From the Camino an open letter. June 8, 2026.
Dear followers, friends, and family.
Again I share with you an open letters to my wife Christine. It is meant to be read by all, yet also to conveyed a feeling of intimacy. Please look over my shoulder and be within the closeness. Buen Camino!
Dear Christine.
It is our eighth day on the Camino and the start of our second week. Charlie and I are beginning to find stride within the limits of our abilities. I am listening to my body! So far I’ve managed to avoid blisters. Charlie is managing a couple and being proactive.
I woke with some disquiet this morning. I found myself thinking that before we had left on our respective adventures I had often commented that all I had to do was walk 300 miles while you had the difficult task of “herding cats”. What was meant as humor I now realize is all too true.
Charlie is an excellent Camino partner. Our abilities are similar, as are our outlooks on life. As adults we are responsible for ourselves, yet we watch out for each another. As a grandmother accompanying teenage grandchildren, you are responsible not only for yourself but for them as well. You are their guardian angel. In the 52 years that we have known each other you are still able to amaze me.
You know that in offering condolences I am reluctant to say “I will pray for you“. I find that to be a phrase overused and often given without intention.
I have learned of yet another friend who is faced with a serious and possibly life ending disease. I have on this occasion offered my “thoughts and prayers“.
I mentioned to Charlie that I carry many people in my thoughts, but I do not formally pray. He has given me an insight that is not the formula of the words that matter, but the thoughts given from the heart that constitute sincere prayer. It is a new piece of wisdom for me to consider.
I hope you will enjoy these pictures from the last two days. I love you.
To Everyone: Peace and Buen Camino! Pete
Nancy Antonette Wallingford says:
Beautiful!