Day 8 recap – written morning of Day 9: Bus from Burgos to Astorga, walked 15km to El Ganso

I did not have wi-fi last night so am writing my Day 8 recap from El Ganso before heading out for Day 9 of my Camino journey.

Yesterday we left Burgos and travelled by bus to Astorga and before starting to walk successfully sought out an albergue that would let me send my bag ahead to El Ganso.

We needed to fuel up so decided to have breakfast (OJ and a croissant) at a restaurant that had the feel of L.A. in the 50’s – a kind of upscale dinner with marble floors and bronze railings. We met a group of women walking together which warmed my heart…let’s all do that together some day ok?

Despite having gotten up at 3 am to catch the bus, we walked about 15 km before stopping for the day in El Ganso.

I walked with all of you and you with me, and stopped to place stones for those of you who asked for support.

Along the way we came across a small church outside a little town with a guardian at the door. We got a stamp for our Camino passports and entered. I lit a candle for loved ones, saying a special prayer for those who had send me a note requesting a specific one.

We continue to meet incredibly wonderful people along the way. Relationships are as short as a “Buen Camino,” to a few days to a lifetime.

Memories created and experiences of Day 8 include people, infused stones, architecture, rocks, signs and messages.

Last night we stayed at a welcoming albergue in El Ganso with a beautiful little shop filled with organic foods, handmade art, clothing and collectibles – and the most incredible food!!!  More on that in the Day 9 posting.

Today (Day 9) we are walking a shorter distance so as to stay at an albergue in Foncebadon where Adrienne stayed at 10 years ago.

The Iron Cross is just after that. We will climb it tomorrow so if there is anything you’d like to let go of..that is where it is left. I will be saying a few prayers and leaving a few “things” behind for myself.

With love and gratitude, T