Hike Day 4 - Barcelos to Fernanda

In our Camino “triathlon” today was the water event. We gathered for a nourishing gourmet breakfast close to last night’s hostel and not even the light rain dampened our spirits.

There is a saying, “The Camino provides”.  Marian Yoder read us a friend’s post from Psalm 121 telling us that the Lord would look over our coming and going and would keep us from harm.

This proved true in so many regards. While the rain that steadily increased until 1pm deprieved us of the opportunity to linger over stunning views, it focused our attention on things we might have otherwise overlooked—shimmery Eucalyptus leaves, leafy ferns on the forest floor, pink day lilies popping up in the strangest places, prickly pear cactus, perfect creamy calla lilies,  and dogs that begged to tag along.

We were more attuned to the barking of dogs and the crowing of roosters.  As our 14 miles wore on and the body cried for rest,  we were more aware of the ever changing terrain under our feet and the infinite ways cobblestones can be laid.

Marian Yoder and Debbie Mink took the lead at one point. Marian Caroselli was usually behind taking photos and Dale had chosen a slower pace today. Before we knew it,our two leaders were out of sight having taken a different fork in the road than Dale and Marian C.  The next hour or so proved stressful for Dale and Marian C as they tried to communicate with the others and decide the best course of action. While stopping to “refuel “ , within 10 minutes Marian Y and Debbie walked in declaring their adventure the best part of the trip to date. They walked with peregrinos from  Milan, Texas, CA and Missouri who took them under their wing. Dale joking offered to provide a Best Practices lesson to ensure we are all on the same page in the future regarding signage and communication..

Dale kept the troops motivated for the final 2 miles of the trip by telling us he was sure our hostel was just a quarter mile away.  That’s some quarter mile, Dale.

As we reached Casa Fernanda, the exhale was audible. We settled in with introductions and wine. Fernanda calls everyone by their country name. We had Canada, Columbia, South Africa, Denmark and US.  We loved learning about health care, immigration and education in other countries. We continue to be shocked by the number of people who know that Pennsylvania has a pivotal role in the upcoming election.

Our dinner was amazing and there was something for every palate and dietary need. Impromptu entertainment followed when our host produced a guitar.

Fernanda exhibits such warmth and hospitality.  Our short stay at this true hostel is exceeding our expectations in every regard.

More rain tomorrow and the next day but no more Casa Fernanda.

Today’s post by Marian Coroselli.Meer informatie