Author Archives: Tom

There is a big difference from Bonjour to jHola, from Merci to Gracias.  The difference on the Camino is over a 4,100 foot climb and about a 6 hour walk covering nearly 20 km.  But on the Camino “Buen Camino” … Continue reading →

The road over my shoulder is where I start in the morning.  I arrived in St. Jean Pied de Port this Sunday afternoon and am really excited to get going.  I hope I get a reasonable night’s sleep tonight in … Continue reading →

I am so inspired by the many blessings and prayers I’m receiving as I get ready to leave for my Pilgrimage.  Yesterday I received some really special blessings.  The St. Christopher Medal is from our daughter Julie, her husband, Nick … Continue reading →

Last Sunday, Dan, our parish pastor, blessed me with these words: Loving God, we are all pilgrims, seeking to appreciate the quiet immensity of your presence.   We pray in a special way for our brother, Tom, as he undertakes … Continue reading →

I have to admit that I have a bit of anxiety about the first day from St. Jean Pied de Port to Roncesvalles because it’s a 15 mile walk but an ascent of about 4,500 feet.  That’s a bit of … Continue reading →

Final preparations are proceeding as planned.  I walked 16 miles today to see what that feels like.  That will be a typical day on the Camino.  Have a little soreness but nothing from which I won’t recover with a little Tempranillo … Continue reading →

Hard to believe that this adventure is starting so soon.  I’ve been training for 9 weeks and I think it’s paying off.  There was a bit of a transformation this week.  I’m walking 8 miles a day with my backpack … Continue reading →

I’m scheduled to arrive in St. Jean Pied on May 10th and start out to Santiago on May 11th. I’ve confirmed the details of the route and am really looking forward to the adventure.  The first night in Spain I … Continue reading →

In just six weeks the adventure begins.  My Credencial or Pilgrim Pasport arrived today. This is the document that is stamped at least everyday at cathedrals, churches, hotels, bars and town halls along the way.  It is necessary to receive … Continue reading →

I’m continuing to get as much walking in as possible.  I was able to do almost 40 miles in the last 8 days and four of those day were 7+ miles each and many with my backpack.  No real surprises … Continue reading →