This is the ancient capital of the Basque region, with medieval atmosphere in its narrow streets. It is nestled in the foothills of the Pyrenees at the “foot of the pass” pied de port. The population of 1800 serves the many Pilgrims that converge on this village.

George and I had a couple of days to contemplate our task at hand, pick a route, get our packs ready, and start walking. Since we arrived three days early, there was much to see and food to eat. I think my favorite part of France is eating! Everything they say about French Cuisine is spot-on. It’s delectable and the sauces that they create, are out of this world. Even George is becoming a Foodie! That is saying a lot about a guy who typical goes for burgers and fries.

Not that there’s anything wrong with that, but eating a bowl of edamame, beets, radishes, cabbage and very little meat is not his typical fare. Yet here in France, he is stretching his palate and embracing the wonders of white asparagus and veal. I’m quite impressed, and hopefully all this good quality food will knock the cold he acquired. Poor guy isn’t feeling 100 percent. I’m sure partly stress and a little bit of running around chasing me, is contributing to his downright malaise. But he is getting in some extra sleep as I write this blog and he’ll be up and out in no time flat.

We spent three days in St. Jean and ran into many Americans and Canadians. This couple above, plan to leave the same day that George and I will take foot. You can always pick out people from the US because, well they speak English. When someone hears another speaking their native tongue, you become quick, fast friends. We’ve met quite a few from US, but the one person I had no idea I’d run into was Kerri from the Sacramento Chapter of American Pilgrims. She is donating a week of time, checking in people at the Pilgrims Office. When we walked through the door, I about yelled her name out. She recognized George and I but had no idea who we were. Kerri and Andy are the leaders of our Sacramento Chapter. During the past three years, we have been to countless presentations about the Camino and all that this traveled path has to offer. The magic, the spiritual aspect, the healing and the friends that you make along the way, just to name a few. We both had our Pilgrim Passports stamped, heard of all the tales and woes that the recent rain and snow has brought. But most importantly, we received our good luck hug from Kerri. We were all smiles when we left the office. What an unexpected gift to see her in St. Jean!

After indulging in many tasty beers, drinking numerous glasses of wine, eating indescribable meals and walking every square foot of SJPDP, it is finally time to take off on our spiritual journey. We have planned and trained, and now, rain or shine, this dynamic duo are embarking on the longest trek we’ve ever done “together.” God-willing and the creek don’t rise, the Baraga’s will be taking our first steps on the Frances, come what may. Stay tuned and please pray for our health and safety along “The Way.” Ready or not, here we come…