My Pilgrim Credential arrived today! Hooray! I ordered it some time ago and when I contacted the American Pilgrim Association, they admitted my application had fallen between the cracks. Guess it pays to follow up. Now it is in hand and soon to be in my pack. Found out my health insurance covers international travel so that was very good news as well. Picked up a Cash-pak of euros in small denominations so I have a little money when I land and don't have to use an ATM in the airport (typically much more expensive). Airline and train seats are finally confirmed. Things seem to be coming together rapidly.

Only two decisions left to make regarding gear: do I or don't I take a sleeping bag? It can get very cold toward the end of September in Galacia and the refugios often are not heated--do I risk it for the 32 ounces of saved weight? The other is whether to take goretex treated hiking shoes or not. If it is raining, gaitors and goretex can mean the difference between nasty blisters and not--but goretex doesn't breath well, especially if clogged with dust (which the Camino is also known for) and they are heavier. I am confident that all this will resolve itself soon.

The only other concern is Rick's (my husband) back. He has been experiencing back and hip pain since January and rather than improving, it seems to get a little better and then a lot worse. Please pray for healing. He is planning to join me in Santiago on October 2nd for the Pilgrim's Mass on the 3rd and we then plan to take 10 days to explore Barcelona, Madrid and Seville. As the dates draw closer, I am wondering if he will be able to make the trip. I may not know until the end of September. Open your fingers and let go........................what will be, will be.