Alternate Routes

Today was a day for an alternate route and in the company of others. I began my walk with Manuel from Italy. He's in his 20's and quite discontent with his life. He quit his jobs and is walking the Camino before moving to London to play his music. After Frómista we went out srperate ways in search of food to sustain us through the Meseta route. 

At Poplación de Campos I encountered some Aussies looking for the river way route as I was. I ducked into a shop for some sweet peaches and quickly caught up as they found the path. It's a bit longer from away from the road. You walk over some canal locks that look seriously old. 

In Villalcàzar de Sirga is a beautiful church, Santa Maria with a panel depicting the life of St. James. 

It was here in the square that Jeff, Jim and Rick persuaded me to join them for lunch. Usually very hungry, but I'd already had some bocadillo, I hesitated. But they were pilgrims of leisure and I need to slow down, what better way to practice! We enjoyed a pilgrims menu with salmon (my first here and delicious!) and an amazing wine. Rick with his exquisite Spanish and style got us perfect service. The owner brought us this incredible coffee drink mixed with liquor and anise cookies at the end of the meal. It was so yummy, I had seconds. Lunch lasted about 3 1/2 hours and the conversation was just as wonderful as the meal. It was an experience I'll treasure. 

With the afternoon pressing on, I had to move. The three had booked their luxury accommodations already, but I needed to secure a bed. We all left together and they asked me to set the pace for the remains 6k. (Big mistake 'eh gang?). In their record time we got to Carrión de Los Condes. By 4:30 I was safely in my alburgue, with the nuns at Santa Maria. Shower, laundry, rest and then an amazing shared circle of music. Manuel was here too and he played the most emotionally charged Pink Floyd "Wish You Were Here" I'd ever heard. Thinking of you, Greg, I wish you were here! A nun sat holding my hand while we sang and cried. A brief tour of the city this evening and an Aqua con gas to ease the alcohol effects of earlier. Sat with the boys a bit and listened to a band practicing for an upcoming festival. After they left to shop for morning supplies, I watched the Spanish grandmothers dance with their little ones, I miss you Elijah!! It was a good day! Buen Camino!