Stage 28: Laza to Xunqueira de Ambia, 34 kms, 7 hours, 17C, Cloud & Rain

Just Another Day on the Camino:

Didier and I were able to find a nice bar to have a very good dinner...not bad considering it was Sunday. We awoke to the early risings of the Italians (the "slalom team" as they walk one in front of the other and seem to race using drafting!) who I guess were anxious to be on the road...always seem to be first in and take the preferred beds. Politics on the Camino! I actually caught up and passed them today...the result, first shower and a corner lower bunk...see below. Who says there's no testosterone on the Camino? ;)

We found our way out the door of the albergue in something of a sleepy stupor today...no real reason for that...and after dropping our keys in at the ambulance station (they operate the albergue) we hit the road under grey threatening skies. Fortunately we found a bakery and in the bakery some really nice fresh stuff! Off down the road munching good stuff, but wishing it was pan de chocolate:) No morning sunrise today, but how about a morning smile? 

We were given 7 kms to get our acts together as we walked back up the valley we'd entered yesterday. Then the climb out of the valley commenced. Right back up to the same elevation we'd descended from yesterday. Didier sent me on my way and I began to climb up into the clouds and Irish mist...so forced to employee Margerita today. Ponch on, poncho off type of day until noon.

I really like these Galician way markers...much different than in north central Galicia.

A the top I looked down in some surprise at a vast plateau that must stretch into Portugal. It was a nice descent to the plateau and away from some of the wet stuff. Nice little pueblos and for those familiar with this area something traditional and very special...

In one of the towns there was a Monday market in the main square which brought folks together from far and wide. 

Always a highlife when we travel.

Then it was across the plateau where I had yet another dog experience...this time two big Shepard types. They raced across the field towards me in a very aggressive mood, but they were nothing compared to those I'd faced further south. I simply picked up the nastiest rock on the road and began to toss it in the air and catch it. The result...

Now this is my type of dog, and more typical of Galicia so far...

The long plateau walk continued through some very productive looking country side.

Look at the nest in this tree!

And then back to the climb again...but not for long. Now this is what I think of when I dream of Galicia...

And this...

And this...

A final story...walking along seemingly all alone, but lots of buzzing in the area.

I walked quietly out onto a rock outcrop and here's what all the buzzing was from...

All in all, a typical day...lots to see along the trail, people to meet, locals to exchange pleasantries with and rain drops to side step:) Tomorrow a short day to recover a bit...22 kms to Ourense almost all down hill. where I'll look for a decent accommodation tomorrow...maybe a splurge. Didier has not yet shown up, either because he was caught in heavier rain behind me...very likely, or his shins and knee were acting up...the joy of aging and old injuries. 127 kms to Santiago...I can just about taste it!!

Oh...look what the cat dragged in...Didier has arrived over 9 hours after departing. A rough day...we go to the bar:)

A thought to leave you with.

Buen Camino from my humble abode. Still haven't used my sleeping bag yet...just a silk sheet.