Walking the Camino de Santiago

“Sometimes it’s good to not worry about the journey and just take the trip”.. H Clements

17 -19 June

Started the day with saying Buen Camino to our pilgrims as they set out on the Camino trail. We had a great group from Germany and Australia overnight.

One of the individuals was walking his 11th Camino trail, but this time with his spouse and friends. It’s was interesting to hear him talk about his favorite trails and places along the Way and listen to his experiences.

After doing the usual laundry, cleaning, and straightening up, Kathleen and I went to the bank. The bank is in the town next door, San Andrea del Rabanedo, so we hopped on a bus to take the weekly deposit of funds provided by the pilgrims. Once we checked that off our list, our return timing was off and we happened to miss the bus back… so decided to just walk the Camino trail back to our Albergue …with a quick stop at the supermarcado “grocery store” for some food and supplies along the way.

The town of La Virgen del Camino is very quaint with many cafe’s that cater to the pilgrims on the trail. One of the cafe’s is known for their “tortilla”, which is a Spanish dish with eggs and various other ingredients. We plan to try it soon on our down time.

Today we have a family of four from the states.. all adults.. hiking the Camino together. Each one of them has walked this trail independently, and now they have come together to walk it as a family. They seem to be having a great time and are very grateful to be at this albergue. Which makes us feel good about serving.

We also have two 29 year old guys from the UK… one who I helped with a giant blister today. I told him it’s large enough to deserve a name. :).

This afternoon, it was amazing to see how the pilgrims all rallied around a young woman named Maria who arrived at the Albergue a bit startled. She had her entire backpack, with all of her belongings inside, stolen from the bus she was taking from Paris to the Camino. To top it off, her credit card was hacked so she spent an hour on the phone attempting to figure out how to get access to any money. Luckily she had her cell phone, wallet, and passport in her possession when her belongings were stolen. The pilgrims all got together and purchased her a new backpack and all of the contents/clothing she needed to continue with her journey on the Camino. It’s this kind of kindness and compassion for each other that is very unique to the Camino. Something that draws many back to the trail.

Every day we have different people that we say goodbye to as they start back on their journey in the crisp morning air.. In the afternoon, new pilgrims show up for us to greet and get to know.

Our number one guiding principle is to take care of the pilgrims on their journey. With that in mind, knowing as much as possible about the trail up ahead, the local eateries, as well as various local resources is important. This little town provides most of what someone may need and it’s nice to be able to help individuals find the best pizzeria, hamburger cafe, or the bank.

My thoughts: I am very appreciative to be able to experience the Camino again..from the support perspective helping others along their way. Kathleen has been great to work with and I’ve found we have similar philosophies on life. As the days go on, we are finding a rhythm here with all there is to get done. It’s a lot of work but worth it. Every day brings someone new and something new. Who knows what tomorrow will bring. I’m looking forward to finding out!