My energy is fast fading when a car pulled over. The driver enthusiastically said, “Santiago!” He handed me a bag with a bottle of cold water and 2 chilled apples. Just what I needed. Just what a dozen other pilgrims needed today and also received.
When the scenery is dull, bits and pieces become notable. I walk zig-zag to claim patches of shadow. Weaving along provides different perspectives.
Name that bark.
Walking by yourself has a freedom of spirit. There is spontaneity in each step. How I need and enjoy walking solo.
An unexpected death in Christian’s family brings grief and a sorrowful interruption to his Camino. Today we speak of our new memories. Tomorrow he begins his journey home to be with family.
What pilgrim can resist a swimming pool? The perfect end for a walk began two hours before sunrise. Opting to walk on asphalt roads shaved distance. It is the first day without vacancies at a shorter distance.
The smell of olive oil hangs in the air. Olive oil factories with their huge barrels and vats dot the road. Here the people hand-pick the olives.
Morning fog lifts revealing wooded hills. I could not resist the first ripe fig spotted. I reach out and the fig drops to my fingers. Heavenly. Fig Newtons never tasted like this.
The coolest morning yet brought foggy conditions. It added to scenery.
By 10:00am, September’s sun gets my attention. By noon, I’ve added a long sleeve white shirt to keep off the sun and flies. By 1:00pm, I’m taking frequent breaks in the rare patches of shade. By 2:00pm, I hoping to be checked into my accommodation, to be showered, to have clothes washed, and to have eat my first real meal of the day. At the end of the day, a swimming pool to soak my mummy-wrapped toes is a real bonus.
Linda Scandore 