The pilgrims' curse.

If you feel I got side tracked with the running of the bulls. I have to say right now that this was never intended to be purely about the Camino but about Spain and all we discovered along the way. Spain is a very colourful country with many traditions good or bad. I will try to remain non judgemental regardless of my own views on certain matters. Anyway that said and done let's get back to the story. Last night we slept at a wonderful albergue. The hospitalero was very knowledgeable about the many problems, pilgrims face along the way. She attended to many different ailments, blisters, sore ankles, feet and knees, did some dressings and bandaged some feet and knees, advised about what caused the problem in the first place (usually shoes). If you ever consider walking the way of St James, or intend to do any other serious bush walking you must get all the right gear. Everything must be lightweight and good walking shoes must be worn. Backpackers try to minimise their loads and aim to carry between 10 and 15 kilograms. If your pack is any heavier you are putting extra strain on your back, knees and feet and may do damage to these. At this stage I was still alright but Gary had his toes attended to. All these ailments and injuries are known as the pilgrim's curse. Today's walk is from Cizur Menore to Puerto de la Reina. We are happy to finally leave the snow behind us and to be able to take to the trails again. Little did we know that we were about to be faced with another problematic natural element (mud). Not just any mud, but mud that sticks to your shoes like glue. With every step we take the mud under our shoes doubles and continues to do so. With every footstep, the weight increases and your feet feel like lead. At the end of this day, I am faced with my own painful curse (my right knee is killing me and I hope with the overnight rest it will improve, but it gets better and along the way you learn to cope with the aches and pains. Everyone does including Gary and myself.