8 August - Time to head back to NZ
Time for some reflection
There have been so many highlights of my Camino. The experience was beyond what I ever imagened it would be. It provided me the opportunity to think, free of distractions with no thoughts of work or other dramas.
Being with yourself and nature and the exchanges that you have with people from all over the world, from all walks of life are a gift. It test your limits, it teaches you resilience and stamina. You realise what is really important in life.
It was also a great bonding time with Bernie and Graham.
I'm very thankful that I had Bernie and Graham to guide me, teaching me the pilgrim ways, leaving me to get lost! and figure things out for myself, ie. you really need to keep an eye out for the yellow arrow markers. We were in close confines and barely got cranky with one another. Have made many memories together that I will cherish.
Photo acknowledgement – I cannot take credit for all the photography. The majority of photos which appear on my blog were taken on Bernie's phone. It has a really high quality camera, and Bernie has a knack for taking great photos! Thanks dear sister for sharing your pics.
Written in Latin and loosely translated the Compostela states that the person named therein has come out of a pious (ie. Religious/spiritual) motivation to the Cathedral in Santiago to revere the remains of St. James.
I'm pretty sure I will return to Spain to walk another Camino. Maybe one with my daughter, Jess!
There have been so many highlights of my Camino. The experience was beyond what I ever imagened it would be. It provided me the opportunity to think, free of distractions with no thoughts of work or other dramas.
Being with yourself and nature and the exchanges that you have with people from all over the world, from all walks of life are a gift. It test your limits, it teaches you resilience and stamina. You realise what is really important in life.
It was also a great bonding time with Bernie and Graham.
I'm very thankful that I had Bernie and Graham to guide me, teaching me the pilgrim ways, leaving me to get lost! and figure things out for myself, ie. you really need to keep an eye out for the yellow arrow markers. We were in close confines and barely got cranky with one another. Have made many memories together that I will cherish.
Team Blue parting ways at Madrid Airport:
Time to head home. Back to a washing machine ... bye bye blue t-shirt (although I got used to wearing it every day). Throughout my time away I have met some lovely people and managed the physical side of things very well. I have enjoyed the quaint villages, the stunning coastal views, Spanish family life, their food and culture. I have returned with a heightened appreciation for my good health, family and friends.
Photo acknowledgement – I cannot take credit for all the photography. The majority of photos which appear on my blog were taken on Bernie's phone. It has a really high quality camera, and Bernie has a knack for taking great photos! Thanks dear sister for sharing your pics.
First stamp at Santiago Cathedral Bilbao:
Final stamp at Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela:
My two pilgrim passports:
My Compostela:
Written in Latin and loosely translated the Compostela states that the person named therein has come out of a pious (ie. Religious/spiritual) motivation to the Cathedral in Santiago to revere the remains of St. James.
I'm pretty sure I will return to Spain to walk another Camino. Maybe one with my daughter, Jess!
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