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First of all, many thanks for the comments and responses. I was able to access them for the first time yesterday. It's fun to have my own cheering section.
It rained most of today which made for cooler temperatures. This was a blessing since the walk was unshaded. There was a lovely stretch along a canal and a bird sanctuary. My heel is pretty much healed and doesn't bother me at all when I walk.
Today's topics are vanity, communication, and cuisine, or the lack thereof. Vanity has flown away with the Spanish breezes. My hair is usually coifed in braided pigtails, a style I haven't worn in over 40 years. It's not a pretty picture. My attire is pure hiking and comfort wear. Rain gear and Gortex are brilliant; effective, lightweight, and quick to dry. I do look doughty, but fit in with everyone else.
The subtleties of language have gone by the wayside. Dinner last night with Jean-Christophe from Nice was typical, as was a group dinner last week cooked by Roberto, the Roman police officer. We all struggle with the multiple languages spoken and remain alert for any word which is vaguely familiar so we can make meaning from the conversation. It's both frustrating and fun.
The Spain cuisine so far is nothing to write home about, which is, ironically, exactly what I'm doing now. The Spanish eat loaves of puffy baguettes, which are tasteless and made of processed white flour. A popular dish is tortilla de potate, which is an omelet made from potatoes, eggs and onions served as a sandwich in said tasteless loaf of bread. Talk about carbs! The one time I had it I thought I'd ingested the bricks in my backpack and transferred them to my stomach. The cafe con leche, espresso, is quite good. Other food is okay, but not special. I apologize if I'm offending anyone with this food assessment. It's just my experience so far. The wine here flows like water. I bought a bottle of delicious local Riojan red wine for the group dinner. It was only 2 euros, 20 cents. Not kidding, for a whole bottle! I hope I'm not repeating myself.
Tonight's lodging is about 20 levels down from last night's. It's a converted school but beyond basic. Only 4 euro. My first cold shower of the trip. I got the second last bed, so I'm grateful that I can stop here.
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Marla I love reading every word you write! You go!