|
Today we arrived at the goal. Again with mixed feelings for several reasons. First of all it was foggy again and we could not see much of the surroundings before 11am. We road through forest where for centuries pilgrims have past in the last km to Santiago. Nevertheless unlike other days the walkers did not cross our path so we were a little lonely and lissed the feeling of their presence.
We did happen to stop along the road where the house owner pointed to his figue tree and was happy to pick the best ones for us. You get a warm feeling when you meet such people.
We also met several steep climbs in the final 15km. Each time we thought now we are going to see the top of the cathedral when we get to this top. Although disappointment met us a few times we overcame and kept going to the next top until we finally saw what we had been looking for for 5 weeks. But!!! Then after a long decent through the woods we came upon yet another climb but this between urbanization. We were even held up by a bus stopping suddenly to pick up passenger right in the middle of the climb.
After again a few detours we got to the square in front of the cathedral. This was mostly covered by tourists watching pilgrims arrive. Several people asked where we had come from and how long we had been on the road. When they heard they congradulated us in every language they could speak. They took our picture and one man went completely out of his way to take us to the pilgrims office to get our final certificate. We were even called awesome and that for a group of 4 senior citizens.
Now we are resting in a student residence (students in Leuven should have it so good) but reflection on our trip will be part of us even for years to come.
We are also very greatful to have accomplished our dream. We were so lucky with the weather, no accidents only 2 flats, exellent company and not even a scratch!!
|
