Running with the Bulls...

  Yes, I'm in Pampalona Spain. The running of the Bulls is supposed to take place in a few weeks and I will be glad not to be here. I hear it's an absolute madhouse with outrageous prices for hotels. I visited the cathedral today and took a self guided tour. It was really impressive with excavations of 5th century Roman ruins in the foundations. They had mosaic floors excavated along with rings, jewelry and pots. The cathedral and attached cloisters were impressive as well. 

  Today I started out from Roncesvilles and shipped my carry on bag to Santiago, so I guess I'm committed now. The Camino was so nice this morning almost as if to make up for the incredible hard day yesterday. Many nice parts going through a forest and around the countryside. Then it got a bit rough with some sections steep and rocky downhill that was rideable but kept me on the edge of my seat and walking a few sketchy places. I came across many pilgrims in the morning, but by about 10am has the trail mostly to myself which was pretty nice. I came across a pilgrim dressed simply and was walking barefoot on the Camino, clearly, a serious pilgrim.

  I rolled into town about 3 today and decided to get new pannier bags. The clip in one of them was starting to break as the Camino is really tough on everything from equipment to people. I had my bike looked at while I was at it and it's ok...showing some more wear on brake rotor, the metal disk the brake pads push on. Seems a bit warped but ok to continue to use. 

  Didn't really connect with many people today partly by choice. I decided to ride by myself today just to take in the Camino. I did come across a Spanish mt. biking couple a number of times today. It was kinda nice to see them a few times. The girl was pretty bruised up on her legs from falls the day before coming down from the pass. 

  Anyway, I bought a stone today as I forgot to bring any from home. Pilgrims traditionaly place them along the way or especially at the "iron cross" which is about halfway along to Santiago.  They can represent loss, grief, past sins, hopes or dreams, or loved ones. They are a part of the Camino. Anyway I bought a stone engraved with gratitude to place someplace along the way. 

Buen Camino;

Dave