LIVE from the Camino The Nomad Pack - On the move!

[Nomad Pack]

Wow --- somebody got style there ;-)
Isn't she walking with you when walking ??
- or may she prefers biking alongside ??

My partner travelled with me from Andorra walking but wants to do some cycling this summer in Ireland. The donkey is a bit too slow for the bike.

 

[Nomad Pack]

You are so kind thank you in advance. Your house sounds full of charm and most important love. You are so generous and the idea of the communal meal and spending time with you, the pack and other pilgrims sounds amazing. I’m considering bringing my new zpack tent on the Norte because I have knee injuries and I am a slow walker anyway so it’s no bother to me either, although I may not turn down a nice bed and bathroom

I’m very easy going and I can help you prepare dinner or help you with whatever you need. I love animals and usually most animals love me hahah. Albergues are great but I am always humbled to spend time with locals andexperience their life. Life is learning and I am always eager to learn and experience from others. I look forward to meeting you. Now I’m getting more excited about my camino. Wishing you a nice day. Mine is just getting started with a visit fromthe plumber installing a new water heater in the house.

Thanks again for your kindness
Karen

Just spreading love and treating people how I would like to be treated, I look forward to meeting you to, perhaps if I'm not busy I will meet you in San Vicente and I'll find a nice spot for us to camp a night, I'll bring you an extra sleeping bag so your more comfortable and of course a camp feast.

 

[Nomad Pack]

Is she joining you soon after all? Did you bring her bike in your little trailer?

No my partner is on her mountain guide course for 6 months. And the bike is with me now on the train ☺☺

 

[Camino Chrissy]

No my partner is on her mountain guide course for 6 months. And the bike is with me now on the train ☺☺

I knew that, but thought she was possibly coming for a "little visit".

 

[Bristle Boy]

Hi Annette,
So the abandoned house we were living in was near Laredo, we found it during our trip from Andorra when we wanted a good rest and we ended up staying. The village was only 2km along the river past a farm, the house was solitary next to the river and a gravel track going up into the mountain's. There was a stream going along the bottom of the land so our drinking water was always natural. Its was bonito. But I always remain isolated, its how I am. I've lived there during the winter alone whilst my partner was with her mama down south. She's just like me and much prefers the isolation.
So I'm moving to my friends house so I'm closer to the Pico's, next door in fact. It will be easier to cement myself as a shepherd there and get a permanent contract for the ongoing summers. I want more experience and I hope to find a pastor who can continue to teach me before I start work in May/June. I have to keep building trust with the local farmers as their cows are worth a lot of money and they can and do die in the mountains. Whether by illness or wolves, the Shepherd must try to bring them all back down safe and well at the end of the season. My partner is doing a mountain guide course right now so hopefully when she's finished in June she can get a job in the Pico's too. Then for once in our lives earning money won't be such a struggle. (I hate money, its the cause of all of the problems humanity has, and I think we can find a better way to trade and prosper)
I don't think my partner is reading this, she thinks I should stay "under the radar" but I'm not that bothered by people knowing what I do, I only have to turn off my tablet to disconnect from the world. I just want to earn money to make a better life for my family, but I can't work with other people trying to direct me, its just not possible and causes me great stress as I find my own and usually better way of doing things. Maybe I get rich writing a book haha

What an amazing guy you are and such a refreshing outlook on life and materialism.
Enjoy your beers and pizzas and a special mention for your amazing walking compadres!
I am loving following your news!

 

[Iriebabel]

Just spreading love and treating people how I would like to be treated, I look forward to meeting you to, perhaps if I'm not busy I will meet you in San Vicente and I'll find a nice spot for us to camp a night, I'll bring you an extra sleeping bag so your more comfortable and of course a camp feast.

Sounds good no worries i have my own gear...my sleeping bag is +7C and liner im plenty warm

 

[Nomad Pack]

What an amazing guy you are and such a refreshing outlook on life and materialism.
Enjoy your beers and pizzas and a special mention for your amazing walking compadres!
I am loving following your news!

Thank you but I'm not anything special, I just refuse to live in the world the governments try and force upon everyone. When they stop spending tax mxoney on military and destruction and instead give it to the poor then maybe I rejoin "society"

 

[Nomad Pack]

I knew that, but thought she was possibly coming for a "little visit".

Would be nice but its an 12+ hour train ride and a lot of money, too much. I'm nearly home, 48 hours with very little sleep, get more tired traveling on the train than walking all day. Take the dogs for a walk then I'm gonna drop dead asleep, can barely keep my eyes open now.

 

[Nomad Pack]

After my hard work yesterday getting the bike, I've been spending the day cycling around exploring llanes. What a beautiful fishing town. I grew up on the coast in england in a very similar town and all the smells and sounds remind me of it. I can't believe how lucky I am to be living here, its a hundred times better than the previous place. Just as peaceful in the forest at the house but with llanes been so much closer than the town near where I was living. I'll have to be careful I don't start coming everyday, plus that I follow the Camino into town, its about 500 meters from the house. Seen no pilgrims yet but I'm feeling super happy today so if one shows up maybe they get lucky... Will put some photos later maybe using a cafe wifi as my data has been eaten up during the travel with all the posts.

 

[Former member 49149]

After my hard work yesterday getting the bike, I've been spending the day cycling around exploring llanes. What a beautiful fishing town. I grew up on the coast in england in a very similar town and all the smells and sounds remind me of it. I can't believe how lucky I am to be living here, its a hundred times better than the previous place. Just as peaceful in the forest at the house but with llanes been so much closer than the town near where I was living. I'll have to be careful I don't start coming everyday, plus that I follow the Camino into town, its about 500 meters from the house. Seen no pilgrims yet but I'm feeling super happy today so if one shows up maybe they get lucky... Will put some photos later maybe using a cafe wifi as my data has been eaten up during the travel with all the posts.

I am glad that after your travels, and travails, you are settling in to your new home, your new environment, your new neighbours. I look forward to what happens next. Peace be with you, Nomad pack.

 

[Nomad Pack]

T

I am glad that after your travels, and travails, you are settling in to your new home, your new environment, your new neighbours. I look forward to what happens next. Peace be with you, Nomad pack.

Thinking about getting a job at an albergue, all the work starts next month I've been told. Just not sure if I could handle the social side of it, its ok at first but after a few hours it can get more difficult to cope with.

 

[anivid]

T
Thinking about getting a job at an albergue, all the work starts next month I've been told. Just not sure if I could handle the social side of it, its ok at first but after a few hours it can get more difficult to cope with.

One never knows - it could also end up being fun - lolol
You can quit anytime, can't you ??
Enjoy

 

[Former member 49149]

T
Thinking about getting a job at an albergue, all the work starts next month I've been told. Just not sure if I could handle the social side of it, its ok at first but after a few hours it can get more difficult to cope with.

I have some experience of being a hospitalera. It is a heavy commitment, psychologically and physically. I would take my time before committing to it. Go and hang around at one, and see what it entails on a minute by minute basis. The day starts early, and finishes late. Having said that, my experience is limited to an albergue where there is nothing else except the stars and the other pilgrims. No shops, no distractions. It is truly a joy to be able to give back in this way, but by the end of the fortnight, by the hokey are you ready for the handover! Forgive me, maybe I am just projecting from my own experience and others will have more positive offerings... I love doing it, and hope to have more opportunities before I crash out of active life!

 

[Nomad Pack]

I have some experience of being a hospitalera. It is a heavy commitment, psychologically and physically. I would take my time before committing to it. Go and hang around at one, and see what it entails on a minute by minute basis. The day starts early, and finishes late. Having said that, my experience is limited to an albergue where there is nothing else except the stars and the other pilgrims. No shops, no distractions. It is truly a joy to be able to give back in this way, but by the end of the fortnight, by the hokey are you ready for the handover! Forgive me, maybe I am just projecting from my own experience and others will have more positive offerings... I love doing it, and hope to have more opportunities before I crash out of active life!

The early mornings and late nights wouldn't be a bother, and by the sounds of it, wouldn't be demanding on me other than mentally. Its just something to do until I head into the mountains for the summer. And then maybe I can earn more working in llanes though. So many opportunities here I don't know which way to look first. I've even considered working as a fisherman on a boat. Though doubt there we would be much to earn doing that unless I have my own boat.
As for other things not much to write at the moment. Just been settling in and enjoying the mountains with the dogs. Vannii escaped again during the night, knew where to find her though as she usually goes back to the same place having such a good memory, she's discovered the quick way to the field I found her in last time so within 5 mins I had her back. Getting a delivery of straw and oats for her to keep her satisfied at night.
Beautiful day today with only a couple of clouds so came into town for some things. Will go with the donkeys for more dog food this afternoon. People say hello to me I've never met always mentioning about my donkeys so looks like word has spread quickly. Buddha got into another fight last night so is spending the day on his rope in the garden. Want to get him castrated soon to stop him fighting but first up is nomad later this week as he's in the priority so he can't make babies with his mama which is sure to happen if I leave it another couple of month's. So far he hasn't shown any sexual signs other than his big willy sometimes dangling around like another tail. But by 10 months he will be ready for love and although I doubt Vannii would let him mount her, you can never be sure of her mood when she's in heat.

 

[yaying]

Right,
https://www.instagram.com/thenomadpack/
Hope it helps - nice pics so far

THE NOMAD PACK

We live a life on the path, walking around the wilds of Spain, two donkeys, two dogs and a man.
https://www.instagram.com/thenomadpack/
where is cat?

 

[anivid]

THE NOMAD PACK

We live a life on the path, walking around the wilds of Spain, two donkeys, two dogs and a man.
https://www.instagram.com/thenomadpack/
where is cat?

Buddha's probably out informing the other cats, that he's come to town, and will tolerate no trespassing in his domain
- and if they wanto feel his muscles and claws - they're welcome - lolol

 

[anivid]

NP, we have an abbreviation here in France: BOBO, which means BOhème-BOurgois - could sound like you now you have settled down for a period, right - or may be we in your case should change the abbreviation to NOB0/BONO, NOmade-BOurgois or BOurgois/NOmade
How about that ??
Best

 

[Nomad Pack]

Buddha's probably out informing the other cats, that he's come to town, and will tolerate no trespassing in his domain
- and if they wanto feel his muscles and claws - they're welcome - lolol

That sums it up all right. He goes out, comes back for cookies then goes straight back out again. Instead of spending his time hunting defenseless creatures, he looks for the biggest cat to try and kill instead. You should hear him when he's found one, the whole village hears his war cry. And he doesn't have any mercy, if the enemy tries to run from battle he has to be quick for Buddha will keep up the chase until total surrender if offered and then still he may continue his attack. I'm trying to make some leather armour for him as he still comes back with scratches, but only ever on his face as he doesn't show his back. Don't really want to castrate him but sometimes he does get a wound that takes time to heal and if he is free it just gets reopened with every fight.

 

[Nomad Pack]

THE NOMAD PACK

We live a life on the path, walking around the wilds of Spain, two donkeys, two dogs and a man.
https://www.instagram.com/thenomadpack/
where is cat?

Buddha is technically my partners although he's never left my side since we got him, but as the rest of the pack are solely my responsibility with the words many times being "they are YOUR animals" I sometimes don't mention Buddha

 

[Iriebabel]

That sums it up all right. He goes out, comes back for cookies then goes straight back out again. Instead of spending his time hunting defenseless creatures, he looks for the biggest cat to try and kill instead. You should hear him when he's found one, the whole village hears his war cry. And he doesn't have any mercy, if the enemy tries to run from battle he has to be quick for Buddha will keep up the chase until total surrender if offered and then still he may continue his attack. I'm trying to make some leather armour for him as he still comes back with scratches, but only ever on his face as he doesn't show his back. Don't really want to castrate him but sometimes he does get a wound that takes time to heal and if he is free it just gets reopened with every fight.

Sounds like Buddah is defending his new territory and his pack

 

[Iriebabel]

Buddha is technically my partners although he's never left my side since we got him, but as the rest of the pack are solely my responsibility with the words many times being "they are YOUR animals" I sometimes don't mention Buddha

I think Buddha like being being with the pack even though he belongs to your partner

 

[Nomad Pack]

I think Buddha like being being with the pack even though he belongs to your partner

Honestly I don't think Buddha would care too much if the rest of us vanished, he's only interested in his cookie bowl being filled up. He does show me affection often enough though and sleeps on the bed with me but sometimes I think that its all to keep the cookies coming, you'll see what I mean soon enough. Out of all the animal's, Buddha causes the most trouble and takes the most time up. Still its worth it to have such a handsome cat around.

 

[Annette london]

That sums it up all right. He goes out, comes back for cookies then goes straight back out again. Instead of spending his time hunting defenseless creatures, he looks for the biggest cat to try and kill instead. You should hear him when he's found one, the whole village hears his war cry. And he doesn't have any mercy, if the enemy tries to run from battle he has to be quick for Buddha will keep up the chase until total surrender if offered and then still he may continue his attack. I'm trying to make some leather armour for him as he still comes back with scratches, but only ever on his face as he doesn't show his back. Don't really want to castrate him but sometimes he does get a wound that takes time to heal and if he is free it just gets reopened with every fight.

Oh dear NP
My first thought was......what about the other cats!!

In all our trips to Spain...(and in particular Spain) and some parts of Italy too, we have seen so many starving cats and kittens simply because they are left to breed over and over again.
And because we can't stand to see them so hungry, we lop them our lunches and whatever else we have
Our first cat called Paddy met an untimely end because he was not neutered and liked to roam far and wide
It broke my heart so from then on, all our cats have had the chop!
So, you just might have to rein this lovely puss of yours in.......before the neighbours come-a- calling!!
Best wishes and hope you are settling down in your new home
Annette

 

[Annette london]

Honestly I don't think Buddha would care too much if the rest of us vanished, he's only interested in his cookie bowl being filled up. He does show me affection often enough though and sleeps on the bed with me but sometimes I think that its all to keep the cookies coming, you'll see what I mean soon enough. Out of all the animal's, Buddha causes the most trouble and takes the most time up. Still its worth it to have such a handsome cat around.

See what I mean!!
Dogs have masters
Cats have slaves
This one rules the roost
It's all about me me me with her
But then, I think most cats are the same

 

[Camino Chrissy]

I had a cat growing up. His name was Tinker. I was only ten years old and often worried when he didn't come home at night. Then when he did show up, his face and ears were filled with scratches. I didn't know about the "birds and bees", so didn't understand the behavior. I would hear two cats outside the screen in the window of my bedroom making those "otherwordly" noises like weird crying and put my pillow over my head. I eventually found him dead, curled up on our front steps one morning. I think someone must have poisoned him. I was very sad indeed!

 

[Anamiri]

That sums it up all right. He goes out, comes back for cookies then goes straight back out again. Instead of spending his time hunting defenseless creatures, he looks for the biggest cat to try and kill instead. You should hear him when he's found one, the whole village hears his war cry. And he doesn't have any mercy, if the enemy tries to run from battle he has to be quick for Buddha will keep up the chase until total surrender if offered and then still he may continue his attack. I'm trying to make some leather armour for him as he still comes back with scratches, but only ever on his face as he doesn't show his back. Don't really want to castrate him but sometimes he does get a wound that takes time to heal and if he is free it just gets reopened with every fight.

He's such an attractive cat, but fierce too

 

[Annette london]

I had a cat growing up. His name was Tinker. I was only ten years old and often worried when he didn't come home at night. Then when he did show up, his face and ears were filled with scratches. I didn't know about the "birds and bees", so didn't understand the behavior. I would hear two cats outside the screen in the window of my bedroom making those "otherwordly" noises like weird crying and put my pillow over my head. I eventually found him dead, curled up on our front steps one morning. I think someone must have poisoned him. I was very sad indeed!

My daughter nearly had a stroke when she found this!
My grandson spent all day with the cat so I suppose she wanted to return the favour!
I love the way he is holding on to the cat but of course we had to give her short shift!!

 

[Nomad Pack]

Oh dear NP
My first thought was......what about the other cats!!

In all our trips to Spain...(and in particular Spain) and some parts of Italy too, we have seen so many starving cats and kittens simply because they are left to breed over and over again.
And because we can't stand to see them so hungry, we lop them our lunches and whatever else we have
Our first cat called Paddy met an untimely end because he was not neutered and liked to roam far and wide
It broke my heart so from then on, all our cats have had the chop!
So, you just might have to rein this lovely puss of yours in.......before the neighbours come-a- calling!!
Best wishes and hope you are settling down in your new home
Annette

I understand what you mean but for me its all natural behavior, everywhere I've traveled there are cats, in Egypt and Turkey you see them on every street. The Spanish view is the same as most other places that its normal and the neighbours don't care if the toms fight. I don't really agree with castration unless its really necessary like with nomad. Firstly it impedes the growth of an animal if done at a young age, that's why Buddha has his mane and wider face because he wasn't castrated. My partner just castrated buddhas two sons so they will never look like their father when adults. Many cats that look like they starving are infact just lean. A cat that hunts or scavenges full time and lives in a natural state will not get fat like a human owned animal. Sure you find cats that are starving but this is nature. Watching lions on a documentary reminds me of this. For example, almost every male lion reaches his end by being killed by another younger lion.

 

[Nomad Pack]

My daughter nearly had a stroke when she found this!
My grandson spent all day with the cat so I suppose she wanted to return the favour!
I love the way he is holding on to the cat but of course we had to give her short shift!!View attachment 52018

Maybe I'm missing something from not having any children but what's wrong with the cat sleeping with the baby?

 

[anivid]

A little presentation:
" Hello there, my name is Bond ..... Buddha Bond !!
And it'll SHAKE you when I STIR things up - lolol"

I don't see anything wrong in the cat helping the baby with the sleep ..... if the cat's well groomed, that is

 

[Annette london]

I understand what you mean but for me its all natural behavior, everywhere I've traveled there are cats, in Egypt and Turkey you see them on every street. The Spanish view is the same as most other places that its normal and the neighbours don't care if the toms fight. I don't really agree with castration unless its really necessary like with nomad. Firstly it impedes the growth of an animal if done at a young age, that's why Buddha has his mane and wider face because he wasn't castrated. My partner just castrated buddhas two sons so they will never look like their father when adults. Many cats that look like they starving are infact just lean. A cat that hunts or scavenges full time and lives in a natural state will not get fat like a human owned animal. Sure you find cats that are starving but this is nature. Watching lions on a documentary reminds me of this. For example, almost every male lion reaches his end by being killed by another younger lion.

Hi NP
I was thinking more of the female cats and kittens that can get pregnant at 4 months ....kittens having kittens.
Then they can go on to have 3-4 litters a year
It might seem to be against nature to neuter a male cat but it does save having a lot of unwanted kittens
When we were in Cyprus some years ago, there were so many unwanted cats and a lot of the tourists used to feed them
We heard later from someone that when the tourists went and the resort shut down, that all these cats that could be rounded up were killed by the authorities, and the following year the cycle would start all over again

Our present cat arrived on our doorstep shortly after the previous one died of old age
She was starving ....the reason we called her Twiggy!!
We love cats but I don't want too many Toms making overtures to Twiggy!!
All the best
Annette

 

[Annette london]

Maybe I'm missing something from not having any children but what's wrong with the cat sleeping with the baby?

Hi NP and Anvid,
I actually love this photograph as it really did show the bond between these two.and
although yes, it is very rare for cats to smother babies in their cots ...and I only know of one case ....in Devon in 2000 when a cat was found sleeping on a baby's face and smothered him.

The thing that I would be most concerned about is for the grandson to suddenly wake and grab the cats fur...and the cat getting a fright and scratching him in defence .....and scratches and bites from a cat should not be taken lightly......but that's another story!!!
All info re this can be googled
And this is not being over protective.....I've often wondered how ours managed to reach adulthood without breaking bones or skulls with the tricks they got up to!!

This grandson is older now, but with 4 boys under 7years old we still watch them with her ...she's getting old and can be a bit tetchy at times.
Mind you she's not silly so when the noise and high jinks start...she runs off!!

If possible, I think all children could benefit from having an animal...it teaches them caring for and being responsible for that animal
We've always had cats but when they were small the cat was not allowed in their cots...later on as they got much much older ...yes as they would sneak in the cat anyway.
So cats sleeping with small children.....no no
Best wishes to all the pack
Annette

 

[Nomad Pack]

I understand where your coming from, I'm just not sure of the term unwanted. What I mean is, is that without human interference the cats carry on being cats and will continue to breed whether Buddha helps or not. An unwanted kitten suggests to me that the mother cat is owned by someone, whereas any owned female is neutered. Wild cats are in every village living under the shadows. The neighbours have two neutered females but they rarely come out so Buddha sits by their window fending off other males. Either way Buddha won't be improving the gene pool much longer, I just want him to stop fighting and I can't keep him tied up all the time so off they come. I daresay he won't be very happy about it but I'll make it up to him with extra rations of pate so he can become a lazy fat cat that does nothing but sleep.

 

[Annette london]

I understand where your coming from, I'm just not sure of the term unwanted. What I mean is, is that without human interference the cats carry on being cats and will continue to breed whether Buddha helps or not. An unwanted kitten suggests to me that the mother cat is owned by someone, whereas any owned female is neutered. Wild cats are in every village living under the shadows. The neighbours have two neutered females but they rarely come out so Buddha sits by their window fending off other males. Either way Buddha won't be improving the gene pool much longer, I just want him to stop fighting and I can't keep him tied up all the time so off they come. I daresay he won't be very happy about it but I'll make it up to him with extra rations of pate so he can become a lazy fat cat that does nothing but sleep.

Hi, that made me laugh
Poor Buddha ...he is a beautiful cat....and with personality too

He'll be fine but I don't think it will stop him fighting ..ours still fought with or without "them"
And they wandered, but not as far as before the chop.
With our first cat, my husband was so against Paddy having the chop, so I left it
Then he was hit by something after being gone for a week ..he was alive but with paralysed legs and bladder ...it was awful to see so we had to put him down

Anyway maybe some day soon.....you might even be seeing a kitten that looks just like his Dad!!!
Watch this space and keep us informed
Annette

 

[Nomad Pack]

Hi NP and Anvid,
I actually love this photograph as it really did show the bond between these two.and
although yes, it is very rare for cats to smother babies in their cots ...and I only know of one case ....in Devon in 2000 when a cat was found sleeping on a baby's face and smothered him.

The thing that I would be most concerned about is for the grandson to suddenly wake and grab the cats fur...and the cat getting a fright and scratching him in defence .....and scratches and bites from a cat should not be taken lightly......but that's another story!!!
All info re this can be googled
And this is not being over protective.....I've often wondered how ours managed to reach adulthood without breaking bones or skulls with the tricks they got up to!!

This grandson is older now, but with 4 boys under 7years old we still watch them with her ...she's getting old and can be a bit tetchy at times.
Mind you she's not silly so when the noise and high jinks start...she runs off!!

If possible, I think all children could benefit from having an animal...it teaches them caring for and being responsible for that animal
We've always had cats but when they were small the cat was not allowed in their cots...later on as they got much much older ...yes as they would sneak in the cat anyway.
So cats sleeping with small children.....no no
Best wishes to all the pack
Annette

Wow I never thought of that, it makes sense though, I've woken up many times with Buddha curled up next to my head and the two kittens. That photo is wonderful, better than a stuffed cuddly toy.
I grew up with an old English sheepdog my father got just before I was born. He wanted me to grow up with a dog like he did and she was my best friend until her final day which was on my father's birthday just before I turned 13. I got her name tattooed several years later and I still think of her often.

 

[Nomad Pack]

Anyway maybe some day soon.....you might even be seeing a kitten that looks just like his Dad!!!

Buddha with his two sons from last spring

 

[Nomad Pack]

Hello everyone, here we go. I'm on the Camino again with the pack, this time were going backwards towards Santander and all the way back to the old house. I'm going because I want to get the wagon I built last summer. So Vannii will be packing one way and pulling the other. Were very lightweight this time as winter is over so don't need extra gear, glorious sunshine this time round so I hope to be quicker getting back. We have never done a travel with the wagon, only around the village but ive spent plenty of time training vannii so all should go well. Unfortunately my tablet exploded so I'm down to a small phone which makes writing anything very frustrating. I've got the gopro however so I'll post pics when I can.

 

[Camino Chrissy]

So nice to hear from you, NP! All your followers will be happy to hear from you and we love pictures of your awesome pets! Keep that gopro "goin' "!

 

[laineylainey]

Great to have you back Nomad Pack!

 

[Annette london]

Great to have you back Nomad Pack!

You too laineylainey, haven't seen you around for a while...I think Budda must be enticing you back...me too! I look forward to the photos

 

[anivid]

Yeah, this Buddha, do you think he'll go with you ?? - isn't he too busy with the village cats to bother for the stroll ??

 

[igailfh]

Hi Annette,
So the abandoned house we were living in was near Laredo, we found it during our trip from Andorra when we wanted a good rest and we ended up staying. The village was only 2km along the river past a farm, the house was solitary next to the river and a gravel track going up into the mountain's. There was a stream going along the bottom of the land so our drinking water was always natural. Its was bonito. But I always remain isolated, its how I am. I've lived there during the winter alone whilst my partner was with her mama down south. She's just like me and much prefers the isolation.
So I'm moving to my friends house so I'm closer to the Pico's, next door in fact. It will be easier to cement myself as a shepherd there and get a permanent contract for the ongoing summers. I want more experience and I hope to find a pastor who can continue to teach me before I start work in May/June. I have to keep building trust with the local farmers as their cows are worth a lot of money and they can and do die in the mountains. Whether by illness or wolves, the Shepherd must try to bring them all back down safe and well at the end of the season. My partner is doing a mountain guide course right now so hopefully when she's finished in June she can get a job in the Pico's too. Then for once in our lives earning money won't be such a struggle. (I hate money, its the cause of all of the problems humanity has, and I think we can find a better way to trade and prosper)
I don't think my partner is reading this, she thinks I should stay "under the radar" but I'm not that bothered by people knowing what I do, I only have to turn off my tablet to disconnect from the world. I just want to earn money to make a better life for my family, but I can't work with other people trying to direct me, its just not possible and causes me great stress as I find my own and usually better way of doing things. Maybe I get rich writing a book haha

Yes, please write a book! You have a style that's easy to read & interesting.

 

[igailfh]

That sums it up all right. He goes out, comes back for cookies then goes straight back out again. Instead of spending his time hunting defenseless creatures, he looks for the biggest cat to try and kill instead. You should hear him when he's found one, the whole village hears his war cry. And he doesn't have any mercy, if the enemy tries to run from battle he has to be quick for Buddha will keep up the chase until total surrender if offered and then still he may continue his attack. I'm trying to make some leather armour for him as he still comes back with scratches, but only ever on his face as he doesn't show his back. Don't really want to castrate him but sometimes he does get a wound that takes time to heal and if he is free it just gets reopened with every fight.

Nomad Pack, take good care of Buddha. He's awesome!

 

[igailfh]

Nomad, somehow I lost your thread for weeks but it turned up again today. An email notification at last! So now I've caught up with all your doings. Good to know you're still moving along. Does the shepherd work start soon?

 

[laineylainey]

You too laineylainey, haven't seen you around for a while...I think Budda must be enticing you back...me too! I look forward to the photos

Thanks Annette. Just saw Nomad Pack's post yesterday. Had to scroll back for all the photos and chat about Budda and feline offspring. Great thread.

 

[Nomad Pack]

 

[Nomad Pack]

 

[Annette london]

View attachment 53857

Now we're back in business!!
Budda is the king of all he surveys

 

[Nomad Pack]

 

[Nomad Pack]

 

[Nomad Pack]

 

[Bristle Boy]

View attachment 53858

Now there’s a guy with attitude!

 

[Nomad Pack]

 

[Nomad Pack]

 

[Nomad Pack]

Thank you for the great camping story secret follower, I'm already hooked and now feel like I'm on two adventures at the same time. Buenas noches and sorry for 40 euro phone photo's, you will have to wait for the gopro pic's.

 

[Nomad Pack]

Yeah, this Buddha, do you think he'll go with you ?? - isn't he too busy with the village cats to bother for the stroll ??

I did consider leaving him with the neighbour but he's good at donkey riding and safer with the pack. Plus he enjoys the adventure.

 

[Nomad Pack]

Nomad, somehow I lost your thread for weeks but it turned up again today. An email notification at last! So now I've caught up with all your doings. Good to know you're still moving along. Does the shepherd work start soon?

Alas I've done little about it, in favour of working on a small fishing boat but first I have to do a short pointless marine course to prove I won't drown. My PADI diving instructors license doesn't count apparently. I might just leave and go wagon travelling to Portugal. Spain is way too buericratic.

 

[Camino Chrissy]

View attachment 53862

I think this is Bristle boy!

 

[rorygilmore]

this thread has made my week! can't wait to follow along with your animal fam

 

[alexwalker]

I have spent all evening (several hours) reading this thread. I salute you, NP, for not only doing an exceptional journey, but also for sharing it with us. You have, well deserved, made a lot of new friends here! Please keep us updated. And do the book: It should be a bestseller!

 

[Camino Chrissy]

I have spent all evening (several hours) reading this thread. I salute you, NP, for not only doing an exceptional journey, but also for sharing it with us. You have, well deserved, made a lot of new friends here! Please keep us updated. And do the book: It should be a bestseller!

I know, Alex, this thread is so delightful, and such a nice change of pace for those of us who often devote much of our time to this forum!
Your "measurement thread" was another unique goodie a while ago, and provided some very entertaining responses!

 

[Nomad Pack]

Welcome to the adventure, it's onward to San Vicente today and the beautiful long beach. Nomad will be happy rolling in the sand. I had him castrated a couple of weeks ago although he hasn't seemed to have noticed. At least the worry of incest baby donkeys is now over.
Chilly morning so just lying in the tent waiting for the right moment to get up. I'll be back in cantabria after 3km, crossing the bridge into bustio.
I'll be meeting up with another forum member who's walking towards me from irun. Hopefully I'll get the wagon before they pass Laredo.
My hands are now numb which is always the morning sacrifice for a clear night and day so adiós for now

 

[Camino Chrissy]

NP...are you absolutely sure that Nomad had no idea that he lost his manhood? Ouch!

 

[igailfh]

Alas I've done little about it, in favour of working on a small fishing boat but first I have to do a short pointless marine course to prove I won't drown. My PADI diving instructors license doesn't count apparently. I might just leave and go wagon travelling to Portugal. Spain is way too buericratic.

Portugal is great! I walked the Caminho do Tejo from Lisbon to Fatima, my first Camino. Then Porto to Santiago de Compostela, mostly the Central route, the Caminho Português. I may be going back this August to walk again. There's so much to see there & the people are so friendly & awesome.

 

[Camino Chrissy]

Portugal is great! I walked the Caminho do Tejo from Lisbon to Fatima, my first Camino. Then Porto to Santiago de Compostela, mostly the Central route, the Caminho Português. I may be going back this August to walk again. There's so much to see there & the people are so friendly & awesome.

I will be in Portugal walking in April. It is encouraging to hear such good reports!

 

[igailfh]

I will be in Portugal walking in April. It is encouraging to hear such good reports!

Chris, you will enjoy Portugal. I see you're going to walk the Fisherman Trail, should be marvellous. Will you walk Lisbon to Porto?

 

[Camino Chrissy]

Chris, you will enjoy Portugal. I see you're going to walk the Fisherman Trail, should be marvellous. Will you walk Lisbon to Porto?

No, I only have a month and want to add 2 days to visit Lisbon and add the Spiritual Variant in. My son and I will be taking a bus or train from Sagres all the way up to Porto, 2 days there before starting out again.

 

[anivid]

Welcome to the adventure, it's onward to San Vicente today and the beautiful long beach. Nomad will be happy rolling in the sand. I had him castrated a couple of weeks ago although he hasn't seemed to have noticed. At least the worry of incest baby donkeys is now over.
Chilly morning so just lying in the tent waiting for the right moment to get up. I'll be back in cantabria after 3km, crossing the bridge into bustio.
I'll be meeting up with another forum member who's walking towards me from irun. Hopefully I'll get the wagon before they pass Laredo.
My hands are now numb which is always the morning sacrifice for a clear night and day so adiós for now

So glad you're on the roads again - that's where you belong
Nothing wrong with being sedentary from time to time - but your life is on the roads

 

[Nomad Pack]

 

[Nomad Pack]

And that's how to cook caveman style, only utensil I carry is a hunting knife and lighter.

 

[Nomad Pack]

Don't do this without experience in Spain or next to plastic tents

 

[Camino Chrissy]

View attachment 53935
Don't do this without experience in Spain or next to plastic tents

It looks like half of your things are on fire...I'm confused!

 

[Nomad Pack]

 

[Nomad Pack]

 

[Nomad Pack]

 

[Nomad Pack]

 

[Nomad Pack]

 

[anivid]

View attachment 53929

He's so cute - laying there guarding his dinner

 

[Nomad Pack]

Qué pasa peregrinos.
I'm lying in my tent, smoking something green and posting the pics, all whilst watching Buddha sit patiently in the distance next to some long grass waiting for an unlucky critter to stumble into his pounce radias. It's quickly getting dark so he will blend into the night and no doubt come back and try to eat his kill in the tent. Buddha's had runny doodoos all day which is my fault for giving him gravy pate, which he loves more than anything else. So several times I've had to do emergency stops and put him in the grass before he squirts it all over Vannii. Luckily he's learnt through experience to meow when he needs get off. We're camped next to the beach just past San Vicente, donkeys are happy with tons of long grass. We've had all sorts of people taking photos of us today, a trucker stopped in the middle of the road causing a traffic jam to chat with me. Plenty of pilgrims passing now, I find it so funny watching them with their 4 legs and camping store clothes, all still obviously new. Whilst I walk in jeans and riding boots. People should stop wasting their money in camping stores, the gear never lasts anywhere near as long as military surplus stuff which is also usually alot cheaper. Remember the camping stores, or any big company want repeat customers so it goes without saying the stuff is made to break easily.
Anyway enough of that or I'll be writing all night. Plenty of surfers in their vans around the beach, hopefully the waves are good in the morning so I can watch. Dunno where I'll be tomorrow, certainly past comillas. Tried to upload the go pro pics but it says the files are too large. It's a shame as they look more vivid than what my own eyes see. More pics again at camping time tomorrow, adiós

 

[Nomad Pack]

I have spent all evening (several hours) reading this thread. I salute you, NP, for not only doing an exceptional journey, but also for sharing it with us. You have, well deserved, made a lot of new friends here! Please keep us updated. And do the book: It should be a bestseller!

I'm glad you enjoyed it, i understand in a way how others see this as exceptional adventure but I must admit it all feels very normal to me. I think I'd be quite bored walking around on my own. I'm very happy to share all of it, If I had known before that people were interested then the forum would probably be overloaded with our adventure's.

 

[laineylainey]

Great posts.

 

[alexwalker]

I'm glad you enjoyed it, i understand in a way how others see this as exceptional adventure but I must admit it all feels very normal to me. I think I'd be quite bored walking around on my own. I'm very happy to share all of it, If I had known before that people were interested then the forum would probably be overloaded with our adventure's.

I completely understand you. I feel the same. I live in Arctic Norway, and am very accustomed to outdoor camping & Arctic survival. I like your photos and attitude towards outdoor life.

After many caminos, I like to talk and share on the subject, but only if I am approached. I am a bit shy, but I like to share with people genuinely interested in the life-changing possibilities of the Camino.

As for those walking as "tourists", I hope (and believe) their attitude is changing to something deeper and more understanding before they arrive in Santiago. That is my hope for them.

 

[Nomad Pack]

I completely understand you. I feel the same. I live in Arctic Norway, and am very accustomed to outdoor camping & Arctic survival. I like your photos and attitude towards outdoor life.

After many caminos, I like to talk and share on the subject, but only if I am approached. I am a bit shy, but I like to share with people genuinely interested in the life-changing possibilities of the Camino.

As for those walking as "tourists", I hope (and believe) their attitude is changing to something deeper and more understanding before they arrive in Santiago. That is my hope for them.

Artic Norway.. wow now that's certainly the place to put my camping skills to the test. Its almost too easy this far south, even camping here in winter is like summer camping back in England. Funny that the forums anti campers don't try telling me it's illegal anymore, I always tried explaining the things written on paper isn't the reality so if I can achieve one thing with this thread it would be to inspire more pilgrims to embrace reality.

I was wondering however... when I pick up the wagon, am I still camping or becoming a caravaner?
And the tourists... I try to remain hopeful...

 

[laineylainey]

For me, a walk on a Camino and meeting others is an opportunity to embrace difference, whether that's in reasons for doing it, beliefs or where we lay our head at night. Nothing is wrong, except sometimes our attitudes to what is different or unfamiliar.

 

[TheTinkerBell]

Digging your outlook and way of being, NP. Rock on!

 

[Nomad Pack]

Digging your outlook and way of being, NP. Rock on!

Someone's gotta break the wave

 

[Nomad Pack]

 

[Nomad Pack]

 

[laineylainey]

nothing like watching the kids play!

 

[Camino Chrissy]

nothing like watching the kids play!

It sure looks like you have been having great weather!

 

[Nomad Pack]

The weather couldn't get better, it's perfect for walking with the sea breeze keeping away the sweat. Today we're camping in a nice spot beside the road half the way between comillas and santilina. A fountain just next to us made the decision as I prefer not searching for water after making camp. This is why the wagon will be so much easier. At the moment I have to search for a flat area, water, good grazing and somewhere to tie the dogs all in one place. With the wagon I need only look for grazing. We're all tired today but I want to pass torrelevega tomorrow which gets us past the half way point, then Saturday we will have a lazy day of no more than 10km as it takes everyone a few weeks to get back into hiking shape. Puppy especially as his non nomadic life involves sleeping or barking and not much else.

 

[Nomad Pack]

 

[Nomad Pack]

 

[Camino Chrissy]

Wow, I can't believe you can walk in those giant, heavy looking boots!

 

[Nomad Pack]

 

[Nomad Pack]

View attachment 54001

 

[Camino Chrissy]

View attachment 54001

I see Buddah's ears barely peeking out above the donkey. He must really be lounging!

 

[Nomad Pack]

Wow, I can't believe you can walk in those giant, heavy looking boots!

Actually they're lighter than my old hiking boots. I go through boots so quickly that I decided to get something more practical and not mixed with low quality synthetics. I've already done over 1000km in theses and apart from a couple of scratches they're as good as new. Wax them once a month and I can walk through a river and stay dry.

 

[Camino Chrissy]

Impressive boots, and if you are happy with them, then they are "a sure thing"!

 

[anivid]

Spanish boots ??