Portomarin

Yesterday I walked 24k to the lovely river town of Portomarin. There are many more pilgrims on the way now.  The books and advisors tell you its easy to be resentful of all the new people and they're right. I've found myself getting irritated at those who are fresh and have no pains or are not already exhausted because they don't take the breaks you need and keep going to try to get a bed before they're all taken. All you have to do to get a Compostela is the last 100k so many people start there to get the reward. I've been praying since Sarria to have grace for the new pilgrims and for other seasoned pilgrims to also have grace, since grumbling is contagious.

The road was crowded in the morning but God gave me a gift and as I took breaks at various bars I got to a place where I was on the road by myself for awhile. At first I felt lonely but soon realized what a gift it was.

At Portomarin I found an albergue that has been open for only 6 days and since its not in the guidebooks had almost no one staying there. I was one of only two pilgrims for a few hours and it felt good to not queue up for showers and laundry. I had a few moments though when I was feeling sad that all the friends I've made are now at different stages in their Camino and couldn't share this with me.

I had dinner with some Hungarians I had met the day before and had a fun time trying to communicate since they don't know much English or Spanish. They were sweet for inviting me to eat with them and we had a good time. Then I sat on the porch of my albergue with a few English people and we shared stories and a bottle of wine. It was a relaxing evening.

Since my knees are a bit worse for the wear, I've decided to send some of my heavier gear ahead in my day pack. This will make it easier since there will be lots of hills and its raining. At least this time its a warm rain. It also means that I have a guaranteed bed tonight since I had to reserve in order to have the bag sent there. So I can take my time this next 27k and not worry about getting there early. I wasn't going to ever reserve a bed and let God provide, but I think this may be His way of providing for tonight.

I miss everyone and please know I'm praying for all of you!

Kim