The other day while visiting with William, my son we were talking about pilgrimages and how pilgrims often use different forms of travel. We both enjoy Lord of the Rings and talked about all the various ways the Fellowship of the rings traveled, walking, horses, boats, eagles, being kidnapped and carried by Orcs.

Our conversation was prompted because I was telling him that due to the fact that we underestimated the time and mileage from the Netherlands to Le Puy en Velay, France we were moving ahead again. I said, some people will say we are cheating!” To which he quickly replied, “It’s only cheating if it’s a competition!”

Since pilgrimage, by my own definition is “A journey of thoughtful intention with an unknown outcome,” this new motto fits in nicely.

We have experienced so many things on this adventure: rainstorms, blizzards, sloshing through rushing creeks, mud, steep inclines and declines, challenging situations, lovely people, mud, thought provoking conversations, singing, difficult decisions, dog snuggles, mud, snow, ice, fun, sadness, joy…it has truly been a journey of thoughtful intention with an unknown outcome and not a competition.

On Monday our host will take us to Montauban where we will get an Uber to Larceveau which is 19 kms before Saint Jean de Pied Port. On Tuesday we will walk into Sjpdp . We will then take a few days rest before starting out again on the Camino Frances.

We are so grateful for the support and encouragement so many of you give us daily!! It truly helps us and inspires us.

• Uncategorized