Day 19 - La Virgen del Camino to Hospital de Orbigo (29 km)

Hola mis amigos

I hope this is not getting dull but I must tell it like it is - another stunning day of cloudless blue skies. We set off around 7.45 this morning (the sun isn't fully risen til almost 8.30). It was cold this morning - really quite cold - and it seemed that we may be in for a cooler day than before. The temperature rises dramatically by mid morning and by the early afternoon the sun is quite punishing, especially when shade is scarce as it was again today. The weather is still unseasonably warm though if I am to encounter rain it will be in the region of Galicia which I'll reach in a few days.

Despite the heat it was a magical walk and, as is so often the case, The Camino had a lovely surprise in store in the peaceful Albergue waiting at the end of a tiring day. I'm including some photos of the Albergue to give you an idea.

As usual I'm feeling greatly refreshed after a shower and change of clothes - and my socks and knickers are happily drying in the sun, which will shine until around 8 tonight.

Bernard's last day tomorrow so we plan to make an early start probably just before sunrise and walk to Astorga for lunch, then he will take the bus to Bilbao. I have a strong feeling that Astorga will be a lovely town and I'm thinking about finding a nice little hotel (as in Burgos) and enjoying a restful afternoon. I'm still feeling strong and haven't had any problems with my feet yet (other than that they are tired and a little sore each day, which is a given) - but I'm mindful that tomorrow will be my 20th day of walking so it might be smart to have an afternoon off. Of course I will let you know tomorrow.

Not long until dinner now and, naturally, I'm hungry. Hospital de Orbigo is a small and charming town or is it a village? (not sure of the criteria) with quite a few cafes to choose from. There are some familiar faces here in the Albergue so dinner tonight may include a German and an Austrian who I last dined with about 4 days ago.

A few messages before I go. Thank you to Sara, Marian, Pam and Michael for your emails and Debbie for your text. It's always a thrill to check my phone or iPad and see a message. Mike, I love those photos of you and Bev and the girls in Italy. Great that you all enjoyed your time there - one of my favourite countries and cultures too.

Gemma I know you have my best interests at heart but you mustn't / don't need to encourage me to eat - I feel like I never stop! The map is always scrutinised so I am clear on where I may be able to buy food and a caffe con leche in the mornings!

One last thing. To those who gave me precious mementos or sent their wishes with me via letters, cards and emails or in a conversation I am still carrying those in my pack and in my heart. I forgot to let you know that on the day I had walked half way I read all the notes and letters again (Jill, I promise I didn't open the one that says 'Open at the end'). It was lovely to read them again and I expect they'll be read quite a few times before they reach their final destination here in Spain. Each morning when I am re-packing I check to see that they are still safely in my pack. I hope The Camino works its magic for each of you and all my family and friends.

So off to dinner now. Friday tomorrow. Hope you've all had a great week. J x