9/13 The bunks in the dorm room looked to be arranged by bad Tetris players. No matter, the night sleep was a snap, dark then light. The evening before, the delicious meal was served family-style. We introduced ourselves each of us fifteen. Everyone in an open and friendly zone common to shared journeys. It was wonderful but became even too much for me when one couple pulled out their instruments and began to play and sing. Even with all the togetherness, we were still individuals in the morning, signing the guest record and leaving on our own.
Charlene 7:33 pm I have to tell you this unusual occurrence. I dreamed of Big Bertie (and you) and Toby was there. I think they were wishing me well and walking with me today. I couldn’t ask for better companions. Buen Camino to us all. Xo
Stella 11:48 am It is so very nice to be together with you on this journey…heart and soul. You keep that wonderful body of yours together for us too. I am happy to have my book. I looked at it before bed last night. Love to you every minute my Dear.
Big Bertie (there is a little Bertie) is an important part of my launch. To explain who Bertie is I have to explain Stella. Stella is the vertebrae of my life. I met Stella 27 years ago when she was my therapist’s girlfriend. The therapist part is not relevant to anything other than adding spice to the story. I used to say to Stella ‘I can’t believe I’m with Laura’s girlfriend.’ There really is no sizzle there, things were done in fine order..relationship end.. the appropriate amount of time passes.. the new relationship begins. It’s just two women I admire, and I got to be with one of them for 11 1/2 years the first time around. That is implying there is a second time around, which, at this point on my Camino journey is not realized.
Bertie is Stella’s amazing mother. If Bertie were alive, I expect that she would be walking with me, at 92. When she was alive we talked about the Appalachian Trail. I miss her. I feel her the most this first day. I’m thinking about her and all the wonderful loved ones who are with me today, that I don’t notice for a while that I no longer see anyone ahead of or behind me. I also don’t see the trail markers. Damn! lost on the first day. I’ve gone down the road too far to turn back and I see a curve up ahead so I keep going forward. Thankfully a car comes by that I flag down and although no understandable words are passed between us, the driver assures me I go forward. I do.