Depart Astorga 9:15. Arrive 3:40 pm. at Rabanal del Camino. 13.4 miles.
Just an fYI – the lit candle in the cathedral was for my mom. She would have been 94 yesterday. Sadly, she passed at age 57. Think of her all the time. šš
Last nights dinner was excellent. Caleb had oxtail and I had the fish in some local special sauce. Whenever the server says ālocalā I just nod yes and take my chances. I have yet to be disappointed. Dessert was something creamy and delectable. I canāt even describe it.
Calebās drink line up – water, Coke, wine. And thatās my wine in the foreground.
Back to the journey today. The trail early on was hardly I memorable.
However, there were a few bright spots later in the day. Plus the entry into Santa Catalina de Somoza welcomed us with their lovely church.
Just when we said the walk was boringā¦
Hereās a conversation with a 14-year old I probably donāt want to have again. Caleb: Those trees are erotic. Me: excuse me? Caleb: Theyāre not evenly lined up, so they arenāt tree-farmed. Me: You mean erratic? Caleb: Yeah, same thing, right? Me: Sure, maybe you better look that up later though. (I didnāt have the energy to explain)
And then the trail got nasty
Got to our hotel to find out we had to walk back to the beginning of town to check in at the local restaurant. Undaunted, we had sangria while we regrouped before heading back up the hill to our hotel – which is a 400 year old house converted into a guest house. Very cool.
I forgot one of the other fun things we passed. This albergue is on the way into our last stop, and they advertise that they only serve breakfast for pilgrims. My peopleā¦
We didnāt stay here, but both Caleb and I agreed that it would have been worth trying. That is, of course, if they had comfy beds, which we have become very appreciative of when we get them.
We have settled into a very agreeable coexistence, Caleb and I (or is it me?) where we can have a good laugh or simply not talk at all. I appreciate his concern for meā¦i.e. āGood night, Gigi, be sure to lock your door.ā And other moments where he endeavors to explain the humor of Adam Sandler and Kevin Hart. Oh Dios Mio. I am not sure Iāll ever see the humor he sees. Oh, I forgot, heās 14; Iām not.
We have encountered a number of people that we have come across in recent days. While there is little conversation, we acknowledge each other with a knowing smile and nod. That seems to be enough. Weāre all tired and just trying to get to the next stop. Itās funny that we are all on the same path but itās clear that we are in a different space in our heads.
We have a short day tomorrow. Only a little over 10 miles, if we donāt get lost. Why did I put that thought in my head?
And, progress report – weāve only got about 150 miles to go to Santiago de Compostela.
whiteannamarie8.com 