My Way

Warning: This Post is a Clusterf**k

kimlyons — Sat, 9 Nov 2013 03:06:00 GMT

Hola Todos!

I am finished walking as much of the Camino del Interior as I can...I made it to Briviesca and, tonight, am headed back to Barcelona in order to catch a flight to Mallorca tomorrow morning to start my WWOOFing adventure!

This walk was very special to me in terms of it being extraordinarily quiet and peaceful. Not once did I see another pilgrim in the 10 days I walked. I had every albergue to myself and a lot of time for stillness and contemplation. Not to mention I've been reading actual fiction (not academic articles, not method or theory related books) and gobbling it up like a child does candy! The solitude, though, has had its ups and downs...take for instance:

Zegama

The albergue in Zegama is a public school gym located just on the outskirts of town. It's big, echoey, dirty and cold...and in order to get to the washroom you have to leave the gym, go outside, down a ramp, down a flight of stairs, across a cave-like expanse in the basement, and into the locker rooms. The night I stay there is a big storm. Rain pounds against the windows, it's gloomy and grey, and a steady drip, drip, drip, drops down onto an exercise mat they've put under the leak in order to save the hardwood floors. Yeah, I'm a little spooked and I've got a little heater running at full blast to drown out the sounds of the storm and attempt to stay warm. At 7:30pm it's getting dark and I think to myself...that basement situation is going to be a bit of a psycho-drama for me later, with no flashlight and all...I'm going to use the bathroom now and get my business over and done with. Good idea. I read into the night, not wanting to walk to the local bar in the driving rain, and my eyes start to get heavy around, oh, 11pm or so. Unfortunately, so does my bladder.

Bladder: Ok, Kim...let's do this! I gotta go! Brain: Umm, I think I'll pass. It's going to be spooky down there. You can hold out, right bladder? Bladder: Sure. But know that at 3am I'll be screaming and you'll be in a world of discomfort until you work up the nerve at 6 or 7am to relieve me. Hope you like a night of sleeplessness. Brain: Not cool, bladder. Not cool.

This internal struggle goes on for a few minutes and it's the ONE night I actually regret not packing a flashlight. I've got my trusty lighter though and, finally, my inner Big Girl speaks up. Kim, she says, if it were anyone else you'd play the friggin' hero and accomadate them to the washroom. You're really that afraid of the basement (and imagining the sounds of children's creepy laughter, and wierdos holed up down there to escape the storm, and critters crawling around in the shadows...you get the picture)? Yeah, I think, I kind of am...I'd go in a bucket if I could find one. Well, says Big Girl, it's time to put on your big girl panties and face those fears! Get going, ya big wussy!

So, I grab my lighter and the keys ('cause they keep the bathroom locked), put on my flip flops and head out the door. Tthough I'm under an awning, the wind and damp of the rain sends a chill down my back as I start down the ramp. Then I'm at the top of the stairs and they descend into pitch black. I take a deep breath and start down the stairs, lighter in hand. I feel my way off of the last step and light up with my right hand, balling the left into a fist. I'm ready for any muthaf**ka who wants to mess with me. I walk slowly, trepidatiously, my flip flops echoing in the dark space. My heart is beating a hundred miles an hour and I want to talk myself through it, but even the sound of my voice in this wierd void of place spooks me. I finally get to the door while the lighter is starting to burn my thumb. I fumble with the keys...where's the fuckin' lock?! Key upside down, rightside up, finally in the slot...let me in damnit!!!! I flick on the lights and super bright florescents flicker and pop to life. Bladder: Oh yeah, baby, that's the stuff! Don´t we feel better? Brain: Screw you, bladder.

I leave on the light when I exit and leave the door open a crack, screw the rules. I flick on the lighter again and cover the expanse of the basement in about 6 huge strides, run up the stairs, sprint up the ramp and lock myself back into the, er, sanctuary of the gymnasium. Brain: I'll see you explode before we go back down there again tonight, bladder. I swear it. Bladder: Understood.

Empowerment & Service

Other than Zegama, though, this travelling alone thing, like I said, has its ups. A lot of people, when they see me stride through their pueblo approach me to ask me if I'm a pilgrim and if I'm travelling alone. It's November, after all, and the masses of pilgrims are over. And I'm a woman. When I reply yes on both accounts often I see an eyebrow raise...a look of suprise, a look of respect. I can't help but feel a surge of pride...these people are impressed! Maybe, just maybe, even inspired. Their reactions, in turn, empower me, bolster me...it feels pretty good. I've gone through stages where I actually feel a little selfish taking this time (3 months) for myself and trekking across Spain. When I think about what I'm contributing to the greater good, though, I think this could be considered an act of service in that I'm being a mirror of self care, making time for reflection and a deepened connection with my body, heart, mind and spirit. Many people here in Spain know the value of walking a Camino. For instance, did you know it's actually considering a bonus to have the experience of walking a camino on ones resume or CV? It is. That's so cool to me...that self care and the willingness to undergo challenge is valued beyond the personal. Do we, in North America, percieve it the same way? I'm not convinced that we do...hence my feelings of selfishness every now and then. Perhaps the way we think about 'service' needs to shift?

Anywho, I'm running out of time here at the library with my one hour max and need to finish up.

Know I love you and hope you're well. As usual, please drop me a line whenever you can. I so love the updates!

Hugs,

Kim xo

Camino del Interior or the Way Inside

kimlyons — Thu, 31 Oct 2013 01:11:00 GMT

Hola Familia y Amigos!

As I walk out of Irun there is a slight drizzle floating in the air, bringing the deep greens of the grass, the black of the tarmac and burnt yellows of the leaves into rich clarity. The temperature is crisp and cool, and I gulp in huge breaths of the fresh, clean air. As I turn a corner of a back country road the forest opens before me, all reds, browns, greens and yellows. A herd of goats is grazing in the pasture to my right and a rainbow shows itself high in the sky above. I burst into tears...of joy, of gratitude...of understanding THIS is exactly where I'm meant to be! Where my heart wants to be...back in the forest, back in nature, in quiet solitude. I feel really thankful that Spirit knew where I needed to be and delivered me here - and that I was willing to be guided and didn't put up resistance.

So, the first 34kms brings me to Andoain. I haven't seen another pilgrim all day. Upon arrival I know I have to pick up the key at the police station because my good friend Juan, the Camino expert, has told me so. I trek over to the station, get the key, offer to pay, and they tell me it's free! Awesome! I return to the albergue and no one is there and, over the duration of the evening, no one else shows up. I have the entire place to myself! I have heard other pilgrims say it is a spooky experience for them to be in a big, empty albergue alone, but I don't feel that way at all! I take a long, hot shower without worrying about anybody waiting their turn. I read until 11pm with the lights on because I can. This morning, because I have a computer all to myself and can take all the time I want to browse, (no one will be at the police station until 9:30am to receive the key and I've only 11kms to walk today) I decide to check into the Shamanic Power Path site...one of my faves...and read up on Lena's message for October. I know it's a little late to be reading up about a month that is practically over, but I'm curious and I find myself stunned at what she has to say as it directly mirrors my experience...from shutting down and unplugging from routine, to collective exhaustion, to rebooting and renewing self.

Is it egoistic to say that I feel really tuned in to myself, others, and the planet? I feel like my psychic energies have erupted and expanded x 100! I feel like Lena's message only confirmed my ability to be completely in tune with collective energies and insights, that I'm tapping into the Universal as a lifestyle now. And on this, the day of Hallow's Eve AND a new galactic spin, a time of turning...and tuning in, I want to give thanks for the guidance of Spirit, Universal synchronicity, Mystery and Magick, and the Divine Feminine that resides within me and connects to all.

I wish you the most magical of Holloween's! I want to see pics of those special kiddies in your lives!

Big love. Much gratitude.

Sincerely,

Kim

On My Way...Again

kimlyons — Mon, 28 Oct 2013 02:49:00 GMT

Hola Todos!

What does one do when they´re in a pinch and feeling a little lost? They call a friend, of course, and I am very, VERY thankful to have a good friend in mi companero, Juan. Our timing is uncanny, really. I knew he´d be in Valencia on Sunday visiting family and so, after spending Saturday night in the apartment in Valencia alone (which was heavenly! I´ve spent the past 7 weeks living and sleeping among others so all I did was sink into a book on the terrace and enjoy the sounds of Valencian night life!) I called Juan in the morning and the first thing he said upon hearing my voice was, "All ok? You need come to my house?" What a wonderful man. "Yes, Juan, I suppose I do" I replied, feeling just a teeny bit stressed. "Nothing from Mallorca...still nothing." And so he collected me and now, here I am, relaxing in his beautiful home, reading in his garden, sleeping in the cozy spare room.

Not for long, though.

The alternate farmer that I´d contacted had told me he´d have an answer for me last Friday night. I check my email Friday night...nothing. Saturday morning. Sunday morning (using another person´s smartphone who was staying in the same apartment). Nothing. I felt wore thin, impatient and a little frustrated having to constantly be checking in and getting nothing in return. I kept thinking to myself, "I trust I am always exactly where I am supposed to be. Show me the way, Spirit. Show me where I am to go next. If not WWOOFing, where?" And the city living was not only getting expensive, it was wearing on me psycho-spiritually, as well. "Perhaps if I can´t be on the island, I simply need to be back in the country" I think to myself.

So, within being at Juan´s home for just one hour I had a map and list of all the albergues for the Camino Interior. I had a list of things to do to prepare: write the farmer I´ll be staying with from Nov 11-25, Ruth, and ask her if I can send some of my "farm gear" that Kathleen had brought for me to her; get the train schedule to Irun (yep, back to Irun!); book a flight to Mallorca early because the ferry is a ridiculous price; finish writing postcards and send them out so as not to have to carry them (50 grams is 50 grams...laugh if you will); sort out my bank accounts and move some money around; etc...And within two hours this morning, it was all done. Ruth responded immediately with a "yes" to my package request. I leave tomorrow at 10:15am for Irun. I got a one hour flight to Mallorca from Barcelona on Sunday, November 10th for 38 euros (as opposed to 7 hours on a ferry for 60 euros). Those of you who sent me their address...your postcard is on its way. Everything just unfolded before me, as easy as pie.

Ease. Ease has shown me My Way.

And I´m really excited to walk again, to be honest! Juan and I looked at a few routes that I could take but decided on the Interior because it´s still in eastern Spain where the weather continues to be excellent, saves me long distance travel costs, can be done in 10 to 12 days, and is a part of the country I´ve not yet travelled. Perfect. It begins in Irun (the same starting point as the Norté) but runs south, rather than west, and ends in Burgos...an easy bus ride to Barcelona and the airport. The terrain is varied (mountains and plains) and the distances between albergues are very reasonable...apart from the long 34km first day I´ll only be walking approximately 20kms or so per day thereafter. Sweet. I start walking Wednesday.

I feel very thankful for this amazing turn of events and am super grateful for my faith and trust in the direction of the Universe, guided by intuition and ease. I give thanks for my friends, near and far, who love me and offer me unwavering support and compassion. I give thanks, too, to this awesome body of mine. Get ready, feet, we´re on our Way...again!

Loving you all.

Sincerely,

Kim

Barcelona and What It's Taught Me

kimlyons — Sun, 20 Oct 2013 08:45:00 GMT

Hola Todos!

Well, here we are and I can hardly believe our time in Barcelona is nearly at an end! It's been an incredible week full of fascinating sights and delicious food! We've visited the beach almost every single day for down time after walking (so much walking!) to sights such as: Museo Picasso; the cathedral (which I wasn't allowed into due to the length of my shorts, only increasing my distaste for the Catholic church); spent plenty of time wandering la Rambla and cruising la Boqueria market; saw a lovely spanish guitar concert at the Basilica Santa Maria del Pi and an authentic flamingo performance at a tiny bar called the Jazz Si, where they packed us in, tourists and locals alike, like sardines, adding to the intensity of an already intensely passionate show! Amazing. I have to say, though, that my favorite outings were to Gaudi's Sagra de Familia and Parc Guell. I've never been much of an art afficiendo and I can't claim to know a lot about art, but there's something about Gaudi that I deeply connect with...I found myself very moved at both places. The colours, the spirals and pillars, his reverance for nature...I felt such peace, so relaxed and at home in these spaces. Not to be rushed, despite the pressing crowds and endless flashing of cameras, I just sat or meandered trying to take in the beauty of it all. Unlike Catholic cathedrals I felt Gaudi welcomed one and all, no blurred lines in acceptance, and showed great brillance in the bringing forth of the feminine. I didn't realize, consciously, how influential space is creating an atmosphere of respect and compassion, though I'm sure I've always known uncondciously...hence the tension and unease I've experienced in many cathedrals along The Way, even at Santiago de Compostela. Mistakenly I'd thought these aspects to be generated solely via human interaction and transference...but now I know differently. In the presence of Gaudi's masterpieces I can honestly say I felt love. I am thankful for this new awareness.

I've learned a lot about myself as a pilgrim and tourist, as well. I appreciate my time in Barcelona, to be sure; but tomorrow Kathleen and I are headed to mi companero, Juan's, home for a couple of days and I'm really looking forward to being back in the countryside, back in a quiet space surrounded by nature with another who loves me just the way I am. I would often speak to other female pilgrims on the Camino about how awkward it felt to walk through big cities in my plain clothes, running shoes, and pack on my back. All agreed that, in thses bustling city spaces surrounded by women in fashionable clothing and heels or boots, we found ourselves suddenly inadequete, shy. Juan doesn't like the noise and bustle of the cities and I have to admit I always felt a sense of relief that we wouldn't be staying, to press on and wait to settle into an albergue in the next pueblo instead. Don't get me wrong, I enjoy slipping on a beautiful dress and sandals and showing off my legs now and again. But that its the norm in urban centres, and that if I'm not in this garb in these places and feel inadequete because of it...that's problematic to me. Norms =Expectations=Judgment=well, problems...low self esteem, self doubt, feeling small, not good enough. Just an insight from which I've learned that, as a tourist, what I really value about travelling is seeing the land and feeling a part of it. Historic sites and cities are cool and often a huge part of the politics of a place, but they don't speak to me or pull at me like natural spaces do. Take me back to the Camino and I'll show you some of the most beautiful places I've seen in Spain...the Hospitaliarios mountain range, the farmland of Extramandura, the beaches along the rugged northern coastline...I am so, so thankful for the Camino, for the opportunity to be amongst other pilgrims versus other tourists, who understand what it is just be youself in plainclothes and be entirely accepted in ones beingness.

So, those are my new teachings and thoughts for tbe moment. I love you all very much and thank you for loving me just the way I am...the good, the bad, the beautiful, the ugly and the vast grey spaces in between. Be well. Be. And know I carry you in my heart.

Sincerely,

Kim

Giving Thanks

kimlyons — Sat, 12 Oct 2013 21:51:00 GMT

Hola Todos,

I arrived in Santiago yesterday completely exhausted after finishing my final 120kms...900kms in total since September 5th...

As I trudged into the city I had a sense that the exhaustion was not entirely mine. I thought of all of you, preparing for this Thanksgiving weekend, a time spent with food and family and I thought, I think they all need this long weekend...perhaps we all need time to rest. My body is strong, my mind empty...this sense of being very, very tired, I felt, was collective. I was tapping into collective exhaustion. And when I sat down to the computer yesterday afternoon I received news that verified this...my dad had a fall this week and suffered two brain hemmorages. The hemmorages proceeded to affect his heart and he now has a pacemaker and is recovering slowly in hospital. I was devastated and suddenly, sitting there, I felt entirely alone and confused and very, very sad. I thought, how tired he must be in this intense time of healing! How tired his wife, his/my family must be in their worry of him! And so I prayed and sent letters of encouragement and asked for support, which came in abundance...not only from dear ones from afar in the form of wonderful words of support and love, but from friends I have met along the Camino Inglés.

I met with three Portuguese people I have befriended at 8 o'clock last night and they were amazing! I proceeded to get entirely shitfaced and, perhaps that wasn´t the best way to deal with the situation, but it sure felt good at the time! They allowed my to cry and to vent, then made me laugh and gave me plenty of hugs and attention. This morning I awoke to two other lovely people I met, a mother and daughter dyad from New Zealand and they also offered condolences in abundance. Many thanks to Vera, Carolina, Nelson, Tony and Jo...you have blessed me with your presence! Truly there are angels everywhere and you have been my angels during this intense few hours of crisis. I feel more peaceful now and releived to be going to Barcelona where I will meet with a very lovely friend and be close to a major airport in case I receive news that demands I return home. Time will tell. In the meantime, say a prayer for my dad, will you?

Friends, enjoy your long weekend. Love the ones you are with. Hold them close to your heart and give thanks for them in your life, as I give thanks for you. And rest. Something tells me you need it and deserve it. Do a whole lot of nothing, take a nap, read a book. I am thinking of you and am so grateful for you in my life.

Sincerely,

Kim xo

Photos: Camino Ingles

kimlyons — Sat, 12 Oct 2013 04:27:00 GMT

October 7-12, 2013

Camino Inglés

kimlyons — Tue, 8 Oct 2013 03:42:00 GMT

Hola!

I hope this finds you all well!

Yesterday morning I jumped on an early bus to Ferrol and I am certainly glad I DID decide to arrive early as I found out quickly that there is no municipal albergue in the city! No problems, though, as it was only an easy 12km walk to the next pueblo and a municipal albergue in Neda...a nice distance to walk on a beautiful day. And I needed the break, really. Though I only walked 4kms from the outskirts of Santiago de Compostela the day before (Oct 6), I spent much of the afternoon wandering the city and organizing for this walk. And for 6 days Before Santiago I walked around 30kms per day! Needless to say, yesterday I was tired. I had not expected to walk at all and to take the day off, but whatever. I had a terrific siesta.

I am already loving this Way and loving the pilgrims on it! I am back on the coast and have followed the Atlantic ocean for the past two days. I have decided to take this walk really easy and extend it to six days, walking less kilometers per day and taking my time...today was a sunny 15kms with the entire afternoon spent swimming and sunning on the beach! Pure bliss! The other pilgrims are of the same mindset and we all slept until 8 o'clock this morning! Eight friggin' o'clock! You can't know what a privelage that is unless you've walked a Camino yourself! I'm telling you, it was so cool to just sleep in silence until that time without headlamps glaring in my eyes and the scrunching of plastic bags and people packing up at 6 a.m.! I love these people! The elevation starts rising a little tomorrow and I'm excited to see what the climbs are like. No doubt they will be nothing like the Norté or Primitivo and, you know, I'm okay with that. I put in my time really sweating it out and loved every minute of it, but am feeling a little more tranquil now...like I've worked out more than just my body and can relax now. It's a good feeling.

I love you all and miss you very much!

Talk soon. Peace.

Kim

Next Steps

kimlyons — Sun, 6 Oct 2013 03:33:00 GMT

Hola Todos!

Well, here I am...back in Santiago de Compostela with a still a week ahead of me until the arrival of my good friend Kathleen and our two weeks together while she is on vacation from work! And so, what is a woman on a limited budget to do with a whole week in Spain? Walk some more, of course! Tomorrow I will catch a bus to Ferrol and walk the Camino Inglés...a shorter Camino, only 4 or 5 days in length and just over 100kms. You can´t beat the cost of Camino living...the municipal albergues are only 6 euro a night and if I can shop at primarily supermarkets I find, on average, I`m spending about 16 to 20 euro a day. The exchange rate is wicked and I´ll have spent more money that I counted on, but what can you do? How often am I actually going to get to spend 3 months abroad? I´m just going with it and trusting that I´ll get on track financially when I return...

I can hardly believe I´ve already finished my first walk across the first half of the Norté and down the entire Primitivo! Wow! Where does the time go? As I said before, I really loved the Norté, but have found the Primitivo to be an entirely different experience altogether. The route was challenging and mostly beautiful. The Hospitaliaras Mountains were spectacular and for the first time in my life I saw wild horses...very moving to be around these gorgeous animals, born free and completely untouched by humans! However, the evidence of real poverty showed itself on this route, too...there was a ton of garbage scattered throughout the pueblos, the houses less well kept, the gardens weedy, the farm animals thin and hungry looking, dogs mangy and really, really smelly. Poverty is not pretty. I felt my heart break a little bit, knowing this country is going through very, very difficult financial times and not knowing what to do about it but to take it in and say a little prayer as I pass through.

The pilgrims were much different, too. The Primitivo only takes about two weeks to walk and, rather than be a spiritual journey for many of the pilgrims, I think, instead it was a vacation. And a vacation and spiritual journey are met with entirely different mindsets. I like my beer and wine, for sure, but I saw a lot of drinking, a lot of drunkness, a rowdier crowd than I witnessed on the Norté or the Via de la Plata and sometimes it was a challenge to accept the situation as it was. Once parted from Juan (who is actually just 64, NOT 65, my bad) I blasted off like a rocket and put another 30kms between myself and the group we´d be walking in tandem with for almost a week. Instantly I felt better, but then the Primitivo merged with the Francés, and suddenly I was inundated by pilgrims! Wow...so many people...it was quite overwhelming. And so, to try yet another route. One I expect will be far less travelled at this time of year. One on which I hope to find some silence and peace. I guess I shall see! I will let you know when I return...

Until then, I hope this finds you well and love you very much.

Sincerely,

Kim xo

Photos: Camino Primitivo

kimlyons — Sun, 6 Oct 2013 00:22:00 GMT

Starting Sept 23 and ending Oct 6, 2013

New Season, New Way

kimlyons — Mon, 30 Sep 2013 03:02:00 GMT

Hola Todos!

How blessed I feel by the heart warming responses I've received since my last post. Forgive me for not being in contact more frequently but up here in the mountains we are, quite literally, ofen in the middle of nowhere. And you know what? I'm really loving being unplugged. I spent a whole lot of time in front of a computer screen the past couple of years and having no electronics, no computer, no phone...is amazing. Not that I don't miss being is close contact with you...I do. But having been unplugged for 4 weeks now, it's become quite clear to me how much of a break my brain really needed. It is, apparently, my body's turn to be in maximum overdrive now and it's liking being behind the wheel. Man, I feel awesome. My knee told me that I had to stop putting so much pressure on it, the other and my calves and I'velearned to transfer the strain of the intense climbs to the larger hamstring and glut muscles and to let them do the big work. The rewards of tuning in are many...my injury is fully healed, I'm less tired at the end of the day and my ass looks awesome, if I do say so, myself :)

Since the passing of the Equinox and the switch to the Camino Primitivo I've been thinking a lot about transitions and what it is I have to learn from this new season...this new Way. What keeps coming is the message that it's time for me to really explore and harvest my strengths and hearts desires and to let that which does not serve me anymore fall away and die. This is a wondrous way of thinking, to be dwelling on strengths and desires when it's so easy to, instead, dwell on that which I feel must be improved or acquired. And the Universe is supporting me in this way of thinking! Everywhere, and I mean EVERYWHERE, I look, I see hearts. I see hearts in rocks, in clouds, in leaves, in piles of dung, in graffitti, in puddles...everywhere...everyday...many times a day. It's not as though I'm looking for them, they are just THERE, Follow us, they say. Follow us and don't worry about WHERE we are taking you, you can trust...just keep following. It is tremendously moving and wonderful. I point them out sometimes to Juan and he just shakes his head in amazement. Only you, Kim, he says...only you see this amazing thing.

Speaking of Juan, tomorrow (October 1) is his 65th birthday! Before parting Ways my dear new friend Valeri made a point of getting him a birthday card for us because he knew that Juan and I are almost always together (thanks, Valeri!) and I've been collecting messages from pilgrims that Juan connects with along the Way ever since. I plan on taking him out for champange and sweets tomorrow night and presenting him with the card. I think he will love it...but shhhh, it's a secret! ;) Out time together is quickly drawing to a close, as he must return to his home when we get to Lugo, in 3 or 4 days time. Afterwards I will travel the last few days in Santiago de Compostela by myself...but, of course, never alone.

I love you all and hope you're Way is as full of heart guided signs as mine.

Sincerely,

Kim xo

Random Thoughts

kimlyons — Mon, 23 Sep 2013 04:12:00 GMT

Hola Todos!

Wow! A whopping 40C today in Polla de Siero and yesterday, 35C! No complaining on my part, though, as I know most of you are living with much lower temperatures and only expect it to get colder! I am sending warm rays of sunshine your way! Generally, though, the mornings start off anywhere from 14C to 20C, so makes for lovely walking weather! The sound of cowbells (which can be found on, of course, cows, but also sheep, goats, donkeys and even horses) generally jingle off and on throughout our walks, the birds sing just for us, and there is always a fountain gushing with fresh spring water to be found just when we need it. We have been blessed with staying in some of the most charming and welcoming albergues, the beaches have been beautiful and clean, my skin is turning golden brown, and we are surrounded by lovely pilgrims (love to Valeri, Thomas, Pedro, Suzanne, Imke and Stephan!) who help to fill our afternoons and evenings with laughter and feasting...yes, the joy is flowing easily now!

The Full Moon was especially lovely. Up here in Asturias country the favourite drink is a tarte cider at only 4% alcohol and we drank!!! I taught the group a lovely full moon song our circle sings called ´Nyssa´and the sound of all our voices coming together under the pale glow of the moon was magical! I, and others, took turns singing other songs and we cheered and hugged and felt especially close for a little while. A very special time!

Today Juan and I turned off of the Camino Norte and onto the Primitivo way, which I´m told is an even more challenging route, but we are up for it! When once we could cover up to 6kms per hour on the Via de la Plata, we are lucky to travel 4kms per hour on this much more physically demanding journey. My body is thriving, though I did tweak my knee a little. I wrapped it for a few days, but now am simply taking good ole anti-inflammitories and, as always, applying Traumeel. No worries, all is well...

And so, how about you? Write me, talk to me, let me know how you are! Know I love each of you and think of you on this wondrous journey! Be well, walk with joy in your heart and a song at your lips!

Loving you!

Kim xo

PS sorry for the lack of photos, but uploading doesn´t always work so well from the libraries and public sites! Will post more when I can! xo

Photos: Camino Norte

kimlyons — Wed, 11 Sep 2013 02:07:00 GMT

The Camino del Norte: September 5th - Sept 23, 2013

Have a Laugh on Me

kimlyons — Tue, 10 Sep 2013 02:35:00 GMT

Day 6: Gernika

Without any real preparation and having spent three weeks working feverishly behind my computer before leaving, I´m so amazed at the tenacity of my body...it truly is a blessing! It´s as though the memories of my muscles have fully awakened and are saying ¨Hey, we remember this routine...and we LOVE it! Thanks, Kim!¨ Having already covered just around 120kms I feel great, have no blisters to speak of, and no injuries! Right on! That being said, it was raining and I fell today on wet, muddy concrete. I didn´t hurt anything but my ego. In fact, I had to laugh at myself walking around for the last 5 kms through the city of Gernika looking as though I´d crapped my pants. Whatever. I also wear a sportsbra while walking and have perpetual uni-boob.

So if you´re in need of a good laugh just think of me, walking through a country where no one knows me from Eve, with a big ole uni-boob looking as though I´ve shit myself.

You´re welcome.

Love,

Kim

I´m in Love! (and Thank you)

kimlyons — Sat, 7 Sep 2013 19:45:00 GMT

Day 3:

Hola Familia y Amigos!

I´m in love! I may only be into day three of my long walk, but the Camino Norte has truly captured my heart! :)

How is it that this love has risen so instaneously? Maybe it´s the salty ocean breeze on my skin. Maybe it´s the continous breathtaking views. Or maybe it´s watching children launch themselves into the ocean from the village piers while their parents chat and laugh with one another, looking on, or even joining them in the cool refreshing water. Maybe it´s being greeted by an entire community singing hymns at the top of a mountain, filling the valley with a mystical sound after a two kilometer uphill trek. Maybe it´s swimming in the ocean in my underwear and bra, feeling like a teenager again, and bathing in the sun. Maybe it´s mi compenero, Juan, inviting me to the home of his brother to eat and being treated like a member of the family, playing with his grand-niece and assisting his niece with her english. Maybe it´s the very beautiful albergues with suprisingly comfortable beds and amazing, friendly hospitalieros. Maybe it´s the feeling of having wrapped up all loose ends of my academic and personal endeavours and being able to walk with the sense that I am truly, wonderously, free.

Likely it is the magical combination of all of these things and more, that still lie outside of the realm of my comprehension.

All I really know, is that I´m truly thankful to be here. That I´m deeply grateful for the love, support and assistance demonstrated by my friends and family before I left...gifting me with their presence, helping me to pack and move, welcoming me with open arms into their homes during my transition. It was a busy, exhausting time and I could not have accomplished what I did without all of you. Many thanks. Know I think of all you and walk with you in my heart.

Big love.

Tu amiga,

Kim

Great Gratitude

kimlyons — Sun, 30 Dec 2012 16:35:00 GMT

Hello Dearest Friends and Family!

Six months later and it seems like a lifetime ago that I walked the Camino Via de la Plata, but it is still very much a part of my everday existence.

I am now in the throes of my thesis, tentatively titled: This peregrina's autoethnographic account of walking the Via de la Plata Way: A feminist spiritual inquiry in human transformation in leisure studies. Autoethnography is a method of research that moves from the researchers inner perspective to a broader, cultural reflection of the same experience. I am always writing...writing, writing, writing, and reading, and I have three part time jobs. I am a teachers assistant at the university, I have my own little business house-sitting, pet-sitting, dog walking and, in the summer, tending gardens. And the other is also a self-employment experiment following a paint crew and cleaning up after them, scraping windows and floors and the like, and it's not glamorous, but it pays cash. I live alone in a sweet and small apartment in Guelph in the province of Ontario in Canada. I love it. It is in the heart of downtown and I can walk everywhere. Life is quiet and though the Camino does, indeed, seem like another lifetime ago, I am still learning from it. And this thesis project is my way to give thanks for that journey and share the awareness and insights I continue to be blessed with.

The summer, directly following the Camino, was intense, but I was glad to be at home with all of my friends and family...you mean so much to me and make me feel like such a well-loved woman! I lost my head a little and had a rebound relationship. Then snapped out of it and put my whole self back into my thesis, where my attention needs to be because this is the most meaningful work I've ever done. It feels good to be working for myself and writing about a subject I feel passionate about! I'm applying for my Ph.D. this winter, but have no expectations or commitments around it. I'm just seeing what will happen and which universities I am accepted at. I'll know what to do when the time comes. After all, who knows what opportunity lies waiting around the next bend? I liken life to the Way now. I do the walking and just keep my eyes (spirit, heart) open for markers (which come in so many forms!). Life is much more simple and much more adventurous this way, I find!

It's imperative that you know how much I love each of you for reaching out and giving me that little nudge and even those big pushes to help me get to where I needed to be emotionally, physically and spiritually while I walked the Camino. For all of you who walked along side me energetically, symbolically and physically, I love you. It was a walk of a lifetime...but that journey was simply the beginning. I feel that the transformation has truly just begun. The greatest lesson I learned was that staying small serves no one and that I want to shine very bright.

This message of thanks is way overdue. As I read over your emails, each and every one, collaborating them all together as data for my study, I came to a few insights about this wondrous group who I call my Camino List. I recieved literally pages and pages of encouragement and well wishes! I can't help but be moved to near tears every time I look at them as a collection. You touch my heart, you beautiful, shining mirrors, you! Thank-you, thank-you, thank-you.

Here are a few quotes from a lot of you...though for confidentiality's sake, I've not included names. It's the consistent message of love and light, the collective atmosphere of the support I received that blows me away. I thought it would be interesting for each of you to see yourselves in the Other in a tangible way. I get to witness each of you as a mirror for myself and it feels very good to be able to share the wealth by offering you all a glimpse into one another, knowing I'm the hub of this wheel, but that each of you is a hub. Each of us outwardly affects a great many others. We truly are one...the web is truly spectactular. Never have I understood how truly important I am, how cared for I am, how many people I am capable of influencing at any given moment. Each of us holds this power. My personal goal is to wield that power with as much grace and tenderness as I can muster.

Prayers and Encouragement before embarking on my journey:

Best wishes on your journey, may you feel your connectedness to universal energies in every footstep.

I came across this quote in my comps reading, and it made me think of you: 'Teach us to take our hearts and look them in the face, however difficult it may be' – Sayer (1938). I hope this trip is everything and more you hope it to be!

Thank you for sharing your openness and acceptance of yourself with all of the circle before and after the sweat.This is a good teaching for the rest of us. I believe with all my heart that everyone will benefit from your respectful sharing. My prayer for you (and the rest of the circle) is that your journey will open the door to another level that will be a step to knowing the limitless Mystery thatwe are. I cannot say how this will happen for you, since we are all part of the Mystery and to think (logically) that our journey to completeness - our unlimited Creative Authentic Self may be different as we are all are in the expression of the Love that is the gift of Life.So this is my prayer for you - to find your true Light - your completeness, your Bliss - in YOUR Way. Miiguetch, Walk in the Light that you are!

I will miss you very much! Please take care and I will do the same. Safe journey friend. I decided to dig back into my Catholic roots to frame my thoughts to St. James. I hope that's okay :)

Prayer to St. James
In the Name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit
I pray to you, St. James, to keep my beloved friend, Kim Lyons
in your thoughts as she embarks on her Journey. Let her be
strong. Let her be healthy. Let her connect with others around
her and enable her to look deep within. Let her let go and be
free of all confines leaving her heart, mind, and soul open to
you, and all the beauty that may cross her path and enter her
life. Bring her wonderful dreams and experiences. Let her
call on you to feel safe and loved. Take her home safely.

Amen.

I want to wish you well on your journey. Know that all our hearts go with you and that we wish you happiness, growth, and understanding with each step you take. You are going to have a fantastic journey no matter what happens, but be sure to take the extra time to enjoy the moments as they come along. Create a sacred space around you as you travel so that you may feel comfortable and grow to take the inward journey at the same time. This is a time in your life when you can make it all about you, leave the rest of us behind and don't think twice about it. This is a time for you to nurture your soul and delve deeper into who you are and what you want to become. Stop to enjoy the small things, the call of a new bird, a light spanish breeze brushing across your cheeks and the way your muscles work collectively to move you ever forward on this long peaceful journey. I do hope that you find a peace you have not yet known on this journey and that you will be able to savour it, cherish it and bring it back within your soul. It is a long path you are taking both earth and spirit bound so be sure to enjoy the little revelations that happen along the way and the feeling of triumph at the end. I wish you a safe journey, one to heal your heart, bless your soul and let your spirit soar. While you may be walking alone, know that you have all the support and love from your friends back home, but do this for you and you alone.

Mesages of Healing and Support during my bought with tendonitis

I send you healing light and heart energy. Don't forget to breathe into the space in your ankle, give the pain room to express itself and to grow as large as it needs. Focus your attention there until it begins to shift. Be gentle with your whole being.

Your twin in exploring here. I'm sending you a message from my hurt to yours - dispel this energy because it's important not to dwell, not to linger and to focus on the journey ahead. We are all here thinking and rooting for you. Your many fans. Mend yourself and your hurt so you can continue to walk free with consciousness for new and great things for Kim Lyons. Ankle! Get strong and shake it off! You're have great duties ahead of you and should be well enough to undertake them. Be steadfast, heal, absorb the walk and work with the whole! Support Kim in her journey and she will tend to you with much love. Keep calm, carry on.

On an energetic level, according to Louise Hay, "Ankle problems are about inflexibility and guilt. Flexible ankles represent the ability to receive pleasure." For the left side of the body is receiving and the right side is about moving forward. The left is also governed by the feminine side. Not wanting to move in a certain direction in life. “I trust the process of life to take me only to my highest good. I am at peace. Bring your breath into your heart and do some Reiki on it. Whatever comes forth is ready to be shown, intergraded in your heart through compassion and forgiveness. Then thank the ankle for showing you this pain and giving you the opportunity to transform it. I’m sending you my love, some healing and a big hug…

Sending you all the love and healing I have in me. :) I'll spend some time tonight doing some meditative healing with the focus on your ankle.... and your heart. Go in peace, my sister. You have us all behind you.

nothing is ready to let go until it has received the healing it seeks. make space for the ankle by tuning into it. if it could speak, what would it say? what kind of thing does it capture in its ache? What is the character of its distress? (colour, shape, texture ... image ... ) Sit with it one breakfast, just your ankle and you, and the rest of the body, and ask it, what do you say this morning? Listen to it. Can't approach this inquiry too directly. Then, another time, sit with your heart. hi heart, beating its vibrations, notes that resonate through all of you, through trees, and rocks, and mountains, and caminos. How are you at this moment? If you could say some thing, anything to me, what would you tell me? hang out and listen. your job would be to just stay along, make space, and stay with. you don't have to know or figure anything out. tune into the body before you begin. see what stands out. work with that. see where it leads you. what it's saying. let it not make sense. that'll come. One of these evenings, as you are falling asleep, you will feel me slipping beside you, designing a healing swirl that allows all the parts to separate, to breathe, to just be there, hang out. When all the parts get heard, we do what we gotta do more easily, with more energy, leaning into the work, and gain momentum. Listen. what's that? just hang back and stay with. the knowing will come.

I did a short energy work ceremony and rebalanced your chakras. Try to be present with whatever experience you're having, and once you've allowed yourself to have it, don't be afraid to let it go.

I send you all my Love and energy every day straight from my heart. Hold it with you and call to it when you need to. I pray for you to be healthy and for great weather on the next leg of your journey.

Our thoughts and prayers are with you always. As I have known you since you were born I have every confidence that you will be able to complete your journey...

What an intelligent decision -- so often I get caught up in doing something out of obligation! Our bodies tell us what they want & need when are willing to listen. I was in a large, energetic crowd last night. Out of nowhere, your face appeared -- shining, laughing -- in that surprising moment, I thought -- Kim, take this energy!

Very wise choice Kim! It doesn’t matter that you took the bus. This journey is a symbol and coming across obstacles along the way is part of the journey. Overcoming those obstacles by making wise choices is what being successful is.

Im proud of you for so many things. Today I'm proud of you for taking care of yourself.

Hopping a bus while walking the Camino seems very poetic...almost Jack Kerouac-like ;-) ... and as always there is learning in each moment...

my Sister Warrior: My Prayers go out to you! You are an inspiration for all of us. Please remember, there is no failure, except to never have tried.You have exceeded most peoples expectations in having taken that first step. Go at your own pace, with Love, Respect and Forgiveness in your Heart.

I am doing all I can to send you some healing power and energy... I was blessed to complete a Reiki Drumming Certification last weekend and I will continue to send reiki drum healing from a distance to you. I hope it finds you well. You got this!

I just wanted to send you a message to remind you to trust that everything is working out exactly as it's suppoed to, with Devine blessings for everyone involved. Let go of any particular outcome and have faith. Evething that is happening is part of your healing journey. I not only ask that your physical body be healed, but that whatever emotion or situation that may be manifesting itself in physical form be healed also. Sometimes Spirit has something else in mind for us.

You're amazing- what a courageous strong wise women you are. I am with you, for we are connected and you live in my heart. I love you soooooooo much

WOW!!!! And this is only a smidgen of what I received! It's moving to put it all together on paper...for this is data for my thesis work. In re-reading your messages I see I am not alone in my beliefs of true interdependency and coexistence, of being able to exchange energy from near or far, of the collect consciousness that I feed and am fed by.

You sent me with prayers before I left, you prayed with and for me while I was on the Way, our voices, as one, speak loudly of the compassionate beings we truly are at our cores. We speak a language that is beyond language. It is the Way of the Heart. Thank you for loving me and caring for me while on my journey. Know you can call on me whenever you need me in return.

On December 21st, 2012, we gathered together at the Sacred Healing Fire to celebrate the arrival of the New Age! Here we are, together, in the emergence of a new, heightened consciousness! This collection of messages tells me that the circle I travel with (that's you all!) are the forerunners of this loving, heart-guided time! It is an honour to walk beside you in this lifetime. I see you, you beautiful being, and you are LOVE!

As was clearly the message at this month's Full Moon Women's Circle:

We are opening up in sweet surrender to the luminous love light of the ONE!

Happy New Year, loved ones!

With so much love and gratitude my heart bursts with it...

Kim xo

Photos: Paris

kimlyons — Fri, 28 Dec 2012 07:27:00 GMT

Thanks to Jenny J. for meeting me in Paris for my last 6 six days in Europe. Heading home straight from the Camino called for a transition, and Paris, France, was the perfect city for this!

Photos: Forests, Fields, Rivers & Mountains

kimlyons — Fri, 28 Dec 2012 06:33:00 GMT

A chronological gallery of some of the beautiful scenery along the Via de la Plata Way and the Finesterre/Muxia Way.

Photos: Albergues Along The Way

kimlyons — Fri, 28 Dec 2012 01:49:00 GMT

Via de la Plata

Photos: I Belong Among the Wildflowers

kimlyons — Thu, 28 Jun 2012 18:11:00 GMT

The beauty I found in the wildflowers along the way never ceased to lift my spirits. I highly recommend downloading this tune on a separate screen while perusing these pics: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ozgmyx919a4&feature=related We all belong somewhere where we feel free...

Photos: Ancient Architecture & Modern Day Graffiti: An Album of Juxtaposition

kimlyons — Thu, 28 Jun 2012 17:36:00 GMT

Angels Everywhere (The Gift of Trust)

kimlyons — Sun, 17 Jun 2012 06:24:00 GMT

The most important lesson that I have learned over the course of my travels is that the Universe loves me unconditionally. I am blessed to have known this for quite some time, but never has it been so ingrained and so clearly demonstrated as during this time abroad. Every single day I walked the Camino I had only to ask for what I needed and I was given exactly that almost immediately. From the little things, such as clothes pins or the sight of a marker during times of doubt that I was on the right path, to big things, like affordable shelter or safe companions, I am ever provided for by Spirit. Take for instance, my arrival in Zafra, day 7 of the Camino.

This is when my tendonitis was at its height. My ankles were red, angry and inflamed. The rain had poured down off and on all day. And because I had had to walk so slowly that day, there were no beds left at the only albergue in the city. I was not a happy camper. Sad, thinking that I would have to be separated from my companions, and in a lot of pain, all I wanted was a hot shower and a bed. Out of nowhere appears Paco. It's raining, but cheery Paco doesn't seem to mind. He walks right up to me and says in broken English, "I am your friend in Zafra. My name is Paco. What can I do for you?" Out of this world uncanny, right? So, Bea explains in Spanish that I need a hostel because the albergue is full, does he know where there is one close by? Of course he does! In fact, he'll walk us there! He takes me right to the door, tells me to have a good night and when I turn to thank him, he's gone. Poof! It gives me goosebumps just retelling the story. A heaven sent angel if ever there was one...

Another great example of the Universe conspiring on my behalf: my arrival in Paris.

Remember when I told you all that I had to make arrangements for my first night in Paris, that I was going to book a hostel? Well, I did. For the 13th of June. My arrival date, though, was the 11th. How does something like this happen? Who knows...bad oversight on my part. At any rate, I left the airport at 9 at night, caught the bus to Goussainville, and went to the Comfort Hotel there only to be told that there was no room for me. For that matter, there were no rooms in the entire area...I would have to take the train into downtown Paris. So, I cancel my reservation for the 13th (won't be needing that now will I?), take a deep breath, and walk to the train station 10 minutes up the (deserted) road. I felt surprisingly calm. Considering I'm not much of a city girl, don't speak French and that it was getting late, I found myself noticing how calm I was. I had an even heart rate, wasn't sweating, didn't demonstrate any signs of anxiety...and when I really sat with it I realized it was all because I was fully aware that this was just one more test of my faith and trust in the Universe, which, as I mentioned, I have fully down pat.I give generous credit to the Camino for this, I am not so sure I would have been as accepting of this situation had I not been fresh from the trail.

So, I board the train into the city and ask the Universe to please lead me directly to a place that I can afford, near an internet cafe so I can let my family know I'm safe, with a concierge that speaks some English. (Rule number one when speaking with Spirit, know exactly what you want or need.) On the train I show a man the approximate area where my apartment is (which was booked for the 12th) and ask him which train station I should get off at. Knowing the Bastille region will be expensive, I am relieved when he suggests a stop just prior to that region of the city. The train station is huge and there are many exits to many streets. I have no idea where the heck I am, so I go with my gut. I leave the station and intuitively turn left. Within two blocks I see a sign for an internet cafe pointing to the left, so, because it was one of the things I asked for, I go left. There are two hotels directly in front of me. One looks very expensive, I head for the other. It is now 10:30 at night, dark, and I am exhausted. I open the door and ask, "Parlez vous anglais?" The man replies "Yes" and I just know I've got a bed for the night. I ask him if he does, indeed have a room available. He tells me he just had a cancellation. And the price? 95 euros. Okay, well, the room at the Comfort Hotel was 77, so what's an extra 18 euros, really? However, I do ask if there is anything in the area that's a little more affordable. He immediately gets on the internet and looks for a room for me and, can you believe it folks, but the whole damn city of Paris was fully booked for that night! He looks up from his computer and says to me, "God must have sent you here". "Yes," I reply, "I believe he did."

Trust in the greater good in this world is my ally. I give thanks for angels on Earth. Life is a beautiful journey when you know you're well looked after, friends.

Love and Gratitude.

Kim

Photos: The Peregrinos I Loved Along 'The Way'

kimlyons — Wed, 13 Jun 2012 01:47:00 GMT

These are fellow peregrinos (masculine) and peragrinas (feminine) that I really connected with along the Via de la Plata, whether I walked with them 800kms or bumped into them at albergues once, twice, or many times...these are the folks who touched my heart.

Photos: The Many Markers of 'The Way'

kimlyons — Wed, 13 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Saturation

kimlyons — Tue, 12 Jun 2012 17:55:00 GMT

Hello Friends & Family,

I am in Paris now and what a journey it has been!

But first, my excursion to Finesterre.

Walking to the coast was ultimately just a reason for me to simply keep walking and thinking and feeling. Before I left Santiago I experienced a major heart connection with a very special man and didn't quite know what to make of it. Walking helps bring clarity, for me, so three more days felt necessary. I was also able to connect with Kari, Emmanuel, & Bill again and this felt really right. Kari is a woman who fully understands the peregrina mindset and the spirit the Camino infuses in one. She gave me permission to really contemplate some far-out dreams I'm dreaming lately and life will never be the same. My talk is no longer just talk, I am ready to walk my truth now. The past is the past; with every step I took over the 1000kms I walked I left bits of my old self behind. The butterfly is spreading her wings wide NOW. NOW is all that matters and i am astounded at what can be manifested in the moment!

Many heartfelt thanks to Kari, Juan S., and beautiful Peter...I love you all.

As for Muxia...it wasn't necessary. On my way to Finesterre it rained the entire day, the whole 6 and a half hours. The wind was strong and it was chilly. I tried hard to keep my spirits up and walked alongside Christopher, who did the same, but it was wearing. By the time I arrived at the albergue, I was saturated, both literally and figuratively. Soaked to the skin, cold, all of my possessions wet and heavy, and so saturated with feelings and insight that it was as though Spirit was telling me that enough is enough, Kim. Time for you to absorb and dry out, take it in now, right down to the cellular level! Your Camino is over. It's over. And, yet, I feel like the real journey has just begun...

Loving you all,

Kim

The Way Will Not Deliver You to Happiness, Rather Happiness is The Way

kimlyons — Tue, 5 Jun 2012 22:05:00 GMT

Day 40: Santiago de Compostela and My Final Day of the Via de la Plata

Hello Dear Friends & Family!

I have walked alone for 114kms without folly or strife and have experienced a powerful and lovely transition over these past four days! I am very ecstatic to report that I am a fully liberated woman! Walking solo has been exhilerating and Juan and I could not have parted at a better time. The Way from Ourense to Santiago is very well marked and extraordinarily beautiful! I have had absolutely no problems manouevering the trail! On Sunday I walked a whopping 40kms by myself without seeing another single pilgrim! Yesterday, 36kms. The forests have been enchanting, the birds sing just for me, and my body feels as though it is soaring! I have absolutely no pain anywhere in my body and my spirit is dancing! I have manifested lovely people all around me at the albergues and again here in Santiago! I feel super fit, strong, and I am brimming with joy!

Last night was the full moon and I enjoyed an incredible night with 5 lovely individuals! Kari from Ottawa(!), Sandra from Brazil,and Bridgette, Emmanuel, and Bill from France. We feasted on pasta, tomato and avacado salad, empanada, wine, bread, chocolate pastry, fresh cherries and champagne! And did we deserve such extravgance! The final four kms of our walk was straight up, smack dab in the heat of the day, and we had to carry our groceries in our packs as there was no market anywhere closer to the albergue! Just knowing that today would bring us to Santiago was reason enough to endulge and we did! We had a wonderful evening! Today I walked the final leg of the Via de la Plata (a mostly uphill 16kms) with another lovely young man named, ironically, Juan. I can hardly believe my journey along the Via de la Plata is over. I don't think it's really sunk in yet.

Today I have been again reunited with Renata (I love this woman!), the same Italian woman that I befriended over my last three days in Santiago and will meet with the same group as above tonight at 8pm for drinks and tapas. I am staying at a beautiful albergue right in the heart of the city that is always, always booked full to the brim, yet they just happened to have one single bed left when I arrived just before noon today that I've booked for two nights. I have much to do before Paris, including booking a hostel for the night I arrive, laundry, and, hopefully another blog post...and it is forecasted to rain tomorrow so will also stay in Santiago for an additional day and head out to walk the Finesterre-Muxia Way on Thursday. I have seen the mountains and the plains...I am ready for the coast! On Sunday afternoon or Monday morning I will return to Santiago for the last time and fly out to Paris Monday night. Life is so sweet. I hope that, wherever this finds you, dear loved one, that life is equally good for you.

Lovingly,

Kim