Day 4!!! Today was a breeze literally and figuratively. It started off pretty cold this morning and didn’t truly ever warm up which was nice for our hike. Conner and I decided we wanted to walk fast today and use all of our long legs. We ate quickly away at the miles. As it got later in the day the wind picked up. It was rather cold but also a lot of fun!
There was also a lot of beautiful graffiti today. As we hiked through tunnels and past bridges people had decorated them as they passed. My favorite piece of the day was a blue shell (the sign of the Camino) and the saying “Buen Camino” which is something that all pilgrims say as they pass each other. It means good journey and is kind of a blessing.
When Connor and I got in around 10 am, we met a couple who are medical students from Italy and a man who is from Portugal but teaches art and music in Barcelona. We dropped our packs, and we all went to get breakfast together and talked for a long time. We talked about education, English, jobs, the Race, what kind of Christians we are, American food, and what it was like to be in Asia with the cultural differences. It was an amazing conversation that budded some friendships.
s we are, American food, and what it was like to be in Asia with the cultural differences. It was an amazing conversation that budded some friendships.
Today has been an interesting transition from a small town that is primarily supported by the Camino pilgrims to the large city of Logroño. It is big enough that it has a public transport system. It is a beautiful city but also slightly overwhelming to try and take on foot after hiking 18 miles. They do have frozen yogurt that I am going to get later though…
We are staying at a hostel that is donation based and run by a local Catholic Church. They have been super nice and even fed us an amazing meal for dinner. Their heart behind this place is to show people God’s love. They have been a blessing and a half.
Today I processed some of the Philippines. I haven’t been feeling great, so I didn’t get far. Mostly what has come to mind are rain (typhoon season), making the best of a situation, sharing the Gospel with thousands, and learning what it looks like to press in with some of your best friends. I honestly really enjoyed the Philippines.
It was also the place where I had creativity called out of me. I had stopped being creative in college due to time and money. After having it called out it is something which I now seek. It’s also something I fight for time and space to do since it is important for me to stay healthy. As I walked, I tried to think about how I would incorporate it back into my life at home. It’s something God has made me to do, so I don’t want to leave it behind.
Tomorrow will be a short 6-mile day, so I will have to focus to be able to process things during the walk. I am also hoping I feel better tomorrow which would be really nice.
Until tomorrow,
Elise
