A very disappointing development this morning as Gerald has had to make the very tough decision to pull out of our Camino. When you see how much his knee has swollen up over the last few very tough days it’s obvious that he had no choice and had to pull out before permanent damage was caused.
The effort and commitment Gerald has put in to attempt this walk is immense and our little Camino team is just not going to be the same without him.
So we said our goodbyes this morning and stepped out into the rain a little despondent but determined to take him with us in spirit.
Ironically the walking was definitely less arduous today as the Camino god’s took pity on us and cooled everything down a little with some fairly constant but very fine rain until about 12:30. The paths were mainly through forests and valleys today and we came across some lovely looking little bridges and gorgeous rustic looking Spanish farm houses.
We also passed through what’s classed as the Basque stronghold today, Muntibar. Lots of Basque slogans telling us that it is not Spain and listing the Basque “freedom fighters” that have been imprisoned.
We met lots of familiar faces today, Pilgrims that we had previously encountered along with some new ones that we hadn’t seen before. Lots of them enquired about Gerald’s absence, even some of the ones we hadn’t seen before. It appears that we are getting known as the 3 English Pilgrims and people were confused to find only 2 of us.
Shortish day to Letzama tomorrow if all goes to plan 🙂
Camino Del Norte 
Thanks for enabling me to view your blog once again, Derek. Sad to hear about Gerald’s early exit, but again wish you and Barbara buon camino. Val
LikeLiked by 1 person
Well done, sounds inspiring and entertaining. So sorry Gerald has had to drop out you must all be very disappointed. Loving the blogs. Happy walking
LikeLike
And still the beautiful photos keep coming! Looks amazing! So wish I was there but with you both in spirit (and blog! 😂).
Really sad that Gerald has had to pull out but you have to be sensible and listen to your body! Would have been great if you did take that little chap along with you pretending he was Gerald! 😃 So sweet of everyone to ask about Gerald on your walk – seems like you are making a name for yourselves (good thing we hope! 😂).
Glad today’s walk is going to be a little kinder (shorter) for you! Happy walking! 😍
LikeLiked by 1 person
Hi Derek, I’m so sorry that my dad didn’t make it and I know he is very disappointed. I’m hoping that we’ll all still make it to Santiago in October (in fact I booked my dad onto the ferry this morning) so we’ll see you there. Great photos and I hope everything goes well from here on in. Becky
LikeLiked by 1 person
Hi Becky, that’s good to hear. Very much looking forward to seeing you there.
Your Dad’s going to need some bucking up, look after him.
All the best, Derek
LikeLiked by 1 person
So sorry to hear that Gerald has been forced to abandon his adventure but you must continue to complete the epic journey with the knowledge that Gerald is willing you to succeed.
Keep walking Alan
LikeLike
Poor Gerald. He must be very disappointed and I am sure you will miss him. Love reading your blog.
LikeLike
Such lovely messages from everyone, lovely to read all the support for Gerald and yourselves. We know how disappointed Mr G will be but for once he’s listened to his body which has to be a GOOD thing…. hallelujah.
We will all take good care of him until he rejoins you in October. Best of luck to you and Barbara x
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thanks very much Debbie, it sounds as though Gerald is in good hands 🙂
LikeLike