I am truly blessed on this Camino. On this post I am counting all my blessings and grateful there are no accounts to bless.

1) Karen is a BIG blessing on this trip and the following are the reasons why:

– Originally I was to walk this Camino alone like most people do for personal reflection and contemplation. I have to admit that having Karen on this Camino has been a tremendous blessing. She is a very sociable person and has this ability for genuine connections with many pilgrims we encounter

– We pool our money together and we get way better accommodations. Instead of just paying for two bunk beds, we would combine our funds, add a few more Euros and then we are able to get private rooms.

– She can cook or when I cook, she is a great sidekick as sous chef

– She offers a different perspective on the events on our Camino so I get to see some things from a different angle which I did not even consider

– She has an invisible Camino Angel whom she calls upon when we are lost and someone appears at the right moment to help us along

2) Camino Portuguese 2018 is definitely more spiritual for me than my first Camino in 2013. On this Camino, I have been approached by people to pray for them when I reach Santiago. I have a small list going to St. James.

3) The trails on Camino Portuguese are often through beautiful woodlands. I hear the birds singing and bubbling sounds of nearby brooks and rivers. The smell of pine and eucalyptus trees are strong adding to my enjoyment on this trip. I encounter many animals including an interesting cross breed of a farm fowl looking like a cross between a turkey, chicken and a duck. A possible life Turducken.

4) The Portuguese and Spanish people are definitely much friendlier as compared to Camino Frances. They give us fruit from their trees, a car ride when we needed it, friendly smiles and advice. I recommend Camino Portugal for your first one as it is a great gentle introduction to the Camino De Santiago.

5) Food has been delicious and inexpensive including the microwave items we gather to make simple dinners at night

6) I have not had any problems being vegetarian. Though we have had some meals at restaurants but most of the time we are cooking or having microwave dinners. Lots of vegetarian choices.

That’s all for now. I may have more before we leave Spain.

Good night!!

Hilda 💕