Santiago de Compostela, A Coruña 

~ Jan Davis
required pose in front of the cathedral (which is undergoing a major renovation)

I’ve wanted to do the Camino for a long time. Ever since Nelson and I were in Le Puy, France years ago and I saw peregrinos on the path there at the cathedral.

I’m so glad I did it now and didn’t wait any longer. Between the books, movies, documentaries, and (ahem) travel blogs, the popularity of the Camino is exploding. 

Speaking of movies, I spent the first few days of my Camino listening to an Australian amigo talk about “Shane”. Who is this Shane I wondered, some saint of the Outback?

I didn’t understand until I got to Roncesvalles and saw this hanging over the fireplace in the bar:

ah, that would be Sheen, as in Martin Sheen of “The Way”

So today’s walk into Santiago has been a long time coming.

I  thought I might cry once I finally made it to the cathedral but I calmly assessed my journey and quietly congratulated myself on a trek well trekked.

Ok, that last sentence was a lie. 

Of course I cried! I am a champion crier. Now we are talking superpower!  It’s lucky I didn’t stumble over my feet and end up crawling into the plaza (I promised Nelson I wouldn’t crawl.)

My Korean amigo, the soft-spoken retired physician, told me that it was his observation that I walked with joy. “Walked with joy” — I think that’s probably the nicest thing anyone has said about me.

 

smiling korean amigos

So I arrived in Santiago with happy feet and yes, a joyful heart. 

And as long as I’m talking about crying I might as well add that I brought Rita’s lovely scarf along with me thinking maybe it would help make me a little more presentable in the evenings.

But after the second day of crazy hair and socks with sandals I knew nothing would help. Instead I’d put the wrap over my shoulders to keep me warm while I read  and I found that very comforting. 

Indeed, it was she who carried me when the way seemed impossibly long or my spirits drooped. Gracias mi hermana, mi amiga.

So here I am in Santiago, a few days ahead of schedule and I’m looking forward to exploring the city. But I’m ready to come home. 

I miss my sweetie, my family, and my friends (Mary, Nelson is squeezing the limes already.) And of course, my perro. 

  
Muchas gracias for listening and for the kind words amigos. A travel blog is a somewhat (actually, very) selfish endeavor and I’m honored to have had your company on my journey.

  
 

21 thoughts on “Santiago de Compostela, A Coruña ”

  1. You brought JOYS to our hearts as we read of your travels and journey. We walked with you in our dreams. Living Life and honoring what is important. Cheers to You!

    Liked by 1 person

  7. Joyful Jan…your new trail name! What a wonderful adventure you took us all on along with you. Enjoy your last few days and can’t wait to see you when you get home. Adios, for now!

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  8. Jan, I stumbled across your blog from Facebook and have been silently following your trek for days. What an incredible adventure, congratulations !! I had to write to tell you that far from being selfish your blog is an absolute gift. I probably won’t trek the Camino; but I sure have enjoyed vicariously following you and soaking up the beautiful photos and fabulous commentary. What an accomplishment!! So thank you for all of us who got to tag along without any risk of blisters : – )
    Salud!

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  10. Blessings & Congrat’s, Jan! This is a bittersweet day for you. What an accomplishment & I am so delighted to have shared your journey with you. It was wonderful. Love, love!!

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  15. Congratulations! I’ve unfortunately been busy at work without a moment to spare in the evening so I’ve missed much. I intend to read back through your posts over the next week and live vicariously through you until I can walk the Camino again. Well done, be proud of yourself and what you’ve accomplished 🙂

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  16. Pleeease do not think your blog selfish. I have gotten such enjoyment out of it all: your entertaining writing and humor, observations, LOVELY photos that made me feel like I was there ( or teased me into wanting to go there). It has been fun to share in your journey. I feel enriched, even as you were.
    ……Jane’s sister

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  18. Bravo, Jan! I’m so proud of you, and really going to miss the blog — it’s been great fun reading along and following you 🙂 See you soon!

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  20. Jan – Thank you so much for sharing your journey – I loved your comments – your sense of humor and adventure are admired greatly.

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  21. That was quite a feat (yes, pun intended) you accomplished. Not only hiking 500 miles but also having the energy to organize your beautiful photos and write a blog so we could share in your adventure. Thank you!

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