9.16.2016
The heavy rain seems to have moved on and it is now just drizzle but very cold (42 degrees to start). I am glad that the thunder storms were primarily reserved for our rest day. Today we make our way to Foncebadon through beautiful mountains to the “Cruz de Ferro” or the Cross of Iron. This is considered one of the most spiritual places on the Camino and is also at the highest elevation of 1500 meters or 5000ft. Here the tradition is to throw a stone on the mound that you have carried. It symbolizes letting go of the weight you have carried as you get ready for the final journey to Santiago de Compostela. We make a continuous climb for about 2.5 miles but it is gradual and not the most difficult of our journey. Because the route is rocky and wet, I try my boots again and have to stop early with new blisters. I tape my toes and move back to my trail shoes. I will be donating my boots . . . The fog hangs over the mountains making for eerie but beautiful views. We pass through the mid evil village of Manjarin where there is only a one inhabitant left – a gentleman that runs the albergue and dresses as a Templar knight. Quite an interesting character. The albergue has no running water or electricity. Our guide told us she stayed on one of her camino’s and that it was quite an experience. I will take a pass! From Manjarin, we begin a long and steep descent to El Acebo. It is very rocky and I can’t zig zag so resort to tippy toe running for the next 3 miles. I am sure I am irritating other pilgrims as I do a not so graceful dance on the rocks. I also do not stop to explain that I have blisters since most carry heavy packs and have walked much further than me through these mountains. John on the other hand is very steady in his pace using his walking sticks. The long walks in the early stages through fields of grain and grapes are peaceful and mind numbing. The walks through the hills and mountains of Leon remind me of hardship and perseverance. They are not easy walks. Our van takes us on to Molinaseca to a beautiful Albergue for the night where a late afternoon sun has come out.
