LIVE from the Camino Héctor Walked His Way-Successfully!

[HBS60]

Lavacolla to Santiago de Compostela: 8.8 miles, 14.1 Km*

* longer than expected because of trying to find the Monte do Gozo statues in the fog.

Well, I did it! I walked EVERY SINGLE STEP from St Jean Pied-De-Port to Santiago de Compostela in 6 weeks, starting on Sunday, August 11, ending on Sunday, September 22, the last day of summer and the first day of fall, hopefully also the first day for a new season in my life.

My last day in the Camino started ordinarily enough, waking up, applying antichafing cream to my feet to prevent blisters, leaving my big backpack to be picked up for transport. Although sleepy, I made a speaking video trying to collect my thoughts.

The lady at the hotel bar told me last night that the bar would open at 6 AM and I was happy about the prospect of coffee and a tortilla to get me started. Only problem was that the kitchen wouldn’t open until 8 PM…at least I was able to get coffee and a donut. I went to the gas station across the street and they also had junk food. At least I knew my walk today wouldn’t be long.

I set out and other than a fairly steep uphill, it was fairly easy terrain. The fog reminded me of my day walking from Orisson to Roncesvalles, how ethereal but challenging it was back then. It felt like an appropriate bookend to my Camino. I felt confident walking even if I was alone, felt more solid and toughened.

I found a town with an open bar, but no tortilla, meat or protein, so I had a Tarta de Santiago (almond cake) plus coffee, and resumed walking. It wasn’t a pretty walk, as we were on a grimy, industrial area, and the fog helped conceal the ugliness. I was concerned that the fog would hamper the view from Monte Do Gozo, a spot where two pilgrim statues are able to see the Santiago Cathedral from a distance, after a long walk.

Eventually I arrived at Monte do Gozo, and for the life of me I couldn’t find the statues. At this point a Spaniard from Tenerife (Canary Islands) was walking by, and we tried to find the statues, while engaging in conversation. Eventually, after much searching and asking someone that seemed to be in a tour group, we found them. Although we couldn’t see Santiago because of the fog, we took selfies with the statues.

We hung around, talking animately, trying to find our way back to the trail. We finally found it, and as we were entering the outskirts of Santiago, we stopped at a place to have something to eat. I had my first churros con chocolate I’ve had dinner e being in Spain (I can’t remember what he had).

We resumed our walk, and it was soon obvious we were getting close. After a wrong turn, we knew to follow the crowd, and as we were almost there, the cathedral bells started chiming loudly, and I heard the bagpiper greeting us.

I totally lost it in the best way possible.

I had arrived

I actually walked the entire distance from SJPDP to SDC, every single step of the way. The sounds of the bagpipe plus the cathedral bells is something I’ll never forget, I get goosebumps thinking about it.

It was almost noon, and we tried to get to the Pilgrim mass, but the line was huge, so after a while we decided to forget it and find the pilgrim office to get our Compostelas certifying that we’ve done the Camino. As we are searching, a man called Luca from Italy, whom I met in Trabadelo, spots me, comes to me and gave me a wonderful hug. It was a great joyful moment.

My Tenerife friend and I went on to the Pilgrims office, got our Compostelas, and then we had lunch. I had to find my Albergue which unfortunately is 1.6 Km away by the train station. He accompanied me for part of the way then bid goodbye as he had to find his albergue.

I’m now settled in, doing laundry, will head to downtown later, trying to think what I’ll do for the next couple of days. I have stuff to pick up that I brought but didn’t need for my walk, and I depending on the weather I’ll try to get a bus trip to Fisterre and Muxía on the coast.

I have already made arrangements for my train trip to Madrid, an overnight stay, and then my flight home. I hope for the next two days I get to savor the experience I just lived.

I’m extremely grateful for all the encouragement and support I’ve got as I’ve been sharing my journey. It was very difficult but it helped so much that I knew I had so many people rooting for me.

Thanks for staying with me!

FB link with pics and videos: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/naaTvRqHhv5MRsoA/?mibextid=WC7FNe

 

[HBS60]

Lavacolla to Santiago de Compostela: 8.8 miles, 14.1 Km*

* longer than expected because of trying to find the Monte do Gozo statues in the fog.

Well, I did it! I walked EVERY SINGLE STEP from St Jean Pied-De-Port to Santiago de Compostela in 6 weeks, starting on Sunday, August 11, ending on Sunday, September 22, the last day of summer and the first day of fall, hopefully also the first day for a new season in my life.

My last day in the Camino started ordinarily enough, waking up, applying antichafing cream to my feet to prevent blisters, leaving my big backpack to be picked up for transport. Although sleepy, I made a speaking video trying to collect my thoughts.

The lady at the hotel bar told me last night that the bar would open at 6 AM and I was happy about the prospect of coffee and a tortilla to get me started. Only problem was that the kitchen wouldn’t open until 8 PM…at least I was able to get coffee and a donut. I went to the gas station across the street and they also had junk food. At least I knew my walk today wouldn’t be long.

I set out and other than a fairly steep uphill, it was fairly easy terrain. The fog reminded me of my day walking from Orisson to Roncesvalles, how ethereal but challenging it was back then. It felt like an appropriate bookend to my Camino. I felt confident walking even if I was alone, felt more solid and toughened.

I found a town with an open bar, but no tortilla, meat or protein, so I had a Tarta de Santiago (almond cake) plus coffee, and resumed walking. It wasn’t a pretty walk, as we were on a grimy, industrial area, and the fog helped conceal the ugliness. I was concerned that the fog would hamper the view from Monte Do Gozo, a spot where two pilgrim statues are able to see the Santiago Cathedral from a distance, after a long walk.

Eventually I arrived at Monte do Gozo, and for the life of me I couldn’t find the statues. At this point a Spaniard from Tenerife (Canary Islands) was walking by, and we tried to find the statues, while engaging in conversation. Eventually, after much searching and asking someone that seemed to be in a tour group, we found them. Although we couldn’t see Santiago because of the fog, we took selfies with the statues.

We hung around, talking animately, trying to find our way back to the trail. We finally found it, and as we were entering the outskirts of Santiago, we stopped at a place to have something to eat. I had my first churros con chocolate I’ve had dinner e being in Spain (I can’t remember what he had).

We resumed our walk, and it was soon obvious we were getting close. After a wrong turn, we knew to follow the crowd, and as we were almost there, the cathedral bells started chiming loudly, and I heard the bagpiper greeting us.

I totally lost it in the best way possible.

I had arrived

I actually walked the entire distance from SJPDP to SDC, every single step of the way. The sounds of the bagpipe plus the cathedral bells is something I’ll never forget, I get goosebumps thinking about it.

It was almost noon, and we tried to get to the Pilgrim mass, but the line was huge, so after a while we decided to forget it and find the pilgrim office to get our Compostelas certifying that we’ve done the Camino. As we are searching, a man called Luca from Italy, whom I met in Trabadelo, spots me, comes to me and gave me a wonderful hug. It was a great joyful moment.

My Tenerife friend and I went on to the Pilgrims office, got our Compostelas, and then we had lunch. I had to find my Albergue which unfortunately is 1.6 Km away by the train station. He accompanied me for part of the way then bid goodbye as he had to find his albergue.

I’m now settled in, doing laundry, will head to downtown later, trying to think what I’ll do for the next couple of days. I have stuff to pick up that I brought but didn’t need for my walk, and I depending on the weather I’ll try to get a bus trip to Fisterre and Muxía on the coast.

I have already made arrangements for my train trip to Madrid, an overnight stay, and then my flight home. I hope for the next two days I get to savor the experience I just lived.

I’m extremely grateful for all the encouragement and support I’ve got as I’ve been sharing my journey. It was very difficult but it helped so much that I knew I had so many people rooting for me.

Thanks for staying with me!

FB link with pics and videos: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/naaTvRqHhv5MRsoA/?mibextid=WC7FNe

I forgot to copy and paste the URL from my FB, fixed now.

 

[naplesdon]

Beware of the weather forecast for the next few days!!!!

 

[dbier]

You know...I've been through Monte de Gozo twice. Still haven't seen the statues...never could find them.

Let a flow state take you tomorrow. Go to Pilgrim House, to Mass, to the Pilgrim's Office, and/ or through the Museum, if you wish. Buy a ticket for a Portico tour. Or go to the St Francis church near the Pilgrim's Office, and obtain their certificate. Or grab a café con Leche near the Plaza. I almost guarantee you'll meet people there.

Or all or none of the above.

I found myself in that flow state that I mention the day after my arrival. I had several encounters where I felt powerfully pulled to minister to others, and did so.

Remain open, and celebrate! You did this!

 

[HBS60]

I made sure to stop at Ivar’s and say hi!

 

[HBS60]

Beware of the weather forecast for the next few days!!!!

Yep, it doesn’t look good. I’ll skip the Muxia-Fisterre thing, also because I’m bone-tired and don’t have the energy for a day trip, but would love to come back some day and visit. Today the weather looks decent, so I’ve been shopping and doing a little exploring. Went to the morning Pilgrim mass, visited Ivar, shopped for souvenirs, and stopped at The Pilgrims house, they have a debriefing at 4 pm. I’m definitely on decompression mode…

 

[bestfootforward]

Lavacolla to Santiago de Compostela: 8.8 miles, 14.1 Km*

* longer than expected because of trying to find the Monte do Gozo statues in the fog.

Well, I did it! I walked EVERY SINGLE STEP from St Jean Pied-De-Port to Santiago de Compostela in 6 weeks, starting on Sunday, August 11, ending on Sunday, September 22, the last day of summer and the first day of fall, hopefully also the first day for a new season in my life.

My last day in the Camino started ordinarily enough, waking up, applying antichafing cream to my feet to prevent blisters, leaving my big backpack to be picked up for transport. Although sleepy, I made a speaking video trying to collect my thoughts.

The lady at the hotel bar told me last night that the bar would open at 6 AM and I was happy about the prospect of coffee and a tortilla to get me started. Only problem was that the kitchen wouldn’t open until 8 PM…at least I was able to get coffee and a donut. I went to the gas station across the street and they also had junk food. At least I knew my walk today wouldn’t be long.

I set out and other than a fairly steep uphill, it was fairly easy terrain. The fog reminded me of my day walking from Orisson to Roncesvalles, how ethereal but challenging it was back then. It felt like an appropriate bookend to my Camino. I felt confident walking even if I was alone, felt more solid and toughened.

I found a town with an open bar, but no tortilla, meat or protein, so I had a Tarta de Santiago (almond cake) plus coffee, and resumed walking. It wasn’t a pretty walk, as we were on a grimy, industrial area, and the fog helped conceal the ugliness. I was concerned that the fog would hamper the view from Monte Do Gozo, a spot where two pilgrim statues are able to see the Santiago Cathedral from a distance, after a long walk.

Eventually I arrived at Monte do Gozo, and for the life of me I couldn’t find the statues. At this point a Spaniard from Tenerife (Canary Islands) was walking by, and we tried to find the statues, while engaging in conversation. Eventually, after much searching and asking someone that seemed to be in a tour group, we found them. Although we couldn’t see Santiago because of the fog, we took selfies with the statues.

We hung around, talking animately, trying to find our way back to the trail. We finally found it, and as we were entering the outskirts of Santiago, we stopped at a place to have something to eat. I had my first churros con chocolate I’ve had dinner e being in Spain (I can’t remember what he had).

We resumed our walk, and it was soon obvious we were getting close. After a wrong turn, we knew to follow the crowd, and as we were almost there, the cathedral bells started chiming loudly, and I heard the bagpiper greeting us.

I totally lost it in the best way possible.

I had arrived

I actually walked the entire distance from SJPDP to SDC, every single step of the way. The sounds of the bagpipe plus the cathedral bells is something I’ll never forget, I get goosebumps thinking about it.

It was almost noon, and we tried to get to the Pilgrim mass, but the line was huge, so after a while we decided to forget it and find the pilgrim office to get our Compostelas certifying that we’ve done the Camino. As we are searching, a man called Luca from Italy, whom I met in Trabadelo, spots me, comes to me and gave me a wonderful hug. It was a great joyful moment.

My Tenerife friend and I went on to the Pilgrims office, got our Compostelas, and then we had lunch. I had to find my Albergue which unfortunately is 1.6 Km away by the train station. He accompanied me for part of the way then bid goodbye as he had to find his albergue.

I’m now settled in, doing laundry, will head to downtown later, trying to think what I’ll do for the next couple of days. I have stuff to pick up that I brought but didn’t need for my walk, and I depending on the weather I’ll try to get a bus trip to Fisterre and Muxía on the coast.

I have already made arrangements for my train trip to Madrid, an overnight stay, and then my flight home. I hope for the next two days I get to savor the experience I just lived.

I’m extremely grateful for all the encouragement and support I’ve got as I’ve been sharing my journey. It was very difficult but it helped so much that I knew I had so many people rooting for me.

Thanks for staying with me!

FB link with pics and videos: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/naaTvRqHhv5MRsoA/?mibextid=WC7FNe

Thanks for sharing your excellent adventure with us all Hector. It's been awesome. All the best and enjoy your life's new season.

 

[jfgough]

Lavacolla to Santiago de Compostela: 8.8 miles, 14.1 Km*

* longer than expected because of trying to find the Monte do Gozo statues in the fog.

Well, I did it! I walked EVERY SINGLE STEP from St Jean Pied-De-Port to Santiago de Compostela in 6 weeks, starting on Sunday, August 11, ending on Sunday, September 22, the last day of summer and the first day of fall, hopefully also the first day for a new season in my life.

My last day in the Camino started ordinarily enough, waking up, applying antichafing cream to my feet to prevent blisters, leaving my big backpack to be picked up for transport. Although sleepy, I made a speaking video trying to collect my thoughts.

The lady at the hotel bar told me last night that the bar would open at 6 AM and I was happy about the prospect of coffee and a tortilla to get me started. Only problem was that the kitchen wouldn’t open until 8 PM…at least I was able to get coffee and a donut. I went to the gas station across the street and they also had junk food. At least I knew my walk today wouldn’t be long.

I set out and other than a fairly steep uphill, it was fairly easy terrain. The fog reminded me of my day walking from Orisson to Roncesvalles, how ethereal but challenging it was back then. It felt like an appropriate bookend to my Camino. I felt confident walking even if I was alone, felt more solid and toughened.

I found a town with an open bar, but no tortilla, meat or protein, so I had a Tarta de Santiago (almond cake) plus coffee, and resumed walking. It wasn’t a pretty walk, as we were on a grimy, industrial area, and the fog helped conceal the ugliness. I was concerned that the fog would hamper the view from Monte Do Gozo, a spot where two pilgrim statues are able to see the Santiago Cathedral from a distance, after a long walk.

Eventually I arrived at Monte do Gozo, and for the life of me I couldn’t find the statues. At this point a Spaniard from Tenerife (Canary Islands) was walking by, and we tried to find the statues, while engaging in conversation. Eventually, after much searching and asking someone that seemed to be in a tour group, we found them. Although we couldn’t see Santiago because of the fog, we took selfies with the statues.

We hung around, talking animately, trying to find our way back to the trail. We finally found it, and as we were entering the outskirts of Santiago, we stopped at a place to have something to eat. I had my first churros con chocolate I’ve had dinner e being in Spain (I can’t remember what he had).

We resumed our walk, and it was soon obvious we were getting close. After a wrong turn, we knew to follow the crowd, and as we were almost there, the cathedral bells started chiming loudly, and I heard the bagpiper greeting us.

I totally lost it in the best way possible.

I had arrived

I actually walked the entire distance from SJPDP to SDC, every single step of the way. The sounds of the bagpipe plus the cathedral bells is something I’ll never forget, I get goosebumps thinking about it.

It was almost noon, and we tried to get to the Pilgrim mass, but the line was huge, so after a while we decided to forget it and find the pilgrim office to get our Compostelas certifying that we’ve done the Camino. As we are searching, a man called Luca from Italy, whom I met in Trabadelo, spots me, comes to me and gave me a wonderful hug. It was a great joyful moment.

My Tenerife friend and I went on to the Pilgrims office, got our Compostelas, and then we had lunch. I had to find my Albergue which unfortunately is 1.6 Km away by the train station. He accompanied me for part of the way then bid goodbye as he had to find his albergue.

I’m now settled in, doing laundry, will head to downtown later, trying to think what I’ll do for the next couple of days. I have stuff to pick up that I brought but didn’t need for my walk, and I depending on the weather I’ll try to get a bus trip to Fisterre and Muxía on the coast.

I have already made arrangements for my train trip to Madrid, an overnight stay, and then my flight home. I hope for the next two days I get to savor the experience I just lived.

I’m extremely grateful for all the encouragement and support I’ve got as I’ve been sharing my journey. It was very difficult but it helped so much that I knew I had so many people rooting for me.

Thanks for staying with me!

FB link with pics and videos: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/naaTvRqHhv5MRsoA/?mibextid=WC7FNe

Bravo Hector! I have followed you on your journey and it brought back incredible memories from my Camino Frances last year.
I completed the Camino Portuguese this September and then the Camino Finisterre. All the while I revelled in your adventures on the Frances.
Buen Camino and safe travels home.

 

[Theatregal]

Joyous! Congratulations Hector!!

 

[LSab]

Congratulations Hector! Thank you for sharing your inspiring journey! You are a Camino star!! I hope you carry Buen Camino through the journeys that await you in life.

 

[JulieandPeter]

Thank you!

 

[Camino Chrissy]

You know...I've been through Monte de Gozo twice. Still haven't seen the statues...never could find them.

I missed them in 2015 on my first Camino. Eventually someone on the forum posted a simple little map on how to find them so when I returned in 2017 with my sons and daughter-in-law it was a special moment as I'd always thought the statues looked awesome in pictures.

 

[CWBuff]

You know...I've been through Monte de Gozo twice. Still haven't seen the statues...never could find them.

I missed them in 2015 on my first Camino. Eventually someone on the forum posted a simple little map on how to find them so when I returned in 2017 with my sons and daughter-in-law it was a special moment as I'd always thought the statues looked awesome in pictures.

Yeah you gots to go a bit of ways "into the park" to get to them....

 

[HBS60]

Santiago de Compostela, decompression day 1

I woke up early as usual, but savored not having to rush packing my stuff or having to walk anywhere. Still, I really couldn’t go back to sleep, so I eventually got up and headed to town. I’m very close to the intermodal bus/train station, and the bus station has a very good cafeteria so I got my usual choices. Then I went around the station because there’s some major construction going on and it’s not very clear how to get to the train terminals. I’d rather figure this out now and not on Wednesday morning when I’m lugging all my heavy stuff. I have a huge duffel bag that can accommodate everything but I’ll probably wear my big backpack, put the smaller one in the duffel bag and when I get to the train station, put the big one inside so it’s just one piece of luggage.

Once I got a sense of how to get there, I started to head out when I ran into my Tenerife friend from yesterday. He was headed to Fisterra to spend a couple days, which is a great thing I wish I would do, but I’m simply too tired to think about it. We hugged and bade each other goodbye.

Then I walked to the Cathedral, which is about a mile (1.6 Km away), I wad just thinking of looking around inside, but I happened to arrive in time for the morning Pilgrims mass. It was a beautiful service, in Spanish, and I was transported to that first Pilgrim mass in SJPDP in what seems years ago. While I do have my disagreements with the church on many issues, I can’t help but be moved by the beautiful liturgy, the music, the art, all motivated by devotion.

I got to see the Botafumeiro swing, it was practically over my head. They only swing it on certain holy days but sometimes a person or group will pay for it, and I felt fortunate to see this as I wasn’t really expecting it. What more could I want?

After the service, I went down to a cellar where a silver coffin that reportedly had St James’ body is on display. Then a stair leads up to the statue of the apostle, where I got the opportunity to hug him from behind as has been the custom. I got to experience the whole thing.

Then I went shopping for souvenirs, and I also paid a visit to Ivar, It was a great meeting.

As I headed back to my albergue, I passed by The Pilgrim House, a beautiful place where you could rest, meditate, decompress, write, read, and process the Camino experience. I hung out there for a while, but they had a debriefing session in the afternoon so I decided to return later.

I headed back to the albergue, and someone was cooking a batch of lentil soup and I was invited to participate in the community lunch. It was absolutely delicious. I showered, took a nap, then headed back to just hang around the Pilgrim House. They have a nice living room, kitchen, a reading room and a garden, and you can chat with the staff.

I started the debriefing session just myself and a staff member, and I’m glad how supportive and non judgmental he was, just giving me space to talk. I’ve been aware of how much emotional energy I’ve been carrying, and how during the Camino I was not just burning calories, but emotions. Then an Ecuadorian married couple joined in, we shared our feelings and emotions, it did feel therapeutic.

Afterwards I headed back to the Praza do Obradoiro to hang around, to listen to the bagpiper as pilgrims and tourists continued to pour in. I was also wishing to run into any of the great people I’ve met during this journey, but that was not to be. It was a lonely feeling but I understand that some connections are not meant to be permanent. Then I remembered the words by Gabriel García Márquez: “No llores porque terminó, sonríe porque sucedió”. (Don’t cry because it’s over, smile because it happened). Wise words that I’ll need to remember the next several days…

Fb link with pics: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/u4iD4bXdTLgNmpus/?mibextid=WC7FNe

 

[JacquelineA]

Congratulations, Hector. You did it!!!
Not only that, you also managed to post something every day. It was great to read it.
Have a save travel back home

 

[Bala]

So very, very happy for your whole journey, Hector. The many graces of this Camino will reveal themselves to you for years to come. Of that, I have no doubt. Thanks for bringing us along and sharing your thoughtful reflections each day. May you walk with God as your life journey continues. Peace and joy to you. Buen Camino.

 

[peregrina2000]

Then I remembered the words by Gabriel García Márquez: “No llores porque terminó, sonríe porque sucedió”. (Don’t cry because it’s over, smile because it happened)

I had never known that those were the words of Gabriel García Márquez. Thanks for the education. I am not a fan of “realismo mágico” but I do love those words. Enhorabuena, Hector.

 

[C clearly]

I had never known that those were the words of Gabriel García Márquez

Maybe for good reason. It seems to be unknown, as described here.

 

[Camo]

I got to see the Botafumeiro swing, it was practically over my head. They only swing it on certain holy days but sometimes a person or group will pay for it,

I like to think that "certain unrevealed forces" caused it to swing to honor YOUR visit

 

[Vancouver Rose]

then headed back to just hang around the Pilgrim House. They have a nice living room, kitchen, a reading room and a garden, and you can chat with the staff.

I started the debriefing session just myself and a staff member, and I’m glad how supportive and non judgmental he was, just giving me space to talk. I’ve been aware of how much emotional energy I’ve been carrying, and how during the Camino I was not just burning calories, but emotions.

Congratulations to your on being open to whatever came your way, and completing the journey in (what seems to be) a better place than where you'd began.

Your post reminds me how sad I was not to have known about (or be told about?) Pilgrim House before I'd arrived in Santiago. I sure could have used a place to decompress and share some of my thoughts and feelings. Not knowing about it, I found I'd just started spontaneously crying in the middle of a conversation over the two or three weeks following the end of my Camino: Thoughts and feelings would come to me - sometimes triggered by the smallest things, seemingly unrelated things, and I'd start bawling. I think my husband thought I was losing it. Good thing I got over that, and had 2-3 weeks off before returning to work!

 

[longlost18]

Thanks so much for sharing your planning, trepidations, and journey. We were with you every step of the way. For the deep feeling you showed walking into the tunnel, I found myself getting emotional and really tearing up. Hold those wonderful feelings and memories in your heart.

 

[SDJunkMan]

Congratulations Hector, I’ve been following your journey, and maybe I’ll see you this afternoon. I’m finishing my walk from SJPP today, hope to be in Santiago just after noon, so will keep an eye out for you. I started on August 22nd, and hoped I might catch up to you and say Hi!

 

[dimdog]

Lavacolla to Santiago de Compostela: 8.8 miles, 14.1 Km*

* longer than expected because of trying to find the Monte do Gozo statues in the fog.

Well, I did it! I walked EVERY SINGLE STEP from St Jean Pied-De-Port to Santiago de Compostela in 6 weeks, starting on Sunday, August 11, ending on Sunday, September 22, the last day of summer and the first day of fall, hopefully also the first day for a new season in my life.

My last day in the Camino started ordinarily enough, waking up, applying antichafing cream to my feet to prevent blisters, leaving my big backpack to be picked up for transport. Although sleepy, I made a speaking video trying to collect my thoughts.

The lady at the hotel bar told me last night that the bar would open at 6 AM and I was happy about the prospect of coffee and a tortilla to get me started. Only problem was that the kitchen wouldn’t open until 8 PM…at least I was able to get coffee and a donut. I went to the gas station across the street and they also had junk food. At least I knew my walk today wouldn’t be long.

I set out and other than a fairly steep uphill, it was fairly easy terrain. The fog reminded me of my day walking from Orisson to Roncesvalles, how ethereal but challenging it was back then. It felt like an appropriate bookend to my Camino. I felt confident walking even if I was alone, felt more solid and toughened.

I found a town with an open bar, but no tortilla, meat or protein, so I had a Tarta de Santiago (almond cake) plus coffee, and resumed walking. It wasn’t a pretty walk, as we were on a grimy, industrial area, and the fog helped conceal the ugliness. I was concerned that the fog would hamper the view from Monte Do Gozo, a spot where two pilgrim statues are able to see the Santiago Cathedral from a distance, after a long walk.

Eventually I arrived at Monte do Gozo, and for the life of me I couldn’t find the statues. At this point a Spaniard from Tenerife (Canary Islands) was walking by, and we tried to find the statues, while engaging in conversation. Eventually, after much searching and asking someone that seemed to be in a tour group, we found them. Although we couldn’t see Santiago because of the fog, we took selfies with the statues.

We hung around, talking animately, trying to find our way back to the trail. We finally found it, and as we were entering the outskirts of Santiago, we stopped at a place to have something to eat. I had my first churros con chocolate I’ve had dinner e being in Spain (I can’t remember what he had).

We resumed our walk, and it was soon obvious we were getting close. After a wrong turn, we knew to follow the crowd, and as we were almost there, the cathedral bells started chiming loudly, and I heard the bagpiper greeting us.

I totally lost it in the best way possible.

I had arrived

I actually walked the entire distance from SJPDP to SDC, every single step of the way. The sounds of the bagpipe plus the cathedral bells is something I’ll never forget, I get goosebumps thinking about it.

It was almost noon, and we tried to get to the Pilgrim mass, but the line was huge, so after a while we decided to forget it and find the pilgrim office to get our Compostelas certifying that we’ve done the Camino. As we are searching, a man called Luca from Italy, whom I met in Trabadelo, spots me, comes to me and gave me a wonderful hug. It was a great joyful moment.

My Tenerife friend and I went on to the Pilgrims office, got our Compostelas, and then we had lunch. I had to find my Albergue which unfortunately is 1.6 Km away by the train station. He accompanied me for part of the way then bid goodbye as he had to find his albergue.

I’m now settled in, doing laundry, will head to downtown later, trying to think what I’ll do for the next couple of days. I have stuff to pick up that I brought but didn’t need for my walk, and I depending on the weather I’ll try to get a bus trip to Fisterre and Muxía on the coast.

I have already made arrangements for my train trip to Madrid, an overnight stay, and then my flight home. I hope for the next two days I get to savor the experience I just lived.

I’m extremely grateful for all the encouragement and support I’ve got as I’ve been sharing my journey. It was very difficult but it helped so much that I knew I had so many people rooting for me.

Thanks for staying with me!

FB link with pics and videos: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/naaTvRqHhv5MRsoA/?mibextid=WC7FNe

Absolutely loved reading about your journey.......

 

[dimdog]

Lavacolla to Santiago de Compostela: 8.8 miles, 14.1 Km*

* longer than expected because of trying to find the Monte do Gozo statues in the fog.

Well, I did it! I walked EVERY SINGLE STEP from St Jean Pied-De-Port to Santiago de Compostela in 6 weeks, starting on Sunday, August 11, ending on Sunday, September 22, the last day of summer and the first day of fall, hopefully also the first day for a new season in my life.

My last day in the Camino started ordinarily enough, waking up, applying antichafing cream to my feet to prevent blisters, leaving my big backpack to be picked up for transport. Although sleepy, I made a speaking video trying to collect my thoughts.

The lady at the hotel bar told me last night that the bar would open at 6 AM and I was happy about the prospect of coffee and a tortilla to get me started. Only problem was that the kitchen wouldn’t open until 8 PM…at least I was able to get coffee and a donut. I went to the gas station across the street and they also had junk food. At least I knew my walk today wouldn’t be long.

I set out and other than a fairly steep uphill, it was fairly easy terrain. The fog reminded me of my day walking from Orisson to Roncesvalles, how ethereal but challenging it was back then. It felt like an appropriate bookend to my Camino. I felt confident walking even if I was alone, felt more solid and toughened.

I found a town with an open bar, but no tortilla, meat or protein, so I had a Tarta de Santiago (almond cake) plus coffee, and resumed walking. It wasn’t a pretty walk, as we were on a grimy, industrial area, and the fog helped conceal the ugliness. I was concerned that the fog would hamper the view from Monte Do Gozo, a spot where two pilgrim statues are able to see the Santiago Cathedral from a distance, after a long walk.

Eventually I arrived at Monte do Gozo, and for the life of me I couldn’t find the statues. At this point a Spaniard from Tenerife (Canary Islands) was walking by, and we tried to find the statues, while engaging in conversation. Eventually, after much searching and asking someone that seemed to be in a tour group, we found them. Although we couldn’t see Santiago because of the fog, we took selfies with the statues.

We hung around, talking animately, trying to find our way back to the trail. We finally found it, and as we were entering the outskirts of Santiago, we stopped at a place to have something to eat. I had my first churros con chocolate I’ve had dinner e being in Spain (I can’t remember what he had).

We resumed our walk, and it was soon obvious we were getting close. After a wrong turn, we knew to follow the crowd, and as we were almost there, the cathedral bells started chiming loudly, and I heard the bagpiper greeting us.

I totally lost it in the best way possible.

I had arrived

I actually walked the entire distance from SJPDP to SDC, every single step of the way. The sounds of the bagpipe plus the cathedral bells is something I’ll never forget, I get goosebumps thinking about it.

It was almost noon, and we tried to get to the Pilgrim mass, but the line was huge, so after a while we decided to forget it and find the pilgrim office to get our Compostelas certifying that we’ve done the Camino. As we are searching, a man called Luca from Italy, whom I met in Trabadelo, spots me, comes to me and gave me a wonderful hug. It was a great joyful moment.

My Tenerife friend and I went on to the Pilgrims office, got our Compostelas, and then we had lunch. I had to find my Albergue which unfortunately is 1.6 Km away by the train station. He accompanied me for part of the way then bid goodbye as he had to find his albergue.

I’m now settled in, doing laundry, will head to downtown later, trying to think what I’ll do for the next couple of days. I have stuff to pick up that I brought but didn’t need for my walk, and I depending on the weather I’ll try to get a bus trip to Fisterre and Muxía on the coast.

I have already made arrangements for my train trip to Madrid, an overnight stay, and then my flight home. I hope for the next two days I get to savor the experience I just lived.

I’m extremely grateful for all the encouragement and support I’ve got as I’ve been sharing my journey. It was very difficult but it helped so much that I knew I had so many people rooting for me.

Thanks for staying with me!

FB link with pics and videos: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/naaTvRqHhv5MRsoA/?mibextid=WC7FNe

Absolutely loved reading about your journey.......

 

[HBS60]

Congratulations Hector, I’ve been following your journey, and maybe I’ll see you this afternoon. I’m finishing my walk from SJPP today, hope to be in Santiago just after noon, so will keep an eye out for you. I started on August 22nd, and hoped I might catch up to you and say Hi!

Thanks! Same to you! Meeting would be great. Being that it’s a rainy day, maybe I can hang out at the Pilgrim house as I doubt I would be walking around much. Someone else from a different group wants to meet me too so let’s see how this be coordinated.

 

[HBS60]

I had never known that those were the words of Gabriel García Márquez. Thanks for the education. I am not a fan of “realismo mágico” but I do love those words. Enhorabuena, Hector.

I don’t remember when I first heard this attribution, so I looked it up and came up with this list of thought-provoking quotes, among which is the one I’m talking about. I haven’t heard the term “realismo mágico” but I remember reading 100 Años de Soledad” and I agree that it can be difficult to wrap one’s head around his literary devices. But these quotes are memorable, IMO: https://www.buenas-vibras.com.ar/blogtest/21-frases-de-gabriel-garcia-marquez/

 

[VNwalking]

Being that it’s a rainy day,

Lots to do on a rainy day!
The Mass in English with Fr Manny is a joy, if it's happening. As is the check-in with the Sisters in the welcome office upstairs from where you got your Compostela.

Highly recommend going down to the Tertulia - one of my favorite places to have breakfast, mid morning or mid-afternoon coffee, and perhaps something delicious.

Or, yeah. Pilgrim House is an absolute gem.

 

[J Willhaus]

When you board the train, they will put your baggage through an xray machine. There isn't usually a ton of room on the overhead shelf in the train compartment although my backpack always fits. There isn't a place to check your baggage, but there is sometimes a place to pile larger bags in the front or rear of the car.

We also enjoy a coffee or glass of wine in the Cafe at the Alameda Park if the weather is good. Good people watching place.

 

[HBS60]

When you board the train, they will put your baggage through an xray machine. There isn't usually a ton of room on the overhead shelf in the train compartment although my backpack always fits. There isn't a place to check your baggage, but there is sometimes a place to pile larger bags in the front or rear of the car.

We also enjoy a coffee or glass of wine in the Cafe at the Alameda Park if the weather is good. Good people watching place.

Thanks! I had no trouble putting my large duffel bag in the overhead shelf on my train from Madrid to Pamplona, so I hope this will be OK on an AVE train. Today I’m just killing time and “chilling” as we say in the States, appropriately since today is a chilly day. I’m trying to balance my desire to savor this experience with the need to transition to my ordinary life. I feel a boost in self confidence that I hope lasts a long time. It will be a bittersweet goodbye to Santiago and the Camino, but I know I need to return home, rest, and let it all sink in.

I’m very appreciative of all the support I’ve got all throughout this journey.

My heart is full.,,

 

[CWBuff]

I’m trying to balance my desire to savor this experience with the need to transition to my ordinary life. I feel a boost in self confidence that I hope lasts a long time. It will be a bittersweet goodbye to Santiago and the Camino, but I know I need to return home, rest, and let it all sink in.

Don't rush - the "ordinary life" will come back at your full circle soon enough. By All means - savour as much as you can!

There will be no "bittersweet goodbye" to Camino. You ARE "on Camino" all your life! Technically some folks will argue that we all always have been, but we'll leave those philosophical musings alone for now. Suffice to say that you'll have plenty of moments going forward to recognize that you are "Still walking The Way" and that "Camino Still Provides".

Meanwhile - WELL DONE, Peregrino!!!!

 

[HBS60]

FB post for today:

Santiago de Compostela, decompression day #2

It’s raining in Galicia, not exactly earth-shattering news, but I’ve always found rainy days depressing. I like to joke that I have chlorophyll going through my veins, because I perk up with sunshine and get all droopy with cloudy, rainy days.

But it’s all OK. I put on my rain jacket and took my trekking umbrella, went to the nearby bus station’s excellent cafeteria for my morning coffee and first breakfast (croissant and orange juice). I went back to the albergue and started to rearrange my belongings between my two backpacks, and fortunately I can comfortably wear the big, heavy backpack while putting my smaller daypack in my duffel bag, and hand-carry it with minimal effort. I also re-strapped my umbrella to the big backpack because tomorrows rain is going to be even worse.

I hand-washed some garments and hung them to dry in the indoor rack, then I headed out into the old city. The rain had abated by then but I took along my rain jacket as I knew it would rain later.

As I walked into the old city, I felt a tad overwhelmed by all the noise and congestion of city life, with cars honking, ambulance sirens blaring, crowds of locals, pilgrims, and tourists making it difficult to walk the streets. I went to Praza do Obradoiro and other than the screaming of a local protest a few blocks away, it was fairly quiet. I wandered around, taking pics of interesting things like the artwork, took a video of me hearing the bagpiper, as a way of saying farewell to this very beautiful and historic city, not knowing when or if I’ll ever be back. I was running on low energy, so I headed to the Pilgrim house, as I just wanted to hang out since it was more comfortable than the albergue, and I just didn’t have the energy to do tourist things.

I did stop at the bar next door to have my second breakfast, a substantial ham and cheese croissant with more orange juice and coffee. I went into the Pilgrim house, and I just crashed on the couch, surfing the web on my phone, but also talking with pilgrims that were coming and going. I was recognized by Anita from the US, who has been following me, and wanted a selfie of both of us, which of course I obliged. I got my own selfie which she gave me permission to share in FB.

I tried to play a little guitar but I’m a pianist, still it was nice to put my hands on a musical instrument after 6 weeks of piano deprivation.

Not much more went on, other than I was hoping to connect with people I knew would be in town, but the weather seems to have made this difficult. I eventually decided to head back to my albergue. It had started to rain again so I was glad I had my rain jacket. I’m now back at the albergue, and other than putting my still wet clothes in the dryer, I’m not planning on doing much this evening.

Tomorrow I leave for Madrid on my first leg of my journey home. As I write this I’m struck by how many journeys have been part of this greater journey. In a symmetrical way, I will have spent 3 days at SJPDP and at Santiago, 1 day at Pamplona and Madrid, 1 plane ride to and from Madrid to Miami, and the train ride from and to Orlando will both be characterized by heavy rain. In between these bookends, I’ve experienced so much variety that will take me time to process and digest.

I feel something solidify inside of me, and I know that having had the experience of being able to complete the Camino Frances is something I can always draw from whenever I face future challenges.

In the meantime…onwards!

Fb link for pics and videos: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/8stKv3n8Kck82xQ2/?mibextid=WC7FNe

 

[CWBuff]

@HBS60 - Hector its your last evening
Go have "a date" with "Shadow Pilgrim" on Plaza de la Quintana. When night falls and the square's lights are turned on, it can be seen at the base of the Clock Tower, beside the Holy Door.

 

[bestfootforward]

FB post for today:

Santiago de Compostela, decompression day #2

It’s raining in Galicia, not exactly earth-shattering news, but I’ve always found rainy days depressing. I like to joke that I have chlorophyll going through my veins, because I perk up with sunshine and get all droopy with cloudy, rainy days.

But it’s all OK. I put on my rain jacket and took my trekking umbrella, went to the nearby bus station’s excellent cafeteria for my morning coffee and first breakfast (croissant and orange juice). I went back to the albergue and started to rearrange my belongings between my two backpacks, and fortunately I can comfortably wear the big, heavy backpack while putting my smaller daypack in my duffel bag, and hand-carry it with minimal effort. I also re-strapped my umbrella to the big backpack because tomorrows rain is going to be even worse.

I hand-washed some garments and hung them to dry in the indoor rack, then I headed out into the old city. The rain had abated by then but I took along my rain jacket as I knew it would rain later.

As I walked into the old city, I felt a tad overwhelmed by all the noise and congestion of city life, with cars honking, ambulance sirens blaring, crowds of locals, pilgrims, and tourists making it difficult to walk the streets. I went to Praza do Obradoiro and other than the screaming of a local protest a few blocks away, it was fairly quiet. I wandered around, taking pics of interesting things like the artwork, took a video of me hearing the bagpiper, as a way of saying farewell to this very beautiful and historic city, not knowing when or if I’ll ever be back. I was running on low energy, so I headed to the Pilgrim house, as I just wanted to hang out since it was more comfortable than the albergue, and I just didn’t have the energy to do tourist things.

I did stop at the bar next door to have my second breakfast, a substantial ham and cheese croissant with more orange juice and coffee. I went into the Pilgrim house, and I just crashed on the couch, surfing the web on my phone, but also talking with pilgrims that were coming and going. I was recognized by Anita from the US, who has been following me, and wanted a selfie of both of us, which of course I obliged. I got my own selfie which she gave me permission to share in FB.

I tried to play a little guitar but I’m a pianist, still it was nice to put my hands on a musical instrument after 6 weeks of piano deprivation.

Not much more went on, other than I was hoping to connect with people I knew would be in town, but the weather seems to have made this difficult. I eventually decided to head back to my albergue. It had started to rain again so I was glad I had my rain jacket. I’m now back at the albergue, and other than putting my still wet clothes in the dryer, I’m not planning on doing much this evening.

Tomorrow I leave for Madrid on my first leg of my journey home. As I write this I’m struck by how many journeys have been part of this greater journey. In a symmetrical way, I will have spent 3 days at SJPDP and at Santiago, 1 day at Pamplona and Madrid, 1 plane ride to and from Madrid to Miami, and the train ride from and to Orlando will both be characterized by heavy rain. In between these bookends, I’ve experienced so much variety that will take me time to process and digest.

I feel something solidify inside of me, and I know that having had the experience of being able to complete the Camino Frances is something I can always draw from whenever I face future challenges.

In the meantime…onwards!

Fb link for pics and videos: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/8stKv3n8Kck82xQ2/?mibextid=WC7FNe

Hola Hector, yes, the Camino does give you a certain realisation of what you can do, especially when challenges present. Safe travels home. I shall miss your posts. So, until next time.....and I'm sure there'll be a next time because Caminos are soooo wonderfully addictive.

 

[SusieP]

I enjoyed following you on your journey. As my husband and I are/were on the Portugues walk, I couldn’t stay online much to read every day. Thank you for sharing about the Pilgrim House.

Also, how did you walk right into mass? I have two videos from two days where the line is wrapped around the building. I also read that to see the Cathedral we have to purchase tickets the day before.

You probably don’t have those answers. We have too been very tired and overwhelmed from the journey. I may ask tomorrow to see if we can get in before we leave.

Buen Camino for life.

 

[HBS60]

I enjoyed following you on your journey. As my husband and I are/were on the Portugues walk, I couldn’t stay online much to read every day. Thank you for sharing about the Pilgrim House.

Also, how did you walk right into mass? I have two videos from two days where the line is wrapped around the building. I also read that to see the Cathedral we have to purchase tickets the day before.

You probably don’t have those answers. We have too been very tired and overwhelmed from the journey. I may ask tomorrow to see if we can get in before we leave.

Buen Camino for life.

Maybe I just got lucky about the Mass. it was around 9:30 AM on a Monday morning. I tried the day before, Sunday when I arrived at noon, but the lines were just too long.

Thanks for your kind words!

 

[HBS60]

Santiago de Compostela to Madrid via the AVE train

The long journey home has begun, more complicated because I have two backpacks and no luggage transport service. Back home, I had bought a large duffel bag that could accommodate my large backpack, my cPAP machine, and a handbag, but now I also have a day backpack which I bought in Leon, plus all kinds of items that I bought as souvenirs. Fortunately, it all fits, but it’s very heavy to hand-carry.

So, I wore the large backpack as if I was walking, put the other smaller backpack and other items in the red bag, and walked to the train station wearing the large backpack and hand-carrying the partially filled (and lighter) red duffel bag. It was a bit unwieldy but fortunately the albergue was barely 500 meters from the train station.

I left the albergue early because we were expecting rain later, and it was already drizzling. So I got there too early as the train was leaving at 10:35 AM, so I had breakfast, then found a spot on the floor to park. A lady recognized me from my FB posts and came over to say hi, I’m trying to get used to all this celebrity…

I bought a few trinkets at a little store, then a poster map of the Camino Frances because I couldn’t find the one I wanted on Amazon. Dozed off a little from sheer exhaustion.

Eventually it was time to board the high speed AVE train, and of course I had to race to my car because it was on the far end of the train. There was no space on the large luggage area and I struggled with putting it in the overhead rack, until I took out the blue day pack and it was all good.

Unfortunately I wound up being on a backward facing seat, the seating chart when I chose the seat didn’t specify that these were backward sits. In front of me was a German (I believe) couple with a service dog, they had done the El Norte. The gentleman had helped me with the luggage, the lady spoke English so we talked a little.

So we leave Santiago. It was very foggy and rainy, and it felt weird that not only I was going backwards, but it felt like a long downhill. It was vaguely reminiscent of astronauts reentering the earth atmosphere going back and down (but with much cooler temperatures).

We passed by many towns, and while we were in a different part of Galicia, I certainly reminisced of the various towns, places and experiences I’ve been through the last 6 weeks. We went through many tunnels, sometimes my ears were popping as we went trough them.

Eventually, the landscape changed. I don’t think we were in Galicia anymore. Memories of the Meseta came flooding in, the glorious views of the vast Castilian lands after climbing the mountain when leaving Castrojeriz, the view of the trail and tiny pilgrims going towards Hornillos del Camino, the fantastic, fiery sunrises, the interesting people I got to meet.

The seat next to me was empty but in Zamora a young man came in. He’s thought of doing the Camino but had back issues, still we talked a lot about it. I did say he should talk with his dr but for the most part I just shared my experience.

Finally the train arrived in Madrid. Since this was the final stop of the train, there was no rush to put all my stuff together, but the train disimbarked very far away from the Chamartin terminal. I had already decided I wouldn’t take the Metro but get an Uber. Problem is, that Chamartin is a very confusing place and the crowds were overwhelming. It was pandemonium, quite a jarring jolt after 6 weeks of walking. I summoned the Uber but I couldn’t find the designated pick up place. It took several questions to get me to the right place. Welcome back to ordinary life!

I’m now at my hostel, showered, went to get a bite, went over my things, rearranged them in what I hope is a better configuration. I plan to check in my big backpack inside the duffel bag (it’s too big for carry on), along with the poles, extra shoes, hand bag assorted stuff, and take my blue day bag as a carry on with my meds/toiletries, pullover, my Compostela, and my cPAP machine will be my personal item.

I’m supposed to fly to Miami tomorrow, so far the hurricane hasn’t caused my flight to be canceled, then I’ll take the train to Orlando where my sister will pick me up, and I’ll sleep in my own bed for the first time in what seems years.

I remain thankful and blown away by the support I’ve got here, I remain most appreciative. Not sure I have much more to say, although the hurricane might be cause for more stories to tell…

FB post with pics:

https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=pfbid0nSfwXJ3ZyJoCetdyTevV3xjHRQxbt7DjR6JwMg7661tQVvUouUYGXiCv721QW3yol&id=510637685

 

[CWBuff]

...In front of me was a German (I believe) couple...

It is clearly the fact that you are not Irish because if you were, then undoubtedly the Murphy's Law would kick in and that would be the German couple that laughed at you on the Molinaseca descend.

Good Travels, Bon Voyage... safe trip home!

 

[HBS60]

It is clearly the fact that you are not Irish because if you were, then undoubtedly the Murphy's Law would kick in and that would be the German couple that laughed at you on the Molinaseca descend.

Good Travels, Bon Voyage... safe trip home!

Thanks, that eould have been hilarious!
Seriously, thanks for all the support!!!