62nd Hiking Day
On the way from Arzúa to very close to Santiago. Rain in various forms, but also interrupted by short, rain-free breaks. Yesterday I had plenty of pulpo (this time cooked) with paprika and olive oil with the Spanish senors. With two bottles of wine. A very nice evening. Also nice how we walked back to the Albergue in the dark and in the light drizzle. Serafin always has something to tell anyway. An evening of relaxation. Alors, and then at lunchtime we ate pizza and spaghetti with Valentine, Edoardo, the Australian, the American and his parents. Another thing that is difficult for me: I had actually classified everyone except Valentine as either uninteresting or snotty. And then I get to know them, learn their background stories, big or small, and then everyone is nice again. But it needed a push from a third party (Valentine, who invited me to eat with them). It’s really hard work tearing down those stereotypes. I have a heavy feeling in my stomach. Even for this small entry, I have to bring myself to do it. This is what you call a "construction site".
I really don't believe that Valentine is supposed to be introverted. Just as little as Pleun is supposed to be extroverted. Utter misjudgement of the both of them.
When I hear now Edoardo in the shower turning the music up really loud, one thing goes through my mind: we are in goddamn Santiago tomorrow, bitches. Ease up and have a little fun.
Quickly a few lines formulated before anyone here turns off the light. Stay away from taken misses. Just stay away with that shit. Apart from that, I played a second round of chess on the Camino today. Against Edoardo. What a challenge. Both players made stupid mistakes. In the end, surrender on his part. Also had dinner with Valentine and the others. Splendid group really. I still can't loosen up completely but I'm close. God damn it. Tomorrow we will walk to Santiago. 10 km. That is maybe 2 1/2 hours. I can also see, so is the rumour, Meg again. And by God, I'll have my glass of vino and drink to Grandma tomorrow. May she live forever. By the way, tomorrow I should buy another box of cigarettes. Adios, des camerades.
