It’s been roughly a year and a half since one of the most life changing experiences I’ve been through. Sure, I’m still the same in many ways, but walking the 500 miles of the Camino Frances changed me – in positive ways. I think I’m more open to new possibilities and I’m often better at reminding myself not to judge a book by it’s cover. On top of that, I’ve enjoyed reconnecting with my Camino family and friends since we finished our journey in Santiago in July 2016.

Since I stopped walking, I’ve had the itch to return. The Camino is a magical place both between the challenge of walking and the amazing bonds you build so quickly. So, this summer I am returning. I don’t have a sabbatical, so with limited time, I’ve chosen to walk a shorter route on the Camino Portuguese.

Typically, with more time, pilgrims walk from Lisbon up to Santiago. I’ll be starting in Porto, Portugal and spending 10 days walking up to Santiago. The whole journey will be roughly 142 miles of walking.

On my last Camino it was important for me to go alone. I wanted to push myself to meet new people and open myself up to whatever the Camino would provide for me. This time will be different. This time, I’ll be joined by friends from around the world. Some I met on my first Camino, some I’ve known for years in my Seattle world and even one I’ve known for as long as I can remember. This time I want to share this experience with friends who are important to me.

Flights have been purchased and the current plan is to begin walking on June 23rd this summer. So for the next several months I will be training again. Not that I ever really stopped training. Walking is who I am.

The Camino is calling and I must walk.