The one where we were dazed and confused

37 kilometers. That's all the stood between us and the end of the pilgrimage. We had 32 km planned for the day- 32 long and somewhat painful kilometers, but we were so close to the end we could almost taste it.

The first 25 or so kilometers were manageable, not too difficult and with plenty of people along the way. The whole path through Galicia (and throughout Spain) has various signs that lead the way. There are stone markers adorned with conches that serve as distance markers at each half-kilometer. After passing kilometer marker 12.5, when theoretically we only had about 7 km to go - the markers for the path became few and far between and the distance markers disappeared entirely. We knew we were close to our next hostel, but somehow those 7 kilometers stretched out over 2 hours of hills and lonely paths.

From the beginning - Photo credit: Anna

After 8 hours of walking, the first people began to reach the hostel. We arrived in a state of confusion, not knowing whether we wanted to shower, eat, or collapse to the floor. We were exhausted, hungry, and in pain. Knees were barely functional, feet were shiny with blisters - but at least we were dry! I thank Mother nature for looking down kindly on us that day, otherwise I'm sure the trip would have been much more difficult to complete. As a friend pointed out, we all looked a bit like zombies- limping and tired- as we made our way out to dinner.

Photo credit: Randy

The next day, a few of us woke up early to get a head start on the remaining 5 kilometers and to get the chance to see the sun rise. The view was absolutely beautiful and more than made up for the aches of the morning. Within 2 hours we were in Santiago de Compostela and were official certified pilgrims!

We explored the cathedral, saw Santiago's tomb, and even got to hug his statue on the altar.

This experience has been unbelievable - and unforgettable - in so many ways. The people around me continue to amaze me with their thoughtfulness, humor, and intellect. Not to mention I have 1000 things I have to add to my list of things I am grateful for. Spain is incredibly beautiful and I am thankful for getting the chance to learn about this cultural tradition.

Photo credit: Anna