Arbeit Macht Frei

Labor Brings Liberty

These are the words emblazoned over the entrance gate to Dachau Concentration Camp – the model for all camps.

With only two days left in Prague it was a choice between Sunday or Monday as to which day we would take a day trip to Kutna Hora.  We decided Sunday was the better choice giving us a just in case day if we didn’t make it.

We walked several miles and climbed 150 stairs (Abi counted) yesterday, in the cold and mist, just so I could show you this view.  Okay, yes, we wanted to see it for ourselves but you get the benefit without the hike.  You’re welcome!

Today’s the day, we’re on our way.

There’s a well-known saying among experienced pilgrims.  The Camino will provide.  But, how does one pack for a long trek such as walking the Camino de Santiago? I suppose when anyone takes on an adventure that most consider a bit out-of-the ordinary, the inevitable questions arise, such as how does one even begin to figure out the logistics and what’s in the pack, Jack?

Because it’s there.  Why?  We get asked that a lot.  Why would we want to walk 500 miles across Spain following the Camino de Santiago?  In truth, we really don’t have an answer.  It kinda beats the hell out of us why we’re taking this on.

“Plans are nothing; planning is everything.” ~ Dwight D. Eisenhower

I wonder if there’s a 12-step program for planning addiction.  Hi, my name is Patti.  I’m a planner.  Always have been, always will be. I like the challenge of planning, stretching my organizational skills to the max and putting together all the pieces of the puzzle.

For whatever reason I just couldn’t hit that “book it” button.  I’d somehow managed to check off the rest of the key nights, you know the ones – gotta be there the night before the flight – nights.

The Voice of Resistance

A recent conversation, on a recent winter’s morning, sounded a little like this.   Mine is the voice of resistance.

“People are capable, at any time in their lives, of doing what they dream of.”  Paulo Coelho

A new year, a new time zone, a new way of living… it’s time to move forward, decisions to be made, parts of the world to be seen.  We’re less than two months away from once again hitting the road.  I am full of eager anticipation and angst, but more than anything I am ready.  Well, almost.