This trip and its significance is becoming very important to me. The pilgrimage seems to be taking on a life of its own. It has already allowed me to take risks and explore new things. It seems to be asking me to look at my experiences through many different lenses. Coincidentally I recently went to the eye doctor who strengthened my prescription, and I updated my glasses (all hail, Costco). Things are a lot clearer and crisper now. If you watched The Way, you know the parallel I am drawing. Lots of symbolism along the Camino.

In the LETTER link above, I asked if you would all send me an object to carry on my Way, one that symbolizes you. I am really excited to see the objects you choose and I am thankful you are willing to do this.

Dave responded to my letter immediately with words of encouragement and shared the items that he would send to represent his family. My niece, Elizabeth McEvoy Trimble (Liz), had her own ideas (as she should) and responded that she would be sending her own item.

I could hear her excitement and was very curious what it could be. She seemed to know immediately what she would send, and I received it in the mail a few days ago…a beautiful Saint Christopher medal!

I know that the St. Christopher medal is very hip right now. In fact, I think Liz may be wearing one in the picture above. She is very hip. And now I have my very own. But more than the style, I am deeply touched by the thought that went into the gift. Saint Christopher is the patron saint of travel and offers his protection to those who are on the road. Thank you, Liz, for sending Saint Christopher to watch over me. I know that you will be traveling with me too!

Equally touching is that Liz gifted her symbol to me. Kathy shared that Liz was going to send her own medal, but then decided to give one to me to keep. With the gift, she included a very personal note:

The message Liz sent with the gift moved me. Her words are kind, genuine, and thoughtful- very much like Liz herself. More so, the maturity of her sentiments struck a chord. I’m impressed that she understands that this is more than just a vacation and her sincere excitement for my adventure shines through. I learn a lot from Liz, as she is on her own Way of “self growth and learning.” From deciding not to play field hockey to the various self-care modalities she explores, Liz’s reflective nature allows her to expand. She is honest and open about her own journey, and she has given me the courage to share mine as well. I feel we are kindred spirits in many ways: we both like movies a lot, are prone to a bit of sarcasm, and feel life deeply. We also like a good party.

Thank you for my gift, Liz. I love it! And I will definitely do “whatever feels right.” I already have some ideas!

Love, Aunt Sheila. Buen Camino 🙂

Note: If you’d like to learn more about Saint Christopher, here is a link to a YouTube video https://www.youtube.com/watch?list=PL58g24NgWPIzvBk2IQVES_xC4WTm6-CDI&time_continue=1&v=cXI9z6Iu22A

Note: The disco photo was taken from Liz’s Instagram @ltrimble20