17 days!

Dave.Martinez · Aug 13, 2013

I've prepared myself mentally and physically as much as I can. I'm actively adjusting my attitude to unexpected events in my life to be less a reaction of irritation and more embracing of the adventure (I tell myself... "this has happened... being angry will not change it from having happened...), I'm practicing my Spanish everyday and I've been walking daily and walking with a full pack on weekends. I've climbed two 14ers in Colorado! I've lost 12 lbs since I started training! I'm sure I'm ready to start this adventure!

I traded in my Kestrel 38 for a Gregory Z30 so I can take it as carry-on instead of checked luggage. I'm leaving my sleeping pad, trekking poles, and water bladder behind... I figure if I need them later, I'll find replacements. Pack only weighs 16.4 lbs loaded. Far less than the 10% of my body weight.

Airline tickets are purchased and I don't know of any impending airline strikes. Reservation is made for my nights stay in SJPdP... I figure the rest of the journey will be played by ear. I'm going to purchase international minutes with my cell service provider so I can make calls as needed... not many minutes as I don't want to walk my Camino with my phone to my ear. My family can contact me... I can set a reservation if needed... anything more than that is a distraction.

I'm sure I'm ready to start this adventure! Why am I so nervous?

Dave

CaminoGen · Aug 13, 2013

23/24 days to go for my second Camino and I feel exactly the same as you. Anxious, nauseated and excited.

MichaelB10398 · Aug 13, 2013

Anticipation can cause a lot of different emotions; particularly those where we have planned and have numerous expectations. You have done well to strive to put yourself in the frame of mind to handle changes; seeing the need to adapt. More than anything it is being able to live in the moment and to take advantage of each moment we are given along the Camino (and life). Take some deep breaths; grasp that there is not a "right" way to be a pilgrim; you are not unique, but are joining a Way that has been walked by millions of other people just like you. Humility goes a long way on Camino; when in doubt ask; greet others with a smile without expecting a positive response; accept that others can have a bad day and don't take their words or actions personal - it is their problems they are working out; you will find yourself as you serve others.

fortview · Aug 13, 2013

As a retired midwife, I think it's like women waiting for labour to start ! You can read all the books, go to all the antenatal classes, eat well, keep fit, but labour is the great unknown...and doesn't always go according to plan... But is a life- changing, incredible journey, where you find strength and resolve you didn't yet know were in you !
Buen camino Dave

fostersail1 · Aug 13, 2013

Dave,
You certainly seem to have the right attitude and I think you are more prepared than most. The difference between anxiety and excitement can be a very fine line at times. All I can offer is the encouragement to just be open and enjoy the ride (and keep a good journal).
Regards,
Joe

Dave.Martinez · Aug 14, 2013

Thanks all for the kind comments!

D.Matthew · Aug 14, 2013

Dave.Martinez said:
I've prepared myself mentally and physically as much as I can. I'm actively adjusting my attitude to unexpected events in my life to be less a reaction of irritation and more embracing of the adventure (I tell myself... "this has happened... being angry will not change it from having happened...), I'm practicing my Spanish everyday and I've been walking daily and walking with a full pack on weekends. I've climbed two 14ers in Colorado! I've lost 12 lbs since I started training! I'm sure I'm ready to start this adventure!

I traded in my Kestrel 38 for a Gregory Z30 so I can take it as carry-on instead of checked luggage. I'm leaving my sleeping pad, trekking poles, and water bladder behind... I figure if I need them later, I'll find replacements. Pack only weighs 16.4 lbs loaded. Far less than the 10% of my body weight.

Airline tickets are purchased and I don't know of any impending airline strikes. Reservation is made for my nights stay in SJPdP... I figure the rest of the journey will be played by ear. I'm going to purchase international minutes with my cell service provider so I can make calls as needed... not many minutes as I don't want to walk my Camino with my phone to my ear. My family can contact me... I can set a reservation if needed... anything more than that is a distraction.

I'm sure I'm ready to start this adventure! Why am I so nervous?

Dave

Have fun, Dave! Congrats on the training, two 14ers should have you ready to hit the trail!