Rabanal, Riego de Ambros and Ponferrada

How the days are going! Today is day 25 - can you believe it? No 2 days are the same but it is difficult to separate each day. New adventures, interesting people and of course the treasures along the way. Tues. left Astorga early, some of the group waited until the P.O. opened so they could mail things on to Santiago. My complaint on Monday was that churches are not open - but Tuesday we had hardly left Astorga when we came across a small Ermita which was open. Plan was to go a little further but when we arrived in Rabanal we discovered that there would be sung Gregorian Chant at 7pm so we decided to stay the night in a very nice hostel run by English volunteers - tea and biscuitsin the garden at 5pm. Coffee stop was amazing too - a lovely lady treted us royally and we bought a veggie snadwich. It was displayed like a cake and she cut us a slice to take with us. Delicious! The servicesint he evening were beautiful - Vespers at 7pm and Compline at 9:30pm. 2 german Benedictine monks and a novice chanted most of the service. It certainly was heavenly music. Yesterday we walked through amazing countryside - God´s garden of purple and white heather, yellow broom and numerous other flowers spread across the hills and valleys. It was the day that we came to the Cruz de Ferro - the iron cross where pilgrims bring rocks from all over the world and leave them at the foot of the cross. On arrival it looked like Grand Central station, people were lined up and it was incredibily busy. It was not what I expected and initially I was very disappointed. However it didn´t take long for a group of bikers to leave and peace came on the place. We all laid ou stones: I had brought 4, one from Maggie´s garden in Macclesfield - for those who have gone before me, one given to me by Diane after our trip to Sorrento last year, speakking of those in my life right now and the gifts that you all bring and 2 little ones found by Declan and Ellia representing the hopes and dreams of the future. It was quite an emotional moment, but that is the Camino. As we continued on we passed a little standon the side of the trail where someone had laid out bananas and juice, with a box for donations. It is such a treat to find such places. Then a lady selling fresh cherries - yum! MOst of the day was an up hill climb followed by a long down hill. We were grateful for lunch in Acebo and a hostel in Riego de Ambros. Today we have walked into Ponferrada. Our plan was to go further but we all wanted to see old the Templar castle and it is hot so we have found a small hotel and once again are enjoying the luxuries of real sheets and towels! So my friends we are almost 3/4 the way along, comin gup to the 600km mark tomorrow. Probably 9-10 more walking days. It´s still incredibly amazing in every respect, my feet and body continue to hold up - thank you God!

Astorga

Supper last night was interesting. Lots of salad followed by some unidentifiable meat and dessert. The hospitalier then brought out liquers. Left San Martin del Camino at 6:30am. Only 7km to a perfect coffee spot in Hospital de Orbigo. Sat on a balcony overlooking the best preserved medieval bridge in Spain dating from the 13th century. We then took the cross country route over the hills. It was beautiful but very dfferent from what we had alredy seen. Much more scrubby. The trail was along well marked gravel paths with shade. The best was a small snack bar on the top of the hills. It was like something out of the 60s but there was orgnaic fruits and juices and much more all by donation. The road into Astorga seemed long as we entered the industrial area. It´s good to be all together again although we are walking separately at our own pace. Arrived here and now ready to see the town. MOre later. Daphne

To Leon and San Martin

Anther couple of days past but now we are over half way along the Camino. It feels like quite an accomplishment already but we still have over 300 km to go! Yesterday mornign we did a ¨short day¨from Terridillos to Sanaguin. Only about 14km so got there very quickly. We spent the day looking around the town and then took a train to Leon. Sanagun was interesting. We hit the market with masses of stalls selling clothing, jewellry and trinkets of all sorts. Lots of excited voices attempting to sell their wares. On the side of the trail we found a small labyrinth which we had to walk. The train was a treat. It only took about 45 minutes with 3 stops to get into Leon where we planned to meet up with the rest of our group. There was a moment of guilt when we saw pilgrims walking beside the train track but the feeling didn´t last. Walked in to the centre of Leon and toured the cathedral. It was a beautiful building with lots of history but I found it strange that all the little chapels that invited prayer were locked. It took us a while to find the hotel that Holly had booked for us. It was a good 20 min. walk from the centre. However it was luxury! We had real towels, real sheets and a bath. Such little luxuries are a big deal on the Camino. We finally met up with everyone about 9:30pm. It was really good to be back together. We had all missed the group although in some ways it was easier to organize a group of 3 that a group of 6. UP early this am and walked the long walk out of Leon. We chose to take an alternate route so that we could find a hostel and cut the 30km day tomorrow. 2 x 26km days are more manageable than a 20km and a 30km day. walked past the San Marcos hotel - where they stayed in the Way! Very exotic. Found our morning coffe and a delightful man who had trays of cookies, nuts and other nibblies outside his house specially for pilgrims. One of those Camino moments. Another was to find an old bell tower with 3 storks nests on top each with a stork guarding her young. Jenny, Charlotte and I arrived before the others. I tried to order 2 glasses of wine. the lady wouldn´t sell me 2 glasses but she would sell me a bottle for €2. Needless to say it wasn´t the best wine. So here ends another day on the Camino. All that is left ot do is to show up for our Pilgrim meal at 7pm. What a life. It´s good to be all together again although we are still walking at our own pace. I can´t believe how fast I am walking. Blessings to all. till next time. Dophne

4 days on Mesata

Left Burgos on Tuesday and it is now Friday. Life on the Mesata is different, very little internet access but it is amazing. Walking the Mesata is a bit like driving the prairies in Canada although I have been surprised by how lush the vegetation is. We have walked along streams with all the noises that brings: frogs, birds and other pilgrim effects and long, long stretches of straight trails surrounded by grain fields. There has been shade in places but there have been long stretches of hot, hot sun. In Burgos the group decided to break into 2 for the Mesata and we will all meet again tomorrow night in Leon. Jenny, Charlotte and I have done some incredibly long days. On Tuesday we walked 32km and spent the night in Hontanas, a very small vilage very dependent on the Camino. Accomodation was adequate but the food was excellent. The whole dorm was quiet by about 9pm we were all exhausted. Wed. was another 30km day. We stopped at the newly renovated church of St. Anton, notorious for curing pilrim allergies to the rye bread of north Europe. The cure was feed them wheat and make them walk - a miracle. On to Boadillo where we stayed in a private hostel with lovely shaded grounds. The church was undergoing renovations. First it was amazing to find the church open, many are closed during the week but is was more strange to see wheelbarrows full of concrete being pushed in, the whole altar area was being retiled. Again the food was excellent served in the Auberge. Thursday we continued to Carrion de los Condes - 26km. After the rain and the cool weather earlier in the trip we are now experiencing the heat. Getting up before 6am and trying to get ahead of the intense sun is good but exhausting. We have tried to make our destination by no later than 3pm. Some days I have foudn the heat brutal by 2or 3 in the afternoon. Today for some reason it was better. After we left Carrion this morning at 6am there was no where to buy food so we stocked up last night. However we did encounter some enterprising Spaniards who brought coffee to the pilgrims in the middle of nowhere. Truly a gift of the Camino. Last night in Carrion we went to a pilgrim mass which was amazing. The priest interpreted the key points of the service into English which in itself was a gift. At the end all the pilgrims came forwarded and he laid hands on each of us and blessed us. This ws the first service that I have really connected with. He made us all welcome and encouraged all to participate in the Mass. Time is running out so that´s it for today. Blessings to all. Daphne

Day of rest in Burgos

We decided last night that we would take a day of rest today. There is so much to see in Burgos. We toured the cathedral yesterday afternoon. It was amazing. There is so much history and the art work and carvings are out of this world. We coudl easily spend another day here. Went to Mass in the Cathedral last night. Even though I don´t understand the Spanish, I am amazed at how much of the service I follow. The Gloria, sanctus, creed and Lord´s prayer are easy to pick up. Slept in until 7am at the Auberge but it is really quite difficult to sleep when the rest of the world is alive and moving. I was on a top bunk but the wall between me and the next guy - a Camino biker - day didn´t go to the ceiling. A very strange feeling but I managed to get over it and slept. Can only stay one night in the Auberge so we had to find a Pension for tonight. There are only 3 of us in the room and there is a bath! Great excitement and luxury! Left our packs and went for breakfast - coffee, freshly sqeezed orange juice and a muffin. Discoverd that all the sites we wanted to see are closed on Monday, just one of those things in Spain! Spent the morning wandering the town and then lunch of more coffee and sugar - very delicious cakes! Sure is a sugar high day! This afternoon Jenny, Charlotte and I walked up to the castle at the top of the town. Wonderful views. Jenny and I continued and wandered further along the river to find more churches - have I mentioned churches before? Lots of them but very few open. Back to the Pension and out for Tapas for supper. What a life! Tomorrow we are back on the trail - the Mesata. Most of the issues with the Mesata come from the heat - that doesn´t appear to be an issue for us. Hight today was 10 degrees. Freezing! Bring on some heat - at least a little! I feel very fortunate that my feet are holding up - but still 3 weeks to go. Thanks for all your messages and prayers. Blessings Daphne

Atapuerca and Burgos

Internet has been a bit of a challenge but I have just posted a message which I wrote 2 days ago. Yesterday Jenny and I hung back so that we could send Holly´s pack on so set off just after 7am. Rain has been the issue of the last days with temps about 8-10 degrees - bbrrrr! The trail yesterday was steep out of Villafranca. It was mostly through trees, not the most exciting. The rain was heavy and coffee was not until 10km along but when we got it, it was soo good! You may have guessed how important food and coffee are for us. We covered about 22km to Atapuerta. The hope was that we would be able to see ancient caves but we were not able to get a tour. The hostel was very compact. We are always appreciative of the facilities whatever they may be. It was 6 of us to a small room, bathrooms 3 sinks in a row with no space between. We had a ratio of 4 women to 6 men as opposed to the night before which was 7 women to 1 man. There was lots of outside seating but it was raining! We wandered around the town looking for an open restaurant but only found one in which, despite the no smoking sign, the owner was smoking. Ended up back where we started and had a great dinner which wasn´t a pilgrim meal. This morning we were on the road from Atapuerta by 6:30 in the pouring rain. The terrain changed to more open meadows with sheep. The trail was very muddy and slippery. I think we sped up looking for that morning coffee. Of course when we found it about 8km in it tasted amazing. We somehow missed the turn off to the scenic route into Burgos and came in through the commercial area. It was long - very long. I was quite sure we were close to the hostel only to see a sign that said 2.5km to go. Arrived about 12:15 but had to join the line up to get in. It took about 45 minutes. Another Camino expereince. The hostel is a very modern facility and we are just settling in. The Camino contiues to offer its challenges, certainly not a walk in the park. Today we have walked for 2 weeks - amazing. In the pouring rain we passed a house that had painted "Buen Camino Pelegrino" on it´s driveway in huge letters. A real lift to the spirits of drenched and tired pelegrinos. Tomorrow we begin the Mesata traditionally long and hot but unless the weather changes the heat won´t be a problem! Lots of hugs especially for the little ones. Thanks for all your messages of encouragement. They are really appreciated when the going gets tough. Daphne

Villafranca Montes de Oca

Today is another sort day. Jenny and I stayed behind in Belorado to mail some parcels to Canada. It was amazingly easy. A very helpful lady, so hopefully for Jenny and Sharon their parcels will get through. We walked about 12km through some little villages. Interesting to see the bread van arrive in town amid much honking to let people know they are there!! The next village had the mobile refrigerated van with dairy products and frozen goods. Ladies came from all directions. Not sure how often the vans come through. Had coffee in a little cafe in Villambistia. Arrived in Villafranca in time to shower and go to the Supermercado to get our lunch. This afternoon I lay in the grounds of this amazing hostel which is part of the pilgrim hospice of San Antonio. Part of it is a fancy hotel and there is place at the back for us pilgrims. The people are amazing. They are so helpful. We lay on the grass listening to Oliver Schroererś Camino tape in the cloud/sunshine. The Camino is truly an amazing place - the people, the history, the churches. Today we passed several older couples tending their fields. It looked like they were ready to go home by 10:30am - like the day was done. HOpe all is well at home. Daphne

Santo Domingo and Belorado

2 more days closer to Santiago. Yesterday was a short day. We slept in until 6am (I can´t believe I call that sleeping in!)because we only planned on walking just over 15km. Our group needed a day off but a short day happened instead. Coee was at Cirueña golf course. Cirueña was a really creepy place. It looked very modern but so many of the buildings were shut up and for sale or lease. We weren´t sure whether pilgrims would be welcome at the golf course, so we asked. Perergrinos and all are welcome - so we settled into coffee and pastries. Arrived at Santo Domingo de la Calzada just before noon and joined the line up for an albergue. It was clean and modern but the internet wouldn´t accept my blog, hence no report yesterday. Lunch sitting in the square in the sun eating Spanish Pizza. All good. We had to check out the church and see the chickens. Live chickens in the church really! Actually they were hard to find, hidden behind glass way up high! I had imagined them running around part of the sanctuary. There is a legend as to why they are there - too much detail to add to the blog. Spanish churches are amazingly ornate. In fact some of the architexture we saw in Santo Domingo was very overwhelming. Interesting but I find excessive. Last night a foot specialist came to the hostel to take care of pilgrims feet. He had a line up of clients incuding several of our group. He was fairly aggressive - there was plenty of moans and gtroans - but he seemed to know what he was doing and people came away with well bandaged feet. Today we were up at 5:30 and walked the 23 km to Belorado. We passed through several villages none of which were on pilgrim time. No coffee until 8:45 and then it was instant! so we just walked on getting here about 12:30. Everyone of us walked today which is amazing because feet are hurting. Some sent their bags on but made it. Each of us is on our own camino and we don´t know what each day will bring. Food was certainly welcome after we showered and washed clothes. A day´s walk on a yogurt, a banana and a cup of instant coffee doesn´t quite make it! I am not quite sure where the Spanish summer is because today was cold. I didn´t get warm until I had a warmish shower and lunch. Today is day 14 ad we passed a sign Santiago 576km so we are closer than we were 14 days ago. We are starting to get into the routine but it is still tiring and hard going. But we are still smiling. Please will someone reading this call D and wish her a happy birthday from me - have been thinking of her along the way. till next time. Daphne

Azofra

Day 9 seemed to fly by! How can this happen? For the first time I got to our destination and still had energy to spare. Our group is starting to fall apart a bit with injuries. Holly is still suffering from shin splints and today Jane joined her in taking the bus. The remaining 4 of us left Navarrete at 7am. Another cold morning. Not sure of what the temperature was but by the time we got to coffee at Ventosa my hands were hardly working! Early in the morning we were a bit confused - the sun appeared to be rising ahead of us which of course was wrong. The arrows were pointing in the right direction and we were following. The joke was on us when we realized the rising sun was reflected in a tall building aheadof us. Coffee at 9am seemed to come after a very quick walk. The whole day we walked through vineyards - some well established, others new. There was a lovely breeze which kept us cool. On the way into Najera we saw a sign for free coffeee for pilgrims who arrived before noon. Found the restuarant at 11:40 so a great treat to sit out in the sun and restour feet. Had lunch of fresh bread and local cheese - it´s becomg a habit. Bumped into Holly and Jane who had just arrived by bus in Najera. It´s amazing who we keep bumping into on the Camino. We stay in the same place or pass each other on the trail and suddenly days later they show up again. However there are many who we don´t see because they are way too fast. The 4 of us arrived here in Azofra at 1:30 expeccting to see Holly and Jane. But they had to take a taxi and of course it was siesta time. We found a hostel and then hung out in the town square drinking wine until they showed up. 2 glasses of wine cost 2 euros! Admittingly they were small glasses - but a fun bargain. Now the laundry is done we are showered and ready for a pilgrim meal. Miss you all - big hugs for Ellia, Declan, Brynn and Nigel. Really appreciate hearing from you all (either comments onthe blog or emails to my yahoo account!) - sorry not many personal responses but the blogg is taking my time. till next time, Daphne

Navarrette

Day 8 - amazing! I think we have walked about 180km so far. Charlotte stayed behind until the banks opened as she had an issue with her card yesterday. She caught up with us after we arrived here. Left Viana early and walked the 10km into Longrono hoping for cafe con leche. Was a bit of an effort to find it because the town hadn´t really woken up yet. Finally a sidewalk cafe near the square and some sweet bakeries close by. We can spend quite a bit of time looking for the perfect coffee. This was a good one! Longrono was the first big city that we walked into and out of. It felt quite long through industry on the outsikirts and traffic in the city. The locals are amazing. If we appear lost they are very happy to lead us back onto the trail.The town or municipality have created a pilgrim path which separates pilgrims from cars. There was one stretch of road which was separated from the pilgrim path by a chain link fence in which people had woven crosses. It was interesting to reflect on that permeable barrier between the pilgrim path and the rest of the world. It is always a shock when we walk from the quiet peaceful country and suddenly find ourselves crossing a major highway. The weather today has been hot for most of the day but it astarted off quite cold. I had to get out my mitts and touque! As we entered Logrono we were met by the neice of one of the original pilgrim monitors, Felisa. Quite an imposing lady but the coffee didn´t look that great so we moved on. The vines are just starting to show signs of leaves after they had been heavily pruned back. Most of our walking for the last few days has been through vineyards. Today we entered the Riajara area of wine production. Holly left us at Logrono and took the bus here because her legs are still hurting. But she was one of our angels of the day as she managed to book us into a private aubergue which is lovely. After our usual chores we headed for the Tapas bar -the first one that we have found on the Camino. Had the local Vino Tinto and a selection of Tapas. Sure beats the usual pilgrim meal which is adequate but each menu is fairly similar. The churches here are amazing - very ornate, walls carved and guilded. How they keep the insides so clean and shiney I have no idea. Heading to Mass at 8pm. Blessings to all. Daphne

Viana

Breakfast at 6am and then on the trail. Good progress this morning with Cafe con leche at Torres del Rio. Holly was in great pain so took a cab to Viana. Said goodbye to Zita and Heather as they marched ahead. We´ll see them next in Smithers. Stopped at another Knights Templar church with amazing stone carvings around the domed ceiling. Looked very similar to the church at Eunate of a few days ago. A lovely lady took our money and watched us carefully. Just a few km. further on we came across another small curch what appears to be called Ermita. A very friendly man led us inside. Very small but a beautiful altar with fresh lilies and roses but no seats. Came across a number of small stone structures which we couldn´t decide what they were. In the end we think they are some of the original refugios or shelters for pilgrims. A very small doorway with a raised stone bed. Thank God for good mattresses! The day got progressively hotter with less trees but we walked into Viana about 1:30. Staying in the municipal hostel where the bunk beds are 3 high!! Fortunately I am only in the middle. The top looks way too scary. After our usual chores of arriving we wandered around the town. Sitting in the sqaure outside with the wind blowing in all directions we attempted to eat lumch. The going is tough but we are hanging in with avariety of minor ailments. My only complaint is a bit of sunburn so I am very thankful. The scenery is very varied with olive trees, almond trees and many vineyards to pass through. The weather is pretty good temp for hiking as long as we set out early. Hope all is well at home. Till next time. Daphne

Los Arcos cont

Just had an error message so I cut short in the hope I wouldn´t lose my post. Today we were blessed with so many amazing happenings before 10:30am. First we went to the Wine Fountain - yes there was wine coming out of the spout at 8am. we drank from our pilgrim shells and shared the bread and wine together. A very special time. Onwards to cafe con leche served by a lady who was definitely an angel. She rushed to serve the line up of pilgrims, and then flew to clean up after us. We were about to leave when an old man hobbled into the square with one crutch. He wanted to give us a pilgrim stamp. We had to follow him around and up and down to his home where he proudly stamped our pilgrim passports. It was a privilege to get a glimpse of his home. We ended up spending an hour in the village, a long cafe break, but it was all worth it. It´s hard to describe how much the local people give to the pilgrims. The route is so well marked (at least so far). People greet us and wish us a Buen Camino. When we are about to make a wrong turn someone points us in th eright direction. We climbed to a church at the top of a hill and were met by another gentle, gentleman. He guided us intot he church, showed us where to put in our euro to turn on the lights. He proudly showed us what I beleive was a solid silver cross behind glass. He was so proud of his church and wanted us to share it. The heat today was not quite as intense as yesterday but still hot. My feet are still holding up although my muscles are getting a bit sore. Sleeping in the dorms is OK. thank you god for ear plugs! We arrived in Los Arcos about 3pm and did the usual shower, laundry and now it´s time for a beer! Cool beer at the end of the day - mmmmm! Thank you for all the kind messages you sent with me - you are in my thoughts and prayers each day. Hope all is well on the home front with renos and my special wee ones. Till next time Daphne

Los Arcos

Day 5 and 6 are now a reality. Left Puenta la Reina at 6:30 am. We are getting better at the early days because of the heat. The early mornings are cool and quiet. The journey took us through vineyards and olive trees but by the end of the day the heat was intense. A gift is the number of little cafes along the way where the cafe con leche is always a treat. Lunch is often bagette and cheese and yogurt. By afternoon the heat was intense and the shade was minimal. Just making it into Estella was a challenge. >I am fortunate that I still have happy feet unlike many of our fellow travellers who are blistered and hurting. Last night we met up with Zits and Heather in the square in Estella. Friday night and it was rocking.

Puenta La Reina 2

Still not sure what is hapning. Sorry if you are getting repeated info. but it looked like I had lost some. Today was another glorious day. Left Cizur Menor at 6:30am. but we left without our packs. It was an odd feeling not havin gmy friend with me!! We sent them on to an alberge in Puerta La Reina to guarantee us a bed for tonight. After our expereince on day 2 we are a little leary of not gettin a bed. The walk was much easier with out all my stuff but I kind of missed it. Tomorrow we can get the same deal but I think I will just lighten the pack. The scenery was spectacular. The morning was a climb to Alto Mezquiriz was strenous but nothing compared to day 1. The summit where the sky line was surrounded with wind mills was amazing. Passed irnon statues of pilgrims in years gone by. Many shrines along the way to commemorate lost or deceased pilgrims. Lunch at Uterga and then a detour to Eunate. This is a church linked to the Knights Templar who defended many pilgrims. It is bilt on the style of the Holy SCepulchre in Jerusalem. A beautiful church surrounded by farm land. It is utterly amazing when we think of how many steps have gone before us. Continued on to Puerta La Reina which is a very old town with very narrow streets and of course the famous bridge. We were united with our pack, showered, did laundry and now it´s time to eat. a very simple life. Love it. Till next time. Daphne

Puenta la Reina

Getting used to the internet here is a challenge. Yesterday I cut short because my time was runnin gout. Day 2 from Roncavalles to Pamplona proved to be our next adventure. We walked for most of the day in the rain. Breakfast in burgette and lunch at Gerendiain. Lots of pilgrims and not many places to get out of the rain. but ponchos and rain gear did their thing. Arrived at Zubiri about 4pm. We were alll very sore and ready for the end of the day but alas it was not tobe because there was no room at the Inn in Zubiri. No room at any Inn. Nothing! So we motored on to Larrasoana which was another 5km. Very tired, very weary, but again no room at the Inn. but local people were amazing. We found a taxi driver who knew someone with a Pension in Pamplona. Aftr a very long 10 minutes more like 45 min. 5 of us piled inot a taxi and were trasported through torrential rain to the centreof Pamplons. Were we cheating? We were eternally grateful that we got a bed that night. It was not what we ex`pected or where we expected but it was good, real good. We had a suite on the 3rd floor with 3 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms. That was the best. Had a quick snack at the hotel next door then crashed into bed. That was day 2.

Day 3 what an adventure

In Cizur Menur just outside Pamplona. Left St. Jean early MOnday am. Weather was glorious but the going was tough. We climbed for most of the day first along little roads, then into the mountains. First stop at Orrison about 10km for coffee and change of socks. The journey upwards continued passing flocks of sheep and horses wearing horse bells. the higher we go the stronger the winds became. It was reminiscient of the hills at love to every one Daphne

Ready to go

Perfect journey from Manchester to Paris. Amazingly Sharon and I met up in CDG airport. Zita and Heather joined us at the hotel.  A short night's sleep to make our flight to Biarritz.  Train took us on a smooth journey through lush valley with some sheep shorn and other ready for the shears and spectacular scenery.  St. Jean Pied de Port at the end of the line. A delightfully serene city within its walls contrasted by the hustle and bustle on the otherside. A good night's sleep in a hotel with yummy crepes for dinner. Service at the Cathedral this morning; checked into our hostel with a very kind Dutch hostess.  We are now registered pilgrims. Forecast for tomorrow is sun and fun! Zita and Heqther started todqy. We will see them in Roncevalles. We are ready to go!

Pre- Camino lessons

It's amazing how I am already learning lessons that will aid my journey which begins next Monday. Lesson no. 1 "Where, O where did my little pack go? O where, O where did it go?" YVR? YYC? LHR? but not Manchester! I admit I was a little panicky - all those weeks of planning packing and repacking was all MIA. The man at the BMI info center was very optomistic. I'd get it by noon on Sunday! Thank God!he was almost right. It showed up on the doorstep at 5pm. Lesson no. 1 - be calm - don't panic! Lesson no. 2 - things may not go as planned. Sunday we headed to the hills with Maggie's ashes. The wind was blowing - the rain coming down sideways. 15 of us attempted to get out of the cars. Opening the doors was a challenge. Hanging on and staying on the path were more. Yuri at 2 years old was the first to protest. Yumae at 7 was a trooper. But less than 100 meters along the path we abandoned our mission. Maggie would have though we were nuts to even try! REturned to the cars - soaked through. The return home was another challenge - trees down all over the place. Back home - a cup of tea and a feeling that the time will be right somewhere in the future to release Maggie to the hills. All will be well.