A Boring Hike But A Brilliant Town: Probably the Best Day on the Camino So Far

Our 20K walk today was probably the least interesting of the Camino up to Most of it was a gravel path next to a road. The weather was very comfortable for walking, even chilly in the early day. We arrived in Carrion at 11:00 an hour before the albergue opened up so we got in the queue for beds. Fortunately, we were 2nd and 3rd in the queue so we had first dibbs on the showers. 

Hans (from Hamburg) showed up later and had to wait a bit to take his shower.  He just wandered about until his turn. 

This albergue is run by a local convent with very sweet and lovely nuns. We will go to Vespers at 5:30, folk songs at 6:00, Mass at 7:00 and  I'm cooking marinara and pasta at 8:00. 

We spent a lovely afternoon on the plaza talking to our fellow peregrinos and enjoying muchas cervesas. The weather was gorgeous--a bit cool in the shade that you need a long sleeve, but toasty in the sun. We went back and forth to get warm or cool off. 

The sisters that run this albergue were very special. They greeted us with smiling  faces, offered us bread and tea as we waited to check in, and patiently talked to each peregrino. They all were very young and had angelic faces. 

They had angelic voices, as well. We went to vespers - sung prayers - at 5:30. It was beautiful and very emotional.  After vespers, the sisters led sing along in the albergue with traditional Camino songs. A couple of peregrinos sang and played guitar as well. 

After the folk songs, we went to Mass and had a very special peregrino's blessing afterward. The priests laid hands on each peregrino's head and made the sign of the cross on their foreheads. We each received a special token from the sisters who said that they would continue to think about and pray for us during the rest of our journeys. 

The sisters were so nice and genuine. I don't know how they can do it day after day with each new group of peregrinos. They are truly very special people and I was humbled. 

After Mass, I fixed a big pot of marinara sauce and pasta for Kiss Vera, Hans and Patrick. They all were very appreciative of my home cooking. It was a fine finish to an amazing day. By far, it has been the best day. 

Today's good intentions are for Therese's older brother Al, whose 62nd birthday is today. Al's good humor and friendliness puts all at ease. It is a wonderful quality.