41 DAYS OF CAMINO MAGIC

Prior to the start of my first Camino de Santiago in the spring of 2016, I sent out a letter to those who had been a part of my life in some capacity from pre-school years to present day. The letter explained the what, where, and why I was walking 500 miles across Spain. I included a blank, scallop-stamped card and a self-addressed, stamped envelope and asked that it be returned, prior to my departure, with words of encouragement or motivation to help me keep putting one foot in front of the other. I received 40 cards back, taking them out of their envelope but keeping them in the order I received them and placed them inside a water-tight baggie to take with me on the walk. I’d planned 42 days for this Camino and I reached Santiago on day 41. On each of those days, I read one note and documented where I was when I read it. Each of the cards was a treasure and the sentiments helped to support me every step of the way. I felt carried and loved, especially on the hardest of days. 

Upon my return home, I printed a photo of the place where I was when I read each sentiment. Below are cards sent back to me along with the photo I returned to say thank you (there are more than 41 because some people needed more space to write and I wanted to include these notes, too).

Oh, the amazing thing…when my husband met me in Santiago on that 41st day, he handed me an envelope that had arrived late. Inside was the 41st card. So, miraculously, I was gifted one card for each of the days I walked. My “Camino magic” began way before I ever placed one step on that sacred path.