July 3, day 9

Depart 9:10, arrived hotel 5:35 pm. 18.12 miles today.

Fortunately, the last six miles were somewhat shaded and the last three miles were primarily level. Previously there was plenty of uphill and downhill. That’s the kind of walking that hurts, and is typical of The Camino.

Thanks to all my friends for the snacks and ailment products. Caleb and I continue to thoroughly enjoy the snacks. The knee brace will be put to use for Caleb today. I only had ace bandage in my day pack for him yesterday. The red scarf has kept the sun off his neck. But I got custody of the scarf today.

We both have very unusual tans and I expect it will be a long time before either of us can blend them. The price of 8-9 hours in the sun, despite sunscreen.

Ready for the day

Caleb is struggling with feet, knees and ankle. We’re wrapping them as best we can and he’s been a real trooper despite the pain I’m sure he’s feeling. I’m tired but no issues as yet.

Surprisingly, I am physically doing just fine so far. Almost hate to put that in writing🥴 since we know the universe plays mean tricks.

Having lots of space in the casita yesterday turned out to be a two-edged sword. At mile 2.5, Caleb realized he’d left a pair of shorts and a tee shirt in his bathroom. Silver lining – lighter luggage.

Leaving Los Arcos

Today is a long one, I try not to tell Caleb how many miles we have each day. He is, however, persistent. The last few miles are the worst.

Conversation drifted to friends who have passed recently. We had a chat about Eric Moss (friend to us both) and Megan Alexander – I worked with her in San Jose. Lovely memories of both of them, and teary for me. The beauty of nature makes you a little emotional, I think. By the end, we were laughing and smiling about all our lovely memories of them.

Olive trees everywhere.

Walking with braces
We found two chairs along the way

Some interesting sights today

Random wall
Little plaza but no town

Still upright

Having a laugh

Passed Fr. Dave and friends a couple of times today. We won’t be seeing them again as they are staying two days in Logrono. Miss them already.

Lunch at a roadside stand. Food and drink worthy.

Met another priest here. Originally from El Salvador, but currently at a parish in Roswell, GA. He was quite impressed with Fr. Dave traveling in full black cassock. Not surprising that we are running into priests, as this is still considered a spiritual pilgrimage.

Caleb decided we should go to Burger King for dinner. I have no words. Wait…I do. The crunchy chicken sandwich was pretty good and I’ve developed a taste for Orange Fanta.

I wanted to go here, but Burger King it was.

Note- Entering our hotel earlier felt like we were in a war zone. Unpainted walls, stairs were exposed on the sides, wiring above our heads in full view. After we climbed up three or four flights we found the reception area. It was in tact and quite normal. I hope they’re just renovating and this isn’t what it always looks like.

We were advised that breakfast is down the street at a coffee shop. Can’t wait.


Leave a comment