I did it. Something in the region of 780 km across Spain and here I am in Santiago. The different guidebooks and various options along the way mean that no one is exactly sure how far we all walked but given the number of times I got lost and had to back track I am quite sure that I, at least, have walked about 800km. I am proud to say that I walked every step, no buses, no taxis, and that I carried my pack the whole way all by myself. YAY me!
I walked into the city yesterday just before midday with my friend Mark. We walked slowly because we really wanted to enjoy our last day and take in the city. But the road just dissappeared beneath our feet and very quickly we were standing in the Praza Obredoiro outside Santiago Cathedral. Some people experience a huge surge of emotion at this point and begin to cry, while others feel a strange sense of disappointment, an anticlimax after such a long journey. As for me, I felt a warm sense of contentment, of a goal finally achieved and a wonderful journey completed. I felt the need for a beer. Grande, por favor.
One of the great things about being here is that I know loads of people. Here I am in a strange country, a strange city and yet everywhere I go someone calls out hola! or wants a hug! All those familiar faces, friends and waving aquaintances that I've met along the way are all here. Sam arrived yesterday evening too so we have been going out 'celebrating' and farewelling one and all. Last night was the final pilgrim pillow fight club meeting. We had a great turn out in the cathedral square and it was a fantastic way to finish off this odyssey. I am also relieved to be finished with this blog. It has been my homework, my guilty conscience, my little burden, my hair shirt if you will, all these weeks and I'm glad this is the last entry. When I get home in a couple of weeks I will upload photos to go with each entry and maybe a short video of one of the early pillow fights.
If you're lucky. More thumbnails ...
Latest Comments (3)
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a fine journal (reply)
Sep 23, 2008 03:20 EST by kenhuocj
well done; i truly enjoyed your days on the Camino - in preparation for my own.
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HURRAH! Well done! (reply)
Aug 4, 2007 23:03 EST by amy123
Congratulations!! It must be nice to see Sam again and know that you've accomplished such a mission!! Sounds like you had a blast :)
--a.
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CONGRATULATIONS!!! (reply)
Aug 4, 2007 20:52 EST by ashmay
That is awesome! You are in Santiago :) I will admit I didnt see much of Santiago other than the Hospital where Jordan was staying but I know what you mean about knowing a bunch of people in a strange city...how fun! Enjoy your time there :)
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