The Holy Grail

A lot of pilgrims want to reach Santiago by Midday for the Pilgrims Mass. Jo and I were not so concerned about this but when most of the Albergue was getting up and ready at 530am we decided there wasnt much point trying to sleep. WE GOT GOING AT 630--JUST ENOUGH LIGHT TO SEE ARROWS AND FOR THE FIRST TIME IN 7 DAYS, NO RAIN---THE lORD BE BLESSED. Even though we were relatively close the last 20 kms was challenging---just because we were keen to finally get there. No bars on the way or they were not open and we had had no breakfast---but when we got to trhe outskirts of Santiago, we didnt want to stop. GOT IN ABOUT 113O Went to the hotel I last stayed in 70E too expensive---then a Spanish lady approached us and asked if we wwanted a room---and took us to her place where she lets out rooms 30E-bathroom down the hallway---we dumped our backpacks and went back to the Cathedral--ran into Ellen, Chris, Camille, Jungan,Kristen etc etc---hugs all around---if you had ever seen them on the Camino you got a hug---good feelings abounded-thought we were still in our walking gear (now 2 days old) and had a bit of an odour but no one seemed to notice. Had a few drinks with a group of pilgrims after that and my first food for the day and got our Compestela--an official document certifing that you have completed the requirements---ie walked the last 100 kma---Jo and I walked 820kms in 38 days--finished in pretty good physical condition---I have a few toes that will take a week or two to come back to normal and I got bitten again on my last night in an Albergue---3 new bright red blotches on my legs---but all very minor compared with many others. We were lucky but also planned well and didnt try to go too far--we mostly stopped when our bodies told us too. Jo was amazing---in such good spirits the whole way--nothing seemed to throw her---she and I walked near enough to exactly the same pace---a great companion to have along---I tested her patience and our friendship a few times but in the end it was a very bonding experience for both of us. Its been great to know that many friends, family and work colleagues have been following us and supporting us on this journey---many thanks to all those who left comments on the blog site or who emailed---it was a tremendous source of support---Im sorry I didnt get around to responding to the all but there always seemed to be pressure on internet time. I feel very lucky to have been able to complete this journey a second time--there have already been many lessons for me and Im sure the Camino will continue to work its magic on me in the months ahead. Bless you all. Chris