March 25, 2017
Oh my goodness, I thought day 1 was tough, I was in for a bit of a shock on day 2.
I woke up to snow, heavy snow at that. I scurried about and gathered my things in a hysterical rush. I am pretty sure I didn’t fully wake up until about the 2nd mile, ha!
(I was in such a rush I didn’t get a solid photo of the snow but this is what we woke up to…)
At the start of the hike I was grateful for the snow since it was not as wet as rain. Just as I began to appreciate the snow it quickly turned to rain. And it did. not. stop. Just to make things more fun, the WIND came along to join the rain. I had a hiking umbrella (Gossamer Gear for the win!) and with the wind I felt like Marry Poppins!! Even with all my gear I ended up getting soaked, walking with frozen hands and frozen feet.
(Me in my rain gear!)
(Loved seeing the “Keep Tahoe Blue” sticker)
Towards the later half of the day I met Alice and Tony. They were angels sent by the Camino. We exchanged stories and I learned about their travels and what brought them here. Tony an experienced adventurer, who survived the earthquake in Nepal a couple years back, has traveled the world, and also played professional “futbol!” And Alice— a kindred spirit who shares my inner need to help people. Any time I mentioned something about pain or discomfort she would offer me something. Her sweet spirit will stick with me forever.
(Forgot to mention we ran into a bull! He was nice and let us pass! That is Tony in the picture btw!!)
(Beautiful green fields, even in the rain!)
We made it to Zubiri and we had no clue the wonderful night that was in store for us. We went to the bar down the street and before it was even 8pm the bar owner’s (BEAUTIFUL) daughter was already being swooned by a drunken fellow, they were singing and dancing. It was a marvelous sight after a long, painful day. To see such happiness and excitement, what a treat! The wine is amazing and only $2.50 a glass. We had inspiring conversations and then headed to bed.
(A snap shot of the video i took of the lovebirds dancing!)
(They even got Malcolm to get up there and dance!)
I will admit my sleep was terrible- it was hot and muggy in the room. But I had a hot shower and a bed so I cannot complain.
(The albergue that was nice but so uncomfortably humid at night 😦 )
(The view leaving the albergue in the morning. So beautiful! )
We are headed to Pamplona tomorrow– so excited for some delicious Pintxos!
-Ash
El Camino Chronicles 