Postcards from the Journey

2002-04-14

The above is a picture of one of the places wherein pilgrims rest and stay at night.

On this postcard, Bruno writes:

Everything is OK so far. Day 2 finished BUT both day 1 and day 2 are very long - 17 miles and very very steep ascending and today very steep up and steep down. I hope it will get a little easier. Have met many fellow travellers, mainly French, German + Spanish. Good comradeship. It is very tiring but exhilirating. Love from Bruno. Also to Gillian.

2002-04-15, posted 18th to Fr Brian

Dear Brian, dear Jean and all at St S.

Strange that the French route starts at St. Jean. Arrived here safely about 9 am today after several minor mishaps especially whilst crossing Paris. First days walk is one of the hardest. Crossing Pyrenees from 615ft (St. Jean) to 4719 ft then descend also 20 miles. There is still snow on top. So I walked 1000 feet up today to make it easier tomorrow. That is 5 miles less tomorrow. The scenery and stillness is much to my liking. Bruno. Gradients are 1 in 6 to one in 4 at times.

2002-04-24

On this postcard, Bruno writes

Dear Teresa, this card is for you and Gillian and the whole choir. On my lonely walks I can hear you all singing. It helps to keep me going. Nearly everyone - there are lots of people here - is suffering from blisters on day 9. It is very hot after 11 AM. That is not a great help.

Much love from Bruno (P.S. Many storks in Rioja)

2002-04-30 to Fr Brian

Bruno writes

Dear All at St. Saviours! This is my most fantastic experience I have come across. Never mind the pains, the blisters, the heat, the cold.
EL CAMINO = THE WAY
I feel as I am on the way to the cross, only HIS WAY was much, much harder. I feel well and confident.

2002-05-06

On this postcard, Bruno writes:-

Dear fellow worshippers at St. Saviours. In spite of walking 2 days again 33 miles (average is 15 miles) in order to reach Leon, I could visit this most beautiful cathedral and other churches there. Still 20 days without rain. Unbelievable. No major problems. After a week on the MESETA (high plateau) Now into the mountains again. Lost my glasses, hence writing poor. Blessings and greetings from Bruno.

2002-05-06 to Teresa

Dear Teresa

Still walking. This is a photo of one of the better refugios. Just passed through LEON with its beautiful cathedral. A card went to Gillian. Finished walk early today. 1330 Now sitting in glorious sunshine. Has been very cold at night - down to 40 degrees F. Now facing more mountains and those wild dogs. Feet and legs OK, but lost my glasses. Still enjoying the challenge. Love from Bruno.