Camino Frances: Day 8

Today’s walk, day eight, led us from Arzua to Pedrouzo-Rua. It was supposed to be 12 miles, the longest walk thus far — but I clocked 15 miles after a few unintended detours. I wasn’t the only one, so I was in good company. Our sites today were again spectacular! Quaint, villages, farm animals, (including cows that joined us on the Camino), the emergence of newly planted crops, and shady areas to rest our feet.

Prior to our Spain departure, we discussed bringing gifts that we distribute to fellow pilgrims on the Camino. I brought seashells from Bethany Beach — which seemed appropriate as the scallop shell is the sign of the Camino. The gifts that we have all received are priceless and will live in our hearts and souls forever. 

One very special group we met were about 10 disabled young adults from Spain. They had several pilgrims who were blind, and one in a wheelchair. Most of the Camino is packed gravel or dirt, but there are some sections that are gutted and rocky, which would be challenging for a wheelchair. But this group had so much faith, love, and joy to share. My Spanish is nonexistent and they didn’t speak English, but we communicated just fine! I offered my seashells from Bethany Beach. I also carried bracelets that my five-year-old grandson had made, and I distributed those to my new friends as well. The bracelets contained positive affirmations — love, kindness, laugh. Both gifts were a big hit, and the pilgrims were excited to receive something from the United States. These beautiful pilgrims gave me the gift of song, warm greetings, beautiful smiles, and a 2026 photo calendar of their group.

A second gift we received was from a group of approximately 50 sixteen year-olds from Madrid. We met them at a chilly creek where a few of us were dipping our sore feet into the water. These teens were so vivacious — swimming in the muddy creek and leading us in songs — “Sweet Caroline” and “American Pie.”

We also met a delightful group from an Anglican church in London, who gave pilgrims the gift of a hug. They are volunteers stationed at a visitor center for one week on the Camino and they offer food to the pilgrims who stay in their hostel, and hugs to those who walk by.

The mother nature and God gifts have been spectacular! So far it has only rained in the evenings, the mountain view‘s are breathtaking and reminiscent of our Blue Ridge Mountains. There are cows, sheep, goats, chickens, cats, dogs, horses, and many unique birds native to Spain.

Lastly the gift of pilgrimage with our fellow Holy Comforter members has led us to great conversations, support, laughter, and lifelong friendships. The gifts keep flowing — within our group and the community of pilgrims we meet.

– Karen Dawn