What? No pictures? Imagine my surprise when I learned I had taken up all my available storage space on this blog site. I felt like the NFL rookie who landed a big contract only to find out wild spending had removed all his assets. And, yes, videos can take away a lot of space. I can fix this, but only from my desktop at home (and who takes a desktop on a hiking trip?). I know there are a lot of spiritual lessons here …. So - I will practice the lessons learned. Expect uncerta

Today we walked from Sarria to Portomarin in Spain. If you’re looking for pictures. I received a notification that I exceeded my storage limit. I tried to remove a few and the entire day disappeared

Today we walked from O Pedrouzo to our final destination - Santiago de Compostela. A journey of thousands and thousands of steps was complete! It also was a notable day because it was Arnie’s birthday!

The following is a summary of a sermon someone gave (it is a podcast) that summarizes lessons he learned on the Camino. One lesson from the Camino - Everyone has a burden to carry On the Camino - everyone carries a backpack , symbolic of the universal human experience of carrying burdens. The summary of its core lessons is as follows: 1. The Necessity of the Burden A life without burdens is actually the "most difficult task" because it leads to drifting and lack of purpose. J

Today we walked from Arzúa to O Pedrouza - a shorter walk and closing in on the finish!

One of the members of our trip was advised not to come with a group because the lesson learned on the Camino can only be learned when you go alone. And there is truth to the value of quiet time alone with God to shape us, focus us, and teach us individually. But life. Is also a communal journey - best shared with others. We often strike up conversations with people we pass, or those who pass us - one woman yesterday asked two of us that were walking together - why are you on

Today we walked from Palas de Reí to Arzua - a walk of over 18 miles. This was our longest day (and markedly more difficult than the previous days). The Camino often gives you alternative paths (called complementary paths) that are sometimes a bit longer. A couple of us took a “complementary” path but not on purpose and ended up a little lost - causing an even longer hike. The best laid plans ….

I want to talk a bit about walking sticks. They say walking sticks improve balance, reduce joint stress, enhance stability, and provide a full-body workout, making them valuable for hikers and walkers of all ages. And we find that to be true - especially when the terrain is steep. One thing I developed before the trip was some back pain, and at times on the walk it can tighten up. When I lift my weight a little with the walking sticks, I can get immediate lessening of the ti

Today we walked from Portomarín to Palas de Rei

This is the view that most pilgrims see on the Camino - focusing on the ground or the backpack in front of them. I actually saw many also looking at their phones - and missing the beauty around them. Instead, keep your eyes up! Watch where you are going, but also notice the beauty around you. (Today’s beauty was not limited to what we heard - from the sounds of actual cuckoo birds to a man playing Amazing Grace on the bagpipes. So - what are you not seeing because you are no

I remember reading in James Michener’s “Alaska” that travelers to Alaska often dumped things out of their packs and left them on the side of the path in order to make it over the pass. As we get ready to commence the walking part of our journey, I am reminded of the instructions I received of carefully considering what you pack, as you will have to carry it with you a long distance. So, when I thought of what I wanted to bring, I divided what I thought I’d need in half. One

Although it’s a bit tedious, I think I’ve figured out how to add photos and I will upload these once each day. Some of the guys have slowly sent photos so there may be some from yesterday. One adventure for the day was one of us left something behind on the bus, but, thank the Lord, we were able to retrieve it.

There is a saying that if you want to go fast, go alone, but if you want to go far, go together. The Camino is not a race, it’s a pilgrimage. And although each of us is on our own journey, we find energy from one another. We are all truly blessed to be here with this band of brothers.

Adding photos here has been more difficult than I imagined it would be, but I will try to keep up

Walking the Camino de Santiago is not just a journey; it’s an experience that transforms the way you see the world and yourself. Each step along the ancient paths of this pilgrimage reveals breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and unforgettable encounters. Whether you are seeking spiritual growth, adventure, or simply a break from the routine, the Camino offers moments that linger long after the journey ends. The Allure of the Camino The Camino de Santiago, or the Way of St

Walking the Camino de Santiago is more than just a journey; it’s an adventure filled with camaraderie, breathtaking landscapes, and personal growth. Whether you are a seasoned hiker or a casual walker, embarking on this pilgrimage with friends can deepen your experience and create lasting memories. In this post, we will explore the various aspects of the Camino de Santiago, from planning your trip to the unique experiences you can share along the way. What is the Camino de Sa