As I gear up for this wonderful and crazy undertaking: my Camino from Lisbon to Santiago – about 630km or so, I have almost caught myself saying ‘This will be my last great endeavor of this kind’. Excuse me? Who says so?
Yes, I will be 80 next year, but who says I won’t be one of those wonder people who are just trekking and trucking along into their 90s? The Camino is certainly a place to find them, well up in years, with no fuss and bother, eating up those kilometres in joy!
So far, my body has blessed me with strength and energy, along with a really important gift: great enjoyment in movement. I am not into Pickell ball or any organized sport – well, we are in a group for Tai Chi – but I love walking – oh, I do that with neighbourhood friends, then there is swimming and rowing my little dingy. No motors or fancy gear or equipment -unless you count my oars and little boat.
Thoughts such as ‘how many more springs do I have left?’ are a great incentive to stop and smell the dandelions and daisies. The dear mother of a dear friend bought herself a full-length mink coat when she was in her late 80s. Of course, she looked great! Bravo Rita!
For years, I had an underpowered kitchen stand mixer. Why did I not upgrade? Because I felt that if I had not started married life with a glossy power horse of a mixer, it was too late now. So glad I saw the light, and that Canadian Tire had a great sale, and I came to my senses. I love that kitchen baby that mixes up my cakes, cookies, and even bread dough.
So here I come, Camino, just another one and more to come!