Astorga

Wanderer, your footsteps are the road, and nothing more; wanderer, there is no road, the road is made by walking. - Antonio Machado

Day 21 on the Camino- we hit 320 miles. It seemed like a good time to reflect on walking: Becoming one with a pack that is now finally adjusted, balanced, a comfortable back hug that carries what I need and provides insulation from the searing Meseta sun; In one day, seeing biome change from endless fields of agricultural products, to oakforest, to farmed pine and into the mountains; In one day, seeing the color of the soil change from limestone white, to pink, to red, to fertile brown; Visiting small, remote villages that visitors rarely see; Boosting the economy of small, rural towns through albergue and shop owners; Getting to personally interact with the local people- receiving well wishes, unsolicited directions and instructions, willingly answering questions, looking up to notice them staring in wonder, then quickly turning their heads, wishing us a Buen Camino even when we are not carrying our packs, (what gives us away?); Sharing stories with a friend as you match each other's stride, or just sharing space in your own thoughts, walking silently; Seeing the colors gradually changing and shadows appearing as the sun emerges from behind a mountain; Viewing the top of an ancient church, in the distance- a landmark that signals the next small village that we will be passing through; The meditative state that comes from just putting one foot in front of the other- providing time and space to consider the small things like the thick wool socks hugging and protecting my feet, the shower at the next albergue that will wash the trail down the drain, to the most important people and things in my life- considering how grateful I am for my family and friends, my home and my community. Walking brings you all to me, as I continue down the road. ❤️ Photos- hops; compost spreader; random rock carving; a cat walks the labyrinth; a roadside vendor; rivers and gardens; less than 300 kilometers to go; a duck points the way; sunflowers lead us to Astorga. Love to you all!❤️Read more