Today’s stats: 13 miles/1200 ft elevation. Imminent Arrival.

Today was a comfortable walk continuing along the forest tracks.

I am not a sentimental person, but I am getting emotional about tomorrow being our last walking day. I think part of it is the realization that we’ve actually walked across Spain. It certainly made a huge positive impact on my mind, heart, and soul. And so, I did something completely out of character: we stopped at Boavista Cafe in Boavista/Ferrerio to support the Wise Pilgrim Portrait Project to have our photo taken by Michael Matynka (from Ohio.) We paid €10 for our Camino photo but ended up spending a fascinating 30 minutes with the man who wrote 7 guide books on the different Camino routes.

We will complete our journey tomorrow. Most people assume I was the instigator. But it’s my husband’s dream. I was nervous about walking for 5 weeks/33 consecutive days. I wasn’t concerned about the physical conditioning but rather the mental toll of being away from home for so long and spending every waking moment together. I jokingly said that when we get to Santiago, we’d either be madly in love, or ready to go our separate ways. But this has been an incredible experience. It is by far the most precious gift I have ever received.  I have received the me the most valuable present a woman can get from her life’s partner - the gifts of his time, attention, and love. 

And a big “thank you” to our friends who are walking the last 115 km with us. Let’s finish strong and make it a beautiful day. Buen Camino!