I chose a small village for my rest day intentionally. Didn’t really need that bigger city feel that I had in Logrono and that many chose in Burgos. Castrojeriz has been a perfect stop for me, although I had hoped for a laundromat instead of the bathroom sink for my week’s worth of dirty clothes.
After breakfast and a quick goodbye to my companions of the past few days I had a text from Nadina from Switzerland who had just walked into town. So we met for a cup of tea and a little philosophical discussion about finding one’s passion and way forward in life. I enjoy hearing how a younger (23) mind works through these life questions and with any luck I am providing some yoda-like wisdom, or at least things to consider.
I decided to take the hike up to the ruins of the Castillo and was rewarded with wonderful views and a stiff wind. Built primarily in the 9th century, it was still in use and being added to by the Visigoths in the 14th C. I was led partially up the hill by a man who is the inspiration behind the Hospital of the Soul, a lovely zen-like space of photography, lavender, inspiration and peace. It was a narrow goat path up but an easier way down and an amazing view, as promised. From there I visited the Excolegiata of Santa Maria del Manzano. While I will admit to a bit of church overload this one had a beautiful rose window and a statue of Santiago with the scallop shell that I thought I’d like to see.
I spent the afternoon finishing my laundry and readying myself for a 25 km walk tomorrow but headed out to the plaza for a glass of wine at 5’ish. Chatted with 73 year old Willie for a bit, mostly about the Scottish vote, and who should appear in the plaza but Johnny! He’s got a nice crew to walk with, and we shared a beer and some stories and it was wonderful! Funny how I could begin the day with one old friend and end it with another.
I will likely head out alone tomorrow but I don’t fret or worry or fret about that prospect in the least. The Camino has a way of either providing solitude or companionship, depending on what’s needed at the time. Oh what a glorious experience!
Should be “Hospital for the Sole/soul”
Castillo from distance, walking into town
Castillo up close
Tomorrow’s hike
No school today since it is Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year. It has gotten cooler here in RI and the trees are beginning to show their colors. After a few errands, I decided to sit down, open your blog, and enjoy your beautiful writing and photos of your Camino journey. I think of you daily but I had not been able to read your postings until now. I will be more diligent now that I feel a part of your trek after reading your stories. After every post I kept saying to myself, what an extraordinary adventure you are on. I wish I could transport myself to you and walk with you for a few days. You have done a wonderful job sharing the natural beauty of the terrain, and capturing the culture of Spain and the Camino with descriptions of the architecture and music that surrounds you. Watch out Rick Steves! Take care of your feet and keep enjoying yourself. You are in my heart!