I first started this travel blog nearly 10 years ago, visiting my daughter, Julia, as she was immersed in a semester abroad in Florence, Italy. We had the pleasure of chasing after her through the streets of Florence, like a whirling dervish taking us on a journey of culinary delights. It was a wonderful adventure, but I actually had another destination in mind …to eventually make it to Santiago de Compostela. I wanted to see for myself the extraordinary arrival of these modern-day pilgrims, exhausted from their spiritual trek, on the Camino of their choice, and then finally entering Santiago by foot or by bike.

Witnessing these sacred expeditions made me wonder about spiritual journeys in general and why people embark on them. We did make it there, thank goodness, and we watched so many fall to their knees in tears, even kissing the ground, having successfully completely their journey. So very moving.

Like the travelers along the Camino we stumble along through our days, and one day alone can change our world suddenly. In the very week of her arrival I was busy in my own little world of water, having received an honorary award, it was but a day or two later that Nora Rose made her entrance. Arriving at 28 weeks, astonishing us all, and becoming a little disruptor of schedules. At first some doctors thought it might be possible to delay her entrance, but she would not have it. And as much of an abrupt and astounding moment it has been for her mom and dad; it has also awakened our tribe of family and friends. Marveling at the miracle of this birth, at just 2 lbs. 11 oz., and sharing concerns too.

Thankfully, I was reminded by my brother that this is actually what occurs in human development and at her age, rapid human development.

“You might recall images of embryonic development from your high-school biology textbook: In a predictable progression, a fertilized egg morphs into a ball of cells, then a bean-shaped blob, and then, ultimately, something that looks like a baby. The truth is, though, that the earliest stages of human development are still very much a mystery.”  – Kristen V. Brown

Abrupt awakenings are never anticipated. But this one made us marvel at the synchronicity of coincidences. For example, the new resident pediatrician being a friend of our families who went to school with our kids and has a sister, a nurse, we all know and admire. What about the remarkable support of friends praying for little Nora’s well-being. Countless prayers from Alicia, Kimberly, and dozens of others.

Eventually I heard some music playing in my head, “Embryonic Journey” by the Jefferson Airplane from the late 60s. I was probably in my teens and somehow it resurfaced and seemed eminently iconic to the moment. Give it a listen…

And then there was the outpouring of support when Jenna quickly launched a GoFund me page. The stream of funds appearing within 24 hours, exceeding a modest limit. This was remarkable and provided a cushion to the unanticipated costs that arose at once. We are very grateful and comforted by the support and caring of so many friends and family, and even strangers who were so compelled.

And so, the focus stays on little Nora Rose and her development. Everything from blue lights, and kangaroo care by mom or dad sitting and cuddling, with funny gadgets hovering over her, checking this, checking that, making sure all systems are good.

And through all of it she remains invincible and seems quite determined to make her presence known. And I am reminded, and we all are reminded, of the tenacity of the human spirit …on so many levels. And grateful for the pilgrimage of this little being to make her mark on the world.