I am back in the Pacific Northwest for a week now after our great trip to the Julien Dubuque International Film Festival.  And I am happy to report that I am now able to spell both Julian and Dubuque correctly.  It is a jewel of a festival in a jewel of a city.  I only expect that well kept secret to spread.

Annie and I went on this particular trip to represent “Phil’s Camino” in the Heartland.  It is a real privilege to be able to meet with folks that are attracted by the film.  And also Annie and I seldom get a chance to work together directly.

There we so many great folks that we met at and around the festival.  I don’t even want to start mentioning names as I would enevevitably leave out people.  People took us out to dinner and get togethers.  Other people took us on tours where we met other great people and saw the sights.

I want to thank the sponsors and the board of the festival.  They did a great job with the big picture.  And all the staff and the volunteers that we worked with daily were a dream and Iowa nice.  And the people of Dubuque were there to say hello and how can we help you.

Also special mention of the staff and Sisters at the BVM ( Blessed Virgin Mary) Motherhouse for their graciousness.  It was such a moving experience to be there among good friends of my beloved Sister Joyce.  That visit was priceless.

So, back here to life at the ranch, navigating through the hurtles of ordinary life, another version of real life.  I am fortunate to be able to go on these trips with the film and hopefully be a part of a gift of inspiration to folks that need it.  That’s all very rewarding and fun and high.

Reading  Richard Rohr’s and Terry Hershey’s blog posts and then off to walk our Monday morning session at 0900.  The best to you on this Monday, love, Felipe.