And so it begins…..
Just shy of two years ago I began an adventure that significantly impacted my life and today, I finally begin another journey that was delayed one year by Covid. Beginning in Ottawa, I boarded a sold out train to Montreal where I had an eight hour wait at the airport before my flight. This gave me plenty of time to write this blog… as you'll see. :) The reduced train schedules limited my options however the long wait ensured I would not be rushing to my gate for the flight. I'm posting this just before I board my flight to Paris. By the way, for those with my Canadian cell number, it will not be active until my return.
There will be a few critical unknowns when I arrive at CDG in Paris. Because of a significant increase in Covid cases in the county, France recently implemented a mandatory Health Pass which is now required for all places where groups of people gather. Not a big deal if you're wandering around the great outdoors in the middle of the French countryside. However, should you want to get on a train to take you to your starting point, it could be an issue. Over a week ago I submitted all the required documents to the French health department however I have yet to receive my pass. There is a provision that implies you can travel if you have a negative Covid antigen test (I do) which will give you 72 hours of ‘coverage’ but until I have boots on the ground, I will have no concrete answers. I have about three hours from my flight landing until my TGV (fast train) departs for Lyon so hopefully that will be enough time to sort out the details. This will be a great opportunity to practice my French.
Years ago, the old Pete would be very concerned because a plan was not solidly in place. Now, these unknowns just add to my adventure. Although to be honest, I would rather be wondering what's on the other side of that mountain than whether or not I'll get on that train.
Once in Lyon Saturday afternoon, I'll have a few hours to kill before Dan arrives from Marseille. Sunday morning we will take another train to our starting point, Le Puy-en-Velay, and officially begin our Camino Monday morning.
Similar to my last Camino, my expectations for this journey are straightforward - it will be physically and mentally challenging. However, based on my previous trek, I know that I will have amazing experiences and will meet incredible people. I also have a great deal to think about on this one. In addition to the anticipated experiences, I'm genuinely looking forward to walking alone in nature for hours at a time for it is only under these conditions that your mind will go to deep places in your subconscious. This is where you truly find the answers that are within you but so difficult to bring to the surface in our busy lives. Frankly, I need this right now.
Finally, both good and bad decisions have brought me to this place in life and I have learned a great deal from each. The past is unchangeable and the future is unknown. My plan is to live each day to the fullest and to enjoy every moment, every experience, every adventure. And I do this with my guardian angel sister watching over me, pushing me to go further, to play harder, to listen to the drums and dance, to take the risks, to enjoy life. Let's go have some fun Chris!