Footsteps to Journeys

St. Jean Pied de Port, abbreviated by peregrins (pilgrims) as SJPP, is our starting point tomorrow morning. A charming French city in the foothills of the Pyrenees, where we are currently sitting in a cafe drinking Sangria!

Previously, we stood in line at the Pilgrim office to talk with a guide and have our passport (pilgrim’s credencial) stamped. OK. We are now official pilgrims on the Camino! (brief applause)

A huge part of walking the Way is meeting other pilgrims. They are here from Canada, South Africa, all over Europe, and many other points across the globe. For many, this is their first walk. Others have been before and can help newbies.

Walked the steep streets and up to the old fortress to see a tremendous view, and also get some last-minute training for tomorrow’s climb. Bought ham and cheese sandwiches for an early morning breakfast on the trail. Then had a pilgrims dinner which included salad, pasta, and dessert for €15. Plus fabulous freshly baked bread!

Relaxing on our room’s rooftop patio and getting psyched up to begin. It’s quiet and overcast, with green hills and white homes with red tile roofs in view. The calm before the storm? The deep breath before the plunge. All is peace.