Day 15 – Burgos Bound

Left our St. Juan de Ortega digs at 8:00 AM.

Great place, but the internet was pretty sketchy.

Ran into last night's guitar player, John Myers.

Not just a talented guy, but a good one!

He and wife, Dora, are making some life changes.

(more below)

Early morning shadows point west to Arlanzon...

the first leg of many today in a 16.2 mile walk.

Closing in on Arlazon with Dave in the lead.

Here we are in Ages. Lets get that picture taken!

Can't hold my stomach in much longer. (Mike)

Ancient man from 300,000 years ago was found here

in Atapuerca. (Note: He is the one in the middle.)

We met up with our German friend (Tony) again, 

on his way back to meet his wife.

Dave is so "one" with nature. (Mike)

Some scenic splendor and nature sounds for you.

Dave, navigating a steep hill to reach a cross.

More of an incline than it looked like.

But hey, climb every mountain, right?

(Could we ford a cool, wet stream instead?)

Still in Atapuerca. Pretty windy here. 

Burgos awaits: 11 miles in the distance.

Which way, Dave?

What do YOU think, Mike?

You can see the fairly large town of Burgos at our backs.

Destination sweet destination.

Crazy graphics. Not sure what they mean. (Mike)

For some, even the universal language 

of art needs translation.  (Sue)

Couldn't help myself. Had to consume a quarter

pounder with cheese and fries! Mike is incredulous 

but has already downed a Big Mac of his own. (Dave)

This is the gate to old town Burgos. 

Tomorrow is a rest day. We've earned it!

A story from Mike:

John the guitar player and his wife, Dori, have been in Budapest teaching for a time. They are looking for something else in their lives now...a career change. Hence, they are walking the Camino, which seems to be a pretty good agent for transformation. Their plan is to move back to New York and pursue their dreams. Of course, we are wishing the two of them all the life-altering changes they are hoping for, and we think walking the Camino is an excellent way to begin.

A story from Dave:

Blister alert! Ouch. I think this one speaks for itself.

Sorry to report that a blister cropped up after the longer walk on paved surfaces today. I'm praying it feels better soon and doesn't get in my way too much. Being prone to blisters, I'm thankful this is the first one to appear. Now I need to figure out how to treat it and avoid more in the future. I still have lots of distance to cover!

If the Camino is a metaphor for life (as many say it is), I shouldn't be surprised that a "sore" challenge has rubbed its way into existence. None of us walks perfectly, nor should we expect to; and growth happens in the ups and downs, not the straightaway. Maybe I'm getting the opportunity to learn a little something extra here, and I hope I'm wise and resourceful enough to do it. I also hope for healing and believe that tomorrow being a rest day for us is probably less a coincidence and more a tender mercy. At any rate, it is what it is, and I'm gonna keep on keeping on. Buen Camino!  

Click below to support mental health services

and read more about the cause Mike and Dave 

are supporting with their walk.