Wednesday, September 30
In Galicia
Hola! Lots has happened since we last wrote but were never near a computer. OCebreiro was steep but we now are part mountain goat so up we went. It was a beautiful day so the views from the mountain were breathtaking. Had lunch at the top and headed down again. We are now in Galicia, the western most region, which some say is very much like Ireland with its Celtic influence. The land is pastoral with stone fences, lush canopy of trees line the trails, lots of cows, some sheep and the constant sound of roosters. Towns are very small...always cows and elderly people maintaining the traditions. Several mornings we began our walks in fog and mist before the sun came out late morning. It is really peaceful and serene...one day our walk took us to Samos where there is a huge Benedictine monastery...once over 500 people there and now only 15 monks. We stayed at an Albergue that was part of the monastery...very basic...had a tour of the monastery and cloisters...gorgeous..and that evening we went to vespers to hear the 15 monks sing (not the morman tabernacle choir). Last night we were in a hamlet...our albergue and many 5 other houses and a small church, of course. Our place was a rural home...slept with 6 others and had a really nice meal with 2 Spaniards, Mario and Jose. Mario was a Spanish lit teacher in a high school in Madrid. What a coincidence. What we have really loved is that we are getting the opportunity to see a part of Spain that few see. We have been to several big cities but much of what we have seen is definitely out of the loop. It has allowed us to get to know the people and interact with them even if it is just an exchange of a few words. The Spanish people along the way are so hard working, proud and very warm and generous. We have had so many wonderful experiences but we are now anxious to get to Santiago....we are only 2 days away!!!! We should arrive Friday afternoon...it is very exciting. Today we had a fun experience...at a cafe in the middle of nowhere, we ran into 3 different pilgrims that we hadn´t seen in several weeks. We feel like we have run into long lost friends. We will all be in Santiago together which will really be special. Our last blog will be from Santiago so....thanks again for all your comments...we have looked so forward to them each time we get on line. love to all....susu and gene
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Hi My Dear Friends,
ReplyDeleteAll I have to report is that the weather is giving us a hint of fall....not cold but crisp. Nothing much on the agenda for the weekend--football game against Virginia is about all. Next weekend Peryn, Adair and the boys are spending the weekend so that we can celebrate McKoy's 6th birthday here..so I will spend next week getting ready. They are so precious--and they actually love us. Enjoyed this edition of your travels. I can only imagine your feelings when you reach Santiago. What an accomplishment. Will check in later.
Miss you guys,
Libby
Hola Pilgrims!!
ReplyDeleteSo just one more day to santiago. I cannot imagine how excited and proud you both must feel. Wish I had been there to experience it too. can't wait to hear from you tomorrow and to get you home and see all the pictures and hear your stories. Talk to you tomorrow!!!
Te Quiero mucho grande. B.
WOW tomorrow, Santiago, I can't believe it. Friday all the yogis are having breakfast at Jeannie Pittman's house. I will make sure we say a special prayer for our Spanish Pilgrims!!! and a HUGE congratulatory OMMMMMMM!!! You two are soooo amazing and I am very proud to know you. What a fabulous adventure you have had. See you soon.
ReplyDeleteMom and Gene...YOU DID IT!!!! I am so proud of you and what you have accomplished. (Your feet may never recover, but at least that way you'll always carry a part of the camino with you!) How I wish I could be in Santiago to greet you as you arrive at the beautiful Catedral. I've got tears in my eyes just thinking about it. I'll try to find a glass of Rioja tomorrow night to drink in your honor. We all love you and can't wait to see you next week. C
ReplyDeleteToday is the day! What a victory! Congratulations on finishing this journey. The boys have been asking "what dot" you are on when we look at the map. They will be so amazed to see you are at the end of the line. I love the comment about seeing a part of Spain that a tourist or traveler rarely sees. I'm sure we will all enjoy living vicariously through your stories and pictures. We are all great here...busy with field trips, sports, etc. Kevin is going to the U2 concert Saturday with a buddy. Can't wait for your safe return. We love you so much. The Raleigh Logels
ReplyDeleteHola and congratulations Pilgrims!!!!
ReplyDeleteI hope you are kicking back and celebrating but I'll bet you will walk all over Santiago in the days to come. Your package was returned today as incorrect address, so enjoy when you get here. Call or email soon again. Love you lots, B.
Felicitaciones!!!!! Ah, to be in Santiago right now, celebrating with your fellow pilgrims- there is no better feeling. Drink some albarino and give Santiago a hug for me. Take care of your feet; most feet don't have to carry their bodies 800 km! Enjoy the magic that is Santiago. Much love.
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