Porque juntos somos imparables.
Spanish for, ”Because together, we are unstoppable.”
Today we are going to let you in on a secret of ours. Years ago Laurie and I faced a crisis together. After we weathered it, we started saying, ”Because together, we are unstoppable,” and then translated it into Spanish as in the quote above. There’s also a bit of choreographed actions when we say it, but we’ll spare you that.
Today was a Porque juntos… day. Ten weeks and two days, over 1000 miles, and four pairs of hiking shoes later, we walked into Santiago de Compostela, Spain. “Juntos” or together is not just us. It is our Lord, friends, family, and many others who helped us reach this point.
We met many people on this journey who made it memorable. Some we shared time with for only an hour or two. Others, it was days. We’ve made friendships we believe will last. We’ve also enjoyed sharing this pilgrimage with friends, family, and other readers and hope you have enjoyed it as well.
It was an incredible experience that won’t be repeated. Frankly, 1000 miles and 72 days is a one and done thing.
We have about just over two weeks here in Spain before we return home. Our daily posts are over but we will do periodic updates when we have something of interest.
Our Walk Today
We started our walk shortly before 6:00 AM in the dark. We had just over six miles and wanted to reach Santiago early in the morning and enjoy breakfast there. We walked with our friend, Max, whom we met several weeks back. He endured injury to get back on the trail and finish with us. We celebrated with breakfast at the Parador with Bob, another friend we’ve been traveling with recently.




This year is unique in that the ”Saint James Gate” was open and we were able to enter through it. It is open only during years in which the Feast of Saint James falls on a Sunday. Because of COVID, the holy year last year was extended a year by the Pope. It is quite unique. Read more about it at this link.




You’ll note that Laurie’s Relive video wanders quite a bit once we reach Santiago. Breakfast, picking up our compostela (completion certificate), English language mass, lunch, and other activities before check-in at our hotel are captured in the route.
Congratulations upon completing this incredible journey! We enjoyed “walking” along – y with you and Laurie. We look forward to reading occasional updates and to seeing you again! Gold’s blessings upon you both.
Congrats, Great journey! I enjoyed every virtual step!
Thank you for taking us on your walk with you. I will miss your stories. Congratulations on such an amazing journey. God bless you both.
Guys, I read most of your daily updates and quietly enjoyed the journey with you. You are amazing! Congrats on the achievement. But “congrats” pales in comparison to “savor”. Savor this moment of a journey well-walked. Cheers, friends!
Glad to see the Parador featured as a celebratory venue again ! Congratulations!!!!!
Yes, but no birthday there this time. We walked in early planning on breakfast. And when it was time, looked over at the Parador and said, “Why not!”
Congratulations!!! I’ve enjoyed the journey with you. Safe continuing travels!
Congrats Dennis and Laurie, thank you for including me on this incredible journey. I am so blessed to have friends like you. Enjoy Spain, and have a safe and speedy trip home.
Congratulations Dennis and Laurie, Well Done! It has been wonderful to follow along with you on this trip. Looking forward to hearing even more about it when you get home.
Congratulations! Thank you you for sharing your amazing journey and beautiful photos. Enjoy your remaining time in Spain.
Congrats my friends!!
It’s been fun following along on your adventure. But what am I going to do with all my free time now?
Congratulations Laurie and Dennis! Walking with you each day was indeed a spiritual journey for me. Thank you ever so much for graciously sharing with all of us. Warmest wishes always 🙂
Ssooo… Is it uber and cab rides for the rest of your trip?
Still lots of walking—but no long distances with backpacks! Plenty of buses, trains, etc.
Congratulations Dennis and Laurie. You always inspire me. The picture titled “misty views:” made me smile; on the occasion of your last post for the pilgrimage some viewers might start to mist up. Thanks for sharing your trip, it has been really cool to follow along. best wishes always,
Mark
It has been fun to connect. Hope we inspire others to follow their own adventure! And, there were definitely misty eyes on the last day for us.
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