Eliza,
Currently residing in central Ohio. I walked my first Camino last year. Enjoyed the Spanish countryside, history, and people, both local and from around the world, so much that I believe I've acquired an addiction. An addiction so strong that I now have an overwhelming need to explore the world at a pace that for me is best accomplished on foot. The challenge for this addict is to find the required balance to manage time (read family obligations) and funds (read I haven't perfected a way to grow money on trees, and understandably the world's governments don't like us printing our own)
The 30 days I spent walking from SJPP to Santiago from the middle of May to the middle of June were truly life enlightening in so many ways. Too many to articulate in this short reply. I kept a personal journal to capture some of the random stream of consciousness. Not so much for me to remember, as it is burned into my very being, but rather as a way to better communicate with those who express an interest, as well as for those who think I'm crazy and don't understand why. Truth be told, even after almost a year, the emotions of many of my experiences often impact my ability to clearly verbalize the effect the Camino has had for me. Therefore my writing is in a way very cathartic for me.
In short, I've begun to gain a better understanding of myself and the world around me. I say begun because I know I'll always be a work in progress and can learn something every day.
Within 3 months of my return I was planning my next journey. I chose the Portuguese route this time because I desire to experience a new country, and everything I've read about Portugal and its people leads me to believe I'm in for another special time.
Don't know if we will meet on this journey, but if we do I'm confident I will be better for the experience. I wish you only the best. Enjoy every step of the Way. The good ones, the bad ones, and the ugly ones. I assure you there will be many more good ones than any other kind when you go forth with an open heart and mind.
If you encounter a 51 year young guy with a bushy "platinum blond", o.k. grey, goatee, a shaved head, and a goofy smile on his face, don't be afraid. Simply shout out Hey Dozer, and give me a good old O-H-I-O.
Travel safe my friend,
Craig