Branca to Porto

32.4km
Today was an adventure. I walked this morning 20km to the train station. Once there I learned there is a strike happening today and no trains are running. I finally was able to convince a taxi driver to take me into Porto. Once in Porto I set off exploring. The place I am staying would not let me leave my pack, so I ended up wearing it from 7:00 this morning until 6:30 this evening, apart from lunch/dinner as I found my way to most of the sights.

Today is the largest celebration of the year in Porto. It’s St. John’s ’ Day. They sell these little wammer hammers and people go around bonking each other on the head. I was bonked many times. I am told the party will last all night. The city was already a sea of activity and revelry, quite a contrast to the sleepy, one cafe towns I have been in.

I made it to the cathedral and was able to get my Camino shell. St. James’ symbol is the scallop shell. The scallop shell also means new life and is often used in baptismal fonts. After I got my shell I walked into the cathedral and sat in one of the pews. And the emotions took over. I am so grateful for this life I have and the people in it who support me and have held me up. I know this experience is the beginning of a new start for me. I feel like I am on the cusp of it and ready to jump off.

I saw my first Camino Coastal marker, and took a picture by the Camino sign in front of the cathedral. I also saw and talked with several people who are beginning their pilgrimage or who have just finished. I finally feel like I am not alone. I climbed to the top of the tower on one of the cathedrals (pack and all) up 24 flights of stairs and got a glimpse of the ocean. Tomorrow, I’ll put my toes in it!Read more