Today was as absolutely incredible day on the Way for me. We started off in Foncebaden and in very windy conditions made our way to La Cruz de Ferro which is an iron cross which stands 1504 meters above sea level. Pilgrims for many years have paused here along the trail to add a stone or token to the ever growing pile. My piece of Spurling Rock from Parksville with my words on it will rest there for eternity. Very emotional time with lots of tears and hugs. The trail today was the toughest so far physically. There were some uphills but we made a large elevation drop over the next seventeen kms. Parts of the trail were very rocky and slippery. The weather was also a big change with a mixture of brisk winds at times and everything from mist to heavy rain. The scenery was spectacular. So much greener and hillier than what we have seen in the last couple of days. Crossing a beautiful old bridge we finished in Molinaseca. We were all soaked to the skin but spirits were high. For me today was really special. It was emotional at the cross and the trail was difficult but gave me such a feeling of accomplishment to rise to the challenge.
On the way to our night stop we stopped at O'Cebreiro to visit a 9th century church which is the oldest one on the Way and the location where a miracle is said to have happened where a pilgrim saw bread and wine turned into the blood and body of Christ. We also stopped at at a large monastery in Samos which is one of the oldest and largest in the western world. Now pilgrims can stay there on their way to Santiago. We are staying tonight in an ancient old home in Samos. Tomorrow is the start of the final 100 kms to Santiago. With 160 under my belt I am so pumped
Placing my rock at the base of the cross
Long rocky trail
Slippery downhill
Bridge leading into Molinaseca
9th century baptismal bowl
Charming room in old home we are staying in
Great work Mom! Enjoy the last 100km.
ReplyDeleteWe always knew you could do it :)
XO