Our "primo giorno" (first day) was filled with all the ups and downs we expected. Sore feet, challenges finding the path (the GPS got us out of trouble several times and has already earned it's keep), beautiful scenery, wonderful hospitality.
We had a later than normal start for pilgrims, having to train to Vercelli from Milan. Still we did OK for our first day, finding our pace (we have three different ones) and learning how pilgrimages work.
A highlight was stopping at the Basilica of Saint Andrea, just outside the train station and praying for our journey and for some friends.
Then out into the rice fields walking 20kms to Robbio. It was a pretty full on walk in quite bit weather over 30C.
Living in Sydney the rural environment was a real blessing to me as I walked. The bales, the fields ready for winter. Great times, I can hear the crunch of the gravel under foot!!
ReplyDeleteEnjoy,
Andrew