The Rain in Spain...

Friday October 27

The Rain in Spain...

falls mostly in Galacia.  We've had an amazing run of 29 days of fair weather.  A couple of days ago we saw the weather forecast for rain in Spain  a big storm coming in off the Atlantic.  We were warned that Galacia is particularly rainy and have been incredibly lucky!

Today Diana wasn't feeling well - she had an upset tummy yesterday afternoon and didn't go to dinner, and even though she felt a lot better, wasn't up to walking today so she planned to take a taxi to the next town.

Our friend, Hanne from Denmark and I left about 7:15 and light was a long time coming because of a heavy cloud cover.  The rain started about an hour later and we donned our rain gear and continued walking.  After another hour, we joined other pilgrims for a coffee stop.  We commented that it was hard to recognize everyone in their new garb - we know what everyone wears every day!

Today was a 15 mile walk to Palas de Rei and we actually had a nice day playing in the rain.

The smoother parts of the path were rivers of water and we had to walk on the rocks and we learned to avoid mud because it was slippery.  Fortunately, much of the walk was on the road.  One of the humorous things we noted were the number of taxis going back and forth all day - I think a lot of people either got soaked or cold and gave up.

                                  

My angel card today was 'play' and my first thoughts were how serious many people are on the Camino.  There is a lot of good humor and laughter, but playfulness isn't something I've seen a lot of.  We all are focused on getting through the day with aching feet, sore legs, fatigue and other injuries.  There are a few younger pilgrims who always lift me up when I see them because they are so light and approach the Camino as fun.  I love seeing them!

Hanne and I decided that what we needed to do today was just play in the rain.  Our motto for the day was 'slightly crazy'.

                               

We found a sunflower shower along the way.

                                

We stopped for an omelette for breakfast and found what appeared to be rained-out local farmers playing cards at the next table.

                              

Later on we stopped for Torte de Santiago which is a great almond cake that I must get the recipe for!

At that albergue, we found a lot of games for pilgrims to play.  This is the first day I would even consider playing games because the sunshine has been so attractive that we'd rather rest in the garden and chat with others.

They also had an ant theme with great photos on the walls and wonderful sculptures in the garden.

I found today that play is an attitude.  If I approach any endeavor - even walking 15 miles in the rain, with a playful attitude, it can be a fun day.  We laughed a lot about how we probably wouldn't do this at our respective homes.

We found our compatriot in the road doing his own Camino.

                                 

Arriving in Palais de Rei, we found the small hotel where Diana was waiting for us.  Although it is not a five star place, it seems luxurious with a double room and balcony overlooking the street, embroidered pillow cases and sheets, towels and a bathroom with a bathtub!  I had a nice soak after my damp walk and am in the cafe across the street using the wifi.

Last night we paid the same 10 Euros each and had the pleasure of sleeping in a room with 124 other beds!  It was a lovely and clean albergue, and actually a quiet night, but it is wonderful to have our own room.

Here is John's facebook post from today:  I saw a light at the end of the tunnel today. Hildy Lindsey opened her eyes, tracked me and tried to squeeze my hand. There was a tear in her eye when I told her I loved her. She is back, but has a long way to go….