We reached our goal of Santiago Thursday morning after walking the final 7 miles. I stayed at what I believe was the nicest albergue ever. They even had a food truck there and had one of the best hamburgers.
From albergue to a nice hotel in Madrid near the airport.
we arrived Santiago in late morning. After taking a couple of pictures we went to get our Compestella certificate then to get a beer. Katarina took the same 2 hour guided tour of the cathedral that Dee took a couple weeks ago. I watched our packs and pilgrims coming in. We waited on the other two girls who walked with us but stayed a few miles behind us the night before.
Here’s my walking buddies. We walked together for about 4-5 days and became good friends.
I would be remiss if I didn’t speak about what the walk meant. I had no expectation it would be similar to last year. This was a very enjoyable walk and I enjoyed being by myself the first half to think without many distractions except the beauty God provided each day. In an earlier blog I talked about the kindness others provided along the way. I want to keep the Camino kindness going in my interactions with others.
Next, I thought a great deal about how fortunate and blessed I am. When I think about and compare my life to many others in the world I wonder why me and not so many others in the world. I know it’s a philosophical question but it always returns me to my recognition of the fact.
I formed many memories that will last forever and I’m sure I will talk about for years to come. After being gone for six weeks I am so very ready to get home. I write this from JFK waiting on my next flight home. While I love Spain I love being home more.
Now for a few pictures:
This was lunch in Santiago after getting Compostela.
Along the path there are many mini memorials that people put rocks, crosses, ribbons, pictures and other means of remembering and memorializing people. The picture above was one that struck me. I’ve seen so many heartbreaking stones with dates knowing it was a loved one who died.
Pop on the boat looking old and skinny.
This is my last blog for the trip and I hope you have enjoyed it.
Love to all of you, Pop