Preparation

[duncan pm]

I hope that this is appropriate and that it fits here.
I have walked and cycled the Camino 3 times and now, 2 decades or so, major non-physical health problems - disability, twin sons and a very changed life later I am preparing to return.
An emotional thought.
As a full time parent time is not abundant so it will probably be my bike this time.
So the preparation has begun. Without and within.
It does some far from the Pennines to Santiago in every sense.
My bike has grown a profound aversion to going up hill.
So, I've started. Each ride is solitary - my day has always been so, my journey likewise.
My wife is very supportive, my sons pleased to see the relentless depression possibly abaiting and I'm just wishing my bike saddle were not so barbaric.
To walk the camino again would be amazing but the wrong balance.
So, here is to seeing this through, beyond the slough of despond and to completion.
Thank you for reading these ramblings.
Duncan.

 

[Arn]

Duncan,

Great reflections and good "setting of the table".

Now continue to move as the Camino urges, teases, demands and promises you all that the Way can offer as you make this Camino truly yours...once again.

Saludos and Buen Camino,

Arn

 

[+@^^]

so Duncan big up on the decision
imho & experience the camino is much more fun if the non-physical disabilities are attended to
well before taking the first step on the hallowed terrain
so whether its ocd bipo depro whatever
you might want to get this under control
losing it with no support can be scary
youre welcome to PM me
? perhaps i miss the subtleties

 

[skilsaw]

"...relentless depression..."

I have been there too. Maybe I'm there again now. Tuesday night I went to bed at the usual time and didn't re-emerge until Thursday morning. But back to the Camino.

Biking - I recommend you go from SJPP to Roncesvalles on the Valcarlos route... all the way on the road. If hills are challenging, take breaks, walk your bike a bit. Don't tell yourself you need to get to Pamplona in one day.

Try to engage the walking pilgrims in the evenings and at dinner. Biking solo can put you at a disadvantage for experiencing the amazing fellowship of the road.

I pray that this Camino will make your heart soar, and you young again.

David, Victoria, Canada.

 

[duncan pm]

Thank you for the kindness of your replies and your insight.
I wish you every kind thought.
Duncan.

 

[jerry felty]

Hello Duncan....I hope you did well. Just joined the forum recently and am surfing the topics to gain information and inspiration for the short walk I'd like to do intially. I'm 60 and my helath needs work. Your courage comes through your posting and boosted my confidence. God speed pilgrim. Peace, Jerry

 

[duncan pm]

How very kind and considerate of you.
I wish you the very best and that you too also like the cloud of witnesses around this forum have a wonderful new year.
fair winds and following seas.
may the road rise to meet you.