Dear friends,
As promised, I can’t contain my excitement to share more about the incredible journey that our dear friend Bill, at the age of 70, is about to embark upon.
When he first confided in me about his pilgrimage, I was struck by a mix of awe and humility. From mid-May until the end of July, Bill will be setting out on a remarkable journey that will test his resolve and spirit, taking him through a myriad of challenges and accomplishments, all in the name of a noble cause.
I've been moved to support Bill in any way I can, and one way you can join me is by helping me see him off and welcoming him as he crosses the finish line.
In addition to showing our support, I'm also planning to interview Bill, and I would like to have his reaction before he sets out and when he completes his monumental pilgrimage.
While it's a logistical challenge, I'm committed to capturing as much as I can of his journey, and above all, sharing his accomplishments. I am sure they will be our accomplishments too, once the Camino has been trudged!
Your contributions to my venture can be made through PayPal at xandaone@lightshadowandink.com or click Pay Light Shadow and Ink using PayPal.MeAlternatively, you can become a paid subscriber here and/or explore the other tiers of subscription available. I won’t be able to do it without your support. However, my attendance at Bill's send-off and crossing the finishing line (notice how I've accommodated both US and UK preferences in these last four paragraphs) is not as important as supporting the project he is walking for.
I read Julie’s post, "Your Ideal Interview," and it gave me the idea to ask you for questions for Bill because there are always things that are important and specific to each one of us. I will be in touch with Bill, and possibly his daughter will join in on the interview, so don’t be shy.
Have you ever been to the Vatican?
If I do not manage to record a fresh off-the-cuff moment at the beginning and end, I will be providing updates, and we will certainly aim to conduct the interview at some stage, regardless of what happens. It may end up being a written post, but that is okay too.
With just about a month until Bill sets off, the anticipation is building, and I'm already mentally and physically training myself for the momentous occasion. The thought of witnessing Bill's determination and resilience firsthand fills me with great excitement.
But there's more to this journey than just personal achievement. Bill's pilgrimage is part of a larger movement, one that aims to make a tangible difference in the lives of others. By participating in our giveaway, not only will you have the chance to discover new books and authors, but you'll also be contributing to the construction of a dormitory for 60 young girls in Chattisgarh, India. It's an opportunity to give back, to make a real impact, and to spread happiness and hope to those in need.
And here's a heartwarming twist: Bill's daughter, Mia Belew, a talented 16-year-old author with six books to her name, is participating in the giveaway too. Maybe the interview should definitely be with both of them? This is where you can keep an eye out for updates: Little Pages League Podcast. And here, of course.
So let's make the most of this generous offer. Download the "START HERE" booklet, where Bill explains how you can pledge to the charity he's supporting for his 1250-mile pilgrimage. It's an incredible event to be a part of, and I, for one, am wholeheartedly pledging my support. No amount is too small because what matters most is that we come together, support one another, and witness the power of achieving something extraordinary, all for a greater purpose.
I was truly inspired when I received Bill's email, realizing that this is a promotion with a purpose. Or an extra purpose, I should say, as giving books to those who want or need them is purposeful in itself. I hope the adventure resonates with you too, and I look forward to seeing you all there, participating, and being excited about this wonderful project. And every week there is something else to be amazed about. Bill shared this with me last week:
'My training consists of walking, walking and walking. However, I wear a 20lb (9kg) weight belt when I walk to simulate what my backpack might weigh. I walk every day. I haven't missed since before Christmas when I set my eyes on the pilgrimage ahead. I average about 7-10 miles (12 - 16 km)/day and I never miss ... yet. In the past 85 days which is what I estimate it will take me to walk the full pilgrimage." I am trying to emulate some of what he is doing for if support arrives, I want to be ready too!
Hope to see you all there, here, participating and being excited about such a wonderful project. Don’t forget to read Julie’s post to get inspired and send me your questions compilation. The walk will take 85 days so there is much we can discover as the journey gets underway and progresses. Bill sets out around the 11 May and hopes to reach Rome at the end of July. This will be a ongoing project for us to follow.
Until next time,
Bee well,
Xanda