My 3 minutes at the Iron Cross (Day 26)

Today was one of the most beautiful days of my Camino. Left our albuerge at 6:50am to ensure I can catch the sunrise at the Iron Cross (Cruz de Ferro). In the morning we were right below the clouds that allowed the below photo which I really love.

I arrived to Iron Cross right at sunrise and was able to capture Jeff right after he threw his stone. He dedicated his stone to the good fortune of his grandkids (their names were on the stone) that he carried from Cincinnati, Unfortunately, when he took my photo the lighting wasn’t just there.

I did climb onto the mound, closed my eyes and thought about all 4 of my girls and what I love about each one of them. Thought about my mom, my dad and my sister and my life with them growing up. After about 3 minutes, I opened my eyes, laid my stone and walked away. I have never considered myself religious or spiritual, but felt very emotional during those minutes. Seeing people cry around me made the moment even more emotional. That little stone in the center of the photo is mine. I hope it stays there for a while as it represent my journey, my Camino and my family.

After the Cruz de Ferro, we had to complete one of the hardest stages of the Camino. It was a total of 27kms with an elevation change of over 5000 ft in very difficult terrain. But the views were something not to forget. I particularly love the below one.

Tomorrow, will be the last day I hike the Camino alone without Amy. At the beginning of this journey, I was worried and anxious about being alone and experiencing the Camino without the comfort of having someone next to me who I deeply trust and love.

I don’t know if the Camino has changed me. But it has deeply affected me.

Can’t wait to hug Amy tomorrow.

Kms today: 27 kms

Kms total: 612 kms

Steps total: 158.4k Amy, 826k Ahmet

Photos from the day.