May 26, 2015 Day 31 - Palas De Rei --> Ribadiso - 25.6 K
Another perfectly gorgeous and stunning day to walk. Perfect temps - just cool enough and yet warm when standing in the sun.
Just outside town there was a sign declaring only 65 more kilometers to Santiago. Another reminder that the end is imminent.
The walk today was similar to yesterday's in that it was a variety of paths along rolling farmlands, and even more so in wooded areas. What was surprising was the amount of uphill climb. Based on our Camino guidebook, we anticipated that this would be a fairly level day, with a few small inclines. However, there were a number of STEEP climbs in the last 8 K of the day - a rather rude shock. Still, in all, a wonderful hiking day.
Yesterday, Donna and I spent some time discussing our aging/end of life wishes and desires. Just to be clear on how we wanted things done in the event something were to happen to us. It was a good discussion and I think we both felt a real sister bond.
Today, my musings were more about the lessons and take-always for me from hiking the Camino. I organized the bullet points in my head, and have resolved to sit down and put them on paper in my own handwriting before I leave Spain. While fairly personal in nature, I am happy to share my thoughts with anyone who wants to know - just ask sometime. One thought I will share - I am very aware of and thankful for all the many blessings in my life and do not take them for granted. I know how fortunate I am in being able to truly live an abundant life.
We reached the albergue where we are staying tonight at about 2:30 pm. It was a particularly enjoyable afternoon and evening because John & Suzanne, Simon & Millie, Chris 2 and Marianne, and a few other standard Camino buddies are here, and we got to spend quality time telling stories and laughing. Group processing the Camino, and speaking of future meetings, although I think we all realize that it unlikely to really happen. We were also joined by a Korean gentleman named John, who is on his fourth Camino. He was a wealth of information and insight into life and adventures. He recommended that I consider biking in Tibet, as they have fabulous paved roads for biking, courtesy of the Chinese. Never thought about Tibet - maybe I will now. Another thing I have learned from these adventures is that it also seems to leave you with a sense that all things are possible, and to look out for those possibilities in your life.
Tomorrow is the last "regular" day on the Camino. I consider walking into Santiago to end the walk on Thursday a special day of its own. As I sit here in the albergue library writing this blog, my new friend John from Korea came in to tell me that the pilgrim's mass where they swing the incense burner overhead (depicted in "The Way") is on Friday evening at 7:30 pm. So, the group will all plan to meet at the cathedral early to get good seats.
As you can probably tell, I am feeling a little emotional tonight. Blessings and "Buen Camino" to anyone who happens to read this blog entry.
Kim
