Day 20
(Leaving Leon… the Lion)
Got a late start hiking today as I was searching in vain for a bank in Leon that would exchange dollars. No worries, though. I have other options.
As I was nearing the outskirts of town near the parador that fans of ‘The Way’ would recognize as the place where Martin Sheen’s character treated his friends to a luxurious stay – I heard my buddy Enzo, from Italy.
He’d injured his ankle and took a couple days off at doctors orders. He was carrying an ice pack and walking a bit slower than usual., though was still faster than I am. It’s always good on the Camino to see a familiar friendly face. We walked together, chatting, to the edge of Leon and then a couple towns beyond. At a certain point the path separated and I went my way and he the other.
The path I’d chosen was technically shorter but shadeless and flanked by a busy truck route. Not ideal. However, was still able to find some beautiful flowers…
And a couple fields of fireworks…
And new, tall grass – at least 6 feet high but not close together (like buffalo grass is)…
And this adorable pup outside a warehouse wooed me into opening my last, road-weary Clif bar – as I had nothing else to offer him. Apparently, peanut butter is a universally acceptable puppy treat flavor.
After 24k and bypassing a town that offered albergues right next to truck stops – I find myself in San Martin in the patio shade at the Santa Ana Albergue. 6€ for a bunk, hot shower, and clothes line. A pilgrim’s dinner will be an additional 9€. Glad to be here after a long hot walk.
Saw an appropriate sign this morning at the convent: Tourists are demanding. Pilgrims are grateful.
Grateful to be a pilgrim. 🙂
More later….