Unreal wind today, and I expect a crazy amount tomorrow also. Maybe I'll try earplugs while walking. Today was mostly uneventful. I did stop in Caceres and buy a snack for my late morning break, the next 4 days will have no such possiblities midday.
I'd like to tell about the two Germans I've been with recently. First, it is amazing how many Spanish folks think I'm German before they even know my name! Anyway, Ralph is probably the largest pilgrim I've ever met. Think Sgt. Schultz on Hogans Heros. But he is a gentle giant. Unusual for the german folks, he doesn't speak much english, spending his afternoons writing in a journal. Nina is the only single woman in our group. She's a college student between sessions. She picked the Via de la Plata for her first Camino because so few people take this route. She is invaluable to the rest of us, speaking german, english, and spanish.
Weather: Low 40F the coldest feeling morning on this trip with a 25 mph headwind, increasing throughout the day. The high was in the 60s, but felt colder.
Distance: 23 km
Route hints: When you leave Caceres, about one kilometer past the bull ring, there is a large round-about. It is a bit confusing, you need to go left to the pedestrian crossing, then go right along the highway.
Albergue and town: The albergue in Casar is no longer donativo, but it's only 5E so maybe even better! This town has a cheese museum, but it's closed on Mondays. Two years in a row I come to this town and miss the museum both times because I'm here on Mondays. I know I said a few days ago I don't do museums while on Camino!
Michael -- Last Wednesday, at my first ever Lenten Vespers service, I overheard Ruth talking about a blister you had. Wondering why that was worthy of soup-prep-conversation, I asked. We had no idea you were doing the Camino! Or that you both have done it multiple times. So, indeed, a blister is big news. I came home that evening and read every one of your blogs from every journey. Several years ago, Penny and I spent an entire year bicycling through 15 countries of Europe, living in a tent. It was absolutely life-changing ... and left us with a keen interest in others who travel similarly.
ReplyDeleteYou have the gift of writing in a way that transports us from our screens to the sights, sounds, and smells you're experiencing. I especially enjoy posts like yesterday's when you describe in detail what you're hearing. You choose pictures to post which balance beauty, culture, nature, and spirit. Your simple candid meditations are food for all of us. Your story of pigs reminded me of being surrounded by very aggressive monkeys at the top of Gibraltar. Your stories of meeting other pilgrims along the way (and enjoying an evening of English) remind us of finding a chicken in a Swedish grocery store by flapping our wings and bawking for a customer who then pointed out the chicken (much meat was unidentifiable). We’re thoroughly enjoying each post! Traveling with you in solidarity and support. As you well know, this kind of travel moves us into spaces we would never otherwise occupy, interior as well as exterior. Thank you for taking time to write. Be safe and know that you’re a blessing to us on this journey.
Thank you Cindy. As you know it is not easy to write every day, especially after many hours of walking. Some days internet is not good, or other activities take much of the evening. Anyway, I'm blessed that you enjoyed what you've read.
ReplyDeleteAt least it is duct tape grey.........
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