I don’t want this to sound judgmental since that is not my intention………..but
Early on the meseta one day I saw a large bus in the distance parked at a crossroad.
As I got closer, the first thing that came into view was a stout peregrina behind a straw stack pulling up her white bloomers. Lady, you must be aware of all visual directions while on the meseta!
This group walked chatting loudly and always 3 or 4 abreast making it impossible to pass them. Thankfully they were off the Camino at next crossroad.
Ah ha, but now there are the members of Canadian golf club. This is a strange group of peregrinos. They are always perfectly coiffed, with layers of makeup and freshly ironed clothing. When seen on the Camino, they are easy to identify due to their color-of-the-day golf attire identifying them as members of the club.
The Canadians don’t walk in inclement weather. They arrive at the next stop all full of chatter. You know they have arrived by the cacophony that precedes them. Yesterday as I was leaving the Monestary San Zoilo, the Canadian Grand Poobah rushed back into the lobby with his weather report.
Needless to say, I did not pass them once on the trail today but there they were at the restaurant this afternoon having menu del dia.
For my foody friends, I had ensalada y osso bucco con pappas fritas.
Thoughts and Adventures 
Well, Arlene… this time it was Canadians (poohoo), next time it can be any other group. There was the time I shuffled up to Cruz de Ferro, when the tour bus stopped at the bar in Foncebadon and all those pilgrims without packs streamed out and I wondered, just for a second, because after that the next pilgrims that were lifted out sat in wheelchairs. The volunteers dragged and pushed them up to the Cruz, in silent contemplation. I struggled with my own perception of what a pilgrim is supposed to be, but not for long. I truly believe, it is what is in your heart and soul that makes you a pilgrim. I don’t think the Camino cares one way or the other, as long as you accept that.
When you have a minute, maybe take the time to read todays blog post from my very good friend Mony…. http://leavingthemountain.blogspot.ca/2013/09/driving-camino-is-it-still-pilgrimage.html BTW, her book is now in the hands of producers in Hollywood. That would make the 3rd pilgrim friend, that not only wrote a book, but also has a film coming up.
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to each his own. That bus should have no impact on your Camino. Live and let live.
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Oh Arlinen. It sounds wonderful. To see the sights, meet the townfolk, and enjoy the food. I applaud you. What an experience!
I look forward to your next post.
Elizabeth
ekli
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Ooops. My typing is messed up Arlene. I am at work and the computer is funky. Sorry.
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OK I better say I am sorry for my fellow Canadians behavior…….some of us do know how to belong on the WAY…have fun, get a good rest and rock and roll manana..blessings les
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Ah Arlene, all part of the wonderful tapestry of the Camino!
Great that you’re keeping your sense of humour!
Please please take photos of each dinner!
Bill
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Arlene, we all march to the beat of a different drum. The cyclist I met today will be in SdC in 2 days. I will take 12. It’s all good.
Hope you are having the best time. I certainly am.
Blessings.
Anne 🐌
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Dear Arlene, I am VERY happy that you were able to get that day of rest in Burgos, and keep soldiering on !!!
Buen Camino, peregrina !!
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Hi Arlene: Wow, I cannot believe you have been on the Camino for 13 days already. Enjoying your blog. Food photos are making me hungry, but keep them coming. About the bus: some folks consider bus tours the only way to travel. I am pretty convinced that your Camino experience will provide adventures and benefits far beyond compare. Enjoy every single moment! Walk quietly and carry two big trekking poles! Julie (Prescott, AZ)
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When I see buses pull up and drop pilgrims off, the inner voice always say “ok David..breathe in…breathe out..they are not affecting you” I saw it twice on my recent camino but hey! we all walk our own Caminos.
Your photos are making me hungry Arlene and it is just after 11am here in Ireland ha!
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I wouldn’t worry so much about how others ”walk” the Camino.
Some walk all the Way, others take the bus, and some even take a taxi when it suits them! All is allowed.
Buen Camino and thanks for your blog!
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