Camino: May 27

Today's hike was much less strenuous than yesterday, but the same mileage (about 12.4 miles). A few people set out early to beat the heat because it got up near 90 today, and a long stretch of the trail didn't have any shade. George, Alissa, and I kept out steady pace...we are aiming to keep out feet as fresh as possible for the long days on the horizon. Nonetheless, I have multiple blisters that are growing by the day, and Alissa is working on a few as well. (I will be sure to post pictures when we decide to pop them the Camino way. What a treat.) 

One of the first sights of the day was a pasture of cows, so obviously that was a great moment for me. I had to keep tradition from last year and get a picture with one.

 

Cafe stops were MUCH appreciated today because of the heat and lack of shade. We made multiple stops and are enjoying the amazing, inexpensive food and beverages. 1L of water here cost only 1€ today compared to a small bottle on the Camino Frances last year costing about 3-4€.

Upon entering Valença, Alissa and I parted ways with George a bit because we wandered a little ways off the path to explore a fortress and the old part of town. It was GORGEOUS and well worth the extra mileage.

It worked out perfectly because we met up with the rest of the team before crossing the bridge into Spain. We took a few last pictures in Portugal and then walked right into Spain (and took more pictures). We are staying in Tui, the minimum distance for peregrinos (pilgrims) to start on the Camino Portugues in order to get a Compstela.

Our devotional tonight was given by George and was about pain and the role it plays on the Camino, but perhaps in life as well. It's so impactful to learn such simple, practical, and challenging lessons while you are really encountering those things. 

Tonight we ate out at a restaurant with 3 German girls who we have formed relationships with in the past few days, Natalie, Stephanie, and Birgid. (Natalie spent much of the day hiking with George, and then Alissa and I joined them. She hiked the whole Camino Frances two years ago, and has yet to get a blister...ever.) Most places offer a "pilgrim menu" which is one of the best things ever invented. You get your choice of meat/fish, two sides, a drink, bread, coffee and dessert for 8€. So much delicious food. 

After dinner we came back to the albergue, which closes its doors for the night at 10 (we BARELY made it), and all spent time together outside while the sun set. We are very grateful to be on a different floor than our snoring friend tonight. Hopefully we can all rest well!

Tomorrow is a shorter day, only a little over 9 miles. The goal is to take our time, and we should still arrive around lunch. We will encounter many more people along the way tomorrow since many people start at this minimum distance point. 

Please pray:

Natalie had an injury on the Camino 2 years ago that she is still recovering from and has been having pain trouble the past few days

Many more opportunities with people tomorrow as some set out on their journey

Continued health for the team

Hannah has sunburn really bad, maybe sun poisoning, and so please pray for quick healing and minimum pain (it is hard to wear long layers in such heat!)