15 April - Puente la Reina

So, after yesterday's trek, my knee was once again swollen. I decided to stay another day in Puente la Reina to rest.  I used the day to catch up on washing clothes, emailing, and blogging. I also went online to book a hotel for the Easter weekend, since every one is telling me that Easter will book fast and I'd better find a place to stay before it's too late.

I got to meet Daniel and Maddy from Florida. We sat at the outdoor bar and shared our experiences, some laughter, and sangria! We had quite a lot in common and I thoroughly enjoyed the company.

But I finally accepted the fact that my Camino Frances is probably over. I sent Frank a forlorn message about how much my knee was hurting, how different the Camino is compared to what I was expecting. and how much I miss him.  So, he changed his reservations and decided to come next week instead of waiting until mid-May.

I was so happy!! One of the disappointments I'm facing is that each time I meet a new group of pilgrims, I'm so happy and excited to meet new friends that I hope I can walk with, but my knee prohibits me from keeping up with the group and I am then left behind. It's getting old and depressing. Sometimes I see them again if they decide to stay an extra day in one place. But, for the most part, the group moves on and I don't get to see them again. Another group arrives, and while they are very accepting and happy to meet me, if I can't keep up - well.... See ya!

I also find that because of knee injury, I am more focused on the pain than on my surroundings. Instead of enjoying the spectacular scenery, I am worried about each step that I take, carefully choosing my steps to mitigate the pain. I look down at the trail and where I am stepping so much that I am missing the beauty surrounding me.

Yesterday, I made a it a point to just stop and look around occasionally. As I mentioned, the scenery is quite spectacular. Just the fact that I am walking through villages in Spain is pretty cool.  I literally stop and smell the roses - or in this case - the roadside lavender, as often as I can.  I am so grateful to have this opportunity, so I thank God almost every hour.

And now, Frank will be joining me. How blessed am I?