Hello from Spain. I am here on the Camino de Santiago, walking with the goal of reaching Santiago de Compostela. To be honest, it has been a very real challenge. The climb through the Pyrenees Mountains was far tougher than I imagined. Not so much the uphill but the downhill. And blisters. And a sore knee. Now a sore leg. It’s. Never. Ending. I’ve had a real challenge with this journey. A few forced rest days and now one by choice as my body is begging for it. Each day I ask myself if I should quit. I haven’t said no yet. Very close to it but still going.
I have also had incredible kindness shown to me, far more than I expected. Yesterday I decided to list something nice each day. Each day does have its little joys. Simple things like eating my breakfast of bread and cheese in a vineyard or seeing an incredible sunrise. Having lunch on a field with sheep or enjoying a beer and conversation with other pilgrims. Encouragement from home is wonderful too.
And finally I have realized I don’t take enough breaks. I walk for 3 hours before stopping most days. Because I am so slow I keep trudging ahead. Though maybe if I took more breaks it would help. I think my body will appreciate that.
I will write much more later, mostly once I return in October. In the meantime here are some photos.
All photos owned by Eeva Valiharju / Wanders the World.
Wanders The World 
You are an inspiration to all. I look forward to hearing all your stories upon your return.
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Thanks! It’s been tough yet good. Only a few more days to Santiago and a few more hills. LOL
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Eava, I am in awe of your journey. Truly…Somedays I can truly only walk a block…You are doing it girl. Maybe not in the way you thought or hoped, but you are doing it. If you need a break, take it, enjoy it. Yes, stop more often, smell the roses, or the sheep poop! I think that the Camino is not only for physically, but most importantly spiritually and mentally. Focus on that..
Also, question. What is that symbol that looks like a half sun with the “fingers” fanning out.
Take care of you, always, do what your body says and stop fighting it. Go with the flow.
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Thank you so much for your support. It certainly hasn’t been how I expected. I’m taking more breaks today for sure. The symbol is the scallop shell & it’s one of the many variations seen on the way.
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Yes, more breaks. You’ve only got one body. Enjoy the journey, however far, in as little discomfort as possible. So said one old woman
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I’m going for more breaks today
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