Well after returning from our Camino adventure we organized the contribution to the Royal LePage Shelter Foundation. Our fundraising efforts allowed us to donate more than $2,000.00 to the cause we had chosen when we started this adventure almost a year ago.
I want to thank my co-Bellas for a wonderful experience. In addition, I want to congratulate them for a job well done.
Walk on!
Friday, November 14, 2008
Saturday, October 18, 2008
Janice´s bit...
When I started the Camino I felt apprehensive about whether I could do it and elated that I was about to start an adventure
The most helpful piece of advice I received was to leave the thread in my blisters so that they would keep draining
My favorite stage during the Camino was when it was beautiful and my feet had not yet begun to blister.
My longest day was from Ponferrada to Villafranca del Bierzo (only 19 km) but my feet were in very bad shape and the last 5km almost made me give up
My favorite Camino word was Torrija (French toast made with thick slices of Spanish bread and with apple liquer in the egg batter)
The most useful thing I packed for the Camino was my walking poles
The least useful thing I packed for the Camino was my inflatable mattress
My favorite Camino character was Jesus, the owner of the private albergue "Ave Fenix" at Villafranca del Bierzo - a true gentleman and a lifesaver after a very difficult day
My least favorite Camino character was a VERY rude French man who yelled at a Spanish girl serving in a café because she couldn't understand French
My favorite Camino food was the Torrija with cafe con leche that we got just past Astorga - delicious
Camino food I will be happy to never see again is eggs sunny-side-up
My most valuable Camino lesson was to remember that I was walking the Camino for MY benefit and that I didn't have to live up to anyone else's expectations or keep up with anyone else's pace
I am thankful for my health, my family and friends, Mother Nature AND my KEENs. ditto
The most helpful piece of advice I received was to leave the thread in my blisters so that they would keep draining
My favorite stage during the Camino was when it was beautiful and my feet had not yet begun to blister.
My longest day was from Ponferrada to Villafranca del Bierzo (only 19 km) but my feet were in very bad shape and the last 5km almost made me give up
My favorite Camino word was Torrija (French toast made with thick slices of Spanish bread and with apple liquer in the egg batter)
The most useful thing I packed for the Camino was my walking poles
The least useful thing I packed for the Camino was my inflatable mattress
My favorite Camino character was Jesus, the owner of the private albergue "Ave Fenix" at Villafranca del Bierzo - a true gentleman and a lifesaver after a very difficult day
My least favorite Camino character was a VERY rude French man who yelled at a Spanish girl serving in a café because she couldn't understand French
My favorite Camino food was the Torrija with cafe con leche that we got just past Astorga - delicious
Camino food I will be happy to never see again is eggs sunny-side-up
My most valuable Camino lesson was to remember that I was walking the Camino for MY benefit and that I didn't have to live up to anyone else's expectations or keep up with anyone else's pace
I am thankful for my health, my family and friends, Mother Nature AND my KEENs. ditto
Sunday, October 12, 2008
Danielle´s bit...
When I started the Camino I felt excited about this latest challenge that would surely test my physical and mental muscles.
The most helpful piece of advice I received was to walk at my own pace and respect my rythm.
My favorite stage during the Camino was any day where there was a grunty climb involved and a brilliant view from the top. (French Pyrenées and O Cebreiro)
My longest day was from Casanova to Santa Irene 39km.
My favorite Camino word was Qualimotcho - which was the name of a drink that is comprised of Coca Cola and Red Wine. I don´t drink but I loved saying the word.
The most useful thing I packed for the Camino was my Outward Bound journal.
The least useful thing I packed for the Camino was my ThermaRest Inflatable mattress.
My favorite Camino character was a cute little older couple that I adopted as my Camino grandparents (Joacquine and Pedro).
My least favorite Camino character was a man that snored like a train. I nicknamed him "Terrorista de la noces" after being in the same hostel for 3 consecutive nights.
My favorite Camino food was the fresh figues I got to taste out of Logrono.
Camino food I will be happy to never see again is a Boccadilla which is pretty much a baguette sandwich.
My most valuable Camino lesson was to take the road, take the journey and take life - one step at a time.
I am thank-full for my health, my family and friends, Mother Nature AND my KEENs.
The most helpful piece of advice I received was to walk at my own pace and respect my rythm.
My favorite stage during the Camino was any day where there was a grunty climb involved and a brilliant view from the top. (French Pyrenées and O Cebreiro)
My longest day was from Casanova to Santa Irene 39km.
My favorite Camino word was Qualimotcho - which was the name of a drink that is comprised of Coca Cola and Red Wine. I don´t drink but I loved saying the word.
The most useful thing I packed for the Camino was my Outward Bound journal.
The least useful thing I packed for the Camino was my ThermaRest Inflatable mattress.
My favorite Camino character was a cute little older couple that I adopted as my Camino grandparents (Joacquine and Pedro).
My least favorite Camino character was a man that snored like a train. I nicknamed him "Terrorista de la noces" after being in the same hostel for 3 consecutive nights.
My favorite Camino food was the fresh figues I got to taste out of Logrono.
Camino food I will be happy to never see again is a Boccadilla which is pretty much a baguette sandwich.
My most valuable Camino lesson was to take the road, take the journey and take life - one step at a time.
I am thank-full for my health, my family and friends, Mother Nature AND my KEENs.
Saturday, October 11, 2008
3 out of 4 Bellas ain`t bad...
Well here I am (Danielle)....back on a PC after a long, reflective "time out" from technology.
I am happy to report that Jan, Ellyn and I successfully completed the Camino. WOO HOO!! Our Caminos were all very different but all Bellas are beaming with pride about our respective accomplishments.
Jan estimates that from Roncesvalles she walked about 300 kms. She suffered the pain and glory of the trail with her blisters. But lived to tell the tale. She has well and truly "Been there. Done that. AND got the t-shirt."
Ellyn walked a triumphant 400+ kms from Roncesvalles. She championed through some trying days namely one that had her walk 33kms. The last 4 kms without water, leaving her dehydrated and frustrated by the "outskirt" location of the hotel.
I (Danielle) ambled some 800+kms from St Jean Pied de Port to Fisterre. And let me tell you beautiful people, after stopping in Santiago for 1.5 days rest, it was a mission to start up again for the 3 day hike to the "end of the earth" Fisterre. But SO TOTALLY worth it!!! My Camino "malo de cabeza" involved getting eaten alive by bloody "bed bugs". ARG! I discovered the hard way that not all albergues are created equal when it comes to cleanliness.
Our fourth Bella, Raymonde, started with the best of intentions in France with Danielle. However, blisters and Camino life eroded her enthusiasm causing her to finish her walk in Najera, Spain. However, as it turns out, her decision was sound as she was summoned to return home to assist with a family emergency.
So in a nutshell.... There are statistics that state that a certain number of folks start the Camino, some who walk a bit -bus a bit - take the train a bit and those who carry their packs like a snail carries its shell. There are those who arrive in Santiago and some who don´t. But at the end of the day....the Camino is the Camino - and that definition my friends varies for every set of feet (or bike tires) on the track.
I´ll post some pics as soon as I have a chance. (I´m still overseas at the moment).
PS KEEN is definetely on the Camino. HOLLY JUMPIN`are they ever! Every day I met someone who was wearing the boots, shoes and/or sandals. These folks came from all over the globe. Most were from North America or Australia funnily enough. We were "Keen on KEEN"! Our FABULOUS FOOTWEAR got us to our goal. My pair is officially retired as the soles were quite mangled after the 800+kms on them. (I´ll show you those pics as well)
Walk on! or as we so often heard/said "Buen Camino"
The journey continues......
I am happy to report that Jan, Ellyn and I successfully completed the Camino. WOO HOO!! Our Caminos were all very different but all Bellas are beaming with pride about our respective accomplishments.
Jan estimates that from Roncesvalles she walked about 300 kms. She suffered the pain and glory of the trail with her blisters. But lived to tell the tale. She has well and truly "Been there. Done that. AND got the t-shirt."
Ellyn walked a triumphant 400+ kms from Roncesvalles. She championed through some trying days namely one that had her walk 33kms. The last 4 kms without water, leaving her dehydrated and frustrated by the "outskirt" location of the hotel.
I (Danielle) ambled some 800+kms from St Jean Pied de Port to Fisterre. And let me tell you beautiful people, after stopping in Santiago for 1.5 days rest, it was a mission to start up again for the 3 day hike to the "end of the earth" Fisterre. But SO TOTALLY worth it!!! My Camino "malo de cabeza" involved getting eaten alive by bloody "bed bugs". ARG! I discovered the hard way that not all albergues are created equal when it comes to cleanliness.
Our fourth Bella, Raymonde, started with the best of intentions in France with Danielle. However, blisters and Camino life eroded her enthusiasm causing her to finish her walk in Najera, Spain. However, as it turns out, her decision was sound as she was summoned to return home to assist with a family emergency.
So in a nutshell.... There are statistics that state that a certain number of folks start the Camino, some who walk a bit -bus a bit - take the train a bit and those who carry their packs like a snail carries its shell. There are those who arrive in Santiago and some who don´t. But at the end of the day....the Camino is the Camino - and that definition my friends varies for every set of feet (or bike tires) on the track.
I´ll post some pics as soon as I have a chance. (I´m still overseas at the moment).
PS KEEN is definetely on the Camino. HOLLY JUMPIN`are they ever! Every day I met someone who was wearing the boots, shoes and/or sandals. These folks came from all over the globe. Most were from North America or Australia funnily enough. We were "Keen on KEEN"! Our FABULOUS FOOTWEAR got us to our goal. My pair is officially retired as the soles were quite mangled after the 800+kms on them. (I´ll show you those pics as well)
Walk on! or as we so often heard/said "Buen Camino"
The journey continues......
Thursday, August 28, 2008
4 sleeps left....but who's counting?
WOW! 2 of us are already frolicking in Paris (Jan and Ellyn) While the remainder of the Bellas are close to "take off". Excited?! That ladies and gents would be the understatement of the week. "Bursting with fruit flavour" is a more accurate description!
Must share this beautiful message I received this morning. I am so blessed to have such beautiful people in my life.
Hi Determined One!
Aussi pleine de joie et passion. I hope all is going well for you and The Compostela Bellas...as you make the final preparations for your departure and 800 km trek. The time has flown by so quickly since we bumped into each other at The Green Door. And now here we are nearing the end of August! Please know that you are in my thoughts...as well as those of so many others....and we are all wishing you and The Compostela Bellas a most wonderful journey. I can just imagine how powerful the experience will be and wish you peace in your steps along the way.
With love & best wishes,
Brijitte (Bee) x
Thank you to everyone who has extended such brilliant support leading up to this grand adventure. I look forward to sharing my journey with you all upon my return. I have elected to truly "check out" of the "rat race" during my time in Europe. I will be abstaining from internet exposure and will focus my energies on putting pen to paper. I will also explore my "creative photographer" side and snap some memorable shots.
Merci - Thank you - Gracias - Obrigado
Must share this beautiful message I received this morning. I am so blessed to have such beautiful people in my life.
Hi Determined One!
Aussi pleine de joie et passion. I hope all is going well for you and The Compostela Bellas...as you make the final preparations for your departure and 800 km trek. The time has flown by so quickly since we bumped into each other at The Green Door. And now here we are nearing the end of August! Please know that you are in my thoughts...as well as those of so many others....and we are all wishing you and The Compostela Bellas a most wonderful journey. I can just imagine how powerful the experience will be and wish you peace in your steps along the way.
With love & best wishes,
Brijitte (Bee) x
Thank you to everyone who has extended such brilliant support leading up to this grand adventure. I look forward to sharing my journey with you all upon my return. I have elected to truly "check out" of the "rat race" during my time in Europe. I will be abstaining from internet exposure and will focus my energies on putting pen to paper. I will also explore my "creative photographer" side and snap some memorable shots.
Merci - Thank you - Gracias - Obrigado
Thursday, August 21, 2008
11 sleeps left...
but who am I kidding? Will I really sleep on the last night? Not bloody likely!
I am so excited and the amplitude of this endeavor is starting to sink in. Maybe it's everyone's reaction to the journey.
"You're doing WHAT for seven weeks?" - walking
"You're going WHERE for this latest adventure?" - Europe (France, Spain and Portugal)
"HOW are you going to manage that?" - one step at a time
"WHY would you do such a thing?" - bust my boundaries and expand my comfort zone
Alright folks... send me good vibes for the upcoming days spend tying up loose ends while I dive in "head first" into packing mode.
Walk on!
I am so excited and the amplitude of this endeavor is starting to sink in. Maybe it's everyone's reaction to the journey.
"You're doing WHAT for seven weeks?" - walking
"You're going WHERE for this latest adventure?" - Europe (France, Spain and Portugal)
"HOW are you going to manage that?" - one step at a time
"WHY would you do such a thing?" - bust my boundaries and expand my comfort zone
Alright folks... send me good vibes for the upcoming days spend tying up loose ends while I dive in "head first" into packing mode.
Walk on!
Friday, August 8, 2008
It's really happening isn't it?
Yes ma'am! We're heading off to France, Spain (and Portgual for Danielle) in less than a month.
HOLLY SMOKES! It's feeling real....REALLY REAL!
Credencial has come in - which is a pilgrims passport that will give us access to hostels and reduced rates on meals etc. We also get nifty stamps when we wander through different villages. Far out eih? It's like a scavenger hunt - a spiritual scavenger hunt with a prize at the end that differs for everybody.
I hope to connect with my soul and find "myself" at the end of it all. It may sound like a bunch of mumbo jumbo or hooey to some but - this is my Camino and I'll cry if I want to.
Bags are nearly packed, tested out the backpack and shoes on more than one occasions of course. The electronic ticket is in. Looking to purchase my insurance and tie up a few last loose ends before the "big day".
WoW! What an adventure. Hang onto your hats folks - it's going to be a ride.
I have learned of a great book that has inspired me to leave pen and paper behind during my pilgrimage. "Soul Quest" is worth a glimpse on google. It's writen by Paul Hawker. Check it out!
Walk on!
HOLLY SMOKES! It's feeling real....REALLY REAL!
Credencial has come in - which is a pilgrims passport that will give us access to hostels and reduced rates on meals etc. We also get nifty stamps when we wander through different villages. Far out eih? It's like a scavenger hunt - a spiritual scavenger hunt with a prize at the end that differs for everybody.
I hope to connect with my soul and find "myself" at the end of it all. It may sound like a bunch of mumbo jumbo or hooey to some but - this is my Camino and I'll cry if I want to.
Bags are nearly packed, tested out the backpack and shoes on more than one occasions of course. The electronic ticket is in. Looking to purchase my insurance and tie up a few last loose ends before the "big day".
WoW! What an adventure. Hang onto your hats folks - it's going to be a ride.
I have learned of a great book that has inspired me to leave pen and paper behind during my pilgrimage. "Soul Quest" is worth a glimpse on google. It's writen by Paul Hawker. Check it out!
Walk on!
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