Amen, Amen, Amen

Villatuerta Puente to Villamayor de Monjardin

Monday, Sept 8

A brief rain shower hit during our bedtime last night in Villauerta Puente, accompanied by some rolling thunder. The hospitelier brought towels into out dormitory room to soak up the rain that came thru the roof!  

And such a roof. 

A few miles out of Villatuerta Puente, this morning, was the wine font of Irache. Too bad the cask was emptied by the pilgrims of the day before. We had enough for a couple of sips and continued on our way. 

Just a few drops, but even I wasn't ready for wine at 7:30 AM. 

Remember the movie, 'Lilies of the Field'? Sidney Poitier is somewhat of an itinerant worker who stumbles upon a convent of nuns. As it turns out the sisters need Sidney's help and he needs theirs. In one scene, he teaches the sisters a gospel song with each verse ending in, 'amen, amen, amen'. I've have ended each of my prayers with that chorus while on this pilgrimage.

I've just left the 12th century church of San Andres. In the dark of the church, kneeling, I offered some prayers of thanksgiving, pleas for forgiveness and The Lord's Prayer. And amen, amen, amen. Singing in this old church has an incredible effect. I finished my prayers and had to sing a favorite folk hymn. Even I sounded good in there.

The steeple at San Anrdres. 

The village is watched over by the ancient ruins of Castillo Estefan. I wouldn't want to be one of the slaves who had to build that monolith. 

We have slowed down today. Our walk was only 15 km and we arrived in Villamayor de Monjardin at 11:30. We ate a wonderful salad then found our albergue. We've both missed salad and this was such a treat.

The road today was mostly uphill, but not at a steep incline. But we decided to call it a day of rest, after those 15 km. John can nap, I can sing in the ancient church. Life is good.

After all of the years of foot problems I've had, I'm completely surprised everyday at how well they are holding up. After the blister adventure, the regular pains are about what I have gotten used to living with. John's back and hips continue to bother him, but he uses Voltarin daily and that seems to help. All in all, a day of easy walking was in store for us and we are enjoying this quiet village.