Over and out

Thank you friends, family, and anyone else who visited our blog over the last 41 days. Posting our pictures and comments became an important ritual for us and we loved the sense of connection it gave us with you all.
We close this final blog entry with an excerpt from the Santiago Pilgrims' Blessing we received today in the Cathedral.

"Inspired by our experience here,
May we live out the values of the Gospel,
As our pilgrimage through life continues."

Love,
Patty and Jamie

Day 41: The end, 800 kilometers

After attending a pilgrims mass, we took care of temporal needs.

Day 41: The end, 800 kilometers later

Finally, 41 days and 800 kilometers after leaving St-Jean-Pied-de-Port in France, we arrived in Santiago, Spain. Our emotions carried our weary feet along the last kilometer with many other peregrinos following the last signs guiding us to the cathedral looming above the old city. It has been a life affirming and transforming walk for the both us. While happy and proud of our accomplishment, our emotions include a tinge of sadness as the journey comes to an end.

Day 39: Portos to Melide, 20.4 kilometers

We became liberated from the crowds when we discovered they were all rushing to reach Santiago for Friday evening special pilgrim's mass. By hanging back a little and deciding to arrive in Santiago on Saturday, we got the Camino back to ourselves.

Day 39: Portos to Melide, 20.4 kilometers

The sea shell is the symbol of the Camino. We each carry one tied to our backpacks. When we reach Finesterre on the seacoast, we plan on tossing ours into the ocean. The one here, however, is a tad big to move.

Day 39: Portos to Melide, 20.4 kilometers

More small churches are kept open as we near Santiago. We were touched by the simplicity of the churches and the warm welcome they gave to us.

Day 39: Portos to Melide, 20.4 kilometers

Melide is famous for its boiled octopus. Jamie avoided it on principle, Patty on taste preferences.