Footsteps to Journeys

12 Miles

After a poor night’s rest due to lack of blankets at the albergue, we packed up and decided to go ahead and gran breakfast at a nearby panaderia we had noticed. Upon entering, we spotted friends who were leaving the camino that day. We enjoyed pastry, coffee,and conversation before parting hugs and good-byes were given and said.

Taking the Alternate Route

We left town, after some help from a local lady who pointed us in the right direction, along with Benjamin from Hungary via Switzerland.  We walked with him for a bit and all decided we wanted to take the alternate route along the river, rather next to the highway. After about 4 km the road diverged, though not in a wood. And our choice was by no means the one less traveled by, but it was much more pleasant than walking next to the highway!

We were on a gravelly road for a while before turning down a softer dirt road along the river. This was tree-lined and tranquil. Crossing small tributaries via narrow wooden bridges, we followed this way for 11.1 km, before rejoining the main way.

Time for Prayer

We stopped at the church Santa Maria la Blanca, paid €1 to visit, and were treated to a lovely, active church with a side chapel of St. James. An enthusiastic guide was delightful, and we took the opportunity to pray before going on.

Making Time on the Last Leg

After rejoining the main way, we caught up with our friend Ian, whose wife, Lorilee was behind us a ways. He and Dale began chatting, so I decided to get moving. My knees are so much better, and it was a straight road, so I was able to take off! Singing songs (in my head only!) I made such good time that when Dale noticed how far ahead I was, he had a hard time catching up!

We entered Carrion, mapped our way to our accommodation, and waited for our hostess to arrive (we were early!) Our apartment is really fabulous, and just what we needed to catch up on rest after the night before. We have a long day ahead tomorrow (16.7 miles), much of which is without shelter or a place to stop.

Blessed with a washing machine, we did laundry, hung it up to dry, and wandered the plaza. Deciding to go to the market to stock up with provisions for the next day, we went ahead and bought items to make a pasta dinner, and a bottle of wine. And so, to sleep.