further than there, then back again

[Martin Ray]

Wow, Daniel -- you really inspire me.  & "no trouble at all", too!  I've
been wondering if I'm not biting off more than I can chew with this
camino, at my age.  Did you chew cocoa leaves? (I'd love to get some!)
I'm certainly no couch potato -- have a camp in Maine (Green Lake near
Ellsworth) and kayak there and hike in Acadia from July to mid-October
-- but when I do 5 or 6 miles, you can stick a fork in me, I'm done.
I've "walked" 10 mlles only once.  But to do 12.7 miles (20k), day after
day, is daunting!  Other than training like hell, please share some of
your secrets (anyone!).
       How long did it take, the initial SJJP to Santiago?  & back
again?  Did you take rest days, and how often if so?  Re pace each day
-- rest 15 min whenever needed?
       I guess there's no substitute for training, and though I've been
doing so, I'll just have to work up to about 15 miles, with my pack.
Thanks  -- Martin