On Thursday 22 August, I finally began my training for the Camino in earnest.  I’ve been trying to do some longer walks over the last few months, but it’s all starting to seem a bit more real now that I’ve let you all in on my secret!  So on a day of sideways Cornish mizzle, my Camino buddy, Amanda, and I tried out our fully loaded packs and our paces along the Bude canal and a stretch of the coastal path - I’m pleased the report that God has kindly given us matching paces, so we seem to walk well together at a similar natural speed.  A total of about 17km or 10.6 miles left us both feeling pleased with our progress.

In an effort not to lose momentum, today, August Bank Holiday Monday, I set out from home to see how Stourhead and back felt.  I’ve done it before, but this was the first time in my proper walking shoes and with my pack.  I can’t say I enjoyed the last stretch from Milton back to Gillingham, but all in all my feet and hips (the 2 things I’m most worried about) are holding up OK at nearly 25 1/2km or 15.9 miles.  The big test will be whether I can manage another long walk tomorrow - if you would be so kind, remember me and my feet in your prayers tonight!

And don’t forget to let me know of any names or situations you would like to add to my Camino prayer list - I prayed for the 5 people on the list so far as I went today and will continue to do so as I train and then walk my pilgrimage.

And many thanks to Silton church for the hospitality of your lychgate on the way there and back !

Buen Camino!