Day 4 - Pamplona to Puente de Reina - 14.11 miles

As I sit here having aperitivo in Spain reflecting on my day, I see people just arriving from the hike at 6pm! They are so hot, tired, having issues with blisters, swollen feet, and some serious sunburn, etc. Maybe it was all the training I did prior to arrival, but I have been blessed to just enjoy my time on the trail so far. I get out on the walk early in the day and keep a fairly good pace, so I am fortunate to arrive at my destination with time to relax and explore. Today I departed my hotel at 7:45 am and arrived by 12:30pm.

As we left Pamplona, we walked through the city and out past the University before we entered the fields and hillsides. The trail was covered in blackberry bushes, and I definitely enjoyed my share. I ran into M from my first day in SJPP. She and I were at the Pilgrim's Office getting the “American” introduction (she is from the Netherlands). I haven’t seen her since that day, and we walked together for the first hour or so. As we passed this field of sunflowers, she shared that this is what they have chosen to represent her son who died of cancer in 2011. She said he was so happy and full of life, and his smile lit up the room just like sunflowers when they look to the sun. Now every time she goes by a field of sunflowers, it brings a smile to her face as she thinks of him. The rest of the walk to the top was an easy gradual climb with views of the valley and Pamplona on the distance.

View from the top!

I know that if I had been walking with Robert, friends or headphones, I would never have had the opportunity the share in these intimate conversations with people. I’ve had some very personal conversations this last few days and shared some very special parts of my life with them. Yesterday I dropped rocks as I prayed for my family members - immediate and extended. It has been a great experience walking and talking when the time allows, or walking and reflecting when it doesn't. I brought my headphones for podcasts and audiobooks, but I might not ever use those.

We finished out the day with a wonderful meal at the hotel and are all off to bed. Morning comes too soon after these late Spanish dinners.

Dinner buddies!

Italians know what their priority is! See the Moka pot for coffee!