Coughing notwithstanding, today I had a good day on the Camino. The Via de la Plata passes through 10 autonomous communities. The first is Andalusia. My solo Spanish Caravan passed through Andalusia and into Extremadura. (Note- from time to time I will make some pop references, like now). If you get it- great. If you don’t- it probably just seems weird. I came across my first Christian comfort on the path today- just a random spot in the woods. It was a statute of Santa Maria specifically for Pilgrims. I stopped there to talk with my mom who is in heaven. It was a one way conversation but I had a pretty good idea of what she was thinking- and yes, it was her concern for my health and lungs in particular. In life, she had the universal cure all for my respiratory issues- “wear a scarf”. I could sense her telling me that today. Love you Mom. It was a nice boost to be able to spend time on something spiritual at what felt like a holy place.

I had my best meal of the journey today for lunch- not a fried item on the plate- homemade chickpea soup, grilled chicken and a salad.

This looks how I’ve been feeling

Reflects the rustic nature of the Via de la Plata

The Camino passes through lots of private property often having livestock. The owners gate their property and ask that you close the gates after you pass- pretty cooperative.

Camino single track

Where I stopped to pray and talk to mom

The entrance to my hotel, note the guard dog