Camino Countdown

Days breaking in glorious sunshine and record warm temperatures welcome this month in colorful bursts of wildflowers. For Rena and I, the arrival of June brings the Camino to the forefront of our daily experience- out from the far away timeline, plucked from thin air several months ago. Though we have done our best to ready ourselves for this journey, we frequently exchange notions of how clueless we actually are. Acknowledging that preparing, on some level, is impossible.

We are now caught up in the weeds of practicality, making sure our home and pets will be in good hands. We're making lists, stocking the freezer and cupboards to make sure every potential need is addressed. Just the other day I spent an hour painstakingly documenting how to work the T.V., DVR, cable and remote so that our house sitter can be spared the overwhelming task of trying to figure it out on her own. I admit, I assume without just cause, that everyone is as technologically dumbfounded as I am. In between sewing up life's details, there is a distinct excitement bubbling close to the surface. That twinge of ectasy, anticipation and wonder validates all the effort; the walking, daily meditations, and coordinating the mundane necessities to make possible the journey. The Camino captured my attention nearly a decade ago. Like an all consuming love affair, I knew I had to eventually commit or turn her loose. Although I tried to walk away, she continued to cast her spell. Visiting me in dreams, popping up in literature and whispering to my seeking soul in the darkness of night. Soon I will walk her winding trail and drink of her spiritual cup to satisfy the seeker, saint and sinner within. The countdown has officially begun.