Astorga

JIM:   Writing a bit late as busy Eve after a long walk of 31 plus km. walked into Astorga yesterday. We walked through corn fields for acres with some rolling hills. Also noticed acres of a root crop which was either rutabaga or turnip. I have enjoyed all then rock walls,some beautifully done and others quite rustic.  I think I was a mason in another life(stoner?)The town of Astorga was beautiful with a Gaudhi hotel and a beautiful cathedral. It was famous for chocolate and thus we procured some.

  The food has been good. Two nights ago we had rabbit and rice with a meat stew. Game is a specialty her. Last night we had our best meal of the camino. I had Parttridge with foi gras in a stew.Itwas good. The others had duck and veal which were incredible. Dan,Deon,David and I bought a chocolate cake for Wendy's birthday. It was a fun celebration. Of course we toasted here with a good bottle of wine. 

   Breakfast is an interesting process here.We usually travel 6-8 km then stop for breakfast. Everyone drops their packs out front and pile in to get our cofee con leche ,patatas tortillas and maybe a chocolate croissant.yesterdays was the best cruissant I have had.

   Bathroom humor.most of the bathrooms have time and motion sensitive timers.one might be halfway to the toilet and the lights turn off. You fumble around to find the toilet in the dark.if you move enough the light may come on. If not, the Toilet may be hard to hit. Miss,piss and amiss come to mind. If sitting,or trying to that's another adventure.

  I have been thinking about the bonds that happen so fast on the camino. I think when one endures hardship and shares that with people relationships strengthen. It makes me appreciate the fact that with good family and friends we share so much together that It becomes easier to forgive when something runs amiss. Forgiveness.i could be better.