This definitely won´t happen again, that I write two entries on the same day - but it is really worth it on this first day! I can´t access hotmail at the moment, by the way, because I can´t work out how to put the "at" sign - and the school site takes a long time to load up, so I won´t be sending individual emails for a while yet.
It is so exciting at the moment! The pilgrim hostel is very small and very basic - basically, the equivalent of a small flat into which are crowded several bunk beds (I´m sharing a very small room with three men!). Only one toilet for the 22 pilgrims too! Have decided that European toilets have not changed since I was a small child - still that strange smell, no lids, no seats - a difficult balancing act!
There is no charge for the accommodation because it is for pilgrims - you simply make a donation. On the wall is a verse from Matthew´s Gospel "He who receives you, receives me, and he who receives me receives the One who sent me" (10.40). Have also collected a scallop shell for my rucksack.
The hostel filled up very quickly - I´m the only sole female, there are several couples (of all ages) and several single men - they are all making very different Caminos. We are making some kind of communication in English, Spanish, French, German and Polish! There is such a sense of privilege to be on this road - a real sense of invitation. Reading the book where pilgrims have written comments is a very moving experience. The people who run the hostel are overwhelmingly kind and welcoming.
Tonight, I´ll go to the Mass which is held every night in the local church and is offered as a blessing for pilgrims. I now have my credenzia - the pilgrim passport. When this is shown in certain bars and cafe, there is a special pilgrim price for meals. Have been told that the route tomorrow is very difficult - almost 27 kilometres - and there are two major climbs to be made. It should take about 7 hours apparently (not including the drinks stops!).
Much love to all - please pray for me and I certainly pray for you!
Lots of love, Maria