Chasing church

Mass was not until 11 am in the town I stayed in last night, so I was not excited about starting my walking at noon. I found a website that listed mass times along the Camino and it seemed the next town, 8k away, would have it at the same time. So I figured at least I'd be closer to my stopping point if I started walking. That began the great church chase!

The way today was a bit up and down, with wind that was relentless. The Irish saying "may the wind always be at your back" came to mind. It sounds lovely until gale-force winds are cutting through your fleece jacket, chilling you to the bone. I am again grateful for the poncho I bought in St Jean.

When I arrived in the next town at 9:30, there was nothing going on. I asked at the albergue and mass was not til 12! So much for saving time. Basically every town has a church, so I figured I would find a mass in San Bol. No such luck. That town is really just one albergue. So, the chase continued at 10:30. I got to Hontanas at 11:30 or so and saw two familiar faces who said two other pilgrims just went into the church. I walked in during consecration, so despite having missed the liturgy of the word, I am counting this mass. God saw what I went through to be there!

I joined a father and daughter from Germany for lunch and then pressed on. I arrived at the great-looking town of Casteojeriz around 2:30. I had another 5k in me, but the next town is 9.6k away, so my feet declared this home for the night.

I am at a municipal albergue. I was going to look further, but they had me at "free wine tasting in the medieval cellar." I broke from routine and had a quick nap right away after realizing just how tired my feet really are. Then on to the showers before the place filled up too much. The timers in this country drive me a little crazy. Lights and water turn off as you try to shower or brush your teeth. I understand energy conservation, but, this is a bit much. I guess it's all part of the adventure!