Day 2:Tabara to Santa Marta de Tera (25KM)

Part of the agreement peregrinos make when staying at the albergue in Tabara is that everyone will get up at the same time to prepare for the day. The group arrived at a consensus of 6:30AM at dinner last night. After breakfast and goodbyes to Pedro, we all set out at dawn following the yellow spray painted arrows out of town. I felt good, so early on I took off at a quick pace with some music. Yet soon I realized my sock had bunch up around my toe, and even though the rest of me felt good, if I didn’t stop to take care of my toe I would go much, much slower later on. Everyone passed me while I took care of my toe, yet about 2 hours later, I turned a corner in a village to find everyone having a coffee at a wee cafe. So we rested for a bit - they longer than me. And I set off again for Santa Marta de Tera. At the time I didn’t know this town has one of the most iconic statues of El Camino. (I hope I can post a photo when the internet is better.) I started to learn about the many Camino trails - The Northern Way, the French Way, The Primitive Way, The Portuguese Way, The English Way and others. Pilgrims from across Europe wanted to make their way to Santiago, and they would leave their home and connect to the nearest route they could find. Over time, villages and hamlets became know for the hospitality and refuge they would offer - either in the church or in people’s homes. Word would travel and pilgrims would know where you could get water of find a safe place to sleep at night. The six of us decided to make dinner together in the albergue, so we found a small shop and bought a few essentials for the meal. As we prepared dinner, Dome (Dominic) arrived at the albergue. We only met him briefly two nights before in Granja. This 18-year old wants to become a priest, and he decided to walk this Camino before he begins his novitiate year to discern whether or not he really wants to follow a path to the priesthood. We had fun cooking, laughing, and eating - and while languages limited conversations in some ways, it broadened it in others. I’m so thankful I have this opportunity to experience the Camino. Until next time, Buen Camino!