Magic Day

The Irishman told me there was a lot of bullshit on the trail - and one of the things that I thought fit into that category was the "fact" that was being tossed around that after three days, you won't notice your pack, you will have more endurance for hills ... blah, blah, blah ... the world will be wonderful.

I think that this piece of wisdom might actually be true - at least for me.  I really did have plenty of energy today for everything, even the climb up Alto de Perdone (the Mountain of Forgiveness).

Here's some pics from today:

Not far out of Cezur Manor (where I spent last night).  Not a castle, but a straw stack.

Wind farm on the ridge that is shared by Alto Perdone.

With some iron pilgrims ... at Alto Perdone with Pamplona and the valley behind.

One of the towns we passed through - Uterga.

The long way ahead.  It was a hot one - 31C.  

Good thing I waited until September to do this when it would be cooler.  That's what all the Canadians are saying.

My picnic lunch on the sidewalk in Obano.  About 2 p.m. on the shady side of a building. 

No day is completo without a church or ten.  Most of those I pass by during the day are locked and not open to peregrinos (pilgrims) - at least not during siesta time.

Tonight I am spending the night in an albergue run by a seminary in Puenta de Reina.  Six bodies to a little room; I know most of the pilgrims I am bunking with, which is nice.  They all happen to be women because I think the fellow who slots out the beds tries to keep it a bit segregated.  That said, the bathroom is co-ed ...

Vending machine in the common area where beer is 1 Euro and juice is ! Euro.  ZIt's a tough choice after a hot day.  After a shower and a little walk around without a pack to see inside a couple of incredible churches, I was having a  ... well, not juice ... in the back garden with an Englishman, a Swedish woman (who lives in Ottawa) and an Aussie girl when a wasp stung my fourth toe on my right foot.  Right underneath.  Just minding my own business - everyone else around me also barefoot on the short, short grass as well.  What is up with stinging things and me?

I just took a pic but it's really too ugly to share.  Guess that's what I get after feeling so good about everything else today.  And not having any blisters.   I need to get my "on fire" foot out to find some supper.  

Catch up with you later.