Day 4 – Espana to Zubiri”

Day four started out with another beautiful sunrise.  We finally got some sleep with a little medication and I plugged myself into some white noise.

We stopped at a coffee shop in the first village.  It was delightful.  Fresh orange juice,  coffee, bread and delightful cheese (Heather, your love for Manchego would be satisfied here).

I felt much stronger today. In fact there were moments that I even felt as though I was in the zone.  Lots of short steep climbs mixed in with terrain like home then a shale downhill.  It all kept us on our toes.  I enjoyed this day.  I climbed stronger…I wasn’t sucking air until the top…so am not so. It is amazing when you breath through your nose how less dried out you become.  Also, my descents where stronger.  I think Debby found she felt stronger today, also.

We had mixed sun and forest which was a blessing. It was very hot today.  I think we put in 19 km.  I cannot figure out Spanish distance markers.  One might say 6.5 km to next town and then 10 feet down the trail there is a sign that says 7.8 km.  It is a bit frustrating.

When we got to Zubiri we were tired and took the first alberge we came to. We had hit the wall.  It is very tight quarters.  We have to be a bit more selective next day or two.  It is difficult to re-pack and organize on a  bunk with a four foot walkway.

I took my shower and the room is about 4×4.  Have you ever tried to get a sports bra on a tired, wet body?  I wanted to start throwing a “rigging fit” as John McMeekin would say.   Then people (men) started turning the door handle!!!!  I finally threw on my shirt and came out as is and Debby unwound the mess).

We finally found a taberna and had a cerveza and a bite to eat.  I don’t think we are eating enough calories because we are just not hungry with the heat and exercise.  Although my pants are far from falling off of me I think we need to plan a bit better.  At the taberna we met a woman from Washington DC.  She is on a supported tour.  Sounds good right about now….