8.1 miles, 19,837 steps, 18 cats 

Such a short little stroll today…it was lovely but also started raining halfway in, so that wasn’t great. Stopped twice for coffee and to pet cats. ALL the little gatos were out today. I’ve never seen so many black cats, too. Guess the black cat gene is strong in Spain! 

There weren’t many people walking with me today. A lot of people who left Padron this morning were going all the way to Santiago, so they got earlier starts than me. I decided I wanted shorter days at the end. 

I ran in to Eric, the 81-year-old from England! He was one of those going all the way to Santiago today. Still hanging in, even though he said yesterday he missed a turn for his hotel which added 3 more miles to his day, for a total of 17 miles. Yikes. Remembered to get a selfie with him this time and then he continued on with some Irish nurses he had met several days ago, while I had a coffee. Forgot to mention, he started his Camino in Lisbon on Sept 1…he said he’ll have completed 700+ km when he gets to Santiago. Yikes! Also, he’s been walking in Hush Puppies leather shoes this whole way. What.

I also walked for a while with Brian, a guy originally from California, currently lives in NYC, and moving to Jersey City when he returns next week.

Tonight I’m staying at a “guest house” that’s connected to a restaurant. I’m the only one here — feels a little weird to be hanging out alone in this 3-bedroom house. 

Excited for the final walk day tomorrow. Looks like 8-9 miles — not exactly sure as I’m a little off the trail. Will backtrack a little and then be on my way. Planning an early start as I’m sure the trail will be crowded, as will the square at the cathedral where we’re all headed. 

¡Hasta mañana!