She will probably not like me saying that, but she is taking a little siesta right now, and I speak only the truth. And she hung in there today beautifully.
I took this picture as we entered the village of Lorca, where we are staying tonight. The picture doesn't do justice to the panoramic view behind Gretchen.
Gretchen said she felt more like herself than she has in several days. We finished our walk around 12:30, which was the plan so as not to push Gretchen too much. It worked beautifully.
There is such a difference in the trails now that we are officially on the French Way. Bunches of markers, the trail goes through each town, so it is easier to pick up where you left off, there are Camino directed points of interest, relief stations, and Pilgrims! There were always some in sight today, whereas, before they were few and far between.
And, having our backpacks sent ahead is awesome. So much easier to trek without an extra 17+ pounds of weight on your back. Our day packs worked perfectly. We can see a system developing...arrive at albergue, credential stamped, check in, shower, wash clothes and hang to dry, eat lunch, figure out next destination, reserve beds, fill out backpack transport form, show to proprietor and she/he calls taxi to pick up in morning and delivers it our next albergue.
So, tomorrow we are staying in Ázqueta at La Perla Negra Country Lodge. It only has 5 beds! Should be interesting. I talked to the proprietor and she is excited about us coming. Ázqueta is an interim point so she may not get a lot of Pilgrims.
I bet it was good to get back on the trail after several long days in one place. Do you find a lot of dirt trails? Glad to hear Gretchen is feeling better. We all knew she is a Trooper. Do you guys ever warm up those vocal chords in a song along the way or at an Albergue?
ReplyDeleteWe actually say the rosary, with intentions for many of you, and when we get to the "Glory Be to the Father", we sing that which is an alto and sopano part. Even if we aren't saying the rosary, if we come to a tunnel, we sing the "Glory Be", the resonance is awesome!
DeleteGretchen looks great. I'm sure the rest helped a lot. Took a look around Lorca and Ázqueta on Google street view. I noticed how tightly packed these small towns are even though there's plenty of open land all around.
ReplyDeleteForgot to sign.
DeleteMike
It is amazing how these villages are built. one building attached to the next. The actual population of Ázeteca is 40 people. Gretchen and I and some of the other pilgrims are the youngest ones here.
DeleteGlad Gretchen is feeling better.....enjoy your next stop at the Country Lodge.
ReplyDeletePam
It sounds like you are (finally!) getting a good routine going!!!
ReplyDeleteSharon
We are. Tonight it s a super unique night, nothing but Anericans here. All the same age bracket. Even the person receiving us at this hostel is from California. He is dating the proprietor.
DeleteI am so happy Gretchen is improving! God is so good. We are praying daily for your protection and well being. I am having a colonoscopy on Tuesday (DNA results say pollips or cancer somewhere OR a false positive test result) ...Be well, miss you! ...Hugs and blessings, Judy
ReplyDeleteYou remain always in our prayer.
DeleteGlad Gretchen is getting better. Really smart to have your backpacks sent ahead.
ReplyDelete