Valcarlos, Spain

We started a little late, around 9:30 am because we stayed and chatted a little with our hosts in Saint Jean Pied de Port. We got Tim talking about his old house which was historic, and how he had restored it. It had once been a brothel! So we left Saint Jean PdP around 10 with our loaded packs and a lunch of bread, cheese, and apples. The Camino was easy to navigate because we had a good map, and there were scallop markers to show the way. I was happy for my comfortable pack, my super collapsible poles, and the nifty water bladders that Kaily and Kadin gave us. The walking at times seemed hard because we aren’t in shape but I know it will get easier. I am staying focused on each step, on enjoying the journey, not worrying about the destination. We went the valley route because it has less elevation changes and it’s more rolling hills. We hiked for some time alongside the stream that marks the border between France and Spain. We got a little lost toward the end of our hike because we missed a turn, but we backtracked and found our way here. We didn’t run into any Perigrinos because we left so late, and took a route less traveled so I was disappointed in that respect. Now we are staying with a lovely Spanish couple who had a signboard out advertising rooms. Our bedroom is all lacy and frilly, which contrasts awkwardly with our gear. I’m enjoying conversations with our house mother in Spanish. Norm has pointed out to me that the experience we are having is perfect for us, because we are enjoying the conversation and company of Spaniards, and why else come to Spain! Norm promises that tomorrow we will get an earlier start.