June 16, 2015, Arzua

Today was long, over 27 Km, about 18 miles.  The path included many invigorating hill climbs and a lot of meandering through woods on gravel trails.  There were a number of small hamlets with the ever present bar so it was easy to get a cup of coffee or a bannana.  I learned a new term today from a most delightful fellow pilgrim, “touregrino”, to refer to the tourists/pilgrims that start in Sarria.  Well the “touregrinos” are now in their third day and seem to be slowing down.  It was pretty easy to pass the crowds on the hill climbs.

I did also pass what I would describe as a cow albergue.  All but one of the cows was laying down and I even heard one or more snooring – just like in an albergue.  In one little town I came across a small chapel which had a most interesting crucifix.  Jesus’ right hand is reaching down as if to help someone.  It’s always a surprise to walk into a little chapel along the way and see what’s inside.  Today I crossed over many rivers and streams nd that meant so many beautiful bridges.

So today marked a milestone.  I needed 24,638 steps to have gone 1,000,000 steps since I started my pilgirmage.  Today at about 12:45 PM I hit that mark.  I got a kind pilgrim to take my picture to mark the occasion.  A few hundred yards later, I celebrated with a beer at a bar/rest stop.  Within a couple minutes, several very delightful pilgrims I’ve come to know stopped in to join my table and celebrate with me.  It was really nice to be with pilgrims and celebrate this point of my pilgrimage.

The weather today could not have been more perfect.  Temperatures were in the upper 60s and low 70s all day and the sun was bright.  I hope my pictures capture a little sense of the day.  No really deep conversations today.  I think everyone is ready to celebrate their accomplishment so the mood is one of joy and happiness. Thanks for following along.

Buen Camino!

Tom