Day 41. Portomarin to Ligonde

We left Portomarin this morning in the fog. Fifty six degrees and a large number of pilgrims. Portomarin sits near a beautiful lake which we crossed going back out of town. This was a short walk today to rest my leg a bit. 12 miles (27600 steps). Right off we ran into our friend Rachel that we met 2 weeks ago, maybe longer. We were so happy to see her again. She is suffering with a bad blister which has slowed her down. Then we met a woman from Washington DC, Julie. She is on break from teaching/counselor. She said she was doing the “tourist route”. I suppose that is a good way of putting it. She had just started the day before. I had noticed last evening that many people, young and old were in the pharmacy getting fitted for knee braces and blister aids.
We had a 15 km (9 mile) climb first thing this morning. That will get your attention! One really had to be careful with the crowds. Many not paying attention, bicyclists trying to get by, not to mention cars. I met a gentleman, Alan from England, where we are staying and he asked what I thought about the trail since Sarria. We both agree it is definitely different. Many with loud blaring music, making phone calls, texting. There is not many that say or even acknowledge when you say Buen Camino. I suppose this is to get me ready for the crowds in Santiago and the return home. It has been so nice to have the peace and quiet during the day walks. I miss that time in my head. 46 more miles to Santiago!!!!
We got to our spot for the evening and we had a pleasant outdoor sitting area with Alan and Joann (Australia) that we met in Sarria until the rain clouds moved in. If this keeps up, I will sleep very well! Today I am grateful for seeing Rachel again. I am grateful for Steve, my ever present cheerleader, and I am grateful for the shorter day.Read more