To say that these two days have been grueling is a severe understatement. The 19 miles I hiked these past two days (with an elevation gain of more than 4,000 feet) has been the biggest physical challenge of my life. Yesterday was a constant steep uphill. Today was more moderate climbs, but much longer. But, the real challenge for me today was the last 4-5 miles, which was a brutal downhill. Everything from my hips to my knees, and especially my arthritic feet, was taking turns hurting until the last few miles when it all did.

Everything I’ve read about the Camino says that the first two days are by far the hardest. And, I did it. I freaking did it!! I dragged myself into Hotel Burguete at about 5:45 tonight, after beginning my hike at 8:00. I literally could not have walked another step. Imagine my dismay and frustration when the desk clerk told me they didn’t have my reservation, and that they were “completo” (full for the night). Even after I showed her the booking email, she said it was “never confirmed”. When I showed her the confirmation email from 3 months ago, she begrudgingly went to get me a key. So much for being “completo”. It was either the email proof that did it, or the fact that I broke down into tears at the thought of having to troop around town finding a place to sleep. Anyway, there were plenty of fun and beautiful moments the past two days, but I’m too tired to think of specifics. Enjoy the pics below!