Last day in Santiago De Compostella 3rd June

Andy, Karen and Peter have left to return to England this morning. They have quite a long journey back  via bus, plane, bus to Herefordshire and won't get home till about 10 pm English time. I am here in the apartment for a bit longer because my train to Madrid doesn't leave till 4pm this afternoon.  I will be arriving in Madrid about 10 pm too.

My bag seems so much more full than when I started but I really haven't bought much at all, a few t shirts and a small puffy jacket. I don't seem to have packed as well or is it that I am so used to my minimal backpack everything else seems monstrous? I have to admit I wish I could remain just in the minimal style because it is so easy. 

I feel sad about saying goodbye to this stage of my trip. It has been a wonderful, interesting, physically challenging but mentally restful adventure. I have made exceptional friends who I will see again soon. 

I feel very optimistic about the future and settled in myself. I have remembered that it is life's pilgrimage that is important and what we do to make that experience worthwhile. This Camino is ending but a new Camino of sorts is starting. There will be new challenges and life will be more complicated  but I feel up to the challenge and look forward to meeting a whole lot of new people at the end of the week.

I feel a little homesick for my family and friends at home in Australia  and now in England, but that is part of all travel and exploration of life.

One thing I learned on this Camino was that perseverance when things look tough and sticking to the goal are vital and ultimately immensely satisfying.  Our attitudes make such a difference to everything we do. I was getting so negative at work and this break has returned me to my core optimism and cheerful self.

Next stop Madrid and the English conversation program.