Roman road and beyond

Today started with a long walk on what is rumored to be the oldest Roman road in Spain.  The Roman stones have been covered with gravel, but it was a truly remarkable chunk of road.  The downside was that the Romans knew how to make a very straight road and, boy, was it!








Most of the way I enjoyed a conversation with Aimee who loves technical illustrations, so I had fun chatting about software options.  She is going to try Rhino.  

 





I love the "God winks" that come along the Camino.  Today's first was a “man with a van” in the middle of nowhere on the Roman Road.  Not only did he have a van, but he had a full kitchen going with a hot breakfast and coffee for happy pilgrims!  This was a wonderful surprise for sure!  (Thinking of you Molly and Pauline.)

 


The next surprise was a restaurant barbequing pork kabobs in a small town.  As I couldn’t find a bed in the designated town, my plan was to keep walking another 3 miles.  Therefore, taking a long lunch break with the BBQ was a treat.  

 


The Roman road turned to rolling hills and beautiful views.  The birds have been a huge surprise on this journey, always present and singing.  At times the black flies are also a constant companion and not as welcomed.

 


I ended up finding a albergue further down the road, so I am set for an easier day tomorrow.  They had the best welcoming feature that I have experienced so far... a cold water foot bath!  After my shower, I enjoyed cooling my feet in fellowship with others.


Today marks the halfway point in terms of my planned dates.  My first few nights seem like a long time ago and I only have a little over 2 weeks to go.  We have two more days of the plains and then climb up the mountains towards the finish line.  I am trying to stay “in the present,” but it is also tempting to think about crossing the finish line.  

I continue to cross paths with my Camino family each day and that continues to be a highlight.  Today I tried to make mental notes of the people whom I have met and the unique experiences of the Camino.  This is truly a wonderful experience and I would encourage everyone to find their own Camino.
 

Thanks for sharing this experience with me!

 

35,723 steps

  17.41 miles 


Location:  Moratinos @ 42.36091, -4.928089

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