El Dia fantastique

What an incredible day. You wouldn't have thought so with the way it started. Awakened by our roommate's alarm at 6 a.m. We eventually left Astorga around 8:30. More incredible cathedrals there. So ornate. Our pace was slow to start but quickened as the day progressed. Super weather, cool mornings. Stopped at several small villages . So quaint. Met many new friends today. Paul and Trish from New Zealand. Spent an hour having lunch with them. Their son goes to Canterbury (where Bryce did his study abroad). Ended our day after 20 km in a sleepy town called Rabanal. Found an incredible Albergue run by the dearest people. After having afternoon tea we attended the vespers service at the cathedral across the street where I was asked to read scripture on behalf of the English speaking pilgrims. Afterward, we found a place for dinner. Much to our amazement, everyone that we had come to know on our trip so far came in for dinner as well (unreal). We spent two hours eating and talking. Very good times. We retuned to the cathedral for a special service where they bless the pilgrims. We find ourselves feeling sad for the people of these churches as it seems they more concerned with ritual than spirituality. But for the leadership, we admire there faithfulness. After some conversation with our hosts, finally to bed. But overall, it was truly a special day.