14.1 Miles
So first let me say, don’t ignore things like a scratchy throat. In the morning, I knew I had a fill-blown, nasty cold. Disappointing, to say the least, since I was all ready with my KT! However, with cool temps, rain, and wind in the forecast I decided that this was not going to help my cold. We’re down to our last 5 days and today we cross the 100k from Santiago point! I want to walk into Santiago, so I decided to: a) not expose others to my cold germs, and b) be good and rest, out of the bad weather.
I arrived about 10-ish and, after a visit to the farmacia, spent the next hour and a half in a cafe drinking hot tea and eating some toast, until I felt guilty about hanging around. It was windy and cold, and spitting rain so I headed across to our hotel to wait for check in. After about 15 minutes, an older (than me) Spanish couple arrived who had walked. We tried to communicate about checking in since they really wanted to dry off, and it was cold.
They did let us in about 30 minutes early, thank goodness!
Dale’s Journey
My stalwart husband walked in the rain and wind, arriving about 1:00. We got settled in our room and he shared some great photos, including one of himself at the 100k marker. He said there was a line to take a pic! Fortunately, it wasn’t raining the entire walk, and he found one of our Australian friends, Roland, whom he walked with. Some of the terrain was very tough. Paths with narrow, rocky areas on a very steep decline, plus a difficult climb immediately upon leaving Sarria.
My Journey
Everyone keeps saying that the Camino is personal…different for each individual. That is certainly true. And not just for me. While this has been wildly different from my expectations, based on an arrogant understanding of my fitness level, we have seen many, many instances of similar stories. Wrecked knees, shin splints, foot issues, blisters, lost toenails, and more. I feel blessed to still be walking…even if that also involves riding, when necessary, as others have to do as well.
Afternoon in the Rain
I knew I needed rest, and ended sleeping until after 4! Dale found a hot pot and tea bags right outside our door. (Camino provides!) And then I urged him to get out and about for a while and explore. He visited the church and took some more pictures, then found a restaurant that has take out veggie soup and bread for me! And a bocadilla for him…plus lasagna, in case that isn’t enough! My husband is the best, most patient man!!
Based on how I’m feeling…I doubt I’ll walk tomorrow unless I’m much better in the morning. Determined to walk the last 3 days!