So I've named my backpack. No, I haven't lost it like Tom Hanks in Castaway naming his volleyball Wilson (at least not yet). But this thing and I spend a lot of time together, and it seems to have a mind of its own (especially when getting on/off my back). After day 1 of carrying Bubba all day, I decided he needed to lose some weight. My plan is to leave something behind (every day if I can) to get bubba down to a manageable size. This morning it was a pair of knee length yoga pants (it's HOT here), and I figure another pilgrim could use them. Tomorrow something else, etc, etc.

Today's walk was a bit hectic (and HOT - thank goodness it was overcast). So much of the route was on roads - and people drive crazy here, even though they are small cobblestone streets in towns with lots of blind corners and there are signs to watch our for pilgrims (kinda like deer crossing signs - ha). Had to stay very alert and move off road (quickly) in some cases. Glad that's over ;). On a good note, there were also long stretches along vineyards today, beautiful vistas, and eucalyptus trees - smelled great.

Besi and I walked together to Barcelos, where she left to continue on for 9 more km (I'm not worthy) - she has a limited time to get to Santiago. We enjoyed lunch, exchanged contact info, took a selfie, and off she went.

Barcelos is beautiful (darn, took pix on other camera again! - I'll get this down soon). I took a few on phone, so posting those. They are setting up for a market/fest tomorrow - look forward to seeing that!

Met fellow pilgrim Emilio from San Francisco and had dinner in an old restaurant in an historic building on the town square (I had veal, as it was the house specialty , which was ok, but wasn't seafood ;)- He has been on many Camino walks before - this is his first time on Portuguese route. He shared a lot of great stories.

Noticed I have a blister forming after today's walk (ugh). Have to admit I'm a bit nervous about tomorrow - will watch and see how it goes (?)

FYI - Once I leave Barcelos, I'm not sure if there will be wifi anywhere along the way until Santiago (?) so may ask tom to update in the meantime.

Buen Camino!

Stats:
Walked 14.2 miles - That makes a full marathon in 2 days - yippee!
Start: Rates, Portugal
Finish: Barcelos, Portugal
Blisters: 1 (dang it - my fault!)