It’s come to my attention that I stopped blogging without actually saying I made it home ok. Just so you don’t think I’m stuck in the catacombs of the cathedral I thought I’d better do a summary of the last few days of my trip.
I spent a couple days in Santiago with friends. The day after I got there I went back to the cathedral for Sunday Mass and, much to my surprise they used the incense. It’s not something they do often so it was a real treat to see it. It takes eight men to swing the giant burner… it must have a more official name… got it – thurible… thank you, Wikipedia.
Was really glad I’d booked into the place I did as it was just down the street from the cathedral (where most pilgrims go to meet each other).
It was also on the cusp of the modern shopping district in the other direction. I had no desire to end my pilgrimage with a massive shopping spree but after 5 weeks of quick dry petroleum-based everything I just wanted a plain cotton t-shirt! Also, near the cathedral are more touristy type shops. I wanted to pick up a little memento that I could wear everyday. I found this little silver charm that has both the Camino shell and the pilgrim’s cross.
On Tuesday of that week I bid farewell to my friends and Spain (for now) and headed to the airport.
Aer Lingus routes through Dublin and I was there for a night. I’d booked myself into the Clontarf Castle Hotel. As the name implies, it’s a hotel built around the original castle – which was built in 1172.
I had no interest in fancy hotel food so I asked the hotel bellman for a fish & chip shop recommendation and walked to the shore to find it. Then went back to the hotel to watch England win their World Cup game in penalty kicks – great game!
The next morning I headed home and, due to the time zone difference, arrived at 2 pm the same day.
It’s been wonderful to be with my family and friends at home.
More later…