A Typical Day On The Camino
Our typical day starts out early. Up at 7am and breakfast by 8am. Usually we start our walk between 8:30 and 9. Soon as we leave the Pueblo we were in and enter the wide open spaces, we devote the first half hour to 45 minutes to prayer for our friends that are especially in need . Walking the Camino is so personal and quiet, you have the absolute space to focus your prayers & visualize your intentions. We can honestly say that we have never been in this state of mind for such long periods. It was difficult for about the first week. It was sort of too quiet….the mind wanders…..then through prayer at the same time each morning well it kind of organizes our walk. It is something so special because it is total prayer focus that is so comfortable because of the complete quiet and tranquility and the sounds of nature with no distractions.
Occasionally, the silence is broken by a passing Peregrino saying “buen Camino”
After two hours we stop and take a snack break. If we are at a Pueblo, we buy snacks from a local bar. We check our maps the night before so that if there are no pueblos after 2 hours, we pack some snacks in our backpacks. After 3 to 4 hours we stop for lunch for a half hour. Same thing as with snacks – if at a Pueblo we buy lunch at a bar, or we eat our packed lunches. It is at these brief stops, conversations happen because there is hardly any talking on the walk. We also meet other Peregrinos at these lunch or snack stops. Friends we have not seen for maybe 2 or 3 days may end up at a lunch break. Fantastic when this happens.
For the next 3 to 4 hours of walking we are in some kind of a “zoned out” mode. Angie & I do not speak more than maybe 10 minutes each hour. Sometimes less when the trail is difficult or hazardous. Kind of seeing everything and thinking of nothing. An unusual state of mind for someone like me with a type A personality. We both discussed how we have changed and wonder how we will be when we return. We have come to love the tranquility.
Mike & Angie On The Camino de Santiago 
Judy & I marvel at how you guys endure all of this.–Wow!
Whitney
May 14, 2013 at 10:45 pm
Angie, I just realized that after five miles on the treadmill, I’m “done” – without a backpack! You and Mike are hardy! I’m so impressed. Stay safe and healthy, you two!
May 14, 2013 at 11:30 pm
Wow……..!!! I like your walking schedule and the scheduled times in taking your lunch and snacks brakes…sounds like a union MOU. Mike…you and Angie have endure and inspired in having a goal and focus in doing a long planed personal experiencing understanding the lord kindness and merciful love. Looks like you are in the reunion of life, the rewards of quiet time, the new responsibility of self and the joy of no distractions in the piece of mine. I know that God is valuing you and Angie for this. WALK ON….
With lots of love …
Steve and Patty
May 14, 2013 at 11:44 pm
What an amazing experience. Kind of Waldon Pond on the move?:) You are both wonderful and thank you for the prayers. Things haven’t turned out as well as we had hoped and are starting our second round of radiation and chemo. We believe Gods will be done. Miss you. Pamela
May 15, 2013 at 12:21 am
Love hearing from you. Keep your spirits up. We pray for Mark daily. Miss you too. Hugs, Angie
“Mike & Angie
May 15, 2013 at 3:02 pm
Have not been home in a few days….been up to see Katy, Mark and Imogen. First time we’ve been to see them since Imogen was born. The Shingles prevented me from seeing her. So-o-o-o cute and happy. Smiles all the time and coos. So cute ! Have tons of pictures to bore you with ! hah ! ………Sunday was Mothers’ Day and had a good time with the kids…….so glad you found out the problem with your walking ! ( it’s too bad that negligee was so heavy ! How a girl survives without it !! hah ) The mouse in my pocket is disappointed. The photos are beautiful ! Thank you. Feel as though we get the impact of the country without the blisters ! I am with Pam and miss you. …Have started construction on new house too…..xx Jane
May 15, 2013 at 6:32 am
Surly you both will find joy at the end of your journey. Good Camino.
Kay
May 15, 2013 at 3:22 pm
Thank you for a beautiful message. You are inspiring me to “DO” the Camino again.
Father O’Mahony
May 15, 2013 at 4:57 pm
Silence is so wonderful. Your words inspiring, I feel as I am there with you both. Thank you for sharing.
May 21, 2013 at 6:34 am