Thank you for the valuable community

[Wandershot]

I completed my Camino in October (de Burgos a Santiago). As the year comes to an end, I wanted to re-visit this forum and express appreciation for the help and encouragement that I received before embarking upon my quest. A few lessons learned:

• Keep it light. I restricted myself to a 15lb/6.8k with no regrets. Light sleeping bag, just a few shirts, layers, hand-wash everyday but still room for an iPad and a few small luxuries.
• Compeed is a miracle. My American friends...buy a supply of these blister band-aids at the nearest Spanish pharmacy before you start walking and you won't regret it. (if you can't read the Spanish label- you drain the blister, cover it with Compeed and then leave it. The bandage will stay on for several days and then come off naturally, all the while protecting and healing the blister). If you don't end up needing them- then you will do a kindness by sharing with your fellow pilgrims.
• Stop obsessing about the gear already. Beyond my first 2 bullet points, just pack a backpack and go already. You'll be fine.
• I walked alone, but was seldom alone. Don't let your friends/family freak you about about doing this by yourself, you will make friends and have company along the way.
• Conversely...enjoy your alone time. I spend plenty of days walking alone and have come to appreciate the time it gave me to reflect.
• Eat more. Drink more. It's a lot of work walking the Camino. I found that in my first week, I wasn't eating enough and felt a protein lag so I adjusted by loading up on snacks and trying to eat more frequently. The Camino is your perfect chance to avail yourself of all of the delicious Spanish cheese and cured pork that you can handle. A lovely glass of red wine can be had for 2euro on the trail. Go ahead. Do it.
• Be grateful. I experienced many kindnesses along the way. From that German kid who walked with me on a day when I really needed the company, to the guy who bought the grocery bill for a group of us who were going on a picnic. My new friend from Florida gave me a lot of support during a tough time and I'm grateful to that nun who greeted me at the albuerge with a glass of lemon tea and some fruit. I can only hope that I repaid the favors in kind.
• Pay it forward. I shared my experience on a blog and have also personally consulted with/encouraged a few people to go. You can read about my experiences at: http://www.wayfaringviews.com

Thanks again for the help that I received from this forum. And Buen Camino!

 

[wayfarer]

Thank you for your kind words, so glad you had a great Camino.

 

[bystander]

Loved your blog and your photos - thank you.

 

[pilgrim b]

Thank you Wandershot for those recalled memories of moments of generosity that take me back to my Camino with thoughts of gratitude.