We approach the 1/2 way mark!

We arrived at Carrion de Los Condes - it is the 16th stage of the 34 stages we will walk.   Four days ago we left the large city of Burgos and hit the "Meseta" which is a relative wilderness across flat peaceful tracks of endless crop fields.  Wheat is planted on the better ground and barely and oats on the higher poorer soil.   Shade is at a premium and causes some to dislike this section but so far we have enjoyed it.  The vistas are expansive and the flatness allows for easier days and reflection.   It is always hard to believe the people that cross your path - some for a short conversation - others for multiple interactions over a walk, coffee, beer or dinner.   I took a quick stab at the folks we have met by Country and then by US states....

Ireland, New Zealand, Japan, Spain, Korea, Canada, Brazil, Germany, Mexico, Holland, Denmark, Norway, France, Belgium, Italy, Poland, South Africa, Australia, UK, Russia, Ukraine, Ecuador, Switzerland.....will be harder to find new Countries....but many new friends.    From the US we had the following States ....Washington, CA, New York, Oregon, VA, CO, Missouri, GA, South Carolina, Alabama, PA....I am sure we will add some new US States....

Where else can you meet so many folks from around the world and engage them in conversation that can get deep in an instant and cover religion, politics, geography ....before diving deeper into why they are walking and what issues are most on their hearts.   We have met many folks who have sold everything before coming here....others who are hiking for 5 years or starting a year long trip around most of the world.  Many who are section hikers and come for 7-10 days a year.   Others recovering from health issues or starting anew after a major change in their life.   Quite a blessing to be part of this diverse smorgasbord of life.   More stories about people to come as they are what makes the Camino.  

Blessings my friends.....