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May 26, 2025 Travel Day
I am about to start my journey to Spain to walk the el Camino de Santiago (I am walking from St Jean Pied de Port to Santiago de Compostela). I am at the airport getting ready to board my flight from Austin to Miami to Madrid. Your prayers for a safe journey would be greatly appreciated.🚶🎒🙏
About the walk
Saint James the Great, also known as Santiago, is the namesake of the Camino de Santiago (the way of Saint James). The most famous route is the Camino Frances (French Way) which is a 500 mile walk that leads through northern Spain from France to the tomb of Saint James in the city of Santiago de Compostela.
Why am I doing this?
I feel like the Camino has been calling me (I read about it in books, I hear about it on podcasts, and it comes up in conversations with friends).
It is going to be a challenge, both mentally and physically (I’ve never done anything like this – my current average steps in a day is just over 10K and I’ll need to average over 30K steps per day for 35 days).
I pray that it will deepen my faith and connection with God (I want to learn the secret chord that David played that pleased the Lord).
I also hope to continue focusing on slowing down and enjoying the present moment (I want to live and model my word of the year: Yutori – conscious act of slowing down to allow us to savor the world around us).
Until next time, Ultreia! et Suseia!
* Ultreia! et Suseia means “Onward and upward!” It’s a spiritual encouragement among pilgrims, expressing both physical perseverance on the road and inner, spiritual ascent.
May 27, 2025 Travel Day
Travel to St Jean Pier de Port was more difficult than expected. My delayed flight from Miami to Madrid caused me to miss my train. Then, my taxi from Pamplona arrived in St. Jean at 8:30pm and I went straight to bed and slept for 10 hours!
“There is no moment of delight in any pilgrimage like the beginning of it.”
May 28, 2025 Day 1
St. Jean was like walking back in time – unbelievable and beautiful little town in France.
Today was a very rough walk. People said it would be difficult walking over the Pyrenees, but I was not prepared for walking up to an elevation of 4500 feet. The views were nothing short of spectacular (the pictures just don’t do it justice) and the walk literally took my breath away (I thought I was prepared for the walk, but definitely not the altitude).
In total, I walked over 9.5 hours (with lots of little breaks) and according to my Oura Ring said I broke 40,000 steps.
I met people from around the world: Australia, Tennessee, Ireland, and London. I heard the phrase “Buen Camino” many times – it’s a Spanish phrase meaning “have a good journey.”
I am beyond exhausted as I arrive in Roncesvalles, but all I could think of is the song “Gratitude” by Brandon Lake and how thankful I am for this opportunity.
“So I throw up my hands
Praise You again and again
‘Cause all that I have is a hallelujah
And I know it’s not much
But I’ve nothing else fit for a King
Except for a heart singing hallelujah”
May 29, 2025 Day 2
As I was taking my picture at the famous Santiago de compostela road sign, I ran into my friend John from the University of Tennessee Martin campus for the third time. We walked together for the next 90 minutes, until I needed to stop for a break, as I could not keep up with his pace. I caught up with him again after lunch and walked with him and his wife, Katherine, and one of his students, Ryan, until we reached Zubiri. We had a wonderful conversation about life.
I have never experienced generosity like I have these past 2 days. For example, a lady at my first hotel gave me a charger, as the adapter I had was not fit for France. My friend John gave a couple his water bottle, as they did not have one for today’s walk. The couple I met from London yesterday, bought me a beer at lunch (he is walking the Camino because he thinks this is the greatest pub crawl on the planet).
There are many signs indicating where to walk, including many yellow arrows on the road. However, that did not prevent me from missing 3 turns yesterday which drastically extended my day, not to mention the extra wear and tear on my feet, back, and legs. Today I am much more aware of what to look for and did not get lost once!
Today I walked through multiple villages, about every 90 minutes. And in between the small towns, it reminded me of walking through the botanic gardens in Singapore, simply beautiful. Yesterday there were no villages up and down the Pyrenees mountains. There was still quite a bit of climbing today, but to be able to look back and see the village you left in the distance, helped provide perspective as to how far I’ve come. I don’t think I’ve done this enough throughout my life. I’m only on day 2, and I’m already learning I need to slow down, appreciate what I have accomplished, be kinder to myself, and be more present in the moment.
I’m not gonna lie, I broke down in tears as I walked over the famous bridge into Zubiri. I walked 33,000 steps in just under 8 hours today. They were tears of joy, I am so proud of myself for accomplishing what I’ve done these past 2 days (they have been both physically and emotionally exhausting).
May 30, 2025 Day 3
I woke up this morning very sore (my feet, my calves, my thighs, my lower back, and my shoulders). Of course, I ran into John about 30 minutes into my walk – I could not keep up with his pace so we said hello and goodbye and exchanged contact info (sometimes you meet someone and something tells you they are special – John was one of those people). Unfortunately, he will be stopping in Pamplona as he continues his journey to Barcelona with his 30 students. I will miss his company and his friendship along The Way.
The first segment of my walk today took significantly longer than expected because I slowed down and walked with David (age 75), who has MS. He shared his very inspiring story and this quote from Ray Wylie Hubbard: “The days that I keep my gratitude higher than my expectations, I have very good days.”
We then stopped and had coffee, where I met his wife, Kathy, and their friends Julianna and Matthew. As we were talking, a lady named Karen from Florida (age 60, recently divorced, lost her hearing, and has vertigo) joined us, as she was glad to interact with people who spoke English. It was a very engaging conversation. However, I started feeling anxious, as I knew I still had lots of walking in front of me. Then I reminded myself to stay present and enjoy the company and conversation. It was worth it!
It feels like every turn is a new experience. Sometimes we’re walking on a road, sometime up, sometime down, sometimes on an incredibly challenging, rocky slope, other times on a trail through the woods. Every bit is beautiful!
Pamplona is an unbelievable city. I saw the plaza de Tores (bull fighting), visited the Plaza del Castillo, the Pamplona Cathedral (stunning gothic architecture), and walked where the bulls run, thankful there were no bulls! It would be nice to spend more than just a couple of hours touring the city. I’ve already done so much walking (37,000 steps) I’m going to save my energy and call it a day. Ultreia! et Suseia!
May 31, 2025 Day 4
The diehard Camino walkers are up as early as 5AM. I prefer to sleep until 7:29AM assuming I can ignore the alarms and all of the movement (and I laugh out loud when the alarm goes off as I think of my friend Paula – who always uses odd times instead of round numbers). Last night was my best night sleep in over a week. My legs laughed at me when I said it was time to get up and walk again. Fortunately, the nerves are gone, the jetlag has faded, and the thought that I’ve walked over 55 of the 500 miles feels good (yes, I’m aware there’s a long, long way to go). 🚶
There is good and bad of leaving later than everyone else. Good: I can walk at my own pace and just do me. Bad: I have no one to follow, thus I have to pay extra attention to the signs. There is also the temptation to try and keep up with those who pass me (that rat race feeling I am trying to tame), and also the temptation to judge those I pass (feeling superior). I know there a couple of life lessons in this for me.
Leaving the city of Pamplona was incredibly easy. There were little silver plates on the street and sidewalk, indicating where to go (in my opinion, there are symbols like that throughout our life, if we are open to them and paying attention).
On its own, today was a difficult day. It was also very hot (that coming from a Texan). Compared to my first day (4500 feet elevation) it was not so bad. Perspective is everything. Also reminds me of a quote I used in a sermon: “Don’t tell God about how big your mountain is. Tell your mountain how big your God is.” I will apply that to my next obstacle.
The climb up and back down the Alto de Perdon (2400 feet elevation) is what made today challenging (the views were spectacular and the beauty overwhelming). At the top I encountered a metal sculpture, Monumento al Peregrino, which is a symbol of the pilgrimage journey. This was a huge milestone!!
One more observations about looking back…when I stopped to take a picture of Pamplona in the background, it was hidden behind the city of Cizur Menor – I learned I needed to stop more frequently, even briefly, to appreciate how far I’ve come.
Almost time for bed- Adios amigos!
June 1, 2025 Day 5
Putting on my blue shirt brought back nightmare flashbacks from day 1! LOL They say you find your Camino legs today, mine are still hiding from me.
Walking over the Romanesque Bridge (AKA the Queen’s Bridge) in Puente la Reina is another milestone – as this is the picture on my pilgrim passport. This is a very important credential, as I have to get it stamped in every town along my journey, including 2 stamps daily for the final 100 kilometers, in order to receive my Compostela certificate in Santiago. Even though my day was just starting, I backtracked, walked down and sat down on the riverbank to appreciate this glorious moment. 🙏
Just because I speak on burnout and selfcare, doesn’t mean I always apply it to my own life… but I’m getting better. Blister number 3 appeared today (with a potential 4th on the way). Thank goodness for Compeed and KT Tape – they work! (I am looking for a sponsor – they should DM me for limited sponsorship opportunities LOL). Another life lesson for me… be proactive when it comes to a strain, whether that’s in a relationship, an aching part of your body, your finances, your career, your spiritual life, etc. It is better to address it sooner than later, as it could very well grow (sometimes so slow you don’t even notice it) into something that is extremely difficult to overcome.
The smile on my face in the pictures does not always represent how I feel all the time. 😀 Yes, I am usually a very positive person and beyond thankful for the privilege to take this journey. However, there have been times I broke down crying this first week 😢 (too many to count), stopped to take off my shoes and massage my feet 😫 because they were aching with pain, and other times I’ve been panicked 😱 after making a wrong turn and wondering if I had the energy too get back on track. This is a reminder to myself to be kind to those I encounter and less judgmental, as I do not always understand what someone is going through in any given moment (even through they may say they are fine and have a smile on their face).
I got a new nickname today: CaminoKev
June 2, 2025 Day 6
As I left the city of Estella, I opted to skip breakfast and get on the road to beat the weather (it did not work), planning to stop for an early lunch. Unfortunately, everything was closed in the next two villages, so I had to walk the entire day with a Kind Bar, a Snickers, and a granola bar (still hoping for that sponsorship). Thankful it wasn’t blazing hot like yesterday and my 1.5 L water bladder was sufficient for the day.
Today I am thankful for the cooler weather (due to heavy rains) as it made some of the steeper climbs easier. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 tells us to be “thankful in all circumstances.” Henry Wadsworth Longfellow says, “The best thing one can do when it’s raining is to let it rain.”
I had choices today. I could have stayed where I was (get stuck in the current moment). I could complain about the rain and limited food (wouldn’t help a single bit, other than irritate the people around me). Or I could continue upwards and onwards. Paulo Coelho, the author of The Pilgrimage and The Alchemist says, “Walk forward, adapt yourself to new situations, and receive in return all of the thousands of blessings that life generously offers to those who seek them.” Control what you can control (your attitude, your thoughts, your words, and your actions, etc.). And… Let go of the things we cannot control!
It’s only day 6 and I’ve accomplished so many milestones. Today it was the Bodegas Irache winery. 34 years ago they installed a wine tap wine for pilgrims as gesture of hospitality that has become so much a part of the Camino. Drinking the wine from my pilgrim scallop shell was very fulfilling.
BTW – the reason for the umbrella… ☔️ I did not pack rain gear, because the rainy season was supposed to be over – and I thought the rain in Spain fell mainly in the plains. 🤣 The great people at REI tried to sell me a poncho, but I said I didn’t need one (yet another example of when I need to be a “learn it all” and not a “know it all”). There are worse things in life than wet socks and muddy shoes.
Ultreia! et Suseia! CaminoKev
June 3, 2025 Day 7
What a difference a good meal, good sleep, and good coffee will do for your energy! Leaving Los Arcos, I passed a cemetery with this sign “I was once what you are, and you will be what I am.” Life is short – make it count! #lifelesson
Been thinking about looking back, being present, and looking forward. Yes, I want to stop more frequently to appreciate how far I’ve come. But I also feel it is important to remember our front wind shield is larger than our rear view mirror for a reason.
At the same time, when I look too far ahead, it feels overwhelming. Last night I looked at the mileage for today (17-miles) and a stretch nicknamed ‘The Knee Wrecker’ and I felt stress – then I told myself that is Future Kevin‘s problem! 🤣 This applies to the book I’m writing, getting in better shape, and so many other things. BTW – even the bikers had to walk up a few of today’s hills!
I was passed by a group of 32 kids from Madrid on a field trip and I found myself trying to keep up, when I caught myself and said I need to slow down and do me. In full transparency, I didn’t feel quite the same when I was passed by an 80 year-old couple (I was very judgmental of myself). #bekindtomyself I felt better when I passed them later in the afternoon (this time, I was the one being judgmental). 😔 #DoYou #BeKindtoOthers
There are times when it is okay to pick up my pace, like walking across a long field. Times to slow down and admire the scenery. Times to come to a complete stop and embrace the moment, like stopping for a glass of fresh squeezed orange juice from my friend Armando (and catch my breath or stop to stretch – so that I’m prepared for the next stage of my journey). I also know that if I stop too long, it will be difficult to get moving again. There is also a balance of looking up and looking down – I need to make sure I don’t miss a turn (again), and be careful to look down as to not to step in a rain puddle (again). There are a couple deep life lessons in there… apply that to your life, I know I have to mine.
The road to Logrono was long, but the views of vineyards were spectacular! 🍇
Tomorrow is my one rest day – looking forward to 😴&🍷!
June 4, 2025 Day 8
Much needed rest day!! Alarms started at 7am (the walls are all paper thin), but I was able to go back to sleep until 9am. 💤
My morning was spent at a café, drinking a cappuccino ☕️ and eating delicious pastries 🥐 (although not as good as the ones I had in France). While I waited for my laundry 🧺 to wash/dry, Angie and Steve from LA started yelling my name! I met them a few days back walking to Puente la Reina. Steve is an architect and is walking the El Camino to take pictures of the beautiful buildings. Angie is fulfilling a decade long goal.
In the afternoon, I visited The Cathedral of Santa María la Redonda and the Church of Santiago el Real – they were beauty beyond words! 🙏 Could not understand the language.. it was moving none the less.
Afterwards I stopped at the Bodegas Franco-Españolas winery. I was the only one there (it was 2pm & I guess the rest of the city was taking a nap). Ruben gave me a private tour and allowed me to sample 4 different wines, explaining in great detail the differences. He did not laugh when I sampled the first wine and said, “ this is an aggressive little wine, and I admire its tenacity.” He did not laugh when I said it after the second wine either. My humor does not work in Spain! 🤣🍷
Jesus said in John 15:5 “I am the vine, you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.” 🍇 This was the scripture Pastor Ratloff gave me at my confirmation as a Lutheran in the 7th grade. After seeing these amazing plants up close, I understand why he chose that passage for me, and its significance in my life (remaining connected to Jesus for spiritual fruitfulness.)
Then I walked down Calle Del Laurel street – so many awesome foods and not enough time (or room in my tummy) to try them all! 😋 Those that know me know I love my pizza! 🍕
“Life is either a daring adventure, or nothing.” ~Helen Keller
“Since life is short and the world is wide, the sooner you start exploring it, the better.” ~ Simon Raven
Ultreia! et Suseia! CaminoKev
June 5, 2025 Day 9
I have had so many interactions with people from around the globe. 🌎 Most are short conversations… maybe we walk together for a few minutes or stop for a cappuccino or a short lunch. I have yet to meet someone like John, who I walked with on/off my first 3 days. I guess it’s true that people come into your life for a reason, season, or lifetime. I am beyond blessed that Tracy is in mine for a lifetime. ❤️
Leaving my hotel in Lorgrono I saw Helga and Carla (mother + daughter) from Kentucky. I met them 4 days ago and today was their rest day. This is Helga‘s 4th time to walk the Camino (she is walking it with each of her kids). They are targeting 44 days to complete the walk.
This was one of my best days yet! 😀I found my legs!🚶My bag felt lighter! 🎒 Odd to say… the 17-mile walk to Najera did not feel that long.
I slowed down and walked with Vern & Janet from Edmonton. This couple decided to walk the entire Camino two years ago, but Vern broke his ankle, so they had to delay their trip. I can’t imagine how Vern is walking, his ankle is practically on its side, but he is determined to walk this with his wife (her bucket list). Boon Boon and Go-Go (their grandma & grandpa names) are excellent role models for their grandkids!
Steven Wright says, “Everywhere is within walking distance if you have the time.”
Later in the day, I met a 14 year-old boy and his dad from Denmark. It is incredible that they are walking 22-miles+ per day and will finish in Santiago in something like 20 days. #doyou
“Walk slow, don’t rush. That place you have to reach is yourself.” ~ José Ortega y Gasset
I finally get why people told me not to overpack. Extra baggage can really weigh you down (and slow you down). I have already left behind my el Camino guidebook, sleep pouch, a t-shirt, insulated coffee mug, and I am positive there will be more things. I still have 334 more miles to walk (who’s counting) and I plan to leave the business of life (the rat race) here on the Camino. #lifelesson
Ultreia! et Suseia! CaminoKev
June 6, 2025 Day 10
It was a hot day on the El Camino. 🌞Luckily today was a shorter walk (only 12-miles). I think I’m 1/3 done – too much work trying to calculate exactly how much is left (I just know it’s a lot).
I used to think enjoying the little things in life meant getting the LED headlights on my BMW or getting upgraded to Premium Economy. Now I realize it’s finding an open cafe that has coffee, appreciating the views from one stage to the next, hanging around people who energize you, reading an encouraging message (from a friend or a box on the side of the trail), seeing a food truck with fresh squeezed orange juice, and getting extra ice cubes to put into my water bladder (so my water is slightly colder later in the day).
Speaking of water bladders, mine got kinked today, and I was struggling to suck the water out. At first, thought I was just tired and didn’t have the energy (I didn’t sleep well last night). Then, I thought I was out of water. When I got to the next village to refill my water, I saw the kink. Making a small adjustment to how the tube was coiled inside my backpack made a world of difference. I often think about how many times I kept trying to force something in my life, when maybe a simple adjustment (shout out to my chiropractic friends Dr. Jamie and Dr. Scot) is all that is needed.
A friend ask if I was going to be listening to audiobooks, podcasts, or music on my walk. So far I have chosen to be completely unplugged. I did find myself singing this Irish blessing out loud (I’m sure the cows and the sheep did not appreciate my lack of singing ability).
“May the road rise up to meet you,
may the wind be always at your back,
may the sun shine warm upon your face,
and the rain fall soft upon your fields,
and, until we meet again,
may God hold you in the palm of his hand.”
*to be completely transparent, I would change the ”sun shine warm upon your face” to “sun hide behind the clouds all day” and the “rain fall soft upon your fields” to “rain not fall until July”.
June 7, 2025 Day 11
The walk from Santo Domingo De La Calzada to Belorado was 14-miles and did not have the incredible views of previous days, but it did offer charming villages, opportunities for short breaks, and time to connect with more nice people. It was overcast all morning, and the cooler temperatures were refreshing.
I met Renato from Italy (age 71), who did not speak much English. With some pointing and facial expressions, he communicated that his feet were hurting, but he was pushing through and is planning to walk all the way to Santiago. I feel like I passed him every day for the past week – he must be starting each day very early (I’m now leaving closer to 8am each day). Note to self: We don’t stop walking because we grow old. We grow old because we stop walking. #lifelesson
“The Camino taught me to keep going, to keep moving forward when life gets hard, even if it’s one step at a time.” – Tristina Oppliger
I met Brian and his mom Maria, from California. She is struggling, even having Brian carry her backpack at times, but she is going to persevere! It was inspiring to see her son helping her achieve a bucket list item for her.
“Don’t come to the Camino looking for answers. Instead, come with an open heart and you may be surprised by what you find.” ~Jane V. Blanchard
A few people I’ve met asked if they would be in my mini-blog, but Instagram only provides so many characters, so I can’t tell the stories of all the characters I’ve met. Shout out to Phil and friends from Cork, Ireland, Laura from Australia, Mike & Tom from Chicago, Rickie from The Canary Islands, Liz and Angela from Brazil, Jen and Max from Utah , Fat from China, and Brianna from Austin TX (CONGRATS to you and #hookem 🤘). Just about every village I enter, I hear someone shout “CaminoKev”. It makes me laugh and keeps me energized. I know there will be so many more great people I will meet along The Way.
“Wherever you go becomes a part of you somehow.” – Anita Desai
“Walking is man’s best medicine.” – Hippocrates
June 8, 2025 Day 12
There were no rooms at the inn! Walking from Belorado to Burgos these next 2 days should have been an “easy” 28-miles (14-miles per day). But, there was no availability in San Juan de Ortega (the halfway point), so I booked a hostel in Villafranca-Montes de Oca (meaning ‘nettle-filled mountains’.). That made today a shorter day and my journey to Burgos tomorrow quite long.
“I can’t change the direction of the wind, but I can adjust my sails to always reach my destination.” ~Charles Dudley Warner
I’ve always enjoyed walking in the San Gabriel and Zilker Parks, but I was very unprepared for this trip (walking an average of 15-miles per day). They say there are 3 stages to the el Camino walk: Body, Mind, and Soul. Tomorrow I will complete the ‘body’ portion, and I can honestly say I have adjusted to the physical conditions. I am ready to transition to the ‘mind’ where I can focus on Relaxing, Recharging, and Reflecting!
I met Ned and his 2 boys (Miller & Evan) a week ago – we shared a lunch (so many laughs) and they gave me the nickname #CaminoKev which is now how I introduce myself. Tonight I ran into Ned again and we had a wine/lemonade drink before dinner (people in Spain drink from 6pm-8pm nightly before they go to dinner (which is always too late for me). Ned walked the Camino years ago and said he felt a sense of grief when he reached the halfway point, knowing his journey was already half over. After day 1, I was questioning why I was doing this and there was a 100% chance I was never doing this again! After day 12, having had so much time to think, unplug, and unwind (I’m not feeling any grief), and I am wondering why I didn’t do this 10 years ago as it would have had a positive impact on my mindset, my business, my family, and my friendships (and now there is now a 92.1% chance I’m never doing this again). I know I still have so much more to learn on this pilgrimage, but I am already adjusting my perspective about everything.
“All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us.” – J. R. R. Tolkien
June 9, 2025 Day 13
I was up at 6:30am knowing it would be a long day. The morning walk to Burgos started through a forest and it was foggy and quite chilly (which was actually very nice after so many hot afternoons). The transition from the fog to the clear blue skies was amazing (watch video). I also encountered a new obstacle today: a herd of sheep (that was fun- see the video). I only brought one long sleeve shirt (I’ve been wearing it every morning this week) – so I can’t wait to do wash tonight!
I passed an older man in the morning – he was around age 80. He was insistent that I stop and smell a particular flower which I had not seen before. He did not speak English, so I have no idea what he was saying. He might have been telling me it is the most poisonous plant on earth, but nonetheless, I stopped and smelled the flower. 💐 Coincidentally, this is when I realized my wallet was missing (true on the flower part – just kidding on the wallet part 🤣). #humor
Today I am feeling Blessed and Thankful! I found a pilgrim prayer that I read multiple times on today’s walk.
I’m conflicted… do I stop at the first cafe I find when I walk into a small village, or do I continue on, hoping for something better. Moving on backfired on me a few times, because sometimes there was nothing else around the corner. Other times I stopped at the first place and later found the next cafe has more options or better seating (in the shade). What to do?? 🤷♂️
“You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself any direction you choose. You’re on your own. And you know what you know. And you are the one who’ll decide where to go.” ~Dr. Seuss 👣
As I officially transition from the ‘body’ portion of the walk (my body feels stronger) to the ‘mind’ portion of the walk (can’t wait to open my mind to what God has planned for me). I have already started taking notes about changes I will make in my life when the walking portion of the Camino is complete and I am back in Texas.
June 10, 2025 Day 14
No more rest days – just slower days. Today was one of those days – only walked 7-miles to Tardajos (still had over 20,000 steps). This gave me a chance to explore Burgos in the morning. As I finished my cappuccino and tortilla (basically an egg & potato quiche without the crust), I ran into Renato from Italy – he is taking a rest day and is looking refreshed!
The Burgos Cathedral (outside & inside) had unbelievable details and was breathtaking! ⛪️ Walking out of the city through the Humedal de Fuentes Blancas park was simply beautiful! Touring the Monasterio de Santa María la Real de las Huelgas was eye opening – even though I took the Spanish tour and didn’t understand a word the guide said! 🤣 The 25 active nuns spend 8 hours per day working, 8 hours praying, and 8 hours resting.
I have encountered many on this journey who are “trusting the Camino to provide” when it’s comes to accommodations. I on the other hand have booked my hostel or albergue each night throughout my trip. For me, this took the stress out of where I was sleeping each night – so I could focus on being present on my walk. My friend Rickie from the Canary Islands said she felt like it was a race to the next town, as sometimes there are limited beds available. Jen and Max who I met a few days earlier, had to turn around and walk back to the previous village because there were no rooms available in Belorado.
“If don’t know where you’re going, you might end up someplace else.” – Yogi Barra
I’m sure there is a balance to this approach in life. I don’t want to just hope I have enough money in retirement, so we diligently plan (with the help of the best financial planner on the planet @kipk10). But I also want to leave myself open to what my good friend Don Forrester @donaldforrester calls “coloring outside the lines.” 🖍️ Sometime the plot twists keep the story interesting when it comes to experiences and being more present with people.
“You don’t always need a plan. Sometimes you just need to breathe, trust, let go and see what happens.” – Mandy Hale
June 11, 2025 Day 15
Leaving Tardajos I saw Ted (his sons could only join him for the first 2 weeks). He is expecting to finish in Santiago in early July (I forgot to take a picture with him – next time). Then, still not sure how, I passed Renato entering into Hornillos Del Camino (how did he get in front of me?!?!)
On my way to Hontanas I was surprised to see my action figure in the window! This must be why I am asked for my autograph daily (after every credit card transaction). 🤣
To Poles or Not To Poles?? I had planned to purchase walking poles when I reached St. Jean in France, but was so jetlagged and delirious, I forgot. It wasn’t until my friend John let me borrow his for a few minutes that I got to feel the difference. He said the poles take 30% off the stress of your knees and legs. Call it stupidity (or frugality), I never did purchase a set. With the first third of my walk complete (the toughest physical portion), I am going to finish without poles.
Saw guy wearing a shirt that said “push the limits”. Neale Donald Walsch says, “Life begins at the end of your comfort zone.” This journey has definitely pushed me out of my comfort zone. I hope I continue to “push the limits” when I get home in 23 days! My daughter Kait @k8eeloo does this on a regular basis and I am envious! She runs triathlons, changes careers, travels the world, coaches volleyball, etc. K8 the GR8 is always open and willing to leave her comfort zone.
Confucius says, “Wherever you go…go with all your heart” and “The way is the goal”.
Because I walked a shorter distance yesterday, I am out of synch my new friends Mike & Tom from Chicago. We will plan to meet up again in Sahagun (the half-way point) if one of us reaches out to the other. This also happens in life – we get “out of synch” with friends and family at times. Different goals, different perspectives, and different priorities can lead to getting out of synch. Hopefully, we can reach out and meet up again. #lifelesson
PS – I included 1 picture and 1 video without my big head just for my brother! 🤣 @donkarschnik
June 12, 2025 Day 16
Today was long (20+ miles, 8+ hours, 45K+ steps) to Frómista – through the town of Castrojeriz and a difficult climb over the Alto de Mostelares. The combination of distance with the incline made today tough! Walking with my new friend Roberto the last 5 miles made the time fly!
I want to rewind to last night… I attended a pilgrim blessing at the church in Hontanas. ⛪️ It was in Spanish, but they provided an English transcript so I could somewhat follow along. We read 1 Kings 19:10 where God asked, “What are you doing here, Elijah?” We were asked to change the name Elijah to our name and answer the question. Then we read John 4:7 where Jesus asks the Samaritan woman for a drink of water. 💧We were asked to reflect on ‘what are we thirsty for?’ and ‘what really satisfies me in my life?’ At the end we were given a written blessing for the remainder of our journey. Mine read: “Success is getting what you want. Happiness is getting what you get.” 🤯 One of my objectives of this walk was to “learn the cord that David played that pleased the Lord.” 🙏
After the blessing, I went back to my hostel and joined my fellow pilgrims for a community dinner. I sat next to my new friend Saint Nick. We heard stories from people in Denmark, Paris, London, Germany, Utah, Czechoslovakia, and more. 🌎 I am grateful and thankful that I am not walking the Camino alone – this is a community!
“Let your joy be in your journey – not in some distant goal.” – Tim Cook
Something I found to be helpful on this walk is to pause around halfway, take off my shoes, ground my feet in the grass, and then put on a clean pair of socks. I feel refreshed and re-energized for the second half of my walk. I am thinking of numerous ways I could incorporate these micro-breaks into my day when I get back to Texas.
Took another wrong turn today. In order to get back on the path, I had to walk through some high grass and rocky terrain and I started to cry. Someone asked if I was okay and I said, “I’m just going through a rough patch.” #humor 🤣 (emotionally exhausting last night & physically exhausting today – I needed some humor).
June 13, 2025 Day 17
“Walking, ideally, is a state in which the mind, the body, and the world are aligned.” ~ Rebecca Solnit
This quote from Rebecca’s book, “Wanderlust: A History of Walking,” describes how I felt today – walking and being present in my physical body and the environment around me – which in turn cleared my thoughts and gave me a sense of connection and balance. ⚖️
A couple of memorable stops today included the Ermita de Nuestra Señora del Río and Iglesia de Santa María la Blanca – said to be a site where miracles were performed.
“An early morning walk is a blessing for the whole day.” – Henry David Thoreau 🚶
Tracy loves jigsaw puzzles. 🧩 She texted me a picture of her completed puzzle last night saying, “here are some words of wisdom to ponder on your walk.” Little did she know that’s exactly what I did! For the record, there’s not much else to do when you’re walking for 7 hours a day! A few sayings that jumped out at me… #lifelesson
“Take the risk or lose the chance”
“Dare to dream bigger”
“Don’t think too much”
“Enjoy the little things”
I remember one time when she was down to the last few pieces, she realized there was a piece missing! Did it get sucked into the vacuum? Did our Shih Tzu Zoe find it? Was it hiding under her puzzle table? It always frustrated her to not be able to complete her puzzle.
I have at times in my life felt like there was a piece missing (I have been told I was a box of crayons… with a few colors missing 🤣). The blessing from the church two nights ago opened my eyes. 👀 I have been successful in my life… getting what I wanted. The missing piece has been slowing down to be grateful and appreciative for all I have! I couldn’t ask for a better wife! I couldn’t ask for a better son! I couldn’t ask for a better daughter! I am happy! 😊 I have a great life!
For me, the foundation of a great life is described in 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 1) be Joyful ALWAYS 2) Pray CONTINUOUSLY and 3) be Thankful IN ALL CIRCUMSTANCES.
June 14, 2025 Day 18
Last night I attended a vespers service led by the nuns of the Santa María in Carrion de los Condes. It was intimate, emotional, and spiritual (there were only 15 of us). 🙏 It was a soulful experience that filled me with peace and renewal. Afterwards I attended mass at the Church of Santa Maria. It was in Spanish – but you could feel the Holy Spirit. We took communion and 50 pilgrims came to the front and were individually blessed by the priest and the head nun. ✝️ Pilgrims walking the el Camino to Santiago have been blessed in this church for 1000+ years.
“Wherever you go… there you are.”
This quote hit me today. No matter how far I walk… its just me – just me with a pack on my back – just me with sore feet (and 3 blisters – and a blister that has a blister), just me with a lot of time to think. The Camino isn’t about walking to anywhere – or from anything – or for anyone – it’s about getting to know the real you… one step at a time. 🦶
Walking to Ledigos today was an easy 14+ miles. I even choose to take an alternate route (more scenic) which added a few miles – something I would never have considered 10 days ago – but my legs are strong and I was enjoying my quiet time. The next few days I will continue walking in the meseta (the vast, elevated plateau in central Spain) with wide open fields and limited places to stop. Lots of time to think, reflect, and get to know the real me.
Today is going to be a short message because I have given myself permission to just be – to just clear my mind – to focus on the crunch under my feet, focus on God who walks with me, focus on the clouds in the sky (check out that amazing picture I took), and focus on the fields of wheat blowing gently in the wind (the picture accurately represents what I saw all day).
Happy Heavenly Birthday Mom! I love you and I miss you!
June 15, 2025 Day 19
The walk from Ledigos to Sahagún was only 10 miles-another opportunity to walk slow and rest up for tomorrow’s long walk. I celebrated another milestone today… the picture with the 2 statues is the official halfway point! (The picture of Jessica & Catalina was payback for me taking a selfie on their phone 🤣). I went to the Santuario de la Virgen Peregrina to get my Carta Peregrin certificate! I know how it might sound… I wrote half a book, I ate half a pizza (okay, maybe that is not a good example), I ran half a triathlon, etc. But sometimes the getting started is the hardest part. And not only did I start, but I didn’t stop. I am so proud of myself. I can honestly say after the first 3 days, didn’t think I would make it here!
Like Dan Rather said, “If all difficulties were known at the outset of a long journey, most of us would never start out at all.”
The church ⛪️ in Moratinos (the picture with the underground wine cellars carved into the hillsides) was fundraising and I overheard a pig 🐷and a hen 🐓 talk about how they could help support the church. The hen suggested they donate ‘Ham and Eggs.’ The pig replied, “No thanks – you’d be involved, but I’d be committed.” #humor That’s the essence of el Camino. This walk isn’t something you just show up for. Like the pig, you have to be all in – physically, mentally, and spiritually! You have to be committed to the journey if you want to receive all that it offers. I am learning to be a pig! 🐷
I feel like a kid in a candy store… every time I turn around there’s something even more amazing. Reminds me of this story.. a candy shop owner offered a little boy a free handful of candy. 🍭The little boy did not respond. His mother encouraged him, but the boy did not respond. Eventually the store owner grabbed a handful and put it in the boy’s bag. When they left, the mother asked her son why he did not take a handful of candy. The boy responded, “his hands are bigger than mine.” I get this… God’s hands are so much bigger than mine – and He can provide so much more in my life if I slow down long enough to allow Him.
Happy Father’s Day!
June 16, 2025 Day 20
Last night was a huge celebration… a dedication to the city’s patron saint, San Juan de Sahagún. There was a parade, a running of the bulls (lasted a full 5 seconds), and a bunch of different bull fighting type events in the local arena! 🐂The celebration lasts for 6 days and I was glad to be here for day 4 of the event! 🎉🍺 Well, it was fun until about 10pm when I needed to go to bed for my long walk today. The festivities did not slow down until after 2AM! 😴📣
Sahagún to Reliegos was 19-miles so I started early (7am is early for me). I heard alarms going off as early as 5am. For some reason, today felt longer than the mileage. My Oura Ring said I walked 41,186 steps. The villages 🏘️ start to all look the same, and the wheat fields 🌾 seem to go on forever. I can see some mountains ⛰️ in the horizon… which will be nice for a change of scenery, but also slightly concerning, knowing I will have to go over them in the next week.
“Walking gets the feet moving, the blood moving, the mind moving. And movement is life.” – Carrie Latet
As I walk from Bercianos Del Real Camino to El Burgo Ranero to Mansilla De Las Mulas, it reminds me of meeting Yolanda at a cafe in Terradillos De Los Templarios. She told me she has identical sons, Amol and Juan, and she pulled out her phone and showed me a picture of Juan. I said, “I thought you had twins??” She replied, “once you’ve seen Juan (one), you’ve seen Amol (them all).” #humor After a while, all the villages start to look the same. 🤣
There is no crying in baseball… and there is no complaining on the el Camino. If you did, there’s no one who would listen.. or care. Everyone is dealing with some kind of baggage (actual baggage, blisters, knee problems, life problems, etc). Life is like a golf shot… sometimes you have a good shot, sometimes a bad shot (that’s most of my golf game), but no matter what, you have to play the ball where it lies. I don’t think I’m a big complainer (Tracy might disagree?), but either way, I am going to focus on less complaining and being more grateful.
June 17, 2025 Day 21
Last night was another community dinner with the really nice folks staying in my Albergue (a couple from New Zealand, Brazil, a Los Angeles). I love how they ask if you want water or wine – there is no price difference, it’s part of the meal. 🍷
Walking from Reliegos to Leon could have been a boring walk…more endless wheat fields! 🌾 But this quote I read this morning from Brianna Wiest changed my perspective:
“Most of your life will not be extraordinary. Most of your life will be simple things, done regularly. If you are only going to be happy when you’re on vacation, after a lush payday, after a big career win, you’re going to spend most of your life really dissatisfied. You either learn to love the day as it is, or you don’t learn to love life at all.”
I loved today! ❤️
The best part of the day was arriving in Leon… what a fabulous city. It’s a lot of walking after a day of walking (I felt like the statue of the pilgrim with his shoes off). If I had more time, I would love to spend a few days here. I was only able to hit the highlights which included touring the Leon Cathedral ⛪️ (simply spectacular), touring The Convent of San Marcos (unbelievable, the pictures don’t do it justice), walking through the Museo de Leon & the Casa Botines Museums, and walking around the San Isidoro & Plaza de San Martin.
And… as a bonus, I ran into Ned at the Leon Cathedral – and I remembered to get a picture this time! 📸 @nedrmurray
I learned to mind my own business today… I heard these kids in the other side of a fence yelling 13, 13, 13, so I peaked in the hole and they poked my eye with a stick! Then they starting yelling 14,14,14! #humor 🤣 The significance of 14… That’s the number of days of walking I have left! 🚶
“Above all, do not lose your desire to walk. Every day I walk myself into a state of well-being and walk away from every illness. I have walked myself into my best thoughts, and I know of no thought so burdensome that one cannot walk away from it.” – Soren Kierkegaard
June 18, 2025 Day 22
Last night I ate dinner with Boon Boon & Go Go (Vern & Janet from Canada). Then I took one final walk around the city – I did not want to miss the opportunity to visit more of Leon.
Walking from Leon to Villar De Mazarife was an adventure! There were no rooms available, so I had to book an albergue in San Martin del Camino – an extra 5-mile walk. My total would have gone from 15 to 20 miles). So… I took a bus 🚌 from to La Virgen Del Camino, which shaved off 5-miles off the front end of my trip, and now we are even-steven. ⚖️ It was kinda fun/stressful figuring out the bus system – especially with my limited Spanish!
“Life is about the journey, not the destination.” ~ Paulo Coelho
I walked the first few miles with 3 ladies from Mexico City. They just flew to Leon 2 days ago and will be walking to Santiago from here. I’ll be honest, it was hard to not be a bit judgemental as this is my 21st day of walking. They had fresh legs and were walking much faster than my pace. Another great reminder to myself that I can’t compare my journey to that of others… and we all just need to #DoYou (du; ju: verb – meaning to stop explaining yourself to people and just do what works for you.)
I met Abby at a café when these nice folks from New Zealand introduced us. Abby lives in the Rio Grande Valley in South Texas. I thought it was interesting how she said she would love to live in Austin because of Lake Travis and Barton Springs. I told her how my wife and I would love to live on South Padre Island 🏖️ – right on the beach. We both laughed when we said neither of us visited those great places in our backyard as often as we would have liked. Why is it that the grass always seems greener on the other side of the fence? One more reason to slow down, unplug, recharge, reflect, and appreciate what we have right here, right now. Just think, in 10 years we will look back at this moment and wish we could have what we have right now. We are always rushing ahead chasing the next thing, but someday this moment will feel golden… cause we won’t be any younger, or healthier, or have more energy than we do right now! #lifelesson
June 19, 2025 Day 23
Walked from San Martin del Camino to Astorga today (15-miles). The hills are back! And it rained! I did talk with Darren @darrenvhendricks on the phone – that was the highlight of my morning! This is the last stage of the meseta. I have completed the Body and Mind portions of the Camino, and my soul is beginning to be lifted. And my soul will be lifted.. story coming in 2 days. I am going to a monastery to live with the nuns and monks for the next 48 hours. 🙏 This has definitely been a Buen Camino!!
“Buen Camino” means “good path” or “good way”and is a common greeting among pilgrims – used by every nationality I have encountered, regardless of their primary language. This phrase embodies the spirit of the Camino, fostering a sense of community and shared experience among those undertaking the pilgrimage. Many of the locals we encounter will also shout this to us pilgrims while we walk through the villages.
June 20, 2025 Day 24
I am at the Benedictine Monastery San Salvador del Monte in Rabanol del Camino. I am living amongst the monks! MY CUP OVERFLOWS! 🙏
“You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.” Psalm 23:5
The journey here was entirely directed by God. It’s a long story (there is so much), but here are highlights: on my walk to Astorga yesterday I met 4 nuns, I met a lady desperately in need of a private room to get a good rest to reenergize & recover, and my friend Ned texted me details about this Monastery that requires a minimum of a 2 night stay to allow space for a sabbath rest and a spiritual renewal. After a long day of walking… I gave up my private room to that lady and headed straight here! When I arrived there were 3 of us waiting, but there were only 2 beds available. Scott from Australia had been waiting for hours and he gave up his bed for me, insisting that I needed this experience. I felt very guilty, but he was at peace with his decision and the monk that greeted me said to trust God’s plan. It was an overwhelming emotional evening. God blessed us with the most beautiful rainbow before dinner. 🌈
Today started early with Lauds (a morning prayer meaning to praise), breakfast with the monks, and then a Gregorian style chanting mass with Eucharist (a memorial of Christ’s sacrifice). On my way to mass, I was surprised to see Scott sitting on a bench (that’s us in the picture). We talked for a few minutes and he told me that God’s grace is a gift and that I need to learn to accept His unearned, unconditional love – and it is not something that I deserve and not something I can earn. Again, an overwhelming emotional moment.
After mass was quiet prayer time, lunch, scripture reading, and then nap time. Tonight will be the same as last night: a vespers service in the church, a silent dinner served by the monks, and mass at 9:30pm before lights out. This is more than the deepest spiritual experience I could have asked for! I am learning the secret chord that David played that pleased the Lord! Thanks be to God!
June 21, 2025 Day 25
After the most amazing spiritual experience at the Benedictine Monastery, I was up early (6:30am) to walk to Molinaseca (16-miles). This hike reached the highest point of the el camino in Spain: 4,937 feet! The views up and over the Montes De Leon were spectacular! It is incredible how much stronger I am on day 25 than I was at the beginning of this journey. It still took over 8 hours due to the difficult terrain on the decline – very much reminded me of the trail into Zubiri on day 2.
I stopped at ‘The Iron Cross’ (The Cruz de Ferro) – another huge milestone for me! ✝️ The cross is a significant stop for reflection and letting go. It is where pilgrims leave a stone as a symbolic act of releasing burdens, sins, or challenges. This tradition dates back centuries – around the 11th century. 🪨 Ned was here sitting on a bench and I joined him and we had a good talk and a good laugh.
* Ned @nedrmurray gets upset if I don’t mention him every day in my mini-blog. 🤣
The stone I brought from Texas reads: “I release the race and embrace God’s grace.”
Today was one of the 4 reasons I am here on the Camino: to unplug from the fast pace of life. This is my surrender, my choice, to step away from constant striving, constant pressure, and the “rat race”. And instead… rest in the unearned, unconditional love, grace, and guidance of God.
Acts 20:24 (New Living Translation) “My life is worth nothing to me unless I use it for finishing the work assigned me by the Lord Jesus – the work of telling others the Good News about the wonderful grace of God.”
June 22, 2025 Day 26
A monk said to me at the Benedictine Monastery: “Change the direction in which you are looking for happiness.”
Hearing this the other day connected with another reason I am here on the el Camino de Santiago (curiosity about why it was calling me). When I read Paulo Coelho’s book “The Alchemist” and I saw he also wrote “The Pilgrimage” – it peaked my interest. After a little research, I found out it is a 500-mile walk leading to the shrine of the apostle Saint James at the Cathedral in Santiago.
When Arthur Brooks @arthurcbrooks referenced the el Camino in “From Strength To Strength” (excellent book) and I heard him speak about the walk on various podcasts, I added it to the top of my bucket list. Arthur is a devout Catholic, which then led me to reaching out to one of my best friends Claudio @claudiokarolczak who also knew about this spiritual walk (if the timing had worked, he would have joined me).
After watching the movie “The Way” with Martin Sheen – directed by his son Emilio Estevez – I booked my flight! If you want to get a glimpse of what this walk is like, I highly recommend the movie (available on Amazon Prime for $4.99). Although I do feel like they gloss over the physicality of this walk in the movie.
Millions have walked this trail since the beginning of the 9th century following the discovery of the relics of Saint James the Great in Santiago. Last year 499,239 completed the walk. I read about the history of each village along The Way using a website called www.AndWeWalked.com I tried to see all the sights in Coleen’s very detailed stage by stage description. I am learning so much.
BTW: On My Way to Cacabelos today I saw a sign that said 198.5 kilometers to Santiago – that means I’m 76.3% of the way there – only 9 more days of walking!! 🎉
Ultreia! et Suseia! #CaminoKev
June 23, 2025 Day 27
While walking to La Portela de Valcarce, I saw a sticker that said “live a great story.” The significance (for me) is that life is not just about my professional résumé, it’s the impact I have on people each and every day. It doesn’t matter what you do or where you go, there is room for kindness & positivity!
“Thousands of candles can be lit from a single candle, and the life of the candle will not be shortened. Happiness never decreases by being shared.” ~Buddha
Another way to look at your life is the dash on your tombstone (for example: 1968 – 2055). How are you living your dash? Are you living a great story? There have been so many life lessons on this journey, I have a feeling that every sermon and keynote presentation I deliver will use the phrase, “When I walked the el Camino…” 🤣 #LifeLesson
It wasn’t much further down the road that I came across the 4 nuns from the other day (see picture). I walked with them for a couple hours, having a deep conversation about God‘s grace and God’s will for our life.
“Instead of asking, ‘What do I want from life?’ a more powerful question is, ‘What does life want from me?’ “ – Eckhart Tolle
These questions change everything. One is about chasing goals and checking boxes – and the other is about listening, being present, and showing up for whatever the moment is asking of you. I am learning that life isn’t something to control (as much as I want to). Maybe our true journey is not about getting more, but rather about becoming more.
June 24, 2025 Day 28
“The biggest adventure you can take is to live the life of your dreams.” ~ Oprah Winfrey
I started the day in La Portela de Valcarce, but stopped in Las Herrerías. Why? To add to my already incredible experience here in Spain, I rented a horse to take me 5-miles up to O’Cebreiro. 🐴 I heard about Victor’s Place from a Facebook group about the el Camino and decided to once again leave my comfort zone and do something different. (Yes, technically I will not have walked 5 of the 500 miles, but I promise I have made up for it with the numerous times I’ve been lost and had to backtrack 🤣).
“All journeys have secret destinations of which the traveler is unaware.” Martin Buber
I have no experience riding a horse, Victor made us comfortable and provided confidence. I was in complete control… NOT! My horse, Paue, has taken this trail many times and knew it by memory. I did nothing but sit back and enjoy the views!
At every turn in my life, I have encountered opportunities to leave my comfort zone. Sometimes I resisted because I was content, stubborn, or unwilling to change (sometimes it was the right thing to do – other times I feel I wasn’t being true to myself). When we leave our comfort zones, we enter the fear zone – where there is uncertainty and a lack of confidence. If we are willing to take this step and persevere, we then enter what I call the “sponge zone”(aka the learning zone) where we absorb new information. Sometimes we succeed (yay), and sometimes we fail (FAIL = First Attempt In Learning). Either way, this lands us in the growth zone, where we have new knowledge, new experiences, new information, and new expectations for the future.
After arriving in O Ceibrero, I walked around and will be attending Mass tonight at the Church of Santa Maria la Real (recommended by my friend Ned). Father Elias Valina Sampedro is the priest and everyone I’ve talked with says he is unbelievably engaging and it will be very spiritually moving service! 🙏✝️
Only 7 more days of walking! 🚶
June 25, 2025 Day 29
“Heaven is under our feet as well as over our heads.” ~ Henry David Thoreau
While walking to Triacastela today it hit me… this is my last Wednesday of walking on the el Camino! This is weird to write… but I am going to miss walking 15 miles each day (there’s no way I would have expected to say that a month ago). This morning was simply beautiful – the views, the weather (the cool 55 degrees – which was so appreciated on a very steep climb), and the frequent villages to stop for a snack or a coffee. Yes… it rained. Yes…it was so foggy that at times you could not see 20 feet in front of you. I tried to capture an image where we were walking out of the fog (see picture). I loved today! I am thankful!
“If you go to a place on anything but your own feet you are taken there too fast, and miss a thousand delicate joys that were waiting for you by the wayside.” –Elizabeth von Arnim
This walk is so much more than just exercise, it’s the camaraderie with my fellow pilgrims, it’s the silent moments to think, it’s the deep conversations with God, it’s the changing scenery around every turn.
I found this song titled “The Way” by Sir Oliver that really captures the essence of the El Camino de Santiago
This is the first step,
to a new part of my life
A small step for mankind,
but a giant leap for my mind
I’ve got so many questions,
so many things to solve
Looking for the answers,
all along the walk
On the highest of the mountains,
in the middle of the plains
Somewhere in between the valleys,
under the sun or in the rain
I try to find myself,
I try to find who I am
Buen camino, peregrino
Hope to see you on my way
We got 500 miles to go
On the road to Santiago
Whatever you came for
Whatever is the goal
Lighten your backpack
And take it step by step
And I walk and I walk and I walk
*You can listen to this song on Spotify, YouTube, or Apple Music.
Only 82 more miles… 6 more days before I walk into Santiago! 🎉
June 26, 2025 Day 30
Even on day 30 walking to Sarria, it’s easy to find myself walking faster to keep up with people after getting passed. I’m constantly reminding myself…Do You! Walk MY pace. Comparison is a thief of joy!! #doyou Another challenge these last 5 days will be not judging the people that are just starting in Sarria (it’s the last town you can walk from to meet the minimum mileage to earn your Compostela certificate in Santiago).
Starting in St. Jean, everyone says, “just follow the yellow arrows.” Except sometimes there are arrows that are NOT part of the trail. ⬆️ They are drawn on the sides of buildings and signs and are designed to lead pilgrims to cafés. These “marketing” arrows are distractions (or temptations). There have been temptations for me at each phase of this walk. In the first week, there was a temptation to to take a taxi to the next town because the walk was so difficult. In the middle stages (the Meseta), it was tempting to take a train to skip some of the “boring” stuff. In this final stage, I’ve been tempted to change my flight and go home early because I felt like I got what I needed out of this trip. I was even tempted at the monastery, being told that Santiago wasn’t my goal, that my goal was what I found at the monastery.
For me, it’s important to know where you want to go, how you want to get there, the pace you want to take, and have awareness of the distractions or temptations, and above all else, never give up until you reach your goal. Quoting Yogi Barra, “If don’t know where you’re going, you might end up someplace else.” One of my goals on this journey was the challenge… so I am absolutely 100% going to complete this walk!
I remember many years ago taking Kip to school and he suggested I cut through a parking lot instead of waiting for a red light 🚦(it was always a long wait, and I was usually running late). I told him there were 3 reasons why I wouldn’t do it. 1) it’s against the law. 2) I would be setting a bad example as his dad. 3) if we did it today, it would make it easier to do it again tomorrow. #LifeLesson
June 27, 2025 Day 31
Today’s walk from Sarria to Portomarín was crowded – people and cows! 🐄🐂 (yes, I was hiding in the bush 😳😱). I saw more people today than I have the last 2 weeks. Being transparent, the walk is changing; crowded trails, long lines at cafes, people playing music, loud conversations, etc. Can I change ‘Do You’ to #DoYouQuietly 🤣 Today was not as enjoyable as the previous month.
I mentioned yesterday, I thought my walk was over… I had learned what I needed from this journey. Today I learned the more I learn the more I have to learn! These last few days are going to teach me patience (something I struggle with). I am going to learn the art of completing a task, even when it’s not necessarily joyful (we all deal with this at our jobs, writing a book, exercising, dieting, etc.). #LifeLesson
Easy now = Hard later
Hard now = Easy later
Your choice!
In our fantasy football league (2025 will be our 34th year), we have a saying for our auction draft: “Any player you want, just not every player you want.” My walk on the El Camino has provided time to think about what I want to do with my remaining days on this earth. I can do anything I want… I just can’t do everything I want. I reflected on my priorities and how I want to manage my time and my energy when I get back to Texas. I want to get my life in balance. ⚖️
“Life is like riding a bicycle. 🚴♂️ To keep your balance, you must keep moving.” ~ Albert Einstein
For me, life is all about balance… the Ying (stillness) and the Yang (movement). ☯️ I’ve struggled with this concept my whole life. Ying and Yang complement each other… they flow into one another. On this walk it’s the mental reflection balanced with the physical journey. My life back home is not meant to be with go, achieve, become – and it’s not meant to be sit still, meditate, and relax. It’s balance: it’s movement and rest – it’s challenge and peace, it’s people and quiet. I am going to focus on my top 3 core values: Faith, Family, and Optimism.
“Not all those who wander are lost!” – J.R.R. Tolkien
June 28, 2025 Day 32
Walking from Portomarín to Palas de Rei today was 15-miles of walking up/down hills through 10 different villages. The #1 thing I’ve learned about hills… take them slow and steady. #LifeLesson Last month I had to stop frequently to catch my breath. Today, I only stopped twice: for breakfast/coffee ☕️ and a snack.
Only 42 miles until Santiago 🕍 and I am still processing all I’ve learned. Something that stands out are my 3 core values: Faith ✝️ Family 🧑🧑🧒🧒 and Optimism 😁. I share these in my ‘Positive Mindset’ workshop and my ‘Positivity Under Pressure’ keynote presentations. I feel too many times I speak about these values but I don’t fully live them.
“Living into our values means we do more than profess our values, we practice them. We take care that our intentions, words, thoughts, and behaviors align with those beliefs.” – Brené Brown
Faith: I have reconnected with God and I will continue to listen, learn, read, write, and preach His word. I am going to invest time daily for reflection and gratitude.
Family: I miss my family! I love my wife! I love my kids! I love my dad! I miss my mom! I love my brother! I love my in-laws! I am going to prioritize quality time with Tracy and my family through experiences.
Optimism: Overall I feel I am a positive person, but I realize there are times I complain when I should be grateful. There are times I look at what could go wrong, when I should look at what could go right. I am going to embrace optimism and spread positivity daily.
“In every walk with nature, one receives far more than he seeks.” ~ John Muir
My backpack gets lighter by the day, as I had to bring 35 days worth of my medicine with me (my kidney transplant meds). Tracy made me 117 packets with 800+ pills to make taking my meds easy. She is THE BEST! Each week she would add a note in the baggies… sometimes it was an encouraging message ❤️ and sometimes it was a joke. 🤣 It was very special! 😊
“You are the best thing in my life! I’m glad we made it here on this spinning ball in the middle of space – I love you from your toes to your face” – ‘If it’s Love’ by Train
June 29, 2025 Day 33
I saw this quote in one of the cafes today: “El Camino no se anda con los pies, se anda con el corazón.” Translation: “The Camino is not walked with the feet, but with the heart.”
Today’s walk (day 33 of 35) from Palas de Rei to Arzua was 18-miles. I am beyond thankful for all your prayers… I feel them and they encourage me daily. 🙏 They were needed today as it was a long and hot day! Please know I am also praying for you! Only 24 more miles left – and I’m glad I broke them up into 2 days so I’m not physically exhausted when I walk into Santiago (I’m already anticipating it to be an emotional experience).
“All truly great thoughts are conceived while walking.” ~Friedrich Nietzsche
Another huge take away from this adventure is establishing better boundaries when I get home – I’m understanding what’s important when it comes to friendships, business, family, hobbies, finances, etc.
“Boundaries are not to keep others out, but to make space for ourselves.” Self care IS NOT Selfish!
While walking on the El Camino, you have to decide when you are going to wake up, how far you are going to walk, at what pace, when to break, when to eat, what to eat, when to walk alone, when to walk with others, who to walk with, who not to walk/talk with, etc. It’s all about boundaries and it comes back to the concept of Do You! #DoYou
Life is too short to invest our limited time on this planet with people that don’t align with our goals or people that don’t align with our energy or to do (or not to do) things because someone else says we should. I don’t want to look back at the end of my life story and say there were chapters that should have ended sooner. Don’t be afraid to initiate a plot twist if one is required.
Happy 27th Birthday Kip! 🎉🎂🥳🎈🎁❤️
June 30, 2025 Day 34
I walked slowly from Arzua to O Pedrouzo today (only 12-miles). Intentionally slow because today is the “Eve of the End”. I wanted to embrace the last of my steps! And as different as these last few days have been from the previous 30, I wanted to embrace the crowds, the music, and the lines. I wanted to celebrate my Day 34 the same way that so many are celebrating their Day 4 (I hope that didn’t sound judgmental, I meant it sincerely). This chapter is coming to an end… and a new chapter begins tomorrow!
“Walk where your heart leads you, and you will find the way to Santiago.” – Saint James
I am planning to attend mass tonight at the famous Iglesia de Santa Eulalia de Arca ⛪️.
Along The Way, I’ve carried my Pilgrim Credential, also known as the Credencial del Peregrino. This is a passport-style booklet that every pilgrim carries while walking the Camino de Santiago. (I reshared a picture of me holding my passport back on Day 5 when I was next to the Romanesque Bridge in Puente la Reina (the picture on the front of my passport)).
The passport is a visual diary of where I’ve been and it will required to receive my Compostela certificate in Santiago.
“Each sello is a reminder that you were here, you kept going, and you were part of something ancient and beautiful.”
During the last 100 kilometers of the walk to Santiago, a pilgrim must collect 2 stamps per day before obtaining their certificate at the pilgrim office. When I started this journey on May 28, I really wasn’t paying attention to how many stamps I was getting, and my first booklet filled up quickly. I purchased a second booklet and calculated how many stamps I needed so that my final stamp would be at the cathedral in Santiago. I will have 94 stamps in my books when I get done – thinking of framing them with my certificate to remember this special season in my life.
July 1, 2025 Day 35
“It always seems impossible until it’s done.” – Nelson Mandela
I was overwhelmed with emotion as I walked into Santiago de Compostela and saw the cathedral for the first time. Yes, I cried! I felt a swirl of every emotion: thankful, sad, disbelief, beauty, relief, ecstatic, joy, grief, peace, etc.
“Don’t cry because it’s over, smile because it happened.” ~ Dr. Seuss
I arrived in time (barely) to attend mass at 12noon. They swung the Botafumeiro (which means “smoke spreader” in Galician) and thick clouds of fragrant incense poured out, filling the entire space. The ceremony serves as a spiritual symbol of purification, prayer, and the sacred presence of God. It was an emotional moment! 🙏
The pilgrim office in Santiago said 2,971 people claimed their certificate today. The minimum requirement is walking 100 kilometers. There’s no way to say for sure how many of us completed the entire 800 kilometers. I do know that I am 1 of more than 500,000 people that will collect their certificate this year.
I thought the Cathedral in Santiago would be the finish line. I thought the conclusion of this story would be, “I did it! I walked 500 miles! The End!”
The truth is… this isn’t the end – it’s the beginning – the beginning of something even better!
Turns out, the Camino doesn’t stay in Spain. I am not the same person who started this walk 35 days ago. The camino will come home with me. I will start a new chapter in my story – and it will It contain (over time) everything I learned along the way: grace, love, joy, trust, gratitude, kindness, appreciation, patience, faith, community, wonder, balance, resilience, identity, compassion, courage, vulnerability, and so much more!
Thank you for your prayers and following me on this adventure! 🙏😊
July 2, 2025 Day 36
Last night, I sat in the Santiago Cathedral with a heart full of love and gratitude attending my second mass of the day. I was also blessed with a second swinging of the Botafumeiro (so many pilgrims do not get to witness it even once).
I realized that I didn’t come all this way to arrive… I came to be transformed… one step at a time. The days were long, but the month went fast! Too fast in fact! I almost wanted to stop before entering Santiago because I didn’t want this adventure to end (well, that thought lasted only a few seconds as I’m ready to get home to Tracy).
I thought this trip would be incomplete without visiting Finisterre (meaning “end of the earth” in Latin). So I booked a day trip on Viator to Cape Finisterre, a rock-bound peninsula on the west coast of Galicia, Spain, historically believed by the Romans to be the edge of the known world.
“The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes, but in having new eyes.” ~Marcel Proust
Finisterre is symbolic. This is where for centuries pilgrims have stood before the ocean, stretched out their arms, and let go (some people even burn the clothes they wore on the camino). The sea here isn’t just water… it’s a mirror. It reflects who you were when you started… and who you are now. This was the perfect ending for my time in Spain.
It was so great that Mike & Tom (from Chicago) and Fay (from Australia) decided to sign up for the same tour – it was our final
Day together before everyone goes home. And… the air conditioned bus felt like a super luxury after 35 days of walking!
Tomorrow morning I take a train to the airport and I fly through Madrid and back to Texas. See y’all soon!
Buen Canino and Ultreia! et Suseia!
BACK HOME
One of the biggest things I’ve learned from this pilgrimage is how much I miss and love my wife Tracy, my daughter Kait, and my son Kip. I am beyond thankful for Tracy’s unconditional love on this solo endeavor (and for her support of all the crazy ideas I have). Now I look forward to many adventures together with her (maybe with a lot less walking)!
I entered this journey with wonder on why I was being called to the Camino. I wanted to stretch myself, leave my comfort zone and do something I’ve never done before – something that sounded impossible when I spoke it out loud. I am a spiritual person, and I was searching for a deeper connection with God. I was also looking for way to unplug, reflect, and recharge – as I found myself continuously striving for more. Here is a breakdown of these four areas (Calling, Challenge, Chord, Calm)… with a bonus fifth (Community)!
Calling
“The Camino is not just a journey of the body, but a journey of the soul. Each step brings you closer to who you are.” – Paulo Coelho
“Every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful.” – John 15:2
The Camino was calling me… it just wasn’t necessarily calling me to become something or someone new – it was calling me to unbecome – to reveal the real me. Like the grapevines I saw in the wine regions of Spain, I realized I needed pruning to truly flourish. This journey brought clarity to my identity and reminded me of who I’ve always been at my core. It also taught me to appreciate the trees around me, and not always zoomed out looking at the forest.
Action Plan: Tune in to what’s tugging at your soul – and take one small step toward it.
Challenge
“If all difficulties were known at the outset of a long journey, most of us would never start out at all.” – Dan Rather
“Let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.” – Hebrews 12:1
No matter how you look at it, walking 500 miles is a difficult challenge. I walked 1,177,183 steps – including all the backtracking from getting lost (more times than I can count) and the extra steps from my sightseeing adventures (even subtracting the 5 miles I rode a horse). Some people do this walk in 22 days, some 35 days (me), and some people spend months walking this path. I expected the Camino to be mentally and physically tough, but it was much harder than I anticipated. There were many tears, many doubts, many temptations to quit, and moments I questioned if I could finish. But I never stopped. This experience taught me the quiet strength of endurance and reminded me how capable I am once commit to doing something.
Action Plan: Stretch yourself – growth lives just outside our comfort zones.
Chord
“Heaven is under our feet as well as over our heads.” – Henry David Thoreau
“Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.” – Psalm 51:10
My 35 day pilgrimage strengthened my faith and connection with God. For me, there was a notable transformation during my pause at the Benedictine Monastery. I set out hoping to discover the “secret chord” that David played (the one that pleased the Lord). I found it not only in music, but in moments of silence, prayer, grace, love, trust, kindness, awe, and surrender. It was a spiritual harmony that reminded me I’m never walking alone.
Action Plan: Pray continuously – turn everyday moments into quiet conversations with God.
Calm
“Walk where your heart leads you, and you will find the way to Santiago.” – Saint James
“The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul.” – Psalm 23:1–3
This experience emerged me in the conscious act of slowing down – of calming my body, mind, and soul so I could actually savor the people and the world around me. I still love my work – encouraging others to live with positivity and purpose – but I’ll be doing it now with better boundaries and a slower pace so I can pursue other joyful activities. I’ve always wrestled with “enoughness,” and the Camino showed me that I’m not meant to be a lake collecting blessings, but a river letting them flow through me.
Action Plan: Peace isn’t found – it’s created – by choosing stillness in the midst of noise.
Community
“All journeys have secret destinations of which the traveler is unaware.” Martin Buber
“Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it.” – 1 Corinthians 12:27
As a bonus, I was gifted with the joy of people, and was reminded of the importance of connecting. I planned to walk the el Camino de Santiago alone, but I was never really alone. I met fellow pilgrims… we exchanged stories, we shared meals, we laughed, we loved, we cried. I experienced unexpected kindness and grace from strangers (on the trails and in the villages). These moments became a bonus gift on my journey. Community found me, and it reminded me of the simple beauty of walking together… if even briefly.
Action Plan: You and I are not meant to walk alone – reach out to someone today.
