A Gudina to Laza - Thinking family in open landscape

Every day I think of my family. Sometimes I feel they are beside me. Sometimes I carry them with me. Sometimes they carry me. In the open landscape of Galician hills today, my thoughts flowed freely about them - the scenery provided plenty of space.
Leaving town, there was really no choice - the shorter route via Laza. ‘Grandad, why don’t we go the other way?’ It’s longer- trust me.
‘Aren’t those wild flowers colourful - you could bring some back to my birthday party.’
Around this time everyday, I check my WhatsApp messages - ‘Mike, those photos of mists on your blog look magical - we are following you and send our love.’
‘Dad - the football is starting in a couple of hours- I’ll send quarter by quarter updates - impressive lake scenery by the way’ 
Youngest grandchild is about to start daycare at an early learning centre - he would enjoy this . . .
‘Mike, that shot is just so typical of Galicia - I remember those views on the Camino Frances.’
Imagine having a baby’s nursery directly over the Camino de Santiago. ‘Dad do you think that’s a good idea?’ Of course, darling - pilgrim vibes are calming and good for the soul.’
‘Is that a high speed rail track - where is the train? How fast does it go? Can we go on it?
‘Grandad - why are you over there when the yellow track is over there?’ It’s because the Global Positioning System on my app does not align with the signs on the ground. ‘Why not, Grandad?’ Good question.
‘Thats an enchanted forest, Dad, just like a story book illustration.’
‘Are you having enough to eat? What about drinks?’ Yes, don’t worry- this vending machine actually worked.
‘Those downhill grassy edges are a welcome sight for peregrinos with aching knees and sore feet’ I know - I have been thinking about that a lot. Fortunately today, my legs were fine.
Are you meeting people in the albergues yet?
Yes, finally- and we are enjoying each other’s company.
I’m happy for you Dad, stay safe. [another good shadow shot too]

I am missing you and send love and flowers.

I am also well and becoming excited about the remaining days, 

Dad/Grandad/Mike xxx