August 31, 2026—whew, it’s been a year! Time to take a break.

We (Mary (or MJ) and myself) are headed to Porto, Portugal. We will be in Porto for a few days exploring and acclimating to the time change. Then we are on an adventure: E-bike from Esposende, Portugal to Santiago de Compostela, Spain. This route is the Coastal Camino and our journey is 138.56 miles (223km) in distance. We will divide the ride into 5 days. Folks have made this/similar pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela for 1000 years; each person with their own reason/purpose. Some pilgrims walk, others bike.

I’ve felt a strong desire to complete an achievement this year…well the opportunity is here. Every time I talked about the pilgrimage, I would get emotional. It took me some time to understand my emotion.

It has been a trying year for my mom, Patty. The rough road started in the fall last year. It’s been a year of ups and downs for her, yet she has remained incredibly strong and resilient. Mom has been an inspiration. Her example has gotten me through some training days where it would have been easy to say no. So with her example, I am dedicating my e-bike ride on the Camino to my mom. She is riding with me. I am carrying her photo with me. She is with me.

My mom and I do not agree on everything, but one thing we both strongly agree on is: we love and care about each other. And that is truly all that really matters.

So, the adventure begins today! Thank you Mary for your support, companionship, and willingness to go on the pilgrimage with me.

SO WITH THIS, LET”S ROLL MOM!!!

Off we go!!!
Mom (Patty)

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Responses

  1. ldstuart56 Avatar
    ldstuart56

    What a grand journey you are embarking on! Best of luck to you!

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  2. ldstuart56 Avatar
    ldstuart56

    Best of luck on your grand journey, and be safe out there!

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  3. Laura Albert Norman Avatar
    Laura Albert Norman

    I ❤️this! Can’t wait to follow along your pilgrimage! Have fun, y’all!

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  4. saladfortunatelyc93814bf03 Avatar
    saladfortunatelyc93814bf03

    Beverly, This brought tears to my eyes! What a beautiful way to honor your mom’s resilience. She is going to be the wind at your back the entire 138 miles. Have the most incredible adventure out there, you two. Take it all in, and Buen Camino! Roll on! Love you both!!

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  5. magnificentcat6bd544b9a0 Avatar
    magnificentcat6bd544b9a0

    What a great undertaking! Hope every mile is fulfilling. Enjoy!!

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  6. elegantboldlyf9a3d05556 Avatar
    elegantboldlyf9a3d05556

    So proud of you all! This is going to be epic! And I love that Mom is along for the ride. What a journey it is sure to be. Tara

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