Camino de Santiago Day 3: Blistered Toes, Achy Calves, Happy Hearts, and Steady Souls

Today we crossed the border from Portugal to Spain. Still walking along the Camino de Santiago, The Way of Saint James.

When we arrived in Spain, it started to rain. We are walking in a downpour heading into rolling hills.

In Portugal, we walked mostly flat coastal routes. Here in Spain, we enter hills in forest-like areas. It’s steep. It’s my first glimpse into, “Why am I doing this again?” My heart is pumping, and my hips begin to ache.

In recent years, I’ve been focusing on becoming conscious, mindful and aware. Yesterday, the Camino forced me into present moment awareness.

I slipped on a boardwalk when it began to rain. God Universe showed and told me, “Slow down. Become conscious, mindful and aware. Don’t multitask. Be present while you are walking. Don’t try to walk and talk at the same time.”

I fell and tore a big chunk of skin out of my left palm.

As we journey slowly toward our destination, I begin to see churches, cathedrals, signs of religious devotion.

My group lands at a quaint cafe where we devour jambon, fromage avec crusty sourdough.

Our hotel is from the 1600s. Perhaps a castle. It is ancient and steeped with stones, history and perhaps ghosts.

We only walked 9 miles today. The first day 18 miles. Yesterday around 11 miles. Our bodies talk to us loudly while our spirits remain joyful, light, happy.

Our toes blistered. Our calves achy. Hearts happy. Souls steady.