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Today was a day of "really!??!!?s.
Got up before it was light to a pouring rainstorm. Really?? Got my rain gear on and off I went!
John Beirley wrote the guidebook I am following on my journey, and the first sentence to describe today's walk includes, "a delightful day". Really John?? Really????
So, most of the day was uphill - some sections were pretty steep. About 2/3 in, I'm thinking, maybe this "hill" everyone was worried about isn't so bad... Then IT began. The "HILL" (aka mountain to us Midwestern folk). Hill - really??
In the beginning, every time the arrow pointed up again, I said, "really"?? Then, you'd turn another corner, thinking it was over, and then there it was - another arrow straight up. Better yet, the trail ended and now it was just large rocks and boulders with yellow arrows painted on them, pointing up.
My "really" became grunts in time with with each step - trying to keep my knees and ankles from spraining on the uneven surface. Then some swear words started escaping my lips (sorry, Mom ;). At one point, it was so steep, I was close to being on my hands and knees as I feared I would fall backwards with the weight of Bubba on my back - tumbling down the hill.
ANOTHER turn, and another mound of rocks steeper than the last?? Really?? Gentle swear words give way to more of a turrets type syndrome of swearing. Then it began - I was full out cussing like a sailor. Couldn't help it - it seemed the only way to push through it.
When I got to (what I thought was) the top, there was a lovely cross. I asked a man (equally out of breath) to take my picture. He took it, and then, in broken English, he said, "there is a prettier cross up". I began to laugh (you know, that crazy person laugh) and he looked offended. I said, oh, I'm not laughing at the cross, I'm laughing because you said "up". Really!!?!?
The last few ascents were difficult. The swear words continued. Finally - I was there. The top. I danced a happy dance and was done swearing. Unfortunately, however, I did not see the very religious man at the top sitting and quietly praying with his rosary. Not only did he see my happy dance, but he had to have heard everything I was saying on the way up. How embarrassing. I wanted to stop at the top, but I was playing through my mind some of the things I had said, and had to just keep moving with my head down and hope he wouldn't recognize me later ;). I'm sure one of his prayers was for help with my potty mouth ;)
This Auberge filled up quick! I got here early enough to get a bottom bunk and am very happy about that. There are 30 beds in one room - should make for some good sounds (and smells? - eeewwww) tonight!
Took an Aleve (my first one so far) when I arrived, showered, and headed down the hill for dinner. Met 2 great couples from US (Seattle and Detroit). First meal where everyone spoke English. I have to admit I miss Jose - my Spanish speaking Portuguese friend. I have a video of his "charade language" (that's the best way to describe it) on my camera. Can't post, but will share when I get home ;)
Stats:
Start: Ponte de Lima, Portugal
End: rubieras, portugal
36340 steps
15.4 miles
No moleskin today and no blisters!!! Really!!!!
- comments
Jane Keep going Kristi, you are doing great, love your posts, they cheer us up!
olsonc58 What a great adventure! Here's hoping for better weather and terrain. : )
sandy H I love hearing about the Kristi and Bubba adventures....keep up the fantastic effort. Looking forward to the updates.
Dean Elger Hello Kristi I am a Friend of Cheryl and Taylor in GE. They sent me the blog after speaking about it earlier in the week. I won't add any weight to Bubba but I am going to be there reading your entries the whole way. Good travels.
Mary C Love following your footsteps, in spirit, on Camino. Fun and inspiring. Continue enjoying your great journey.
Michael Smith OMG! The biggest bestest stonerhenge EVER!