Climbed to Cruz de Ferro at sunrise, left my rock from Libertyville, then faced a long cold morning and a steep rocky downhill into Molinaseca. Ran into many friends by evening, shared drinks and talks in town, then dinner with new pilgrims at the albergue before crashing early.

Started with churros and a mug of melted chocolate in Astorga, then walked with Maggie from Ireland before continuing solo. Reached Rabanal, reunited with many friends at a donativo, enjoyed tea, cats, and dinner together, ending with Gregorian chants and a pilgrim blessing.

10 miles from Hospital de Órbigo to Astorga in light rain. Walked mostly alone, stopped at El Jardín del Alma for fruit, cookies, and cuddly cats. Settled into the municipal albergue, explored town, had drinks and dinner with Liz, and ended the night hunting churros... will try again tomorrow.

22.6 miles from León to Hospital de Órbigo on the scenic route, bag shipped in near-100° heat. Walked with Merel, Mark, and Westin, then checked into a quiet room. 50k+ steps on my tracker, pets at friends’ albergue, communal dinner. Hard day, proud finish.

Took the train with Tovin to León, shared a last coffee before his bus to Madrid. Explored the cathedral, saw friends, had a kebab, and planned for tomorrow’s 22-mile hot walk with pack shipping. Feeling sad saying goodbye, but only two weeks and 314 km remain.