Ages to Burgos

Day 12

Today started out overcast and threatening rains. Passed thru a town that had signs warning of cattle but only saw the wooly bleating sort. Thousands of them. In no hurry for anything as it was a lazy Sunday morning.

The road led over rocky passes and through sleepy villages. At the first open rest stop I stopped for a cafe con leche and a croissant (and an orange for the road). When I looked up Peter from New Zealand was sitting with two people I’d seen before but hadn’t met. They were Wendy (from Florida) with her 15 year old son Sawyer. We got chatting and stayed together until Burgos. It makes the time go quicker.

This chapel along the way was stunning. The doors were metal crosses on wood.

The last 5k or so was along a river path leading into Burgos. I was amazed at all the well- behaved off leash dogs running or walking with their owners they the park.  I hadn’t realized what an historic city Burgos is. Statues greeted us, ancient bridges, and the gorgeous cathedral. It was raining as we entered the city and I walked slower to take pictures. Not sure where my friends ended up but I am at Casa de Cubos – a well-run large albergue not far from the cathedral. It offered a bunk for 5€ per night.

I had a brief siesta then went to dinner with a fellow pilgrim. Went off the typical pilgrim menu and found a place that offered a delicious salad – bigger than my head. I wasn’t able to finish it.

Afterwards I went to the 7:30 pm mass at the cathedral. I couldn’t understand most of it but keep the program to be able to look up the scriptures later. The priest asked for assistance in serving communion. He got a volunteer – a man who was obviously a pilgrim – sanctioned him on the spot and he did a lovely job serving. It was quite a moving moment, I think, for all the pilgrims present especially.

Back at the hostel waiting for my laundry to dry in the dryer. Have to take advantage of the options for dry clothes when it presents itself.

More later…