Proof that I’m heading to Santiago. The monastery bells rang loud to let us know the 8am closure then clanged us out of the courtyard. A cluster of chatting and chirrping pelegrinos gathered round this sign: grateful to have survived a first hard day, buoyed by feeling refreshed and optimistic we would reach Santiago. As we were swallowed by a short forest walk, we gradually spread out as we found our pace. Chatter, ahead and behind, slowly diminished to leave just to cow bells mutedly ringing the presence of their owners on the forest bounday. Feels like a good day to be walking.
parrygraphs 
I always knew you are born optimist. Love Vibeke
lovely to see you started, good distance under your belt for the first day. Good idea to leave snarly dog behind!!! Recent experience tells me to leave them well alone!! Loving the blogs and look forward to the next installment. Leexx
Thanks lee. A couple of hard but enjoyable days. No blisters but got some mozzie bites on feet the day before i started – have caused a bit of gip. But pleased with the start. 22 kms today. xkx