Camino Day 27 – Astorga

Heading to Astorga today to connect in with my to be sister-in-law Colleen. After a restful night, I head out on a mostly level terrain with a sunrise, no rain, and warmer temps.

The number of pilgrims is picking up a little and the town are changing in that they seem a bit more kept. I learn from Jose on the walk some of the long felt tension between Castilia and Leon. It become a little apparent in the wealth as I move west.

I had to take a picture of what I know to be “cows”  in a pen without horns. I felt very comfortable with these animals.  Also, Colleen confirmed it is normal protocol to shout out “cows” when you see them.

I also had to take a clip of what appears to be a John Deere tractor plowing the field.  I am seeing this happening quite often now.

One of the most interesting stops along the way has to be “David’s Restaurant”. My FarOut app suggests this a restarting.  I’m the clip you will see David in blue. He relocated from Barcelona to this spot 14 years ago.  He doesn’t own the place but serves as “host” to pilgrims. He suggests resting, eating, drinking or whatever you need.  People bring and take items.  Some people donate.  I personally enjoyed a cup of coffee, banana and time by a hot stove with a black cat taking a nap. A perfect break to the day.

I rolled into town and again met Kim and Jim as they waited for the albergue to open. We chat a bit before I check into a hotel.

I wandered out of the hotel after washing up and bumped into another German pilgrim. We had a terrific two course lunch. After, I rested at the hotel.

Laser I found the church next door open.  I asked a local if there would be mass. She indicated there would be rosary first, then mass.  It was a beautiful service with Archbishop of Madrid performing mass.

All is well.