Onward We Go

The countryside was exquisite today as we left Alaviazere for Rabacal. The villages here are small and quaint and we have enjoyed watching the men and women harvesting their olives. It is tedious work as they do it all by hand. The men usually hit the branches with a large stick and the women usually gather up the olives. Sometimes a whole branch comes down and the olives are hand picked off the branches. I know that this is just the beginning of their work.

It rained intermittently throughout the day but we were very comfortable. We are getting used to our packs and we are the happiest when we are out on the trail. It has taken a while to find our pace and relinquish our expectations for ourselves. We remember that we are really just out for a walk we begin to fully relish being in the moment. We have met a few other pilgrims and are beginning to enjoy their companionship as well.

The people we meet along the way will often approach us and engage in conversations. It is not often they have visitors walking through their village. Although the Portuguese route is not as popular as the Camino Frances the people in the small villages are aware that they live on this historical way. They want to hear about what we are doing, where we have come from, and then tell us their own stories. We are loving this part of our journey.

I appreciate this time as we acclimate to our new routines and rhythms. Periodically we take a moment to stop and look at where we have been. Sometimes the overall goal feels overwhelming but when we take a moment we see we are exactly where we are supposed to me. We are inspired and encouraged to continue on.

You cross our hearts everyday...we carry you with us. You are loved... Buen Camino.