I've booked my flight!!! 1 May my journey starts :)

[Oldsoldier]

Hi everyone, I'm Craig from Staffordshire in UK and I'm 43 on Monday! As my birthday present to myself I finally took the plunge and booked my flight from Manchestee to Madrid on 1 May. It will be 1 week after I retire from the Army and I always wanted to use the Camino to reflect on my 23 yrs service. Time constraints mean I have to be back by 23rd so I am starting in Burgos.

But really, my journey starts from when I walk out of my front door. I'll get my train from Stafford wearing the gear I will predominantly wear throughout my journey (shorts, shirt, hat). I plan to stay overnight in Madrid before getting the bus to Burgos in the afternoon.

I hope to close the door on my previous life in the forces and come back refreshed for whatever life has to throw at me. Although i will be closing the door on my military life, I have fantastic memories and like all good soldiers, I have everything ready for my journey. I even have my shell!! Hope to meet some of you on The Way

Regards to everyone. Safe journey to you all!!

Craig

Craig

 

[Deleted member 3000]

I walked with a retired Ranger last fall. He wore his combat boots for support for an ankle injury. Every ache and pain he had acquired during his service came to the surface, but he survived and loved it!

Have a great walk!

 

[tyrrek]

Good on ya Craig! It will be like a walk in the park for a soldier. You'll enjoy the Meseta and then the hills of Galicia beyond. Perfect way to detune after army life. Just don't tell fellow pilgs how to clean their boots or make their bed because they might not agree! Ha ha! Buen Camino and thanks for your service.

 

[Al the optimist]

Enjoy Craig. I'm sure that you have found a lovely way to help ease you into your new life. And thank you for your service, I don't know that soldiers always realise that many appreciate their contribution to peace.
allan

 

[Monsieur]

Sounds great - keep us posted!

 

[Redhead]

Happy birthday Craig!!! What a wonderful gift to give yourself!! Good luck and be safe!
Buen Camino