Day 28 - 'Wasn't that the Best Hike Ever?'

October 9

Destination - Fronfria 

Distance - 20km

Hours of walking - 7:30 - 3:30

Terrain - beautiful mountain path

Weather - the Spanish weather allowed us to see the mountain!

Nature - the sounds of mountain birds singing 

Misadventure - Tis the season for fertilizing however Dee finds the smell of fertilizer in an unexpected location!

We woke up to a beautiful autumn day, excited to know that we would be climbing a mountain and that the weather was going to be in our favour for this climb. By the end of the day, my phone app recorded 150 floors climbed. They were all glorious. 

Photos don't capture the spectacular colours and feelings of the day. We snapped away, with hopes to rekindle the feelings and memories once we get home. 

The sun rises as we get ready to climb

As we all ascend at different speeds, we walked at our own pace. I had the mountain path largely to myself. This allowed time to allow the physical exertion of the day to drift the mind into a state of peaceful meditation. The experiences of the past few weeks were relived, the excitement and anticipation of the next phases of our journey dreamt about and the stillness of the air to help us live in the moment. It was that combination of the physical and mental well being that is rarely felt. The beauty of the landscape, the cool mountain breeze and the melodies of the mountain birds allowed for all the stress to disappear. It was a wondrous climb. 

When Wendy reached the top she said 'Wasn't that the best hike you have ever had?" The emotion of the moment captivated me. The trials and successes of the Camino felt were encapsulated in that moment. I was filled with all emotions - happy, sad, joy, regret, exuberation. It truly was the best hike ever. 

After a bowl of soup to warm our bodies we headed off for some more 'ups' and 'downs' on the trail. We then reached the highest point of the day. 

We found ourselves later that day in Fronfria in an awesome Alburgue. The highlight of the stay was having a communal meal in an old stone building with a thatched roof.

Amazing soup - greens, potatoes and bean served family style 

Beef stew 

As often happens on the Camino, the food warms the body, but the conversation soothes the soul. We met some new and interesting people tonight and shared great stories and laughter. 

Cheer of the day from Wendy - we are so lucky to have this opportunity to do the Camino. It was a  day that we will always remember. 

To add to Wendy's note - we have thanked family and friends for their support , however without the support of our employers we could not be here. Many ask us what we do, as they are not many full time employees that are here for the duration of the Camino. We realize how blessed we are to have extended time off. Thanks Evergreen, Sunvalley Land and Affinity Credit Union!!