Off to the see the wizard...the wonderful wizard of Madrid!
Happy shopping day...more scrumptious paella and off to the airport we go!
I have loved my time in Spain...I will still be processing a lot of what I have seen and done...not to mention mulling over the thousands of photos!
Its time to head back to the real world...looking forward to my bed.
Adios Spain...thank you for the incredible adventure...amigos siempre!!
Tuesday, October 23, 2012
Day 32...18 October 2012
Early start to the airport to catch a flight to Madrid!
My dear friend Stick makes it onto the flight and is safely still accompanying me on my travels!
Madrid is busy...and you know when you are in a city when the beggars start to surround you!
We find Eva and Hostal Salome! Oh how gorgeous it is to be greeted by a welcoming face and a hot shower! Not to mention the luxury of a hair dryer!
Exploring Madrid is fun...different to recent experiences. The paella is out of this world and I vow to return tomorrow for my last dose of deliciousness! Prado art gallery is breathtaking...so much to digest...wish I had more time...more time for time!
Sadly we move on for some real Sangria! We get spoiled by many olives and chips to accompany our sangria...as well as a little dash of tequila...compliments of the cute barman!
Happy, I fall into bed...one more day...one more day!
My dear friend Stick makes it onto the flight and is safely still accompanying me on my travels!
Madrid is busy...and you know when you are in a city when the beggars start to surround you!
We find Eva and Hostal Salome! Oh how gorgeous it is to be greeted by a welcoming face and a hot shower! Not to mention the luxury of a hair dryer!
Exploring Madrid is fun...different to recent experiences. The paella is out of this world and I vow to return tomorrow for my last dose of deliciousness! Prado art gallery is breathtaking...so much to digest...wish I had more time...more time for time!
Sadly we move on for some real Sangria! We get spoiled by many olives and chips to accompany our sangria...as well as a little dash of tequila...compliments of the cute barman!
Happy, I fall into bed...one more day...one more day!
Day 31...17 October 2012
I have separation anxiety...I leave my backpack behind as we head out on a rainy morning to catch the bus to Finesterre...the end of the world!
I never knew how much I missed the ocean until I see it, feel it, smell it again! Deep breaths of aliveness!!!
I explore the village and run down to the beach! The water is warm in contrast to the chilly air. One brave soul has the courage to enter the water! I can see why the pilgrims back in the day thought this was the end of the world...looking out I can imagine with ease being at Cape Point...the water extends all the way to the horizon! It is beautiful and tranquil and gives me an inner sense of peace knowing that I achieved what I came to do! Thank you Finesterre for gracing us with dry skies!
Last night in Santiago treats us with another night of rain...pity as I would have like to explore Santiago a bit more. But no fun in the pouring rain.
I never knew how much I missed the ocean until I see it, feel it, smell it again! Deep breaths of aliveness!!!
I explore the village and run down to the beach! The water is warm in contrast to the chilly air. One brave soul has the courage to enter the water! I can see why the pilgrims back in the day thought this was the end of the world...looking out I can imagine with ease being at Cape Point...the water extends all the way to the horizon! It is beautiful and tranquil and gives me an inner sense of peace knowing that I achieved what I came to do! Thank you Finesterre for gracing us with dry skies!
Last night in Santiago treats us with another night of rain...pity as I would have like to explore Santiago a bit more. But no fun in the pouring rain.
Tuesday, October 16, 2012
Day 30...16 October 2012
Still wake up early even though I have set my alarm clock for later. Hardly slept. Just want to get there now!
When I get downstairs and see the other pilgrims drinking the usual morning coffee I suddenly get flutterbies in my stomach! Isaac and Christian have gotten up at 5am and are at our albergue already from Arca. I´m really glad we did the distance yesterday!
The 10km to Santiago fly by! I walk it alone and cover it in a flash! Smells like freedom!
Hit Santiago an hour and a half later and get into the queue at the pilgrims office for the compostela (ceritificate). The jubilation is tangible and feels like the papparazzi are there with all the photos being taken capturing this moment into the permanent memory bank!
The Camino still feels a little unreal...feels like I still need to walk tomorrow...or the desire to! The mass was long and the only interesting thing was the swinging incense!
The outside of the church is old and beautiful but I find the inside gawdy and lavish...unappealing!
Checked into the peregrino albergue which is basic and expensive for what we get...but this is what we can find in this storm and have no choice!
I miss our friends and sad we won´t see them again as the weather has dampened the festivities!
I hope the Spanish bergie enjoys the clothes and makes good use of them!
To the end of the world and beyond....
When I get downstairs and see the other pilgrims drinking the usual morning coffee I suddenly get flutterbies in my stomach! Isaac and Christian have gotten up at 5am and are at our albergue already from Arca. I´m really glad we did the distance yesterday!
The 10km to Santiago fly by! I walk it alone and cover it in a flash! Smells like freedom!
Hit Santiago an hour and a half later and get into the queue at the pilgrims office for the compostela (ceritificate). The jubilation is tangible and feels like the papparazzi are there with all the photos being taken capturing this moment into the permanent memory bank!
The Camino still feels a little unreal...feels like I still need to walk tomorrow...or the desire to! The mass was long and the only interesting thing was the swinging incense!
The outside of the church is old and beautiful but I find the inside gawdy and lavish...unappealing!
Checked into the peregrino albergue which is basic and expensive for what we get...but this is what we can find in this storm and have no choice!
I miss our friends and sad we won´t see them again as the weather has dampened the festivities!
I hope the Spanish bergie enjoys the clothes and makes good use of them!
To the end of the world and beyond....
Monday, October 15, 2012
Day 29...15 October 2012
Last day before Santiago...it is electric!!
Many pilgrims start early...it is a beautiful morning...just right for walking! Thank you Ribadiso for your hospitality!
I set out on my own and have a super walk...so many interesting conversations...so many different theories. The kilometers fly by!
I loved the one reasoning of why there are such amazing people on the Camino...we have time to listen to each other...really listen! We are a compasionate being...but we have forgotten to listen to each other. Here we only have time to listen! Its what really counts.
The 32km walk to Lavacolla goes by with such ease as I pass through such amazing territory...so peaceful through the forest that I don´t even notice that I ´miss´ a town! The beauty astounds!
Last 10km to Santiago tomorrow is met with intrepidation...yes, I´m looking forward to finishing...no, I´m not looking forward to this being all over!
I soak in as much as I can from my environment...it is going to be so hectic tomorrow...I have saved my crying day...but I don´t think I will be able to save it past tomorrow!
We at least have our own room tonight...so hopefully a good sleep and well rested for the moment tomorrow. Looking forward to who I see tomorrow...some old faces many new! And excited to put on my jeans that have been sent to me!
Many pilgrims start early...it is a beautiful morning...just right for walking! Thank you Ribadiso for your hospitality!
I set out on my own and have a super walk...so many interesting conversations...so many different theories. The kilometers fly by!
I loved the one reasoning of why there are such amazing people on the Camino...we have time to listen to each other...really listen! We are a compasionate being...but we have forgotten to listen to each other. Here we only have time to listen! Its what really counts.
The 32km walk to Lavacolla goes by with such ease as I pass through such amazing territory...so peaceful through the forest that I don´t even notice that I ´miss´ a town! The beauty astounds!
Last 10km to Santiago tomorrow is met with intrepidation...yes, I´m looking forward to finishing...no, I´m not looking forward to this being all over!
I soak in as much as I can from my environment...it is going to be so hectic tomorrow...I have saved my crying day...but I don´t think I will be able to save it past tomorrow!
We at least have our own room tonight...so hopefully a good sleep and well rested for the moment tomorrow. Looking forward to who I see tomorrow...some old faces many new! And excited to put on my jeans that have been sent to me!
Sunday, October 14, 2012
Day 28...14 October 2012
Blame it on the rain, yeah yeah!
Pouring throughout the nights and most of the day! So the 26km today was through beautiful terrain but couldn´t take photos as I don´t have an underwater camera!
The Santiago excitement is tangible in the air and on the pilgrim´s faces. So close now...but caution must still be taken.
Stop for lunch in Mielide which is famous for pulpo...octopus! Very interesting...the suckers have a very weird texture.
The last 6kms were enough to Ribadiso. Should have walked an extra 3km with the Belgians to the next town...but this is where we will stay. Nice albergue but no facilities. So after wine and an ice cream...bed!
Pouring throughout the nights and most of the day! So the 26km today was through beautiful terrain but couldn´t take photos as I don´t have an underwater camera!
The Santiago excitement is tangible in the air and on the pilgrim´s faces. So close now...but caution must still be taken.
Stop for lunch in Mielide which is famous for pulpo...octopus! Very interesting...the suckers have a very weird texture.
The last 6kms were enough to Ribadiso. Should have walked an extra 3km with the Belgians to the next town...but this is where we will stay. Nice albergue but no facilities. So after wine and an ice cream...bed!
Day 27...13 October 2012
The mist is thick and beautiful! We skip Portomarin and join the way over the bridge.
The silence of the forest is shattered by the mindless slackpackers with their backpacks safely transported to their next destination. They do not have a care or care!
My first tortilla and tomato boccadillo. Filling for the day. The mist hangs low and only clears late. I´ve lost my glasses in the forest! Can I not even have a meal on my own?
A new type of patience is being taught to me on the camino.
Just before our last break for Palas de Reis...Karl arrives. He has left his dad behind and is a changed man. He is titanium!
The guy who shows us to our rooms in the albergue we check into shows Karl to his room on the 1st floor. He then leads us up 2 more flights and I complain that the girls should be on the 1st floor after a days walk.
He shhhh´s me and says look before you speak. Short sharp lesson straight to the face!
He leads us paradise. A bunkbed in our own room! Oh wow oh wow oh wow! I hug him...he tells me to call him! :-)
Shower, clothes washed, pizza in the belly, quick chat to the Belgians...yes of course we are in the same albergue...we take our stalking profession very seriously!
The silence of the forest is shattered by the mindless slackpackers with their backpacks safely transported to their next destination. They do not have a care or care!
My first tortilla and tomato boccadillo. Filling for the day. The mist hangs low and only clears late. I´ve lost my glasses in the forest! Can I not even have a meal on my own?
A new type of patience is being taught to me on the camino.
Just before our last break for Palas de Reis...Karl arrives. He has left his dad behind and is a changed man. He is titanium!
The guy who shows us to our rooms in the albergue we check into shows Karl to his room on the 1st floor. He then leads us up 2 more flights and I complain that the girls should be on the 1st floor after a days walk.
He shhhh´s me and says look before you speak. Short sharp lesson straight to the face!
He leads us paradise. A bunkbed in our own room! Oh wow oh wow oh wow! I hug him...he tells me to call him! :-)
Shower, clothes washed, pizza in the belly, quick chat to the Belgians...yes of course we are in the same albergue...we take our stalking profession very seriously!
Day 26...12 October 2012
The mist mystifies...and makes me wanna dance!!!
The rain stays away and the sun comes out to play. The slackpackers have also come out to play! Sarria is the starting destination of most of the Spanish. The bare minimum that they have to walk to obtain their compostela. Seems like the Spanish like to do the bare minimum in life! The Camino that is revered in Spain is lost on these individuals who only want the compostela for their CV. The meaning is totally lost. The take away nothing and their minds are as littered as the landscape they disregard! It is sad and annoying at the same time.
We have a short walk today...just 20km to Portomarin...but wait...what is that I see in yellow paint in my path...stadig...kyk links...we have arrived at the SA albergue and Transvaal litigation is still the custom! So kak and betaal! We are declined the opportunity to use the bathroom as it is for peregrinos who sleep over only. After 45min deliberation we use the bathroom. It is great but the shower looks even better. Only 8 beds...mmmm...this could be nice. After another round of discussions we are convinced by twisting the rubber arm...we are staying for the night.
The evening menu is altered just for us to incorporate a rib braai!! The shower is more than incredible...it has jets massaging you! Pure bliss...oh how the camino allows for small pleasures! Once our clothes are washed, we are in the kitchen helping prepare dinner! The neighbour Carmien arrives for quality control. It is too festive. Banter is thrown around and lettuce is fetched from the next door garden!! The food is prepared and the ribs are on the fire...feels like home just before we go home!
We are 5 pilgrims, Gordon (hospitalero), Merv and Rev (volunteers)...and of course the curious neighbours. A feast is prepared and it is amazing!
The neighbours want me to drive them to the Lugo festival and I would love to...but not so sure on being caught without my license! Marie Carmien gets fed up and leaves. But Carmien stays and has us in fits of laughter! I love this community living. Gordon and I stay up late chatting and the conversation flows freely as though old friends. I really hope to see him again.
Vilacha has warmed my heart and I´m sure this is not the last I see of you.
PS - A beautiful old toothless man gave me a flower today...my soul is blessed!
The rain stays away and the sun comes out to play. The slackpackers have also come out to play! Sarria is the starting destination of most of the Spanish. The bare minimum that they have to walk to obtain their compostela. Seems like the Spanish like to do the bare minimum in life! The Camino that is revered in Spain is lost on these individuals who only want the compostela for their CV. The meaning is totally lost. The take away nothing and their minds are as littered as the landscape they disregard! It is sad and annoying at the same time.
We have a short walk today...just 20km to Portomarin...but wait...what is that I see in yellow paint in my path...stadig...kyk links...we have arrived at the SA albergue and Transvaal litigation is still the custom! So kak and betaal! We are declined the opportunity to use the bathroom as it is for peregrinos who sleep over only. After 45min deliberation we use the bathroom. It is great but the shower looks even better. Only 8 beds...mmmm...this could be nice. After another round of discussions we are convinced by twisting the rubber arm...we are staying for the night.
The evening menu is altered just for us to incorporate a rib braai!! The shower is more than incredible...it has jets massaging you! Pure bliss...oh how the camino allows for small pleasures! Once our clothes are washed, we are in the kitchen helping prepare dinner! The neighbour Carmien arrives for quality control. It is too festive. Banter is thrown around and lettuce is fetched from the next door garden!! The food is prepared and the ribs are on the fire...feels like home just before we go home!
We are 5 pilgrims, Gordon (hospitalero), Merv and Rev (volunteers)...and of course the curious neighbours. A feast is prepared and it is amazing!
The neighbours want me to drive them to the Lugo festival and I would love to...but not so sure on being caught without my license! Marie Carmien gets fed up and leaves. But Carmien stays and has us in fits of laughter! I love this community living. Gordon and I stay up late chatting and the conversation flows freely as though old friends. I really hope to see him again.
Vilacha has warmed my heart and I´m sure this is not the last I see of you.
PS - A beautiful old toothless man gave me a flower today...my soul is blessed!
Friday, October 12, 2012
Day 25...11 October 2012
Rain rain go away come again another day!! This is the first time I have ever slept in a room with a radiator and my clothes haven´t dried!
So...its raining, we fight cow pats as they try to slip us up, its pitch dark, the wind is howling...but I´m a walking!! Insanity confirmed!
Shame my heart goes out to a Korean girl who had her crying day today...the sobbing as I went by was of "This is NOT what I signed up for!"
So this pretty much sets the tone for the day...rain, a little rain, a lot of rain and while we at it...lets have some rain! Poncho´s are tedious!
Took the "short" route through the forest...just a little 10km swim down the roads. So beautiful and fresh. So fresh that I could have kissed the restaurant owner at the top of the hill when he offered a warm plate of food!
The last 8km to Sarria were pedestrian and found a really nice albergue with a fire place for much welcome warmth! Super snacks and early to bed.
Can´t believe it is the last week...slow down!!
So...its raining, we fight cow pats as they try to slip us up, its pitch dark, the wind is howling...but I´m a walking!! Insanity confirmed!
Shame my heart goes out to a Korean girl who had her crying day today...the sobbing as I went by was of "This is NOT what I signed up for!"
So this pretty much sets the tone for the day...rain, a little rain, a lot of rain and while we at it...lets have some rain! Poncho´s are tedious!
Took the "short" route through the forest...just a little 10km swim down the roads. So beautiful and fresh. So fresh that I could have kissed the restaurant owner at the top of the hill when he offered a warm plate of food!
The last 8km to Sarria were pedestrian and found a really nice albergue with a fire place for much welcome warmth! Super snacks and early to bed.
Can´t believe it is the last week...slow down!!
Day 24...10 October 2012
Oh glorious day! Sleep was brilliant...even though the beans lived up to their name! Thank goodness for the window close to my head! Happy days are here again...may they last!
The landscape is fantastic! It could have been Magoebaskloof at the start of the day! The brambles are back...the figs are back...the vines are back...we have free roadside snacks! The mountains are back! Woo hoo!!
So steep climbs today through the natural forest. Breathtaking awe-inspiring! Walking is definitely easier when your mind is off the road.
We have a week left and I´m not ready for the world without ear plugs and rolling my bed!
We treat ourselves to our own room in Fonfria and who do we find in the dorm...Team Belgium! So awesome to catch up with them! Great reunion as the Hungarian catches up to us as well! Now where is the Lithuanian?? I love Camino life!
The landscape is fantastic! It could have been Magoebaskloof at the start of the day! The brambles are back...the figs are back...the vines are back...we have free roadside snacks! The mountains are back! Woo hoo!!
So steep climbs today through the natural forest. Breathtaking awe-inspiring! Walking is definitely easier when your mind is off the road.
We have a week left and I´m not ready for the world without ear plugs and rolling my bed!
We treat ourselves to our own room in Fonfria and who do we find in the dorm...Team Belgium! So awesome to catch up with them! Great reunion as the Hungarian catches up to us as well! Now where is the Lithuanian?? I love Camino life!
Day 23...9 October 2012
The rain in Spain falls mainly on the plains...we must have on the plains most of the day! Just call me Liza!
A good nights sleep does one wonders!
The route was misread and managed to walk on the road route today instead of the mountain route. Thank goodness for rio Valcarce to drown out the din of the highway! The gushing water and spectacular scenery made up for it! We had the MOST breathtaking sunrise this morning. The pure complexity of it left completely speechless! Words fail...and the rainbow adorns the sky bringing new hope and promise!
Met up with Paulos (the other Lithuanian) and was good to catch up with him a bit. This man on a mission left us after buying us coffee...so much more energy now that he has given up smoking!
The 24km walk to Vega de Valcarce was not bad but lost the usual crowd. I´m happy to have an early day as we have a huge climb tomorrow...the steepest in the shortest time on the Camino. Booked into the Brazilian albergue. It is quite pricey but the promise of a meal that is differs from the regular peregrino ensamble, sells me. The meal did not disappoint!! Full of flavour...salad with salad dressing made with chickpeas and green apple...rice with garlic, cabage coleslaw style, salsa, orange pieces, chorizo, beans, bacon, onion...nom nom nom! Dessert was plain white cake slice covered with chocolate with a sauce on the side...peanuts, coconut, milk and sugar cooked for 3hrs into a caramel...divine!
Well worth it!
A good nights sleep does one wonders!
The route was misread and managed to walk on the road route today instead of the mountain route. Thank goodness for rio Valcarce to drown out the din of the highway! The gushing water and spectacular scenery made up for it! We had the MOST breathtaking sunrise this morning. The pure complexity of it left completely speechless! Words fail...and the rainbow adorns the sky bringing new hope and promise!
Met up with Paulos (the other Lithuanian) and was good to catch up with him a bit. This man on a mission left us after buying us coffee...so much more energy now that he has given up smoking!
The 24km walk to Vega de Valcarce was not bad but lost the usual crowd. I´m happy to have an early day as we have a huge climb tomorrow...the steepest in the shortest time on the Camino. Booked into the Brazilian albergue. It is quite pricey but the promise of a meal that is differs from the regular peregrino ensamble, sells me. The meal did not disappoint!! Full of flavour...salad with salad dressing made with chickpeas and green apple...rice with garlic, cabage coleslaw style, salsa, orange pieces, chorizo, beans, bacon, onion...nom nom nom! Dessert was plain white cake slice covered with chocolate with a sauce on the side...peanuts, coconut, milk and sugar cooked for 3hrs into a caramel...divine!
Well worth it!
Tuesday, October 9, 2012
Day 22...8 October 2012
I struggle...I get no sleep...I even struggle through my scrambled eggs! The 17km of rocky downhill does nothing to improve my mood!
Ponferrada doesn´t come soon enough. As much as I would like to walk the further 17km I do not have it in me to resist the bus.
Cacabelos provides a practical albergue. "Twin rooms" with walls that do not reach the top...but more privacy than usual. The guys struggle today...it was not an easy road through the towns. It is a hard slog.
The teasing is incessant...as a family would do. I feel content with this crowd and I have a feeling we are not going to hit Santiago together...but I hope this is not the last I see of them. The kinship developed is one of old and I desire to meet where they come from. On the camino you only know as much as someone tells you...but the bond is strong for the duration.
Our time is nearing the end and with heartsore emotion I realise so much has happened, but yet I crave more! I am not ready to return to the world without earplugs and blisters just yet!
Ponferrada doesn´t come soon enough. As much as I would like to walk the further 17km I do not have it in me to resist the bus.
Cacabelos provides a practical albergue. "Twin rooms" with walls that do not reach the top...but more privacy than usual. The guys struggle today...it was not an easy road through the towns. It is a hard slog.
The teasing is incessant...as a family would do. I feel content with this crowd and I have a feeling we are not going to hit Santiago together...but I hope this is not the last I see of them. The kinship developed is one of old and I desire to meet where they come from. On the camino you only know as much as someone tells you...but the bond is strong for the duration.
Our time is nearing the end and with heartsore emotion I realise so much has happened, but yet I crave more! I am not ready to return to the world without earplugs and blisters just yet!
Day 21...7 October 2012
21 days to form a habit...super habit I have going on here!
Fantastic sleep and the BEST breakfast EVER!! Enjoyed the 1st eggs and sausage on the Camino so far!! It is normally dry toast (they don´t believe in butter here...Dad you would not survive!) and coffee! So this is going to be the best day of the Camino with that breakie to start off the day!
The terrain is changing...ever changing...mountains are on their way and I am ready for them!
It is a long hot day and we catch up to the Belgians who stayed 5km ahead of us. Team SA vs Team Belgium. I overheat going up to Cruz de Ferro and have to remove the legs of my trousers...something I haven´t done for a while on the camino! It is so good to feel the freedom. I lay my stones and shells at the foot of the cross with them I leave my burdens of life behind.
We meet another SA girl, Donna. She started on 29 August in SJPP. Wish I had that amount of time at my disposal. The guidebook was misread and the place we are meant to stop at does not have water...after 27km in the heat and dust...I desperately need a shower...so we trup on for another 7km. As we pass the no water albergue we notice the ´letrine´across the road...
The terrain is rough and I struggle. After an hour I leave the path and walk on the road. My camino angel picks me up as I crumble and I make it to Acebo!
The albergue here is below average but my spirit is done for the day. Our meal is awful and the water gets switched off until 07:30 the next morning. Sleep is restless and fitful. I can not be of sound mind without sleep. As we don´t have water I have to explain how to flush the loo with a bucket of water to everyone´s amazement!! What would the world do without Saffas!!
As the French princess must learn to back off...Acebo I´m happy to leave you behind!
Fantastic sleep and the BEST breakfast EVER!! Enjoyed the 1st eggs and sausage on the Camino so far!! It is normally dry toast (they don´t believe in butter here...Dad you would not survive!) and coffee! So this is going to be the best day of the Camino with that breakie to start off the day!
The terrain is changing...ever changing...mountains are on their way and I am ready for them!
It is a long hot day and we catch up to the Belgians who stayed 5km ahead of us. Team SA vs Team Belgium. I overheat going up to Cruz de Ferro and have to remove the legs of my trousers...something I haven´t done for a while on the camino! It is so good to feel the freedom. I lay my stones and shells at the foot of the cross with them I leave my burdens of life behind.
We meet another SA girl, Donna. She started on 29 August in SJPP. Wish I had that amount of time at my disposal. The guidebook was misread and the place we are meant to stop at does not have water...after 27km in the heat and dust...I desperately need a shower...so we trup on for another 7km. As we pass the no water albergue we notice the ´letrine´across the road...
The terrain is rough and I struggle. After an hour I leave the path and walk on the road. My camino angel picks me up as I crumble and I make it to Acebo!
The albergue here is below average but my spirit is done for the day. Our meal is awful and the water gets switched off until 07:30 the next morning. Sleep is restless and fitful. I can not be of sound mind without sleep. As we don´t have water I have to explain how to flush the loo with a bucket of water to everyone´s amazement!! What would the world do without Saffas!!
As the French princess must learn to back off...Acebo I´m happy to leave you behind!
Saturday, October 6, 2012
Day 20...6 October 2012
Oh what a night!! Sick guy snoring up a storm and the Asians getting up at 4 to leave at 5AM...not really considered to be my best night of rest yet!
We pass through Astorga today and decide to have a short day...22km and lay our heads in Murias de Rechivaldo. Exhaustion seeps through the cracks and I will conquer it tonight as the 30km hike up the mountain lays ahead tomorrow!
The hip pain kicks in...but only because I forgot to listen to my most awesome physio and add the 2 layers of duct tape in my shoe...once that was sorted...pain sorted!!! Incredible!
Stones get deposited soon...I look forward to releasing the burden in many ways!
Cruz de Ferro...I´m coming...welcome me with open arms!!
We pass through Astorga today and decide to have a short day...22km and lay our heads in Murias de Rechivaldo. Exhaustion seeps through the cracks and I will conquer it tonight as the 30km hike up the mountain lays ahead tomorrow!
The hip pain kicks in...but only because I forgot to listen to my most awesome physio and add the 2 layers of duct tape in my shoe...once that was sorted...pain sorted!!! Incredible!
Stones get deposited soon...I look forward to releasing the burden in many ways!
Cruz de Ferro...I´m coming...welcome me with open arms!!
Day 19...5 October 2012
Yay...there is an offroad route to discover today!! Hospital de Orbigo here we come...an extra 3km never hurt anyone!
It feels almost like walking in the bush today...well almost...just doesn´t smell like the bush!
The long road is broken by the Slovakian´s comical sense and accent...Borat is on Camino with us!
Tapas is on the menu again. The Belgians join us which is spectacular! So easy going and warm and interesting! Everyone has their quirk and wanting to import donkeys from Botswana for sausage seems to be theirs! Each to their own!
I know I am ignoring my blister...but it is multiplying...blister upon blister! I am assured that if I continue popping them it will eventually get bored and move along...preferably swiftly!
It feels almost like walking in the bush today...well almost...just doesn´t smell like the bush!
The long road is broken by the Slovakian´s comical sense and accent...Borat is on Camino with us!
Tapas is on the menu again. The Belgians join us which is spectacular! So easy going and warm and interesting! Everyone has their quirk and wanting to import donkeys from Botswana for sausage seems to be theirs! Each to their own!
I know I am ignoring my blister...but it is multiplying...blister upon blister! I am assured that if I continue popping them it will eventually get bored and move along...preferably swiftly!
Day 18...4 October 2012
Very disappointing to have to catch the bus to Leon this morning...but maybe not THAT disappointed as it was one of those non inspiring roads again! Little toe is not happy, but I have decided to ignore it and it might go away!
The tour of the cathedral was actually really interesting. Built in the 1200´s. The architecture still facinates me. Such detail...just wonder at what cost to the common folk?
Walked the last 7km of the day to Virgen de Camino. Little peeg still aggravated and I would like to set it free!
The albergue is average but most of the regulars are here, bar one new pilgrim from Utah!
Still a little over the pilgrims meal, so find a supermarket and cook up an awesome pasta...which we share with Martin! I really enjoy it when the pilgrims get together and share...share life...share memories...share wine and a meal! The kitchen table is where all the great discussions happens...especially when dark chocolate is involved!
Christian is a writer and Karl is a philospher and start the most interesting conversation...David and Laurent join after their dinner pour their wealth of knowledge into the conversation. My brain cells are alive...it has been a while.
Sleep is blissful....
The tour of the cathedral was actually really interesting. Built in the 1200´s. The architecture still facinates me. Such detail...just wonder at what cost to the common folk?
Walked the last 7km of the day to Virgen de Camino. Little peeg still aggravated and I would like to set it free!
The albergue is average but most of the regulars are here, bar one new pilgrim from Utah!
Still a little over the pilgrims meal, so find a supermarket and cook up an awesome pasta...which we share with Martin! I really enjoy it when the pilgrims get together and share...share life...share memories...share wine and a meal! The kitchen table is where all the great discussions happens...especially when dark chocolate is involved!
Christian is a writer and Karl is a philospher and start the most interesting conversation...David and Laurent join after their dinner pour their wealth of knowledge into the conversation. My brain cells are alive...it has been a while.
Sleep is blissful....
Wednesday, October 3, 2012
Day 17...3 October 2012
Oh how blissful the morning begins as one has had enough sleep for the night!!
I won´t be boring and tell you about the straight stripes...instead I will revel in the last 6km of our day...wandering farmlands, with mielies standing tall still to be harvested. Fluffy white cumulounimbus drifting aimlessly through the clear blue sky.
Such joy is taken in soaking up these sights and fantasies that I take a little longer to arrive at our destination.
Thank goodness I took my time...it delayed the shock and horror of a sweltering blister invading my small toe (little piggly is truly not happy). Did it have to be that aggressive and demand total domination...and on day 17???
The albergue has a peaceful garden where I partake in the medicine created for blisters and let it dry out in the glorious sun!!
The local pharmacy does not have any methiolate...but I manage to cut a small hole in the blister and pour some surgical spirits into it!!! Once I come to, it is dinner time and the vino tinto does the trick as well as some antibiotic ointment from some very kind pilgrims Rip and Anka from Germany/California!
So the saga continues tomorrow...and we will have to see if the antibiotic cream wins or the bus to Leon!
I am titanium...
I won´t be boring and tell you about the straight stripes...instead I will revel in the last 6km of our day...wandering farmlands, with mielies standing tall still to be harvested. Fluffy white cumulounimbus drifting aimlessly through the clear blue sky.
Such joy is taken in soaking up these sights and fantasies that I take a little longer to arrive at our destination.
Thank goodness I took my time...it delayed the shock and horror of a sweltering blister invading my small toe (little piggly is truly not happy). Did it have to be that aggressive and demand total domination...and on day 17???
The albergue has a peaceful garden where I partake in the medicine created for blisters and let it dry out in the glorious sun!!
The local pharmacy does not have any methiolate...but I manage to cut a small hole in the blister and pour some surgical spirits into it!!! Once I come to, it is dinner time and the vino tinto does the trick as well as some antibiotic ointment from some very kind pilgrims Rip and Anka from Germany/California!
So the saga continues tomorrow...and we will have to see if the antibiotic cream wins or the bus to Leon!
I am titanium...
Day 16...2 October 2012
So, I shared a room with the Olympic gold medalist in snoring...Well done Indiana...what a champ!! Is there no rest for the wicked??
The first 6km today were lovely ...crisp morning...beautiful sunrise!! Just perfect!! Past by a couple bodegas...Hobbits drink wine here...who could ask for more??? Except to be a bit shorter to fit through the doorway to partake in the wine!!
As for the rest...tar-sucking-feet-into-exhaustion type walking! All the straight stripe walking is good for is covering kilometers...and hoo baby did we just do that!! Another 32km behing the back and a little 5km power walk to finish off the day! We are the champions of the WORLD!! :-)
Change of plan on the menu tonight...instead of the regular pilgrims meal of soup/salad/pasta-chicken/pork-yoghurt/fruit/flan...which in itself is very tasty but somewhat monotonous...we did tapas!! A little tomato, cucumber, cheese, salmon pate, olives and a freshly picked fig...and of course the obligutory wine...we dined like queens!!
El Burgode Ranero is a fine place and the first place I managed to get some rest!
The first 6km today were lovely ...crisp morning...beautiful sunrise!! Just perfect!! Past by a couple bodegas...Hobbits drink wine here...who could ask for more??? Except to be a bit shorter to fit through the doorway to partake in the wine!!
As for the rest...tar-sucking-feet-into-exhaustion type walking! All the straight stripe walking is good for is covering kilometers...and hoo baby did we just do that!! Another 32km behing the back and a little 5km power walk to finish off the day! We are the champions of the WORLD!! :-)
Change of plan on the menu tonight...instead of the regular pilgrims meal of soup/salad/pasta-chicken/pork-yoghurt/fruit/flan...which in itself is very tasty but somewhat monotonous...we did tapas!! A little tomato, cucumber, cheese, salmon pate, olives and a freshly picked fig...and of course the obligutory wine...we dined like queens!!
El Burgode Ranero is a fine place and the first place I managed to get some rest!
Monday, October 1, 2012
Day 15...1 October 2012
So, we were in trouble with the nun last night for not attending mass!! David (Belgium) and I felt like school kids being sent to the principal´s office!!
We had a long 17km slog without encountering any town. My walk was broken with conversation with Martin (Lithuania) and Shayni (Hungary)...this always makes the distance a lot less. Martin is really tall and is speedy, so he lost us pretty early on! I love the conversation with all the different nationalities...so much diversity and interesting outlooks on life!
My little toe has had to be amputated and the little pig ran wee wee wee all the home! And then there were 9! Just as my feet have just caught up to me my little toe decides to fall off! Really, is this the best time you could have chosen for a tantrum??
The last 3km of our 27km walk today was meant to be along the road...I really don´t enjoy walking along the road...the endless tar saps my energy and replenishes none! So we take the "green" route which adds an extra 1km to our journey...what´s another 1km amongst friends! And the route along the river revives and restores!
Have to say goodbye to Hugh and Kay (Irish) today! They will complete the Camino another time. This is the second stage in their journey. They crossed the Pyrenees in snow in April...their journey is an interesting one! What amazing caring people with the Irish humour of course! So warm and welcoming!
Food was the pilgrims meal tonight...pretty average...but fills the belly for the energy needed tomorrow!
The weather today was fantastic and looking forward to another few days of amazing crisp mornings followed by sunshine to put a smile on everyones dial!!!!
We had a long 17km slog without encountering any town. My walk was broken with conversation with Martin (Lithuania) and Shayni (Hungary)...this always makes the distance a lot less. Martin is really tall and is speedy, so he lost us pretty early on! I love the conversation with all the different nationalities...so much diversity and interesting outlooks on life!
My little toe has had to be amputated and the little pig ran wee wee wee all the home! And then there were 9! Just as my feet have just caught up to me my little toe decides to fall off! Really, is this the best time you could have chosen for a tantrum??
The last 3km of our 27km walk today was meant to be along the road...I really don´t enjoy walking along the road...the endless tar saps my energy and replenishes none! So we take the "green" route which adds an extra 1km to our journey...what´s another 1km amongst friends! And the route along the river revives and restores!
Have to say goodbye to Hugh and Kay (Irish) today! They will complete the Camino another time. This is the second stage in their journey. They crossed the Pyrenees in snow in April...their journey is an interesting one! What amazing caring people with the Irish humour of course! So warm and welcoming!
Food was the pilgrims meal tonight...pretty average...but fills the belly for the energy needed tomorrow!
The weather today was fantastic and looking forward to another few days of amazing crisp mornings followed by sunshine to put a smile on everyones dial!!!!
Sunday, September 30, 2012
Day 14...30 September 2012
After two days of 30km each and now a day of 26km...my little toe just wants to run home!!
We arrive in Carrion to find 3 monasteries...1st one´s bathrooms were disgusting, so we give it a skip...2nd one was full but they direct us to the 3rd!! How amazing...no bunkbeds, just single beds and hot showers!!! The best news on the Camino!! Really appreciating the small things in life!
The men and women sleep separately so I am hoping for a good night with less snoring! Women snore too...but not quite in the same tones as men!
We arrive in Carrion to find 3 monasteries...1st one´s bathrooms were disgusting, so we give it a skip...2nd one was full but they direct us to the 3rd!! How amazing...no bunkbeds, just single beds and hot showers!!! The best news on the Camino!! Really appreciating the small things in life!
The men and women sleep separately so I am hoping for a good night with less snoring! Women snore too...but not quite in the same tones as men!
Day 13...29 September 2012
Our day started very wet! Full rain gear before we head out. We walk 10km and pass by the San Anton Hospital ruins. My soul aches for the sadness that lies within the ruins. An angel watches over this place...angels work overtime on the Camino.
I walk the next 10km on my own. It is exhilirating . I immediately meet up with Karl (German) and John (retired Navy American) I spend some special moments with them before I tackle a huge mountain. I conquer it on my own and feel a great sense of accomplishment! I enjoy the tranquility of being on my own.
The meseta is revealing its beauty. My breath is taken away!
I feel like my time for searching is running out...I think I need to stop searching and just be!
We find solace in an albergue in Boadillas behind a shady door! A hot shower and bed...more you can not ask for! Dinner is superb...lentil soup, meat stew with salad and NO chips!! This is the first main meal without chips!
I walk the next 10km on my own. It is exhilirating . I immediately meet up with Karl (German) and John (retired Navy American) I spend some special moments with them before I tackle a huge mountain. I conquer it on my own and feel a great sense of accomplishment! I enjoy the tranquility of being on my own.
The meseta is revealing its beauty. My breath is taken away!
I feel like my time for searching is running out...I think I need to stop searching and just be!
We find solace in an albergue in Boadillas behind a shady door! A hot shower and bed...more you can not ask for! Dinner is superb...lentil soup, meat stew with salad and NO chips!! This is the first main meal without chips!
Day 12...28 September 2012
Alice left today.
We left the city behind and entered the meseta...wasteland! The vastness of it creates an eeried wonder. The first 20kms went by very quickly...the next 7km were suitably tough and the last 3kms not pleasant in the rain!
The town of Hontannas is well camoflauged in the mountain.
Had to help an Irish guy...Damien...with his blisters...that were bleeding! His camino is over and my heart aches for him!
This wasteland facinates me and I even love the sunflowers that have died. They have an eerie beauty beyond their colour!
Stefan (French guy) found the Argentinian guy´s camera in the Church after he had lost it in the road! Faith in humanity is restored ever so slightly!
The Way is about peace...no need to talk all the time...not everyone understands that!
Sleep is futile on the camino...it is a luxury I look forward to.
We left the city behind and entered the meseta...wasteland! The vastness of it creates an eeried wonder. The first 20kms went by very quickly...the next 7km were suitably tough and the last 3kms not pleasant in the rain!
The town of Hontannas is well camoflauged in the mountain.
Had to help an Irish guy...Damien...with his blisters...that were bleeding! His camino is over and my heart aches for him!
This wasteland facinates me and I even love the sunflowers that have died. They have an eerie beauty beyond their colour!
Stefan (French guy) found the Argentinian guy´s camera in the Church after he had lost it in the road! Faith in humanity is restored ever so slightly!
The Way is about peace...no need to talk all the time...not everyone understands that!
Sleep is futile on the camino...it is a luxury I look forward to.
Day 11...27 September 2012
Beautiful sunrise this morning! No words to describe! So crisp and good to clear the mind of the fog!
Very, very thankful for the lack of wind even though the temperature is still very low.
Made it in good time to Burgos. Another 23km down. Burgos is the first city I can say is beautiful. The cathedral was built in the 13th century and is very impressive. It is a pity that the architectural ability has declined over the centuries. The craftmanship is incredible!
Enjoyed a churros with thick hot chocolate on the square. Thank goodness for cheap Chinese shops...bought a much needed beanie!
Very, very thankful for the lack of wind even though the temperature is still very low.
Made it in good time to Burgos. Another 23km down. Burgos is the first city I can say is beautiful. The cathedral was built in the 13th century and is very impressive. It is a pity that the architectural ability has declined over the centuries. The craftmanship is incredible!
Enjoyed a churros with thick hot chocolate on the square. Thank goodness for cheap Chinese shops...bought a much needed beanie!
Day 10...26 September 2012
The temperature has dropped to 7 degrees!! I am not equipped for this weather! The wind is howling and we decide to catch a bus most of the way and walk the last bit to a small little town of Ages. Spent most of the day indoors and it was freezing.
At least the albergue is super and has the best food! The host was incredibly amusing and took everyone´s minds off the following days walk in the icy winds. The hot chocolate did its trick too and warmed the soul!
Looking forward to the interesting walk tomorrow!
At least the albergue is super and has the best food! The host was incredibly amusing and took everyone´s minds off the following days walk in the icy winds. The hot chocolate did its trick too and warmed the soul!
Looking forward to the interesting walk tomorrow!
Day 9...25 September 2012
The winds of change are here! Walked to Belorado in icy gale force head on winds. Not what you would call pleasant!
Broke the monotomy of walking next to the highway for 5km by waving at the truck drivers! It is a big trucking route, so lotsa waving to be done!! Alice´s feet are too sore to walk so she went ahead on a bus and booked us into the most AMAZING room with only 3 beds for the same price as 50 beds!! So incredible to have our own space. It is an interesting town with houses cut directly into the mountain rock!
Played some cards with the local ladies...very interesting experience!
Broke the monotomy of walking next to the highway for 5km by waving at the truck drivers! It is a big trucking route, so lotsa waving to be done!! Alice´s feet are too sore to walk so she went ahead on a bus and booked us into the most AMAZING room with only 3 beds for the same price as 50 beds!! So incredible to have our own space. It is an interesting town with houses cut directly into the mountain rock!
Played some cards with the local ladies...very interesting experience!
Day 8...24 September 2012
Walked 21km to St Domingo. There is a father and son from Canada who keep overtaking us...the father is 69yrs old! Just amazing!
There are 2 gypsies whith a dog Chikita that pop up every now and then. Interesting to wonder about everyone´s lives outside of the Camino. On the Camino life is simple...walk, find a place to sleep, wash your body, wash your clothes, eat, sleep...repeat! No one cares how much you earn or what you do...we have the same purpose each day...keep on the road to Santiago!
Follow the signs...there are signs everywhere.
Alice brings much needed comic relief...even though she can barely walk with all her blisters! I need to find time to walk on my own...I feel so crowded and uneasy in the big cities...I find peace in the wilderness. It is comforting.
Even though my feet ache, the walking is rythmic and soothing...like the beating of a heart. A heart pumping blood over the land...enriching it with variety...replenishing it with strength. As we check into the monastery with the "donation" of 5€ I wonder what these skew floors and thick walls could tell us? In the silence I listen to the whispers of ancient past.
There are 2 gypsies whith a dog Chikita that pop up every now and then. Interesting to wonder about everyone´s lives outside of the Camino. On the Camino life is simple...walk, find a place to sleep, wash your body, wash your clothes, eat, sleep...repeat! No one cares how much you earn or what you do...we have the same purpose each day...keep on the road to Santiago!
Follow the signs...there are signs everywhere.
Alice brings much needed comic relief...even though she can barely walk with all her blisters! I need to find time to walk on my own...I feel so crowded and uneasy in the big cities...I find peace in the wilderness. It is comforting.
Even though my feet ache, the walking is rythmic and soothing...like the beating of a heart. A heart pumping blood over the land...enriching it with variety...replenishing it with strength. As we check into the monastery with the "donation" of 5€ I wonder what these skew floors and thick walls could tell us? In the silence I listen to the whispers of ancient past.
Day 7...23 September 2012
Decided to walk the full 30km to Najera. First 13km were fine and feet were feeling great!! The next 7km the feet were starting to ache. Pushed the last kms and really suffered!
Have checked into the municipal albergue, which is dodgy but a bed for our weary bodies!! Poor Alice has too many blisters! She was sorted out at the "blister bar" and had to pay in kisses!! This of course created much laughter from the crowd!!
Best spag bol tonight...only because we were super tired and cold!
Have checked into the municipal albergue, which is dodgy but a bed for our weary bodies!! Poor Alice has too many blisters! She was sorted out at the "blister bar" and had to pay in kisses!! This of course created much laughter from the crowd!!
Best spag bol tonight...only because we were super tired and cold!
Day 6...22 September 2012
Walked 13km to Los Arcos and caught the bus to Logrono to meet Alice! Very grateful for the rest as my feet are in dire need of it!
So wonderful to see Alice after 10 years! Still the same.
So wonderful to see Alice after 10 years! Still the same.
Day 5...21 September 2012
No sleep...the Church bells ring at quarter past, half past, quarter to...on the hour and 5min past...just in case you didn´t hear the on the hour ring!!!
Getting up earlier has its advantages...so peaceful. The sights and sounds are crisp and clear.
Another long and hot walk today. covered another 23km. All in all doing very well. My feet are bruised and very painful, but I will vasbyt! The highlight of the day was the wine coming out of the wall...this is not an illusion but true!! Pure bergie heaven!!
Mayor Monjardin is our destination tonight. We managed to get the last beds...well mattresses should I say...but it meant no snoring!! The Dutch owners are amazing and will be blessed for all the blessings that they give out!! And the meal included vegetables!!
May the road rise up to meet you
May the wind always be at your back
May the sun shine warmly on your face
Until we meet again may God hold you safely in His hands
Buen Camino!
Getting up earlier has its advantages...so peaceful. The sights and sounds are crisp and clear.
Another long and hot walk today. covered another 23km. All in all doing very well. My feet are bruised and very painful, but I will vasbyt! The highlight of the day was the wine coming out of the wall...this is not an illusion but true!! Pure bergie heaven!!
Mayor Monjardin is our destination tonight. We managed to get the last beds...well mattresses should I say...but it meant no snoring!! The Dutch owners are amazing and will be blessed for all the blessings that they give out!! And the meal included vegetables!!
May the road rise up to meet you
May the wind always be at your back
May the sun shine warmly on your face
Until we meet again may God hold you safely in His hands
Buen Camino!
Day 4... 20 September 2012
Breakfast this morning was fun with our dinner mates...amazing bond you form when you have the same purpose.
The walk today was somewhat trying. My patience is wearing thin. My skin is reacting badly to the heat and my feet swell like melons...soon soon I need to get used to this...will I ever??
My shopping excursion in Pamplona was fruitless...so await my towel from Alice!
Thought we would stop after 18kms as it has been a tough hot day on the legs and the feet are not co-operating. Alas, the guy who owns the albergue seems to be a drunk and fallen down 2 days ago and hasn´t opened the albergue since. So a lot of time was wasted waiting around trying to find out where to stay. A short trip to the next town was our place of refuge...3km is a very long way in this heat!
Dinner was super! Spinach soup was the best ever and the first vegetables that we have had! The hostess was a hoot! Am super tired as the guy who slept on the bottom bunk was very restless and kept me awake...and guess who is on my bottom bunk again tonight...VOILA...I kid you not!
The walk today was somewhat trying. My patience is wearing thin. My skin is reacting badly to the heat and my feet swell like melons...soon soon I need to get used to this...will I ever??
My shopping excursion in Pamplona was fruitless...so await my towel from Alice!
Thought we would stop after 18kms as it has been a tough hot day on the legs and the feet are not co-operating. Alas, the guy who owns the albergue seems to be a drunk and fallen down 2 days ago and hasn´t opened the albergue since. So a lot of time was wasted waiting around trying to find out where to stay. A short trip to the next town was our place of refuge...3km is a very long way in this heat!
Dinner was super! Spinach soup was the best ever and the first vegetables that we have had! The hostess was a hoot! Am super tired as the guy who slept on the bottom bunk was very restless and kept me awake...and guess who is on my bottom bunk again tonight...VOILA...I kid you not!
Day 3...19 September 2012
Larrasona was our starting point...glad to leave this town...felt somewhat ripped off!
Short 20km hop to Pamplona. Strangers in a strange land...big city life is somewhat overwhelming when you have been in the rural areas for a few days!
At least the fruit is a lot cheaper in the city! The apples were only R2.50 each and not R10 like yesterday!! Feet are aching but are taped, which gives support to the arches. Got my first blister...just a teeny tiny one...so had it sorted in a shot! Had such blessed moment when a downsy came up to me in the busy streets and said "Ola"...so I greeted him back and he said "Buen Camino" and gave me a big grin!!
Pushed through Pamplona and Cizur Menor to Zariquigui!! What a trek...but so worth it! Dinner tonight was the epitomy of the Camino! Lithuania, Germany, France, Norway and SA all around the table chatting and laughing and enjoying a good meal together! So worth the pain getting here! Love, love, love it!!
Short 20km hop to Pamplona. Strangers in a strange land...big city life is somewhat overwhelming when you have been in the rural areas for a few days!
At least the fruit is a lot cheaper in the city! The apples were only R2.50 each and not R10 like yesterday!! Feet are aching but are taped, which gives support to the arches. Got my first blister...just a teeny tiny one...so had it sorted in a shot! Had such blessed moment when a downsy came up to me in the busy streets and said "Ola"...so I greeted him back and he said "Buen Camino" and gave me a big grin!!
Pushed through Pamplona and Cizur Menor to Zariquigui!! What a trek...but so worth it! Dinner tonight was the epitomy of the Camino! Lithuania, Germany, France, Norway and SA all around the table chatting and laughing and enjoying a good meal together! So worth the pain getting here! Love, love, love it!!
Day 2...18 September 2012
Slept in the most amazing monastery in Roncevalles. So beautiful and clean and we each had our own cubicle.
Woken up at 06:00 by a chant...mainly to get up and outta there...but also to bless our journey to Santiago! (as you can see my Spanish is fantastic...on word of Santiago and I know they are blessing our journey...what else could they be saying at 6 in the morning!!)
To say this stage is gruelling is an understatement. I suppose with the after effects of yesterdays climb to the top of highest mountain in the ENTIRE world...it is to be expected that the feet might be in somewhat shock! Honestly...take yourself back to the time where your feet have been the most sore EVER and multiply that by at least 53! I am most grateful for the zero blisters, but there might well be blisters...I just think my feet do not exist anymore!! Is it possible to still have feet if you can´t feel them?
Today´s walk was through the forest and there was a lot of forest to get through...but in 30 degrees, the shelter was a welcom relief! The forest brought back many childhoos memories of visiting my grandparents in Magoesbaskloof...there were even brambles to feast on!! Pop has been with me most of the past 2 day and it is great to spend time with him.
We decide to push through to Lasarrona...to make up some time...or confirm that we are in fact crazy! We missed the last bed a the municipal albergue (hostel) so had to pay an exhorbitant amount for bunkbeds! The pilgrims meal was very expensive but at least delicious! Just not 100% sure about the tuna in the green salad??? Delicious beef stew and rice pudding...never to replace Mom´s of course!
I walk mostly behind...to be with my own thoughts...which are mostly of everyone back home right now.
Early start tomorrow...a bit of shopping for a new towel...I somehow managed to leave mine in Roncevalles! I seem to be very forgetful on this trip...is the ouderdom? Lets pray to be able to get up tomorrow and complete our journey!
Woken up at 06:00 by a chant...mainly to get up and outta there...but also to bless our journey to Santiago! (as you can see my Spanish is fantastic...on word of Santiago and I know they are blessing our journey...what else could they be saying at 6 in the morning!!)
To say this stage is gruelling is an understatement. I suppose with the after effects of yesterdays climb to the top of highest mountain in the ENTIRE world...it is to be expected that the feet might be in somewhat shock! Honestly...take yourself back to the time where your feet have been the most sore EVER and multiply that by at least 53! I am most grateful for the zero blisters, but there might well be blisters...I just think my feet do not exist anymore!! Is it possible to still have feet if you can´t feel them?
Today´s walk was through the forest and there was a lot of forest to get through...but in 30 degrees, the shelter was a welcom relief! The forest brought back many childhoos memories of visiting my grandparents in Magoesbaskloof...there were even brambles to feast on!! Pop has been with me most of the past 2 day and it is great to spend time with him.
We decide to push through to Lasarrona...to make up some time...or confirm that we are in fact crazy! We missed the last bed a the municipal albergue (hostel) so had to pay an exhorbitant amount for bunkbeds! The pilgrims meal was very expensive but at least delicious! Just not 100% sure about the tuna in the green salad??? Delicious beef stew and rice pudding...never to replace Mom´s of course!
I walk mostly behind...to be with my own thoughts...which are mostly of everyone back home right now.
Early start tomorrow...a bit of shopping for a new towel...I somehow managed to leave mine in Roncevalles! I seem to be very forgetful on this trip...is the ouderdom? Lets pray to be able to get up tomorrow and complete our journey!
Day 1...17 September 2012
Very glad to leave SJPP...too comercialised for my liking!
So...it was me, my backpack vs the Pyrenees!!! As much as I would like to say I owned the Pyrenees...it was pretty much the other way around! A 7hr walk turned into a gruelling 10hrs...but I am titanium!!
The spectacularness (yes, that is a real word) of the sights that lay before me, kept me going! The breath taking views left me speechless and got me through the next steep climb...and boy there were many! And of course there was the egg man at the top of one particularly steep climb...what a welcome relief...boiled egg for 50c...and other refreshments to vitalise your body!
No blisters to report on but very sore and tired feet and a buggered shoulder!! But such satisfaction and great sense of accomplishment I look forward to tomorrow´s challenge!
So...it was me, my backpack vs the Pyrenees!!! As much as I would like to say I owned the Pyrenees...it was pretty much the other way around! A 7hr walk turned into a gruelling 10hrs...but I am titanium!!
The spectacularness (yes, that is a real word) of the sights that lay before me, kept me going! The breath taking views left me speechless and got me through the next steep climb...and boy there were many! And of course there was the egg man at the top of one particularly steep climb...what a welcome relief...boiled egg for 50c...and other refreshments to vitalise your body!
No blisters to report on but very sore and tired feet and a buggered shoulder!! But such satisfaction and great sense of accomplishment I look forward to tomorrow´s challenge!
Finally the blog can emerge
Ok, so I know most of you have given up on me seeing as I haven´t posted anything for 2 weeks...but quite honestly...that first week I couldn´t walk to the nearest internet cafe and that second week...well...it was quite nice not to be behind a computer at all...so apologies for the wait, but I will try and keep it quite chronological and post each day separately!
Just to keep everyone on the right page, we landed in Madrid on the Saturday, 15 September 2012 expecting to catch a train to Pamplona and a bus to St Jean Pied du Port (SJPP) on the same day...but as we have learnt, the Spanish are not always so accurate with times, distances and signs...so we missed the last train to Pamplona and had to spend a night in Madrid and catch the 1st train out the next morning!
But as they say...on the Camino everything happens as it should!
And we were meant to be on the square drinking a ¨Garre¨of Sangria and listening to the live band play so beautifully!
So we managed to make the train to Pamplona...have a super breakfast of coffee and chocolate croissant at the change over station...and managed to leave my envelope of clothes I was going to post to myself on the previous train...so kind person who finds my jeans and clean undies...please pay it forward and put a stamp on my parcel for me to receive in Santiago when I complete my journey!
So our walk started on Monday morning very early after a night in SJPP. The hostel where we stayed was ok, but the lady who ran it was quite something! Not the most pleasant French woman I have ever encountered! It was a place to lay our heads...and enjoy one...not two cups of coffee in the morning!
Just to keep everyone on the right page, we landed in Madrid on the Saturday, 15 September 2012 expecting to catch a train to Pamplona and a bus to St Jean Pied du Port (SJPP) on the same day...but as we have learnt, the Spanish are not always so accurate with times, distances and signs...so we missed the last train to Pamplona and had to spend a night in Madrid and catch the 1st train out the next morning!
But as they say...on the Camino everything happens as it should!
And we were meant to be on the square drinking a ¨Garre¨of Sangria and listening to the live band play so beautifully!
So we managed to make the train to Pamplona...have a super breakfast of coffee and chocolate croissant at the change over station...and managed to leave my envelope of clothes I was going to post to myself on the previous train...so kind person who finds my jeans and clean undies...please pay it forward and put a stamp on my parcel for me to receive in Santiago when I complete my journey!
So our walk started on Monday morning very early after a night in SJPP. The hostel where we stayed was ok, but the lady who ran it was quite something! Not the most pleasant French woman I have ever encountered! It was a place to lay our heads...and enjoy one...not two cups of coffee in the morning!
Friday, August 24, 2012
The Reason
I truly believe we need to escape each day. Have time to ourselves, with ourselves, to go purposefully within ourselves. With that, many things occur. One recharges, not their smartphone battery, but more importantly, their own eternal battery. One detoxes from the day-to-day grind of society, removing the pollution of negativity and stress. Tapping into the vital life force that can be found only in the inner realms, one gets back on the path to one's true self. Like the energizer bunny, one is able to keep going and going and going...body revived, soul restored, spirit renewed. One has to allot time each day for this. If not, your chain slips, breaks, and no real forward momentum develops.
To truly travel is to travel within.
This is my time to escape...to energize...to gain strength...this is my time to travel!
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