I've decided to go...

There are seemingly as many reasons why people decide to do the Camino as there are pilgrims on the trail. But often the explanation some variation of, "It's something I need to do." That's where I am with it right now, too.

I have to admit that I'm not getting any younger.  And, who knows if I'll have 5 weeks available, and the physical ability to do the Camino, again in the future?

I recently read What The Psychic Told The Pilgrim, by Jane Christmas. She describes her motivation to go, and it rang true to me, as well. I've used her ideas as a springboard to my own:

It was the spiritual aspect of the Camino that hooked me from the moment I imagined I’d really do it. It's represents a clear opportunity for extended solitude and deep introspection. I’m not looking for a miracle from St. James, and I don’t have any egregious sins to repent, but I am drawn to the notion of an ancient Catholic pilgrimage -- and the sense of community it implies. I assume that it welcomes people like me who periodically question the meaning of their faith but stick with it anyway; who want to express the spiritual side of themselves without being viewed as some quaint oddity in this modern age, who pray and believe in God and try to do "the right thing"-- but occasionally use profanity and enjoy off-color humor. They say you can be alone as much as you want to be while on the Camino. I'm looking forward to the solitude of the long trail, and the community among others who are looking for it as well.

I bought the plane ticket. I gathered the supplies. I planned a route. I'm going.

I leave Portland on Sunday, June 17. I'll arrive in Madrid at 8:30 AM, the next day.  I'll spend the rest of that day getting to the starting point - the train to Pamplona, and some combination of bus and taxi to St. Jean Pied de Port, France. From June 19th until July 22nd I'll follow the Camino Frances, gradually making my way over the 790 km to Santiago de Compostela. I know, more or less, which trail I'm taking, but 'how far' and 'where to' each day remains to be seen. I'm open to follow the Camino's lead.

The next critical date for me is July 24th, when I'm scheduled to return to Portland from Madrid.

Preparations

I've been training for several weeks. I try to walk several miles each week with my backback loaded: around my neighborhood, in Portland's amazing Forest Park, to work and back, down to the waterfront, etc. I carry several of the things I'll bring with me, and I add ballast of whatever kind I have on hand to bring the weight to 18 lbs, or so. I've been averaging a little more than 4 MPH in the city, and a little less on trails. I don't intend to maintain that kind of pace on the Camino, but I want to push myself right now. The reality of that first long leg  -up and over the Pyrenees, and all the way to Roncesvalles-  motivates me to be as conditioned as possible.

My well-worn Kelty Redwing developed a "stress tear" at the shoulder strap that I needed to repair last night. I decided that the big needle I used to repair it will be one more item that I'll bring along on the trip. Who knows when I might need it again...

My new Keen Targhees felt a little tight yesterday. I'm hoping the 8.5s are going to work. If I have to trade up to 9's I'll need to do it soon to get them broken in. Maybe I'll call REI later today to check into it.

I think I have everything I need for the trip, and maybe a few things I just want to bring along.

Packing List

Wearing:

hiking pants, short-sleeved shirt, quick-dry undies, thick socks, boots, belt

In the Pack: 

2 pairs quick-dry undies, long-sleeved shirt, short-sleeved shirt, light weight shorts (2), thick socks(2), liner socks(2), rain jacket, fleece, bandana, long-johns, sandals, hat, Netbook w/charger & USB storage, nail clipper, plastic bowl (w/lid), IPod w/connecting cord, soap (in soapbox), plastic fork & spoon, camera w/extra AA batteries, Vaseline, coffee w/filters & drip-cup,  phone, case & adapter, paper tape, paper, pencil, toothbrush, toothpaste, trail mix, string (for clothesline), disp razors (2), Rx Meds, safety pins, travel towel, Ibuprofen, headlamp, Aspercreme, dried fruit, whistle, tweezers, leather treatment, scissors, backpack cover, band-aids, zip-lock bags, needle, thread, sun screen, sleeping bag w/bag liner, Chap-stick, water bottles (2), clip-on sunglasses (in pouch), AM/FM personal radio, toilet paper

I'll buy a cheap Swiss-Army style knife when I get to Pamplona.

You see why I'm training with an 18 lb. pack.