Attempting to be flexible, we planned to walk only 18 km and see how my leg responded. After a sleepless night (mind wouldn't stop spinning) and awaking to an uncooperative leg, I warned Marise that I thought I was likely to cry a lot today. If I had, that would have been ok, but so far today, I haven't had a meltdown.
We walked through a number of largely empty villages today: Redeceilla de Camino, Castildelgado, Viloria de Rioja, vilemayor del rio. Most of the homes are now empty as the inhabitants have migrated to cities for work. The landscape changed as we left la Rioja and entered Castilla y Leon. No more vinyards, lots more grain fields. Weather was cool, low 40s to high 50s. Terrain gentle, and the morning light, as always, was beautiful.
Nancy, a hostalierra from Australia, waving us off in Granon.
Looking back on where we came from. Last look at La Rioja.
Sunflowers
Arrived in Belarado at noon. Found tea and a snack while waiting for the albuerge Cuatro Cantones to open at 1. Found bed, took shower, elevated my throbbing, swollen limb.
As beautiful and easy as the landscape was, it has become clear that I have severe shin splints or tendinitis in my left leg. K tape helped a bit, but Tylenol doesn't really touch the discomfort, especially on the downhill stretches. Rest is the cure, and ice if I can get it in these circumstances.
Am currently planning to find a way into Burgos tomorrow, 45 km away. I can find a pension there where I can rest, elevate and ice my leg. Maybe seek medical attention, but there's not a lot to do but rest and wait. Maybe by the time that Marise arrives a few days later, I'll feel better. If not, I'll have to reconsider my plans for the next few weeks.
On the face if it, this could be disappointing. After all, it's not the original plan. But I'm trying to look at what I have done so far, rather than focus in what might not happen this time around.
I've walked 209 km through Navarre and La Rioja. That's 130 miles.
I've made friends from all over the world, including the wonderful Marise.
I'm exploring Spain, a place I've never visited.
I know in my bones that all plans are flexible. Rigidity kills dreams.
I'm learning a lot about patience and forgiveness, especially self-forgiveness.
Regardless of how far I walk on this Camino, it's already a success. It was from the day I decided to come. A pilgrimage is an interior journey, and mine continues.
I am deeply grateful for the love and encouragement I feel from those of you who have been cheering me on AND encouraging me to slow down for the sake of my health. I hear, love, and appreciate you.
My Camino.
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