So…here we are….

May 8. I’m in the village of O Podrouza, which is a suburb of Santiago. We have 20 kilometers to go tomorrow morning…about 12 miles. By this time, I can do that in my sleep (not bragging, just saying). The town is nothing to speak of, except it is jammed packed with pilgrims. Lots of hugging, smiles and laughing going on. I’m seeing people that I’ve walked with since way back in the Pyrenees. I spent part of the evening with Sean and Dennis, two Irishmen from County Cork. They know Killavullen (the O’Connor ancestral family village in Cork). They were so much fun. Dennis was not afraid to break into song….which he did often! Who knew I’d be connecting with my Irish roots in Spain. I had dinner with friends tonight, which was interrupted by other friends walking by. An older Italian couple that I keep bumping into on the Camino was all hugs and kisses. With neither of us speaking each other’s language, we adopted each other as Camino parents and son! That’s the mood and atmosphere here. Today’s walk was great. The weather was great and although the crowds are increasing, it’s still not bothering me. Tomorrow may be a different story walking into Santiago. I’ve said it on earlier posts, but I can’t believe it’s at the end. Going to bed….along with my 50+ other bunk mates.