Laza to Xunquiera - Walking with friends

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Getting by with a little help from friends.. For the first time in six weeks, I walked with the same people for the whole day - Deigo, Mateo and Andrea. Without them the tough long day would have been even harder. 
We made an early start through town streets and were soon in the forest.
Before long we were climbing through the mist.
It felt great to reach the top. Some clambering was involved, the others waiting for me as I slowly ascended.
We took a rest stop in a deserted, shell covered albergue-cafe. One of those has my name on it, from years ago. 
We bought drinks (donativo) and shared fruit and chocolate. 

Then it was time to descend - always harder I believe.
Still, the morning had a natural beauty.
Our eventual breakfast-lunch (five hours after we started) was most welcome. 
The rest of day was a blend of green shaded lane walks 
with inviting silences and semi-solitude.
Mixed with smaller ascents and descents.
Yes, I really was in Galicia- I came across my first horreo (traditional storage structures designed to keep grain, wine and chocolate away from pilgrims and other rodents).
Everyone (especially me) was exhausted by the time we reached the albergue - and then the vending machine swallowed my change, typical. After the usual stuff I went into the village for supplies, drinks and something for dinner.
I took the guitalele with me and played to people at tables outside this man’s bar. He was very appreciative and I got a special meal deal afterwards - Gracias!
Afterwards I returned to the albergue and headed for bed - it had been a full day. 
I am so appreciative of the support, the waiting and the encouragement - without help from my friends it would have been even tougher. I got by . . . I’m gonna try . . .

Thanks Mateo, Andrea and Diego.




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