Reservations (mfg)

It turns out I am not as much of a pilgrim as I thought.

I like to know, in advance, where I am going to sleep at night. For that, I am willing to compromise the feeling of walking freely til the spirit or tired feet prompt me to stop.

Fear factors into this. I’ve been hearing things that make me nervous.

One veteran pilgrim abandoned the coastal route for the central path because she was having trouble finding places to stay (she looks for dorm rooms with bunk beds.)

Another couple has stopped walking for a few days so they can find places in smaller towns rather than looking for accommodations in more popular places. They’re feeling the pressure of too many people on the way at the same time.

Early in, we had to stay at hostels and hotels far enough off the path that we had to taxi back and forth. Since Porto, we’ve not had that issue and I don’t want to chance it again.

As I walk, because there’s not much distraction, I recognize when I’m beginning to ruminate. Part of the appeal of this trip was to let the days evolve.

Recognizing that that’s not working for this pilgrim brings a bit more awareness of what I am. A planner.

Also, turns out my sense of adventure does not include voluntarily staying in a bunk bed, rooming with many other people. Maybe that makes me a snowflake. I can live with that.

If I have to stay in a dorm room someday, I will make the best of that but if I have a choice, I won’t.

Yesterday, I researched the entire rest of the trip and booked every night. Now I can walk - and sleep - in peace. With a bit more self-awareness.

I suspect that Bill, our kids, their spouses, and some of you may have already known this about me. 🙂