Although the walk to Leon was tedious, I had a smile on my face just thinking about the upcoming day of rest. After all, it had been 9 days since I last slept in, had my clothes laundered, and just did whatever I wanted to do. I knew that I could not technically call this a sick day - my feet were feeling good and I had no aches or pains anywhere - but I was entitled to one last mental health day before walking the final 14 days to Santiago, right?
Yes, I totally enjoyed that mental health day at the magnificent five-star Parador de Leon, a monastery founded in the 12th century to provide lodging for pilgrims traveling to Santiago and later used to house the Military Order of Saint James. And you can see that Bill fully recovered in the luxury of his royal suite!
Bill and I still found the time to explore the historic city of Leon with its seamless integration of styles from Roman to Gothic.
As I wandered Leon in my flip flops, I wondered how the early pilgrims managed to walk to Santiago de Compostela without the benefit of modern pharmacies, abundance of cafes and comfortable hostels - not to mention the high tech hiking boots, poles and clothes most of us now wear. Even in today's world, I have a newfound respect for those who walked the 500 miles without a day of rest and having to slog through snow and rain. Yes, Camino Jim, I wonder just how you did it - not once, but twice!
Thank you Jim for your daily emails giving me valuable guidance, warning me of upcoming challenges, fielding my many questions or just asking how I am doing. I have to believe that this made the difference between how I, versus the pilgrims of old, arrived in Leon.
~ Buen Camino, Carol ~
This is Eric, Our family would like to wish you all the best in all your adventures. As Leo would say "It's hard to believe"! My heart is with you, i pray you have a safe passage. Emma says "you are doing good! Kurtis says "you are half way there keep going!". Melanie says "May the road rise up to meet you.
ReplyDeleteMay the wind always be at your back.
May the sun shine warm upon your face,
and rains fall soft upon your path.
And until we meet again,
May God hold you in the palm of His hand."
Cayenne,
ReplyDeleteRest is so luscious when tucked in the backdrop of hundreds of miles walked and a job well done! I can feel your open heart - let the sparkle shine through, whether feeling a "10" or a "1"! It's all you, filled with life, and it's all real! Keep sharing-the good, the bad and the ugly! I'm with you, and judging by Rainbow's howling, so are my pups! Bow Wow! Love, Suzetta
p.s. The pictures send me back to our Catholic childhood! May God Bless You XXXOOO
What a beautiful picture of you sitting with the man-statue!
ReplyDeleteWhat glorious memories you will have! What has been your biggest surprise so far as you are more than half-way through? I know you prepared tirelessly and had some input from someone who has been in your shoes, but curious what might have caused you to say, "Huh, that was a little unexpected?"
ReplyDeleteYour pictures are magnificent - some truly look like postcards. Keep sharing your adventure and keep smiling - truly a chance of a lifetime. Love you!
Carol, I am so proud of you! Your blog has been a gift as I nurse my broken ankle back to health. It seems more like an annoyance compared to your Camino experience! Your spirit is contagious and uplifting. Continue on, you look fabulous and healthy! Can't wait for more wonderful pictures! XO.
ReplyDeleteCarol, We are so proud of you! You have settled into the pilgrim way. You look beautiful and well rested. Enjoy the final two weeks and the adventure of a lifetime. Hugs...Debbie
ReplyDeleteAwesome photos and glimpses into your daily routine!
ReplyDelete"Being present is being where your feet are." - Michael Gervais
Continue on with the sweeping views and appreciation for the journey. Wishing you all the best!
Carol! I so love reading these blogs and following along with you. Mentioning Jim really warmed my heart. I remember reading his blogs and worrying so much about him and about his pace. He was truly on a Mission and wasn't about to stop. It was a life changing experience for him that blessed all of us in such amazing ways.
ReplyDeleteContinue on Pilgrim. you're almost there! So proud. We love you. Buen Camino Friend,
Robin
Auntie Carol,
ReplyDeleteYou look like you are having a blast out there! That's quite the royal suite! It does not surprise me that your day of rest was full of adventure and exploration, never a dull moment with my Auntie Carol!
Xoxoxo,
Sasperella
So enjoy your blogs & photos!
ReplyDelete