Hi, it’s Deena. This is my first entry on the Let’s Camino, so I’ll introduce myself. I am Missy’s mom, and one of the peragrinas for the trip that starts in 12 days.

I first came to know about the Camino Way in 2018, when I saw The Way, a film starring Emilio Estevez and Martin Sheen. It looked like an adventure worth considering, for several reasons, including history of Galatia, a chance to immerse in the Spanish culture, and a challenge physically. My background as a Catholic kid was an extra incentive, because I love the traditions and rituals of the faith, though I no longer practice.

So, after a lot of pandemic delays, Missy and I discussed doing this together, and our little troop has grown to 5, Missy, her son Kiernan, and her friend Michelle with her partner Chris, plus me. 

This is my first non-preplanned vacation overseas, and I’m very glad for the savvy skills of others in the group, navigating the ins and outs of international travel. As I’ve read posts from hikers that have walked the Camino, it’s become pretty clear that planning is a plus, though I’ve read from several adventurous souls that spur of the moment can work too, if you go in with few expectations and a free wheeling spirit. Although I love surprises, winging something this big is not for me at this time. 

So, off to Madrid, Burgos, Segovia, and the Camino de Santiago de Compostela!