You can find photos on instagram under marthajansen and on Facebook if you friend me. So sorry I haven't been able to post photos on the blog as I usually do.
Saturday, September 5, 2015
DAY TWENTY THREE ON THE CAMINO
Hard to believe that Jim will be here with me in only twenty more days. Today is my last day of walking with my current camino angel Katia. She has been a wonderful companion for the past three days. But she has to finish her camino journey by September 25th and must start walking more miles each day than I am comfortable doing. She's been like a daughter to me.
Link to Picasa Web Album: https://picasaweb.google.com/117895434014273629374/DayTwentyThreeOnTheCamino95?authuser=0&feat=directlink
We left at 6:15 am in the dark for our long day. We arrived nearly seven hours and 16.86 miles later in the town of Carrion de Las Condos. It was level walking on trails bordering a river, a canal and sometimes roads but rarely on a road itself.
In Villalacazar de Sirga we visited one of the main churches of the Knights Templar, the Santa Maria la Blanca XIII..
It was hotter as the day progressed...still clouds but not as many as yeaterday . But we survived and are looking forward to tonight when we will have a guitar concert at 7:30 pm, mass at 8 pm followed by singing by the nuns. At 9 pm they will serve a supper of soup before bed. Buen camino
Link to Picasa Web Album: https://picasaweb.google.com/117895434014273629374/DayTwentyThreeOnTheCamino95?authuser=0&feat=directlink
We left at 6:15 am in the dark for our long day. We arrived nearly seven hours and 16.86 miles later in the town of Carrion de Las Condos. It was level walking on trails bordering a river, a canal and sometimes roads but rarely on a road itself.
In Villalacazar de Sirga we visited one of the main churches of the Knights Templar, the Santa Maria la Blanca XIII..
It was hotter as the day progressed...still clouds but not as many as yeaterday . But we survived and are looking forward to tonight when we will have a guitar concert at 7:30 pm, mass at 8 pm followed by singing by the nuns. At 9 pm they will serve a supper of soup before bed. Buen camino
Friday, September 4, 2015
DAY TWENTY TWO ON THE CAMINO
Started out at day break about 7:15 am. Lights were still on for wonderful photos. I felt something was missing S we walked down the stone canyon between shuttered homes and suddenly I realize I didn't have my walking sticks. I had to go back about four blocks to retrieve them before we finally left town.
The walk today across the Meseta included one rather long hill and then after walking the ridge it was a long steep downhill of 18% grade all with concrete. We descended using our poles doing a zig sag pattern. At the bottom there was a memorial of some killed on this descent ....probably on a bicycle... in 2014.
Link to Picasa Album: https://picasaweb.google.com/117895434014273629374/DayTwentyTwoOnTheCamino94?authuser=0&feat=directlink
Once off of the hill it was a long, flat and shade less journey for many hours. We found fields of sunflowers ready for harvest. Fields of corn ready for harvest and fields of stubble from the recently harvest hay that is now stacked high in the fields.
We squeezed to the side of the road to let a huge herd of sheep complete with a donkey, dog and shepard pass us by.
The weather was wonderful, cold wind and warm sun with many clouds that shielded from the heat on our backs. I wore my fleese jacket all day and most of the day my windbreaker on top of it. I also wore my buff today for the first time..helped to tame my hair in the wind. It's a popular head covering on the camino.
We're staying in a wonderful Casa Rural "En El Camino" in the village of Boadilla del Camino. But in the bunk room for 7 euro a bed. And we just might have it to ourselves as Katia asked about how many because she is sensitive to snoring. We had a late lunch as our early pilgrim dinner and I had lentils soup for the first time. Delicious. The second plate was pork the was so tender you could cut it with your fork plus a small salad. Bread and a bottle of wine...wonderful meal.
We're going to walk the town now...splurged and combined our laundry that they did for us so we're set for another day early tomorrow morning. It going to be a longer walk but all on level roads. Buen Camino
The walk today across the Meseta included one rather long hill and then after walking the ridge it was a long steep downhill of 18% grade all with concrete. We descended using our poles doing a zig sag pattern. At the bottom there was a memorial of some killed on this descent ....probably on a bicycle... in 2014.
Link to Picasa Album: https://picasaweb.google.com/117895434014273629374/DayTwentyTwoOnTheCamino94?authuser=0&feat=directlink
Once off of the hill it was a long, flat and shade less journey for many hours. We found fields of sunflowers ready for harvest. Fields of corn ready for harvest and fields of stubble from the recently harvest hay that is now stacked high in the fields.
We squeezed to the side of the road to let a huge herd of sheep complete with a donkey, dog and shepard pass us by.
The weather was wonderful, cold wind and warm sun with many clouds that shielded from the heat on our backs. I wore my fleese jacket all day and most of the day my windbreaker on top of it. I also wore my buff today for the first time..helped to tame my hair in the wind. It's a popular head covering on the camino.
We're staying in a wonderful Casa Rural "En El Camino" in the village of Boadilla del Camino. But in the bunk room for 7 euro a bed. And we just might have it to ourselves as Katia asked about how many because she is sensitive to snoring. We had a late lunch as our early pilgrim dinner and I had lentils soup for the first time. Delicious. The second plate was pork the was so tender you could cut it with your fork plus a small salad. Bread and a bottle of wine...wonderful meal.
We're going to walk the town now...splurged and combined our laundry that they did for us so we're set for another day early tomorrow morning. It going to be a longer walk but all on level roads. Buen Camino
Thursday, September 3, 2015
DAY TWENTY ONE ON THE CAMINO
Last night we had a fabulous meal at the El Molino Casa Rural. Five courses ending with our choice from a tray of liquors. There were seven of us, 2 spanish, 2 Americans and 3 aussies. It lasted for two hours. Katia was the linguist for all of us as she kept the Spanish couple from Valencia fully involved in the conversation. The peacock came to visit in the late afternoon and the rooster magically stopped crowing before dinner. The winds were whipping our clothes dry and slamming doors all afternoon and continued through the night. A second night of fresh sheets and towels as Katia and I shared a double room with twin beds.
Morning came early as we gathered back in the dining room for a Continental breakfast before climbing into the cars that quickly drove us the six miles back to the camino where we once again began walking about eight o'clock this morning.
For the first time I wore my fleese jacket under my windbreaker as the cold wind was still blowing as we headed out across the Meseta for a five hour walk over twelve miles of trails and paths along roads in some spots. We passed several churches, the ruins of a convent that brought thoughts of the extensive ruins that we saw in the northern parts of England last spring.
We are very fortunate weather wise as the massive clouds continue to give us shade as we continue our way across this expanse of spanish desert that is normally scorching the backs of the pilgrims as they spend days crossing this region. Hopefully the weather will continue to be gentle for us.
Link to Picasa Web Album: https://picasaweb.google.com/117895434014273629374/DayTwentyOneOnTheCamino93?authuser=0&feat=directlink
I'm continuing to enjoy the company of Katia, my pilgrim friend from the USA who is able to converse in Spanish for us. A blessing and she is truly a Camino Angel for me. We will eventually split as her time schedule is much shorter than mine and she will need to walk longer days to reach Santiago for her flight home before the end of September. For now I give thanks each night that she is willing to spend time with and walk with someone nearly double her age!
We arrived in the village of Castrojerez about two o'clock and checked into our alburgue where we are again in a dorm room with ten people; but only 6.50 euros per bed. The shower was cold but it motivated me to shower faster!
We ate a pilgrims lunch at 3 pm rather than the late dinner, so we are in for the night. During lunch I saw the two frenchmen who I shared a meal with three nights ago. They had just arrived and were looking for a place to stay. It was nice to chat with them for a few minutes. After lunch we spent several hours this afternoon at the Hospital De Alma, a house that is devoted to giving space to pilgrims to meditate and refresh their soul in a magical space dedicated to love and healing.
One of many verses on the walls under photos was "Never walk the road laid out for you as it will only lead you where others have gone". Each designed to give you things to think about.
Tomorrow is another walk of about fourteen miles. It's dark until after 7 am so we'll probably leave just before 8 am. Buen camino
Morning came early as we gathered back in the dining room for a Continental breakfast before climbing into the cars that quickly drove us the six miles back to the camino where we once again began walking about eight o'clock this morning.
For the first time I wore my fleese jacket under my windbreaker as the cold wind was still blowing as we headed out across the Meseta for a five hour walk over twelve miles of trails and paths along roads in some spots. We passed several churches, the ruins of a convent that brought thoughts of the extensive ruins that we saw in the northern parts of England last spring.
We are very fortunate weather wise as the massive clouds continue to give us shade as we continue our way across this expanse of spanish desert that is normally scorching the backs of the pilgrims as they spend days crossing this region. Hopefully the weather will continue to be gentle for us.
Link to Picasa Web Album: https://picasaweb.google.com/117895434014273629374/DayTwentyOneOnTheCamino93?authuser=0&feat=directlink
I'm continuing to enjoy the company of Katia, my pilgrim friend from the USA who is able to converse in Spanish for us. A blessing and she is truly a Camino Angel for me. We will eventually split as her time schedule is much shorter than mine and she will need to walk longer days to reach Santiago for her flight home before the end of September. For now I give thanks each night that she is willing to spend time with and walk with someone nearly double her age!
We arrived in the village of Castrojerez about two o'clock and checked into our alburgue where we are again in a dorm room with ten people; but only 6.50 euros per bed. The shower was cold but it motivated me to shower faster!
We ate a pilgrims lunch at 3 pm rather than the late dinner, so we are in for the night. During lunch I saw the two frenchmen who I shared a meal with three nights ago. They had just arrived and were looking for a place to stay. It was nice to chat with them for a few minutes. After lunch we spent several hours this afternoon at the Hospital De Alma, a house that is devoted to giving space to pilgrims to meditate and refresh their soul in a magical space dedicated to love and healing.
One of many verses on the walls under photos was "Never walk the road laid out for you as it will only lead you where others have gone". Each designed to give you things to think about.
Tomorrow is another walk of about fourteen miles. It's dark until after 7 am so we'll probably leave just before 8 am. Buen camino
Wednesday, September 2, 2015
DAY TWENTY ON THE CAMINO
Today I completed 213 miles of the 500 miles that I will walk by October 8th. A milestone of sorts. We also began walking in the Meseta; a desert like area that we will be crossing for several days to come. We are fortunate in that we are having cooler weather during this time.
Link to Picasa Web Album: https://picasaweb.google.com/117895434014273629374/DayTwentyOnTheCamino92?authuser=0&feat=directlink
Our day started early at 7 am as we headed out of the city of Burgos. Loved taking photos of the city with the lights still on. It was several miles before we actually left the city limits. I'm walking with Katia who I met on my third day. Interestingly today we met the young couple who were in the same Pension that night we first met, on the road. Always fun to met someone again but that a big part of the camino. Katia and I are going to walk three days together and then we'll see. She is 40 years old and definitely a faster walker than me so I have to pick up my pace to stay with her. She is originally from Brazil and has no probably with the language.
Our first five miles was very level but after we stopped for breakfast we hit the hills and the beginning of the Meseta. Along the way we discovered a couple who has walked over seven thousand km in the past year walking from Turkey to Santiago. He is from Portugal and his wife who is maybe five feet tall at the most is Spanish. They each have a cart with wheels that they push or sometimes pull with a harness around their waist. Also have two tiny dogs. Katia spoke their language and got the whole story.
By 12:30 pm we'd arrived in Hornillos del Comino. My backpack was waiting at an albergue where I'd made a reservation. I'd told Katia about the Casa Rural El Molino that is located near the village. I'd called last night but gave up because of language difficulties. No problem...she called and got us a booking. They would pick us up in town as soon as I got my bag. This is about six miles out of town and was a Vinyard at one time. The owners are the parents of the girl who met and eventually married the grandson of Martin Sheen during the filming of the movie "The Way". More expensive than usual but then we're spoiled by the special prices for the pilgrims.
Interesting fact is that we now think that the grandson and his wife own a Casa Rural right in town and we could have stayed there and probably cheaper. But we do have sheets on the bed, fresh towels and our own bathroom. We are sharing a room.
We've done our laundry and have it "blowing in the wind" to dry. Doing our journals and waiting for the dinner at 7 pm. There are seven of us and most seem to speak English.
The wind is blowing and the prediction is for rain tomorrow...so we need your prayers. It will be a long 14 miles if it's raining. Buen camino
Link to Picasa Web Album: https://picasaweb.google.com/117895434014273629374/DayTwentyOnTheCamino92?authuser=0&feat=directlink
Our day started early at 7 am as we headed out of the city of Burgos. Loved taking photos of the city with the lights still on. It was several miles before we actually left the city limits. I'm walking with Katia who I met on my third day. Interestingly today we met the young couple who were in the same Pension that night we first met, on the road. Always fun to met someone again but that a big part of the camino. Katia and I are going to walk three days together and then we'll see. She is 40 years old and definitely a faster walker than me so I have to pick up my pace to stay with her. She is originally from Brazil and has no probably with the language.
Our first five miles was very level but after we stopped for breakfast we hit the hills and the beginning of the Meseta. Along the way we discovered a couple who has walked over seven thousand km in the past year walking from Turkey to Santiago. He is from Portugal and his wife who is maybe five feet tall at the most is Spanish. They each have a cart with wheels that they push or sometimes pull with a harness around their waist. Also have two tiny dogs. Katia spoke their language and got the whole story.
By 12:30 pm we'd arrived in Hornillos del Comino. My backpack was waiting at an albergue where I'd made a reservation. I'd told Katia about the Casa Rural El Molino that is located near the village. I'd called last night but gave up because of language difficulties. No problem...she called and got us a booking. They would pick us up in town as soon as I got my bag. This is about six miles out of town and was a Vinyard at one time. The owners are the parents of the girl who met and eventually married the grandson of Martin Sheen during the filming of the movie "The Way". More expensive than usual but then we're spoiled by the special prices for the pilgrims.
Interesting fact is that we now think that the grandson and his wife own a Casa Rural right in town and we could have stayed there and probably cheaper. But we do have sheets on the bed, fresh towels and our own bathroom. We are sharing a room.
We've done our laundry and have it "blowing in the wind" to dry. Doing our journals and waiting for the dinner at 7 pm. There are seven of us and most seem to speak English.
The wind is blowing and the prediction is for rain tomorrow...so we need your prayers. It will be a long 14 miles if it's raining. Buen camino
Tuesday, September 1, 2015
DAY NINETEEN ON THE CAMINO
Left in pitch black darkness at 6:30 am
With my head lamp on. Within half mile I found four more and they were thrilled to join me as we walked along the road to the first town. They only had small flashlights. I really had to pick up my pace but was worth it for the company. By the time we reached town it was daylight. Soon we were off the road and on a rocky path headed up hill. At the top there was a large cross that we all stopped at for photos. Then downhill to the next town. A nice girl started walking with me. A nurse from Seattle originally from Wisconsin . We walked together for over an hour. Stopped in next town for some breakfast and then everyone put on rain gear as we left. Sprinkling lightly and never got too bad. It did keep the day cool for walking.
I saw the turn off for the river route into Burgos but someone had put some arrows going to the right and a huge group in front of me followed them. Didn't want to be alone so followed the crowd. I knew I'd made a big mistake when I saw the airport...but too far to go back. So the long walk around the airport and then through the outskirts of the large city of Burgos.
But at least it was cool walking even though the concrete was harder than the dirt paths. Met an Austrilian couple
And a Holland man who all made the wrong decision.
Link to Picasa Web Album: https://picasaweb.google.com/117895434014273629374/DayNineteenOnTheCamino91?authuser=0&feat=directlink
I finally turned on my Navigation apt that Jane had shown me in England...put in the name of the hotel and it took me right to the hotel. They have a reduced price for pilgrims...only 35 euros and I sleep tonight between sheets and have my own bathroom. The rooms are very tiny and in a separate section of the hotel but it's right in the old section near the river and an easy walk to the cathedral.
It was nearly 14 miles in just over five hours making my total to date 199.59 miles.
After settling in and washing out a few things I set up my reservations for tomorrow. The hotel clerk made them for me. Then it was out the door to explore the city. Slowly walked to the cathedral which is the second largest in Spain. Took the tour and enjoyed seeing it again. Yes, we were here in 2004 on our driving trip.
About five o'clock I met Katia from Georgia in the cathedral square. We met on my 3rd day of walking. She stayed two nights so that we could reconnect and now we'll finally get to walk a piece of the camino together. We waited a few minutes for two of her pilgrim friends from Budapest and then we all enjoy afternoon tea and cake while we visited.
Tomorrow well leave at 7 o'clock and start our journey to Hornillos del Camino. ..about 13 miles and into a new climate zone known as the Meseta. Flat and very arid, but we're lucky as the prediction is for cooler weather the next few days.
Thanks for joining our journey...buen camino
With my head lamp on. Within half mile I found four more and they were thrilled to join me as we walked along the road to the first town. They only had small flashlights. I really had to pick up my pace but was worth it for the company. By the time we reached town it was daylight. Soon we were off the road and on a rocky path headed up hill. At the top there was a large cross that we all stopped at for photos. Then downhill to the next town. A nice girl started walking with me. A nurse from Seattle originally from Wisconsin . We walked together for over an hour. Stopped in next town for some breakfast and then everyone put on rain gear as we left. Sprinkling lightly and never got too bad. It did keep the day cool for walking.
I saw the turn off for the river route into Burgos but someone had put some arrows going to the right and a huge group in front of me followed them. Didn't want to be alone so followed the crowd. I knew I'd made a big mistake when I saw the airport...but too far to go back. So the long walk around the airport and then through the outskirts of the large city of Burgos.
But at least it was cool walking even though the concrete was harder than the dirt paths. Met an Austrilian couple
And a Holland man who all made the wrong decision.
Link to Picasa Web Album: https://picasaweb.google.com/117895434014273629374/DayNineteenOnTheCamino91?authuser=0&feat=directlink
I finally turned on my Navigation apt that Jane had shown me in England...put in the name of the hotel and it took me right to the hotel. They have a reduced price for pilgrims...only 35 euros and I sleep tonight between sheets and have my own bathroom. The rooms are very tiny and in a separate section of the hotel but it's right in the old section near the river and an easy walk to the cathedral.
It was nearly 14 miles in just over five hours making my total to date 199.59 miles.
After settling in and washing out a few things I set up my reservations for tomorrow. The hotel clerk made them for me. Then it was out the door to explore the city. Slowly walked to the cathedral which is the second largest in Spain. Took the tour and enjoyed seeing it again. Yes, we were here in 2004 on our driving trip.
About five o'clock I met Katia from Georgia in the cathedral square. We met on my 3rd day of walking. She stayed two nights so that we could reconnect and now we'll finally get to walk a piece of the camino together. We waited a few minutes for two of her pilgrim friends from Budapest and then we all enjoy afternoon tea and cake while we visited.
Tomorrow well leave at 7 o'clock and start our journey to Hornillos del Camino. ..about 13 miles and into a new climate zone known as the Meseta. Flat and very arid, but we're lucky as the prediction is for cooler weather the next few days.
Thanks for joining our journey...buen camino
Monday, August 31, 2015
DAY EIGHTEEN ON THE CAMINO
Hard to belive I've been gone from California for three weeks and that Jim will join me in only three and a half weeks. I'm looking forward to having him on the journey.
Link to Picasa Web Album: https://picasaweb.google.com/117895434014273629374/DayEighteenOnTheCamino831?authuser=0&feat=directlink
Today I started very early and experienced walking in the moonlight for an hour. The first two hours were spent walking up the mountain of Alto Mojapan which is at 1150 meters. Along the ridge at the top there is a memorial to people who were executed here and buried in shallow graves in 1936 during the Spanish Civil War.
We were walking along a rocky gravel road for most of the day. Some of it appeared to be "firebreaks" as we had oak and pine trees for most of the day.
The remaining two hours were mostly downhill or level as we eased back into farm land at the lower level. Arrived at San Juan where there is a very large church and an Augustiņian Monastery built there in 1150.
As this was our first village of the day many stopped for a break included Christina who had been somewhat walking with me most of the day. She was always a ways down the road but I could generally see her. Last time I'd seen her was when we crossed the cow pasture and had stopped for photos.
But soon she passed me again on the flat road to Ages where I decided to spend the night. It was early and she may have walked on to Burgos or somewhere inbetween.
I'm so glad I stopped here as I saw Lillian who I've not seen since Roncevalles on the third day. I first met her on the first day of walking when Monika and I found her near Orisson. .. very confused and only speaking her native tongue..Danish. .. which Monika also spoke. She thought that she was taking the level road and had made a wrong turn. We got her to Orisson and she has become a legend on the Camino. She has Parkinson and shakes badly with her walking poles. She is also carrying a large pack. I heard that she also speaks English and we had a wonderful conversation today. She stopped for a day because her knees are bothering her...but she was soon on her way for another 3 km before stopping for the today. She will probably beat me to Burgos tomorrow. She says she is so strong because she walks up and carries her on groceries several flights of stairs where she lives. Such a lesson she has been to everyone who has been fortunate to meet her on the camino. We are so blessed.
The tiny village of Ages where I'm staying is very old and many of the buildings including the albergue where I'm staying are half timbered from hundreds of years ago.
Tomorrow I will walk to Burgos ...a big city... and meet up will some pilgrims I've met who have stayed two nights in Burgos. It will be great to see them again. We've stayed in touch using facebook. Buen camino
Link to Picasa Web Album: https://picasaweb.google.com/117895434014273629374/DayEighteenOnTheCamino831?authuser=0&feat=directlink
Today I started very early and experienced walking in the moonlight for an hour. The first two hours were spent walking up the mountain of Alto Mojapan which is at 1150 meters. Along the ridge at the top there is a memorial to people who were executed here and buried in shallow graves in 1936 during the Spanish Civil War.
We were walking along a rocky gravel road for most of the day. Some of it appeared to be "firebreaks" as we had oak and pine trees for most of the day.
The remaining two hours were mostly downhill or level as we eased back into farm land at the lower level. Arrived at San Juan where there is a very large church and an Augustiņian Monastery built there in 1150.
As this was our first village of the day many stopped for a break included Christina who had been somewhat walking with me most of the day. She was always a ways down the road but I could generally see her. Last time I'd seen her was when we crossed the cow pasture and had stopped for photos.
But soon she passed me again on the flat road to Ages where I decided to spend the night. It was early and she may have walked on to Burgos or somewhere inbetween.
I'm so glad I stopped here as I saw Lillian who I've not seen since Roncevalles on the third day. I first met her on the first day of walking when Monika and I found her near Orisson. .. very confused and only speaking her native tongue..Danish. .. which Monika also spoke. She thought that she was taking the level road and had made a wrong turn. We got her to Orisson and she has become a legend on the Camino. She has Parkinson and shakes badly with her walking poles. She is also carrying a large pack. I heard that she also speaks English and we had a wonderful conversation today. She stopped for a day because her knees are bothering her...but she was soon on her way for another 3 km before stopping for the today. She will probably beat me to Burgos tomorrow. She says she is so strong because she walks up and carries her on groceries several flights of stairs where she lives. Such a lesson she has been to everyone who has been fortunate to meet her on the camino. We are so blessed.
The tiny village of Ages where I'm staying is very old and many of the buildings including the albergue where I'm staying are half timbered from hundreds of years ago.
Tomorrow I will walk to Burgos ...a big city... and meet up will some pilgrims I've met who have stayed two nights in Burgos. It will be great to see them again. We've stayed in touch using facebook. Buen camino
Sunday, August 30, 2015
DAY SEVENTEEN ON THE CAMINO
Link to Picasa Web Album: https://picasaweb.google.com/117895434014273629374/DaySeventeenOnTheCamino830?authuser=0&feat=directlink
Today was a beautiful walk with shade trees and clouds in the sky that shielded the sun so that it wasn't so burning hot. There were more sunflower fields today and they are busy preparing the fields for another planting soon.
Kept thinking we'd get rain....but only a few sprinkles. I'm enjoying my Sunday afternoon...even took a short nap. Tomorrow is a 10 mile walk with no towns in between. ..
Buen camino
Saturday, August 29, 2015
DAY SIXTEEN ON THE CAMINO
The wifi is really good so thought I'd try adding a couple of photos. I left Granon before daylight and the sky was specular as the sun rose behind our backs.
Link to Picasa web album: https://picasaweb.google.com/117895434014273629374/DaySixteenOnTheCamino829?authuser=0&feat=directlink
Last night was one for the memory books at the albergue in the church. It is run by volunteer staff from around the world. They come work for a few weeks at a time. They are all past pilgrims and still walk it over and over. After km 7 pm mass we all pitched in to help with the dinner and then we all did the dishes together.
Then we were led to their secret room. It is very unusual but they do not have a stamp for our books (we can do that at the bar across the street). They feel that the sharing time is the stamp on our hearts of what the camino is truly about.
The secret room was through a small door next to my bed/pad and led into the choir loft in the church which was totally dark except for some candles.
There was one large candle that was passed from person to person. We were told to share something, a poem or something from the heart or just to hold it quietly without talking before passing it on to the next person. It was extremely emotional for everyone in the room. We all slept soundly afterwards on our pads. I had a Korean family, adult daughter and the parents next to me.
Everyone was up very early...some left at 5 am...I was out the door before 6:30. Soon the sun was nearly up and I watched the fields of sunflowers. The small ones were awake and excited while the mature ones still hung their heads waiting for the sunshine to wake them up.
It was a day of long stretches of gravel roads alongside a large highway. I was a solo walker but always within sight of other pilgrims. Enjoyed the pilgrim walking the opposite way...yes...they do walk both ways....with his donkey.
Just before I reached my destination I found a delightful women that I met two days ago and we walked into Belorado together. We had orange
at the bar and then she was off to the next town where her backpack was being delivered. Maybe I'll see her again, l hope so.
It's been a restful day ... nice mass this evening followed by a special blessing for the 25 pilgrims at the mass. They are having a mini festival in the plaza...I can hear the music as I type. It looks like rain...hopefully just during the night.
Today was 10 miles in 5 hours. Tomorrow I only go to Villa franca which is about 8 miles.
Buen camino
Link to Picasa web album: https://picasaweb.google.com/117895434014273629374/DaySixteenOnTheCamino829?authuser=0&feat=directlink
Last night was one for the memory books at the albergue in the church. It is run by volunteer staff from around the world. They come work for a few weeks at a time. They are all past pilgrims and still walk it over and over. After km 7 pm mass we all pitched in to help with the dinner and then we all did the dishes together.
Then we were led to their secret room. It is very unusual but they do not have a stamp for our books (we can do that at the bar across the street). They feel that the sharing time is the stamp on our hearts of what the camino is truly about.
The secret room was through a small door next to my bed/pad and led into the choir loft in the church which was totally dark except for some candles.
There was one large candle that was passed from person to person. We were told to share something, a poem or something from the heart or just to hold it quietly without talking before passing it on to the next person. It was extremely emotional for everyone in the room. We all slept soundly afterwards on our pads. I had a Korean family, adult daughter and the parents next to me.
Everyone was up very early...some left at 5 am...I was out the door before 6:30. Soon the sun was nearly up and I watched the fields of sunflowers. The small ones were awake and excited while the mature ones still hung their heads waiting for the sunshine to wake them up.
It was a day of long stretches of gravel roads alongside a large highway. I was a solo walker but always within sight of other pilgrims. Enjoyed the pilgrim walking the opposite way...yes...they do walk both ways....with his donkey.
Just before I reached my destination I found a delightful women that I met two days ago and we walked into Belorado together. We had orange
at the bar and then she was off to the next town where her backpack was being delivered. Maybe I'll see her again, l hope so.
It's been a restful day ... nice mass this evening followed by a special blessing for the 25 pilgrims at the mass. They are having a mini festival in the plaza...I can hear the music as I type. It looks like rain...hopefully just during the night.
Today was 10 miles in 5 hours. Tomorrow I only go to Villa franca which is about 8 miles.
Buen camino
Friday, August 28, 2015
DAY FIFTEEN ON THE CAMINO
Tonight is going to be a unique experience. I'm in a church run albergue that only takes donations. You have to be a pilgrim and have been on the road for several days to stay. Our room is already full and the upstairs room is filling fast and its only 3 pm. Our beds are two inch mats on the floor. I have a Japanese family...parents and adult daughter next to me. Mass is at 7 pm (optional) dinner at 8 pm and then a discussion time. We have not been told what the dinner is as of yet.
Link to Picasa web album: https://picasaweb.google.com/117895434014273629374/DayFifteenOnTheCamino828?authuser=0&feat=directlink
My day started at 7:30 am and after walking 9 miles I arrived in Granon at noon. My new Zealanders friends were with me last night and waited in the plaza here to make sure I arrived before they went further on for several miles to another village. They are such wonderful people. I hope I continue to see them along the camino. My mileage count is now up to 158 miles.
Today's walk took me first to the town of Santo domingo where I stopped for breakfast and then made two visits, first to the Parador hotel in the plaza where Jim and I had stayed in 2004. And then into the church to see the live rooster that lives inside of a cage in the church, he crows regularly so people remember he is there. Has to do with a miracle many years ago.
Then back on the long hot road for another couple of hours. Many of the fields have recently been harvested and there are still some fields of sunflowers.
But there is basically no shade. And it was a very warm day. I think I'll get on the road by 6 tomorrow if possible. I've got a long walk planned. Buen camino
Link to Picasa web album: https://picasaweb.google.com/117895434014273629374/DayFifteenOnTheCamino828?authuser=0&feat=directlink
Today's walk took me first to the town of Santo domingo where I stopped for breakfast and then made two visits, first to the Parador hotel in the plaza where Jim and I had stayed in 2004. And then into the church to see the live rooster that lives inside of a cage in the church, he crows regularly so people remember he is there. Has to do with a miracle many years ago.
Then back on the long hot road for another couple of hours. Many of the fields have recently been harvested and there are still some fields of sunflowers.
But there is basically no shade. And it was a very warm day. I think I'll get on the road by 6 tomorrow if possible. I've got a long walk planned. Buen camino
Thursday, August 27, 2015
DAY FOURTEEN ON THE CAMINO
Last night the five of us from the picnic went to a pilgrims dinner and Mark and Jan picked up the check. Then Chris paid for Gelato treats afterwards. A fun evening with great people. Hope to see Mark and Jan along the camino...they are faster walkers than me so unless they stop along the way....who knows. I'm learning the pilgrims have a way of reappearing when least expected.
Link to Picasa Web Album: https://picasaweb.google.com/117895434014273629374/DayFourteenOnTheCamino827?authuser=0&feat=directlink
I was out the door in the dark this morning along with many others. This photo is a reflection in a store window.
I was well on my way when the sun arose and it was a beautiful sunrise. We walked for two hours along gravel and dirt roads between vinyards. The dirt was deep red and it's said when it rains the mud sucks your shoe down and then clings like clay. So glad it was a dry day. But there was no shade and it was a much hotter day than yesterday or maybe it was because of the lack of shade.
I walked solo all day and enjoyed the ten hot air balloons in the sky near Azofra where I stopped for breakfast. My favorite orange juice and a slice of warmed tortilla de patatta. I shared a table with a lady from Mexico .. just over the border from Texas. She has had a cold ever since starting and has decided it must be an alergy. She got some medicine from the pharmacy . Then off I went for a another two hours of walking.
Link to Picasa Web Album: https://picasaweb.google.com/117895434014273629374/DayFourteenOnTheCamino827?authuser=0&feat=directlink
I was out the door in the dark this morning along with many others. This photo is a reflection in a store window.
I was well on my way when the sun arose and it was a beautiful sunrise. We walked for two hours along gravel and dirt roads between vinyards. The dirt was deep red and it's said when it rains the mud sucks your shoe down and then clings like clay. So glad it was a dry day. But there was no shade and it was a much hotter day than yesterday or maybe it was because of the lack of shade.
I walked solo all day and enjoyed the ten hot air balloons in the sky near Azofra where I stopped for breakfast. My favorite orange juice and a slice of warmed tortilla de patatta. I shared a table with a lady from Mexico .. just over the border from Texas. She has had a cold ever since starting and has decided it must be an alergy. She got some medicine from the pharmacy . Then off I went for a another two hours of walking.
It got very hot with no shade and people were literally sitting in the shade of grapevines to find some relief.
The last two hours of walking was different in that we now had a combination of freshly cut hay, crops and still a few vineyards. And we were slowly climbing up and up.
At the end of the day we climbed 1247 feet in that last two hours. We all were ready to call it a day when we arrived in Ciruena..
Here I found two Australians, a lady from Cape Town south africia, a man from Northern California and my three New Zealanders. Jim said it sounds like you can practice your English tonight...LOL
Dinner will be here in the albergue which should be a fun evening.
Buen Camino
The last two hours of walking was different in that we now had a combination of freshly cut hay, crops and still a few vineyards. And we were slowly climbing up and up.
At the end of the day we climbed 1247 feet in that last two hours. We all were ready to call it a day when we arrived in Ciruena..
Here I found two Australians, a lady from Cape Town south africia, a man from Northern California and my three New Zealanders. Jim said it sounds like you can practice your English tonight...LOL
Dinner will be here in the albergue which should be a fun evening.
Buen Camino
Wednesday, August 26, 2015
DAY THIRTEEN ON THE CAMIMO
Last night in Navarrete I ate dinner in the village with the Ohio and London couple. Lots of energy and fun. The pilgrims meals are so easy...everyone just adds their 10 to 12 euros to the pot and the bill is paid.
https://picasaweb.google.com/117895434014273629374/DayThirteenOnTheCamino826?authuser=0&feat=directlink
We had so much fun we missed the 8 pm mass but did go in at the end to see another fabulous gold altar.
Up early and out the door by 7 am. Walked all day with Debbie and Chris from London. They are doing the camino in eight segments and this was their second. They leave for home tomorrow...they are doing two per year. They adopted a sole pilgrim last April and called him their tag along. This segment I became their tag along. Great fun and loads of energy.
It was a comfortable walk through the vinyards today on mostly gravel roads. Mostly gentle rolling hills. We took an option trail to stop midway in a village for breakfast. Other wise no villages on the direct route between Navarrete and Najera where we are staying tonight. It was a 5.5 hour walk of 10.79 miles making a grand total to date of 138.51 miles.
We were joined off and on during the day by Mark and Jan from Ohio. They are newly retired art teachers and will be finishing their camino about the same time as Jim and I so will probably be seeing them off and on along the way.
After checking in and our showers and laundry; Debbie went shopping for picnic supplies. The hotel let us take dishes with our food across the street where we sat on the grass near the river for a delightful picnic
Another good day on the camino. I saw three pilgrims today that I never expected to see again. It's a blessing to be with such wonderful people.
Buen camino
https://picasaweb.google.com/117895434014273629374/DayThirteenOnTheCamino826?authuser=0&feat=directlink
We had so much fun we missed the 8 pm mass but did go in at the end to see another fabulous gold altar.
Up early and out the door by 7 am. Walked all day with Debbie and Chris from London. They are doing the camino in eight segments and this was their second. They leave for home tomorrow...they are doing two per year. They adopted a sole pilgrim last April and called him their tag along. This segment I became their tag along. Great fun and loads of energy.
It was a comfortable walk through the vinyards today on mostly gravel roads. Mostly gentle rolling hills. We took an option trail to stop midway in a village for breakfast. Other wise no villages on the direct route between Navarrete and Najera where we are staying tonight. It was a 5.5 hour walk of 10.79 miles making a grand total to date of 138.51 miles.
We were joined off and on during the day by Mark and Jan from Ohio. They are newly retired art teachers and will be finishing their camino about the same time as Jim and I so will probably be seeing them off and on along the way.
After checking in and our showers and laundry; Debbie went shopping for picnic supplies. The hotel let us take dishes with our food across the street where we sat on the grass near the river for a delightful picnic
Buen camino
Tuesday, August 25, 2015
DAY TWELVE OF THE CAMINO
Last night was very special. The man from Holland invited several of us to join him for dinner at the bar near the church that serves the pilgrims dinner.
Link to Picasa web album: https://picasaweb.google.com/117895434014273629374/DayTwelveOnTheCamino825?authuser=0&feat=directlink
Afterwards we all walked to the church for the 8 pm mass. It was in the chapel and at the end we were all invited up to the altar and the priest first spoke to each of us to find out where we were from. Then we were individually blessed with holy water and then he individually laid hand and prayed over each of us. It was totally unexpected and made me think that God had a plan when he had me stop in Viana.
Link to Picasa web album: https://picasaweb.google.com/117895434014273629374/DayTwelveOnTheCamino825?authuser=0&feat=directlink
Afterwards we all walked to the church for the 8 pm mass. It was in the chapel and at the end we were all invited up to the altar and the priest first spoke to each of us to find out where we were from. Then we were individually blessed with holy water and then he individually laid hand and prayed over each of us. It was totally unexpected and made me think that God had a plan when he had me stop in Viana.
I left about 7 am and had company most of the day between two couples in our albergue last night. One from Ohio....but spent the most time with an.english couple. We're doing dinner and then 8 pm mass together tonight. Unfortunately tomorrow is their last day...they are doing segments.
A lot of the Walk today was on very nice paths with shade here and there. The tough part was at the end of our hike but through vineyards as we climbed towards Navarrete when I am spending the night.
Today we saw many vinyards as we are in the wine region. I tasted the blackberries...they are small and tart. I saw the first stork nest on top of a power pole...we will be seeing lots of them as we go east.
The city of Lograno was very large. .stopped for breakfast and to visit the cathedral. ...and then got lost but asked enough questions and found my way.
A good day over all...
Buen camimo
Monday, August 24, 2015
DAY ELEVEN ON THE CAMINO
Well, it's been a humbling experience today. I slept really good with earplugs and didn't even hear all the others come to bed (they were mostly spanish and they probably didn't even begin dinner until I was asleep)...then the cell phone alarms started going off at 5 am so I got up, packed and headed out.
It was 6:30 am and pitch black for about half an hour but I put on my headlamp and headed out with my backpack. Because so many were also getting up I knew there'd be a string of pilgrims passing me soon.
The sunrise was especially beautiful this morning, but the brisk winds kept it a very cool walk. At the top of the first ridge there was an interesting collection of rock memorials with prayer sheets, photos and other personal items held down with rocks. There was also a coffee truck near here as we crossed a highway in the area. In fact, we actually did more highway walking then usual today.
Along the way I was passed by many camino friends from past days. Some from Friday night and several Italians from the birthday party. Many stopped to make sure I was okay. I'm very recognizable with my gray hair and pigtails. One kind gentleman said that I was an inspiration to many of the pilgrims. But, they could tell I was struggling more than usual today. If I tossed my sleeping bag and another five pounds I'd be fine... but I like suggling down in my bag early in the morning when it's cool. And it's good to know that I have the supplies and creature comforts so decision made that unless it's a less than five mile day. .. the big backpack is going by Transport. I'll drink one less beer and sleep in large dorms to pay for the cost...well worth it...7 euros...tomorrow it goes down to 6 euros and after Burgos...5 euro and by the time I meet Jim in Sarria it will only be 3 euros per day.
But back to my journey today..
I'd planned to walk 20 km...about 12 miles...to Logrono. I made it to Viana in 4 hours...seven miles. I dropped my backpack next to the first abergue I saw at 10:30 am and planned to wait until it opened.
Link to Picasa Web Album: https://picasaweb.google.com/117895434014273629374/DayElevenOnTheCamino824?authuser=0&feat=directlink
I was lucky as the owner came out with her son in the first 10 minutes. Using sign language...she let me put my stuff inside and told me to come back at noon.
I spent the next two hours exploring the old city center.....up the hill...which was a snap without my gear. Beautiful church that I will go back to this evening after dinner in a bar that offers a pilgrims 10 euro dinner as they have a 7:30 pm mass.
I was very fortunate as this is a lovely new albergue and several English speaking guests...including two recent college graduates from Florida. We have a dorm room with eight bunk beds ...16 people....for only 8 euros a bed. There are also several private rooms. But no dinner. They do have a Continental bkf for 3 euros but I find I walk better on an empty stomach.
To transport you have to have a reservation so they know where to deliver your bag. The albergue is very helpful setting up the next night and arranging the transport. Also the municipal albergues do not take reservations so I'm using the private ones which are generally cleaner and the same price.
Viana is an active town with 4000 residents. The Camino passes through the historical center which is much the same as it was when medieval pilgrims were walking through. Cesare Borgia was linked to this town during the reign of Pope Alexander VI...he was his iligimate son. This was the 15th century.
There is the newer church and then the ruins of another named for st. Peter.
Another chapter closed...buen camimo
It was 6:30 am and pitch black for about half an hour but I put on my headlamp and headed out with my backpack. Because so many were also getting up I knew there'd be a string of pilgrims passing me soon.
The sunrise was especially beautiful this morning, but the brisk winds kept it a very cool walk. At the top of the first ridge there was an interesting collection of rock memorials with prayer sheets, photos and other personal items held down with rocks. There was also a coffee truck near here as we crossed a highway in the area. In fact, we actually did more highway walking then usual today.
Along the way I was passed by many camino friends from past days. Some from Friday night and several Italians from the birthday party. Many stopped to make sure I was okay. I'm very recognizable with my gray hair and pigtails. One kind gentleman said that I was an inspiration to many of the pilgrims. But, they could tell I was struggling more than usual today. If I tossed my sleeping bag and another five pounds I'd be fine... but I like suggling down in my bag early in the morning when it's cool. And it's good to know that I have the supplies and creature comforts so decision made that unless it's a less than five mile day. .. the big backpack is going by Transport. I'll drink one less beer and sleep in large dorms to pay for the cost...well worth it...7 euros...tomorrow it goes down to 6 euros and after Burgos...5 euro and by the time I meet Jim in Sarria it will only be 3 euros per day.
But back to my journey today..
I'd planned to walk 20 km...about 12 miles...to Logrono. I made it to Viana in 4 hours...seven miles. I dropped my backpack next to the first abergue I saw at 10:30 am and planned to wait until it opened.
Link to Picasa Web Album: https://picasaweb.google.com/117895434014273629374/DayElevenOnTheCamino824?authuser=0&feat=directlink
I was lucky as the owner came out with her son in the first 10 minutes. Using sign language...she let me put my stuff inside and told me to come back at noon.
I spent the next two hours exploring the old city center.....up the hill...which was a snap without my gear. Beautiful church that I will go back to this evening after dinner in a bar that offers a pilgrims 10 euro dinner as they have a 7:30 pm mass.
I was very fortunate as this is a lovely new albergue and several English speaking guests...including two recent college graduates from Florida. We have a dorm room with eight bunk beds ...16 people....for only 8 euros a bed. There are also several private rooms. But no dinner. They do have a Continental bkf for 3 euros but I find I walk better on an empty stomach.
To transport you have to have a reservation so they know where to deliver your bag. The albergue is very helpful setting up the next night and arranging the transport. Also the municipal albergues do not take reservations so I'm using the private ones which are generally cleaner and the same price.
Viana is an active town with 4000 residents. The Camino passes through the historical center which is much the same as it was when medieval pilgrims were walking through. Cesare Borgia was linked to this town during the reign of Pope Alexander VI...he was his iligimate son. This was the 15th century.
There is the newer church and then the ruins of another named for st. Peter.
Another chapter closed...buen camimo
Sunday, August 23, 2015
DAY 10 ON THE CAMINO
Last night the dorm completely filled by 4 pm.. we were one American (me) several who spoke English very well including an Italian girl who works in Philadelphia. 4 germans, 1 from Argentina and the rest all from Italy.
Link to Picasaweb Album: https://picasaweb.google.com/117895434014273629374/DayTenOnTheCamino823?authuser=0&feat=directlink
About 5:30 I walked over to the bar to see about dinner. He said not until 6:30 so I got a glass of wine and settled in. Soon Jorge arrived and sat down to talk. It's his 36th birthday and the italians are coming over to celebrate. He asked me to join them and of course I was delighted.
The bar had many more than expected so we took the late seating and they brought us snacks and more wine. Actually I think Jorge picked up the cost. We all had a great time and finished up just before ten which is our curfew ... they lock the door. .. and that's also about the time that the very loud thunderstorm rolled in. A fun night and we all ate the 10 euro pilgrim meal that included a large salad..pasta or chicken with French fries. Dessert was a choice of flan or ice cream and of course more wine.
I woke up about 5 am....2 were up and on their way by 6 am in the dark as they were walking the full 40 km to Logrono.
Soon others were stirring and by 7 the young German girl left with me. She was carrying a 50 lb pack and she still out walked me . We missed the first directions and after half a mile uphill decided we'd missed something and walked back. So we got an EXTRA mile today. But a Texas lady also missed it so we were not the only ones.
It was a day of rolling roads through farmland with no shade. We didn't see our first town for 8 miles. By then the sun was very hot but a good breeze kept us cool. Twice I caught the German girl when she stopped to rest and then she'd pass me again.
The town was Los Arcos, a beautiful and very old town. They had a festival last weekend and had a running of the bulls through the streets. Would have been fun to see if I'd been walking faster. My Arizona people who started with me were there...my new friend Monika who walked with me the first two days is in Burgos today...I keep plodding along.
But, I did stop and join the Germans for an early lunch, a slice of a camino favorite...Tortilla de Pattaya ... like an omelet filled with potatoes. Delicious. We were in the plaza of the church and although no mass, I did enjoy a visit and a short concert being played on the massive organ.
Back on the road for another nearly 8 km where I reached the Albergue Sonsol where I had reservations and my backpack. Opps...the backpack had not arrived .
Phone calls were made and within ten minutes it arrived. The Texas lady said her pack did not arrive until 11 pm yesterday so I was more than a little concerned. Tomorrow I'll be carrying it again as planned.
Showered, laundry done and I'm listening to the arrivals...we are one big room with 24 beds...12 bunks. I'm in a Lower bunk up against a wall which is nice.
Buen camimo
Link to Picasaweb Album: https://picasaweb.google.com/117895434014273629374/DayTenOnTheCamino823?authuser=0&feat=directlink
About 5:30 I walked over to the bar to see about dinner. He said not until 6:30 so I got a glass of wine and settled in. Soon Jorge arrived and sat down to talk. It's his 36th birthday and the italians are coming over to celebrate. He asked me to join them and of course I was delighted.
The bar had many more than expected so we took the late seating and they brought us snacks and more wine. Actually I think Jorge picked up the cost. We all had a great time and finished up just before ten which is our curfew ... they lock the door. .. and that's also about the time that the very loud thunderstorm rolled in. A fun night and we all ate the 10 euro pilgrim meal that included a large salad..pasta or chicken with French fries. Dessert was a choice of flan or ice cream and of course more wine.
I woke up about 5 am....2 were up and on their way by 6 am in the dark as they were walking the full 40 km to Logrono.
Soon others were stirring and by 7 the young German girl left with me. She was carrying a 50 lb pack and she still out walked me . We missed the first directions and after half a mile uphill decided we'd missed something and walked back. So we got an EXTRA mile today. But a Texas lady also missed it so we were not the only ones.
It was a day of rolling roads through farmland with no shade. We didn't see our first town for 8 miles. By then the sun was very hot but a good breeze kept us cool. Twice I caught the German girl when she stopped to rest and then she'd pass me again.
The town was Los Arcos, a beautiful and very old town. They had a festival last weekend and had a running of the bulls through the streets. Would have been fun to see if I'd been walking faster. My Arizona people who started with me were there...my new friend Monika who walked with me the first two days is in Burgos today...I keep plodding along.
But, I did stop and join the Germans for an early lunch, a slice of a camino favorite...Tortilla de Pattaya ... like an omelet filled with potatoes. Delicious. We were in the plaza of the church and although no mass, I did enjoy a visit and a short concert being played on the massive organ.
Back on the road for another nearly 8 km where I reached the Albergue Sonsol where I had reservations and my backpack. Opps...the backpack had not arrived .
Phone calls were made and within ten minutes it arrived. The Texas lady said her pack did not arrive until 11 pm yesterday so I was more than a little concerned. Tomorrow I'll be carrying it again as planned.
Showered, laundry done and I'm listening to the arrivals...we are one big room with 24 beds...12 bunks. I'm in a Lower bunk up against a wall which is nice.
Buen camimo
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