
Day 1 to Orrison on the Camino de Santiago - Frances Route
During my first day of walking yesterday, it was really interesting talking to some of the other pilgrims and some of the reasons why they were walking the Camino. Over lunch time, I was talking to Sally from the United States who was walking with her mother, Britney.
It’s interesting how priorities change. Six months ago, the Camino to me was all about getting time away from work, time to think, time to chill out, and it was all about walking from Saint Jean Pied de Port to Santiago.
As I prepared to start my second day of the Camino, my thoughts turned to those who’ve made this journey possible. Without their hard work and support, this journey wouldn’t even be possible for me.
A huge thank you to my wife, Pat, for doing without me for two months whilst I undertake the Camino.
I’d estimate this morning that about 300 people left Saint Jean on the walk over the Pyrenees to Roncesvalles. Because I split the journey in two, I was effectively able to start halfway where I’d left off the day before, which put me ahead of the other walkers, which was really awesome.
Crossing the Pyrenees - So Calm and Peaceful
I’m in my Casa Rural this evening, stretched out on the lounge, with my feet up on some pillows, giving my feet a rest. I think I might go out for dinner in about an hour, and then have an early night.
If I wake up early tomorrow as usual, I might actually try an early start.
Today is about 22 kilometer stretch between Puente la Reina and Estella. It’s a good day for walking, not too hot overcast and a light breeze. As always, I’m meeting some interesting people along the way, and always seeing faces that I recognize from earlier stages of the Camino.
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