Day 2 – Ponte de Lima

The symbol of the Camino which we follow (for the uninitiated) or simple painted yellow arrows. However, it’s quite easy to not follow them and some kind people paint yellow crosses on tracks/roads/driveways we might otherwise follow.

Today has been great – forecast was for sun all day – but it rained on and off until 2 when the sun came out and all the merino seemed a very bad idea. My feet, specifically my right little toe, are no longer my best friends – but apparently some suffering is obligatory for optimum outcome……. The scenery has been sublimely beautiful with the combination of rain and sun but unfortunately my photos have not done it justice – however what I have loved is constantly walking thru overarching grape vines and lush vegetation.

I loved last night’s singing. We had pre dinner drinks and sang again in 4 parts – and it felt absolutely wonderful. I think I’m officially a tenor, but have a suspicion it may be in name only. The joy of singing together is so real, and also an amazing relationship is building as we walk and talk together, and share experiences each evening – if we want to. The meals continue to be fabulous, as does the wine, and our accommodation tonight is overlooking the river, modern but lovely.

Ooops – couldn’t make this one smaller….. This was outside someone’s house – they had fruit and drinks (beer and water in a chilly bin) and an honesty box out unattended, along with the stamp you can gather if you want a certificate at the end (your Credencial). The kindness and friendliness of the great majority of the locals is amazing – they call out “Bom Camino” as we wander by, invariably gawking at something which is simply their life. We walk along very narrow roads at times and they roar on past, either seemingly oblivious to us, or slowing right down and calling out a greeting. BMWs are a dime a dozen here, as are all the other European prestige cars in NZ, which seems so odd. Anyway, it’s drinks o’clock and singing time so clothes on and I’m off. I neither edit nor proofread this I’m sorry – actually I’m not really – I’m just making an excuse for any lapses in expectations or standards. I could happily wax eloquent for pages about my days here, but don’t want to bore you, and there are simply not enough hours on the days.

Adeus – thinking of you all – fleetingly.