Life's a Stitch

Two weeks on the Camino, if this had been one of the first I'd have had serious questions about the rest. But we are encouraged because we already know not every day is like this.

Back to last night at the truck stop. The name El Choclatero is related to a Spanish song, not that they were offering chocolate at the bar or restaurant. The only thing on the menu made of chocolate was their very average chocolate con churros.

Watching truck stop culture was interesting. The drivers, all men, hung out in the bar watching TV. At 9:00 they filed into the dining room, each sitting at separate tables to eat dinner and watch more TV.

Overall the room and food were good, but there was one item out of place. A beautiful example of stained slab glass, presumably based on the El Choclatero song, particularly appreciated by C, who used to be in the business.

Today the weather looked threatening right from the start. Once again we battled a strong headwind which was like pushing against a wall with each step.

We stopped in the wind to take a picture of the hermitage of Our Lady of the Rock, built into the side of a cliff. I wasn't sure I could get a picture as the wind was blowing.

In the last couple of miles cold driving rain felt like little needles prickling our faces. Twice I felt like I could have been blown off the trail. Not to worry, it was about a 12 inch drop onto wheat stubble. I am using a backpacking poncho for rain gear and C is content with his rain jacket, waterproof backpack and shorts. After today, I plan on buying rain pants when we hit the next big city.

We arrived at our hostel soaked and cold and are now curled up in blankets for warmth. Tomorrow involves a 4k steep climb and I am encouraging discussion as to the wisdom of such activity in the rain and wind. Even pilgrims of old would have had second thoughts and alternative plans on a day like today.

Update: apparently northern Spain is experiencing an unusual weather event, aka a "weather bomb."

I guess that's our answer, no mountain for us today. Disappointing but sensible I think. These pilgrims have arranged a cab to the next stop.