Wifi at last!

Let me first say, I have not figured out how to insert the photos so they make sense with the narrative so forgive and just guess where the picture fits in the story!

Yes, I live!  I have been without wifi since July 17 – 4 days. I must admit I had to do a bit of research to determine how long it has been. I have totally lost track of the date and day but the time of day remain relevant because I try to calculate how long I will be walking. Most days that is from 6 or 7 am until 2:30-5 in the afternoon. I must say this is far more rigorous than I had anticipated. Maybe I said that before but it is very much the case.  The paths up and down from the coastal towns to the Camino paths are steep and often rocky. I actually think I prefer the ups to the downs in terms of wear and tear on the body. I follow the way markers and arrows. I have come to trust that just as I think I may be off the Way, a yellow arrow appears to reassure.

Despite my best efforts and preparation I have blisters!  An important part of my developing

Camino ritual involve the morning and evening care of my feet. All in all, I’m doing great!

The last three nights I have stayed at the municipal Albergues Pelligrinos (the pilgrim hostels)  they are free except for a donation, usually 5 Euros ($5).  They have showers, washers and an occasional dryer, and between 20 and 40 (although some are apparently larger) beds – cots or bunks. I am attaching a typical picture taken from my bunk – 8 young men, a young woman and me occupying a room for 10. Mostly the travelers are in their 20’s or 30’s, from some part of Europe but many Spaniards, spending their vacation doing a section of the Camino.  It surprises them to learn I am from the U.S.  and intend to complete the Camino.

The night before last I stayed in the Albergue in Markina  it was Sunday and there was a festival.  Alfredo, a man from Murcia convinced the hospitaller (who presides over the Albergues), to extend the 10 pm curfew so we could go the festival. A group of us went out for “cider” and pinxtos (like tapas but eaten standing at a table outside the bar).  So much fun.

It is interesting how quickly the human creature establishes a routine even when in such foreign surroundings.  I think about all of you often. Sooz, I think I now know where your beloved goats and burros go when they leave this world in Oregon. I have seen them in the woods in Spain high on forested trail happily chewing the vegetation or fat and happy in a lush field. This must be heaven for such creatures.

I have not thought about work but have about all of my friends and co-workers frequently.  I know that as arduous as the days can be (and I am not exaggerating, they are tough – Jan, this would be right up your alley!) it is such an incredible experience; the things I have seen, people I have met, and the time to both think and learn about how I respond to the challenges I have faced has been incredible.  There is nowhere to turn except to yourself when faced with something hard or even scary.

The process of simply moving forward is at times a remarkable thing.

Enough for now  I will select a couple of photos to share from the last few days