No stage, just a bit of commentary

Geoff set off on his own this morning for a solo 27 kms, and I sit with a cafe con leche waiting for my ride to Fromista where hopefully I will get my toe all fixed up, and be good to walk the rest of the way. Geoff had done quite a lovely post about our evening at La Molina outside of Hornillos, but through the magic of the ozone, it disappeared, so he asked that if I have time, I put in a few words about it... La Molinas is a Casa Rural out in the middle of nowhere, a sprawling farm property that can accommodate 18 guests. The place in itself is spectacular, but for us it was the people who were gathered there that night that made it extra special. We were driven there by Carmen, a woman with warm eyes, and a loving approach who drives like a maniac. Her parents, too, present as the ultimate hosts...fully opening their home to their guest, making us all feel like a large family for the day. After coming though a drenching rain, we were placed in front of a roaring fire with warm drinks and our fellow pilgrims. A group of four Irish and Four Canadians met early on thie trip, and bonded quickly, so this group of eight has been travelling together for the last couple of weeks. They welcomed us into thier group, and another couple of Irish linked in with a group of six Spanish who were there. The evening meal was exceptional, with local delicacies, lovely fresh vegetables, a variety of lovely tapas, and pork tenderloin that must someone commented must have been massaged every day of it's life (Geoff decided to eat the last piece, and his utensils had been removed, but he was able to cut it with a spoon). After dessert (cremee caramel for those who would like to know) the liqueurs came out...then the singing began ... one woman in particular could have been a professional. Ths Spanish put on a dancing demonstration, and contributed a few songs of their own. The pressure was on the Canadians now to DO SOMETHING...we all agreed spontaneous singing isn't in our comfort zone...so Geoff gave a speech, and I contributed my poem...and we left that evening with 16 new friends.