Day Eleven: Belorado to Ages

What a beautiful day and an enjoyable evening!! Today was definitely one of my favorite days on the Camino thus far. We started the day a little nervous about the steep climbs we had in store for us, but the weather was so perfect and the views so amazing that instead of stopping at our intended destination of San Juan de Ortega we actually continued about four kilometers more to Ages, which is where we are now. 

Today we took a few more breaks than normal, partly because we were tired but mostly because we wanted to take our time and soak in the beauty of the Camino. So often we are focused in getting to the next town, making it to the Albergue so we can have a nap, or being into town before the pilgrim mass or menu is over -- but today we decided it wasn't about the end but about the journey. For almost an hour we sat on top of a mountain we'd climbed, blanketed in warm sun and surrounded by a colorful bouquet of God's finest wild flowers. The sky was so blue that crayola could only pretend to create a color so breathtaking. Moments like this really open my eyes to how perfectly God created us, everyone and everything exactly as He imagined and intended. 

When we finally convinced ourselves to come down off the mountain, we walked to Ages and checked in at the Albergue. It seemed to be nothing special (one big room filled with twenty six bunk beds) but it was clean and had a washing machine. You don't know how much you appreciate doing laundry until you only have two sets of clothes and limited access! We showered, put in some laundry, and headed to dinner. This is where we met Jarek and Gorscha, a brother and sister duo from Poland. We ended up at the same table and had an entertaining dinner, after which two men from Holand decided to join our lively table. The storytelling and laughter at our table was contagious, and soon the owner of our Albergue had joined us, bringing with him chupitas for all. Hours later we were still up, enjoying eachother's company ... but eventually all good pilgrims must go to bed, especially pilgrims who must walk twenty four kilometers the next day! 

Here are a few pictures from today: 

Oh what a beautiful morning, oh what a beautiful day -- I've got a beautiful feeeeeeelinggggg everything's going my way! 

Selfie at a coffee break! This is the guy from Germany who is carrying a tent with him and the monstrous 30 kilo pack! 

Going up! 

The forest is full of these purple flowers, but also along the roads we see poppies and daisies and these gorgeous yellow flowers -- so so pretty! 

We were getting artsy on top of the mountain -- I think I should be in the next Mary Kay magazine! haha 

For everyone who was concerned about my boots, they are still doing well!! 

Full!! At least one side is -- now onto the back side! I will have to pick up another one at some point. 

Chupitas with my fellow pilgrims -- what a wonderful bunch of people. 

And my bed for the night. 

Buenos noches, amigos. It has been such a wonderful day -- now time for rest so that I can do it again tomorrow. 

Buen Camino. 

Jena