What I did not share with you yesterday - to avoid spoiling the moment - is that my feet were letting me down. Nothing debilitating, but small blisters and sore spots were starting to nag me. How could this happen? I had done everything I was supposed to do to prepare them for the Camino and had finished the most difficult walks with a spring in my step! I was not going to be among those pilgrims I had seen limping along or stopping by the side of the path to nurse their feet. So, I got up early this morning to give my feet extra attention (and a stern talking-to) before heading out for the 14-mile hike to Los Arcos. Bill, by the way, has not had any issue with his feet - at least for now.
Well, I am happy to report that my feet survived the walk today . . . thanks in no small part to the gentle path through open countryside and quiet villages. We also had the uplifting companionship of two other pilgrims, Wendy and Graham, a delightful couple from Australia who spend much of their retired life hiking and exploring the world.
The day began with a short walk to Bodegas Irache and its famous wine fountain Fuentes del Vino. After fortifying ourselves for the journey ahead, we wound our way through the countryside and along the ridge surrounding the conical peak of Monjardin and into its lovely village dominated by the tower of the 12th century San Andres Church.
After a long morning of walking, we stopped at Cafe Movil - a popular food truck for pilgrims who want to refuel and listen to music - before making our final descent into the Roman village of Los Arcos.
The evening ended with a pilgrims' Mass at the magnificent Iglesias de Santa Maria. Hopefully, my prayer for a purposeful and healthy journey to Santiago will be answered. And let's keep our fingers crossed that my feet will travel well tomorrow.
~Buen Camino, Carol ~
Sweetheart
ReplyDeleteYou continue to amaze me with your stamina and energy. It good to hear that you had some relative "flat land" to give your feet a little break. Your photos are doing a great job of conveying your experience. Hang in there!
Your Hubby
Camino Cayenne,
ReplyDeleteYou look beautiful! You are turning into a ballerina, creating beauty while her feet show another story of difficulties surpassed. The Church is majestic and I feel blessed viewing this photo-gift. I notice you are - clutching - that cup of coffee? Are you holding on tightly because Sir Clarke is not there with you? Don't cast any evil spells on Jim now, just because he has not shared your foot problems - ha ha!!! Thinking of you often and sending a giant hug and foot massage-Suzetta
Carol Ann,
ReplyDeleteSorry, I meant not to cast any evil spells on Bill. Be a good pilgrim, Madame!
Suzie
Carol, I took my first peak at your blog two days ago. Now I cannot wait for new installments. Your account is fascinating and the photos are beautiful. I feel that I am cheating...sharing this experience from my couch. Thank-you for taking the time to allow us to follow along. And when your feet hurt, remember the ballerina comment...I thought that was perfect.
ReplyDeleteYou never cease to amaze me. Sara
Maybe it is good to get the feet problems early and get them over with. I know you will grin and bare it and carry on. Remember walking faster may end the hurt for the day but make the following days harder. Your photos are showing your improved skills in this arena.
ReplyDeleteP.S. Your hair looks very good down and without cap. Did you find a local Nellie.
ReplyDeleteCarol,
ReplyDeleteMom, dad and I went on a pilgrimage to the dentist today, and after, on to Starbucks, where we talked about you being Starbuckless while a pilgrim. We had a coffee for you-mom had caramel and whipped cream. Yum! Some day, you will be so lucky as to go to a Starbuck's. Or maybe the pilgrims' coffee stands are better than Starbucks?!?!
Mom says: "J'espere que tes pieds son guerris. (C'est effrayant avoir de la misere for the simple thing). We are proud of you. May God bless you. May God be with you. Keep up the good work! We love you, Mom and Dad"
You are an inspiration to us all! We are travelling every step of the way with you and your photos and reports are a joy - and you still manage to look fabulous. Enjoy every minute and take care of your feet. Francine
ReplyDeleteI am so glad to have conquered my computer problems! Now I can keep up with your blogs! So much fun! Also I love reading Sue's stories about your Mom & Dad. Hope your feet get some rest. Maybe elevate them at night? Hot water soaks? You will tough it out. The photos are beautiful. Talk to Floyd today & realized it was my computer problem! Big hugs!
ReplyDeleteAre you eating good?
ReplyDeleteGood morning Carol,
ReplyDeleteAre your feet your new mood meter? We are following your footsteps and your full experience, as it is. Celebrating life as it is, Suzette XXXOOO
Inspiring stories and great photos. Thanks for sharing your journey.
ReplyDeleteKathy H
Carol Ann, it is a good thing those are tiny feet! you look great and so very happy...photos are amazing and know you will have so many wonderful tales to tell. Need to put all these photos and blogs into a book. It would make a wonderful gift to family and friends!!! just a subtle hint. pray for us all while on your pilgrimage. Will send you a photo this weekend on my hike in Sedona. love and hugs,
ReplyDeleteB
Carol ... I just remembered your blog and am catching up since you started. The photos are beautiful and so are you. Thank you for sharing your journey! Looking forward to your posts. Sending prayers and love.
ReplyDeletePam
Auntie Carol,
ReplyDeleteI love the picture of you holding the GIGANTIC sandwich! I'm not really sure I have ever seen you eat something like that, and from a food truck?! I think I like Camino Carol haha.
Xoxoxo,
Sasperella
Carol, Lori and I are so impressed with your stamina. Keep it up. Loving the blogs and pictures.
ReplyDelete