Perspective

"Most importantly, don't forget why you're out there. There's a reason for you doing it, so don't lose sight of that." -Minkey from the Camino forum

We are almost a week from leaving and I feel like I am trying to anticipate every disaster that could befall us on this trip. Blisters, cold weather, full refugios... I keep worrying we may get caught unprepared.

Minkey's comment sort of woke me up again. The purpose of the Camino is not to prepare for every eventuality. You can't do that in life and you can't do that here. You have to learn and be open to what God brings you.
The Camino is a test for you, your family, and those you meet along the way. For the individual, it is most evident because you have to walk each day, manage your own physical needs, and be able to motivate yourself to continue tomorrow. Hopefully also you will find ways to make the lives of others you meet better along the way. This may happen by becoming a friend, helping fix a foot, cooking a meal, sharing some soap, or just lending an ear. Sharing this type of love is part of being a Christian.
Secondly, your family also has a test during the Camino. those you leave behind have to keep the family life going without having everyone there. This means more chores and less time for themselves, but it also means more worry. Is everything OK? How are they doing in Spain? Your family at work also has to cover for your time away. This means more work for them and lack of knowing what your plans or expectations may have been.
Lastly, those you meet along the way are tested by you and the cultural, emotional, and spiritual baggage you bring on the Camino. Not everyone you break bread with is going to share your love of lacrosse, or desire to wake up early. I am told I snore, so that surely will be a test for others;)

But the purpose for our Camino is for Caroline and me to share this common experience before she fully matures into an adult, and give us both the chance to strengthen our relationship. I want to make sure I don't lose sight of that.