So, having walked from one end of Spain to the other you realise how different some cultures are to others. The small little villages have a café/Bar which is a one man show. The same person who serves you at the bar will make your food in the kitchen, so patience is definitely something you learn. With so many pilgrims passing through it’s best to avoid the rush hours and make your stops the odd hours in between. The lights in all the toilets are on timers (we could do with those in SA) so on many occasions I found myself in darkness fumbling for a light switch. The bigger towns have one waiter for about 50 people and his shift starts at 6am and only finishes at 11pm. Tips are not expected but should they be so lucky a bell is rung behind the bar. All shops close between 2 and 5pm as it is Siesta time, the only place open is the bar /café. Dinner is only from 8pm and most places serve meals until 11pm. It has been a whole new experience and the Spaniards are an absolute delight. Veggies are few and far between but lots of meat, potatoes and tortilla’s. There is nothing unusual about having a glass of wine for Breakfast and I have encountered numerous patrons doing just that.
As my trip comes to an end I find myself dwelling on the time I have spent walking from town to town and the wonderful people I have met and made friends with. It has been a truly amazing experience that’s left me in awe of how great life really is. The wonder and simplicity of it all even walking in the pouring rain has it’s beauty, I am filled with gratitude and love.
To the two people that my soul sought out to be my parents, thank you for everything you have done, for loving me and always being there for me, for your support and encouragement on this trip and for accepting me for who and what I am.
To my precious children, for letting me go and understanding that this was something I needed to do, I learn and grow every single day from you. I hope I can pass something on – set yourselves a challenge or a goal, take yourself out of your comfort zone because it is in those moments that you grow, build character and really live life. May you wake up every day with gratefulness and love in your heart because you are truly blessed and loved unconditionally.
My darling sister you have been absolutely incredible with all your words of inspiration and love, and you will never know how much you mean to me. I am so honoured and proud to be your sister.
Naz, my new-found stepdaughter that I am about to meet for the first time, it is truly amazing that the universe conspired to bring us together and I firmly believe your Dad had a hand in this from above. May my family bring you endless joy and happiness and we welcome you into this crazy clan with open arms.
All my special friends, thank you for your wonderful messages and support, you have been thought of often and I can’t wait to tell you all the stories.
My darling Sunshine I have no words to explain my gratitude for this incredible gift you have given me, you are the other half that makes me whole – my soul mate.
I am truly blessed and my heart overflowith