I'm in "WTF am I doing" mode.

So, I chose to walk the Camino at this time of year, to avoid the heat of summer. Today was predicted to be in the high 70's with overcast skies all day and a 20% chance of rain. It started out overcast, but not cool and by noon was 80 and humid. By midday it was perfectly clear, 82, still oppressively humid and our walk was through farms and vineyards. Not a place to find shade. The constantness of being in the hot humid sun all day is beginning to take its toll. I am exhausted and having a hard time ignoring the piddly pains that come and go during the walk. Pilgrims say these days are the ones where the Camino challenges your brain. Today, my brain won out and convinced me it was just too hard.
We made it Santerem, had a shower, a little rest, and dinner, and I am now ready to continue this challenge. But a few hours ago, I was ready to give up.
Today we met an older gentleman from Amsterdam walking alone, a young man named La from So Korea, a group of about 20 Portuguese pilgrims from a church group on their way to Fatima, and 5 Australians and Canadians traveling together who were the least friendly pilgrims we have met til today.
We also had our very first pilgrims meal. Bread, olives, water or wine, steak with an egg on top, French fries and rice, dessert and coffee or tea for 12,50euro. We added a salad and 2 cokes for an additional 3 50 euro. And it was a lovely restaurant with the nicest wait staff.
Now that I am snuggled in bed with the ac on, all is once again right in my world. Ultreia!Read more