We all know that the journey of 1,000 miles begins with the first step.  Likewise, this blog, documenting my experiences planning for and (hopefully) walking and completing the 500 mile pilgrimage across northern Spain known as the Camino de Santiago, begins with a first posting.  I have to start somewhere.  So, charging boldly ahead, here it goes…

I have been thinking about walking the Camino for about a year now.  Sometimes it seems like the best idea I’ve ever had.  At other times it seems like the craziest thing I’ve ever contemplated.  It involves taking a huge leap of faith and boldly heading off into the unknown.  Well, it’s not totally unknown.  I’ve found out that there is a ton of information available on the Internet, in YouTube videos, in books and movies, and from caring people who have already been there, who understand where I am in this journey, and who willingly provide advice and encouragement for my Camino.  I expect to encounter physical, mental, and spiritual challenges along the way.  But, I also hope to receive blessings in these areas in return.

At this point in my journey, I’ve made a personal commitment to make the pilgrimage.  I’ve begun acquiring equipment, planning an itinerary, and sharing my dream with just about anyone who will listen.  And, I’ve been pleasantly surprised of how supportive and encouraging everyone has been.  I’ve been checked out by my doctor and given the OK from his perspective.  He told me that everyone needs a little craziness in their life and I thought that was very good advice.

So, here I am embarking on my latest dream.  My plan is to share my experience, thoughts, concerns, and decisions along the way in this blog.  I hope to discuss equipment decisions, choosing an itinerary, sorting out my reasons for making the pilgrimage, thinking about what I hope to accomplish, reporting on my progress once I get started, and anything else I can think of that applies to the trip.  I have no idea if anyone will care about what I have to say or even if anyone will read my rambling posts.  I hope my wife will read some of them, of course, but beyond that … who knows.

But this blog is as much for me as it is for anyone else who may stumble on it.  It will remain a record of my experience that I will cherish.  To anyone who does take the time to follow along with me, I give my heartfelt thanks.  I hope the journey will be a good one for you, too.

Buen Camino!