April 4, 2017
This day was tough for me. I woke up in Belorado sweating, with tears on my face because I had a nightmare. I was still crying when I woke up. It felt so real, I had to constantly remind myself that it was just a dream. This has happened many times on the Camino, having very vivid dreams that is. It shook me so much I decided to hike alone and with music almost the entire hike.
The hike was nothing new, except hiking through forests with minimal views. There was a hiker oasis spot, many pilgrims rave about it but I did not want to stop so I didn’t enjoy this oasis. Looking back I wish I had stopped to “smell the roses.”
(The only picture I took of the scenery… was too preoccupied with my mind to stop to take any more photos…)
I was going to hike to Ages, about 3.6 km more but my feet were yelling at me. So I called it quits in San Juan de Ortega. The albergue was €10 and not worth half that. The water was cold, the beds loud and uncomfortable and the €9 meal was subpar at best. Even though this albergue was not “impressive” was still a warm bed, a shower, and food. And that is what I’ve come to appreciate.
That night, I received yet another foot massage by Stephanie. She was in the bed above me and hops down to ask “Can I rub your feet???!!!” It shocked me a bit, And said, “well OF COURSE!” Haha! She is very talented at reflexology and has the perfect amount of pressure to help relieve my aching feet.
I slept like a baby that night. Waking up with ample energy to get to BURGOS, where my debit card was waiting for me!
Some photos:
(After collapsing on my bed…)
(Stephanie giving me a foot massage, can you please note how happy she looks? She is an angel!)
-Ashley
El Camino Chronicles 