“Poco a poco” Emilio 2022

As I was making my way down from Cruz de Ferro I kept in mind all of the excellent advice I’ve been given about hiking over the years. The words of Emilio, Perry, Carlos, Cheryl, Hailey and many others were front of mind and comforting.

I was so grateful to realize that the route had been split into two days instead of the grueling marathon of 2022. I could literally stop and smell the rock roses.

The craggy, slippery rock adventure was raised to another anxiety level with the presence of black flies that landed on my glasses and nose. I pulled my buff up over my mouth and nose and kept moving forward. I concentrated on finding the beauty around me and ignoring the negatives. On day two I sprayed my hat with bug spray and they left me alone. 🎉

The gorgeous weather included a cooling breeze and there was shade in spots to rest and rehydrate. “Poco a poco” I made my way to the charming village of Molinaseca where a dog barked his greeting to the weary, dusty pilgrims.

I savored a second breakfast at a sidewalk cafe before changing into my Teva hiking sandals and cruising the final easy five miles to Ponferrada.

Camino Countdown Update:

Falls - 0! (Except for the mud plops in France)

Blisters - O

Cafe-con-leches - Average is 3 per day

Days to Santiago - 10

Sending love and gratitude from Ponferrada, Spain! 😘