Crossed into Spain today!

From Rubiaes Portugal to Tui Spain,

Fitbit: 14.75 miles.

Stayed at convent which is no 

longer a convent :(

Highs:  looking over into Tui Spain from medieval fort in Valenca Portugal. ( I did not like crossing the very high bridge however). Note: Highs and lows go together.  Our first Mass on Camino was in a church with the same name as our parish back home—St Francis.  Catholic Mass feels like home whatever country you are in around the world.  I have no idea what song the congregation sang but it was a high.  The body of Christ in harmony.  Balm for my soul. Afterwards Barry and I read your intentions in front of the Blessed Sacrament.  High.  More!: Seeing all our Camino friends at the creperie felt like something out of an episode of cheers.  The aussies Tammy and Sally showed up of course.  Characters for sure.  So fun.  Quelee (spelling?) from Malaysia sat next to us.  Our dear friend pretty Linda and her son from Maine were sad because part of their family left to return to the “real” world.  In the courtyard at the convent Pam and I had the best Sangria—no one does it like Spain.  On the walk: Great conversation with Beth from NC.  First person I’ve met who has said she is here for spiritual reasons.  High:  The bunk bed had a tray to keep phone and glasses handy and safe from bunk mate crushing them on the floor-and easy to find in the dark!…High: Big transport trucks that stopped so we could cross the busy road.  Like big brothers who kept the others away to keep us safe.  waved thank you to them and meant it.  Felt kindred.

Lows: cathedral was closed.  Incredibly impressive from outside. Past half way mark in the Camino, minds turning toward home.  Lots of talk about how to keep the Camino with us at home.  First day we talked about life back home.   Not that we don’t miss everyone.  We just feel a bit like we’ve died and gone to heaven.  
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