!Mientras Vivas…Vive!!!

We were excited as the end of  this day approached. We are now officially in Galicia and, for us, wonderful things will begin to happen. Traditionally, the weather gets cooler, the landscape starts looking a little more Celtic, and the food and drink just gets better. The bread is darker, the goat cheese plentiful, the wines richer, the soups are denser and full of bounty from the earth. And then, there is pulpo aka octopus. The Galician’s can prepare it better than anyone I know and it is always a treat to enjoy.

We had a new guy in our group tonight. His name is Antonio and he is originally from Valenzuela but now lives in Florida. When he came in he ordered several glasses of pineapple juice and had it served in a wine glass. He said the natural sugar helped replenish his energy after a long walk and he loved drinking it after a day of walking. He then proceeded to order two plates of pulpo because…well, it was just delicious. He also took both desert choices because he liked those options as well. As we were all sitting and enjoying our meal he picked up a napkin and commented on the words written on it. Mientras Vivas…Vive!!! When Alive…Live!!!

 I thought about that all day as we traversed the countryside. I was reminded that these travels are not about miles and destinations but moments to live. We have a season to live this particular way and we would be foolish not to enjoy it and live each day abundantly. It was a good reminder to keep our lives full of delightful things. And, maybe have two servings of the pulpo the next time around simply because it’s delicious.

We are doing well on the trail and are savoring each and every moment. We think of you many times along the way and know you would it here.