arrived in Porto. Just sat at a cafe and learned my first Portuguese word: no. It means “on”. When you see “hamburgesa no plato”, it doesn’t mean hamburger without a plate. First step toward learning a new language. Now, to find a bed for the night.

In Santiago, off to Porto with Phil and Kinzie!

I think I’ve nearly overstayed my welcome here in Santiago.

I’m staring to feel the wanderlust kicking in, but I’m also appreciating this time to catch up on my sleep, get some stuff organized, and recover from my cold.

In Madrid.

met up with Miguel and Jordi!

Still in Finisterre, always getting better!

Took a train to a bus to Biarritz today and enjoyed my last day in Europe by laying in a hotel room. Ah what a trip it’s been!

Wow the Sagrada Familia is litterally awesome. Just, dang.

I’m flying home tomorrow, but I’m not done posting yet! I have a few more things I want to say.

Still hanging in madrid with the slowly dwindling squad

last day in Madrid

tomorrow back to Santiago so I can catch my flight, which comes back through Madrid.

jerkfaces wouldn’t let me change it…

still sick with the strep throat, worried the antibiotics aren’t doing their thing but only time will tell.

Evan and Aaron left yesterday. I cried a little when Evan gave Jackson his goodbye hug. I mean, it’s only a couple weeks until we are all back in the states, many of us in the Northwest. But here (Spain/Portugal/Europe) is different then there. Friendship is different in the “real world.” Or is it? Curious to see what happens when we are all home; I know that I fell in love with all of my classmates over the past few months and I imagine some of them might even love me back. Maybe it is easier to love on the Camino. There is no bullshit distraction, just body on trail, weighed down with pack. This frees up time to really be with the people you are with. Phones off, being right where you are, and being okay with that.

I am quite excited to go home though. I miss my life. I miss my family and my friends.

Ready.