All I can say is wow!

The leg from St. Jean to Roncesvalles was nothing less than the most challenging thing I have ever done in my entire life! The amount of physical and mental strain of walking 7 hours, 18 miles, and 25 km more than half up hill took a huge toll on my feet, back, and shoulders. Rebecca Solnit describes walking as one of the most unintentional acts as it is almost rhythmic! You pick your feet up and drop them almost as easy as your heart continues beating by the second! There were times I was in auto pilot and didn’t even realize how quick my pace was or how far i had come. Great yet challenging day!

Things that kept me going were seeing other pilgrim friends, especially familiar faces from dinner the night before. I specifically remember feeling comfort in seeing an Italian friend’s bushy beard from far away! Another older Pelegrino friend broke off pieces of his chocolate when he saw how fatigued we were. The sense of community is beautiful, as I found myself kissing friends on the cheek wishing them buen Camino!

Tomorrow is intimidating as my feet are killing me and Pamplona is another 28 miles or so down the mountains. Thankful to have made it here today!!