What a great weekend! We went to look for the ever elusive GoLite pack that Rob wanted to look at. So far we have only been able to see the Osprey and the Gregory. These 2 are very similar in size, weight and materials. We live north of Dallas and it seems that such a large city that includes the surrounding area and Fort Worth would have what you need for just about everything. We drove down to the center of Dallas to a new age, hippy, yuppie shop that deals in hemp clothes and hiking equipment. It's kind of a strange mix but then you realize it's an Austin kind of place, so it works. We got there after many switchbacks and 1 pit stop, to find that the one GoLite pack they had was gone. That was good for a chuckle on my behalf. Rob was disappointed to say the least so he decided to go look at hiking boots. That too didn't turn out well because they didn't carry his size. (Nobody carries his size, cause his foot is too small.) And so the great hunt for GoLite in DFW may have concluded.

I've been asked by Christine's Aunt Carolyn why I want to walk. My idea about the walk is a mix of thoughts. I had an experience while in Rosslyn Chapel in Edinburgh, Scotland. It felt like a knock inside my head. Two times. It was frightening and I've never felt anything like it. I was told by our guide that it happens to others as well. Not in exactly the same way though. Since then I have spent a fair number of hours on the Internet trying to figure it out. I have a few ideas related to lay lines and magnetism that I've not really thought through or researched. But that is one compelling reason for the walk.

My second thought about the Camino is the simplicity of the whole life while on the Camino. It reminds you of the most basic needs you really require. Food, water, shelter and faith. My life is not that simple and the Camino is alluring. I mean to say that the very basics of life become overshadowed with the superficial. Raising your family, going to work, slogging through all the necessities of modern life is a drag on the soul, don't you think? We all get caught up in the moment and soon forget simple pleasures. I see the Camino as the opportunity to feel good about a day's accomplishments and to share that feeling with the one that I love. Yes, it is an optimistic view, if you want to fantasize, why not?

There you have it. I've confessed to Aunt Carolyn and everyone else. I'm a nut that wants a simple life. And if someone knocks this time, I hope to be ready.