I didn’t like the first 1 1/2 days walking but today was wonderful. After we left the small city we were rural until we reached this city. I met two women this morning my age and we walked together and enjoyed each other’s company. They are both Americans and this is the first camino.

I stopped at a grocery/cafe this morning and while there the Irishman in front of me told the cafe clerk that he wanted to pay for the coffee and rolls that two workers were buying next to me. After some interpretation and charades the clerk understood and he explained to the workers who were so pleased. Afterwards I was talking to the Irishman and he said that towns put up with us pilgrims and he wanted to show kindness. A very good lesson for all of us.

While at the grocery I decided to look for Desitin ointment for a crack rash I developed. I found diapers, pregnancy tests, feminine products and other goods but no ointment. The clerk was keeping an eye on me to help and I wonder what she thought as I’m reading product labels in feminine hygiene area. I left disappointed.

One other highlight was a donativo set up on the path. It has food and refreshments and pilgrims make a donation they feel appropriate. Here’s a few pictures

They had beer and watermelon also.

I rarely have anyone take my photo but I asked for a couple today.

I just finished eating my bag of nuts in this photo. I called Father Rick from here to chat and it was so enjoyable. Roger called soon after to check on me and we turned on camera so I could show him the beautiful trail I was on in the eucalyptus forest.
Here’s a few more pictures I took on this great day.

I love these two carvings above.


Eucalyptus forest.

Father Rick this church is for you. It’s where I called you and the church bells rang.

I walked 16.5 miles today. Weather was high 70’s and humid.

I made reservations last evening for a ferry boat ride in two days to cross a river into Spain.
best regards, Pop