The journey began in Le Puy en Valey - an incredibly beautiful old (and I mean old) city. I stayed in a gite right behind the cathedral - basic but very clean and well located. I stayed two nights so that I could have a full day to explore the city and get my head around beginning the walk. I began walking on September 2nd. The first day was 24 km to Saint Privat d'Allier. I walked most of the day on my own until the afternoon when I caught up to a frenchman. As we walked and talked we totally missed the route markers which are very obvious. Ended up on a slight detour but eventually managed to hook up with the route again. I think I should continue to walk alone - I don't get lost.
The second day was shorter - 19 km - but more challenging - lots of big uphills. The scenery has been lovely and as you walk people wish you a Bon Voyage or Bon Courage. As soon as I say I'm Canadian, they say ahhh Quebec!!! Non, Columbia Britanique - question mark in their eyes! This night I was in Saugues. My roommates were a woman from Germany and get this - a young woman from the Chech Republic who has walked from here home. She has been walking for two months already and plans to continue to St. Jacques de Comostella in Spain. She left home with 600 euros and still has 600 euros. She has an amazing story.
I never thought I would say that walking 19 km was easy but it was easy compared to the other day. I reached my destination at 1:30 - Le Sauvage. It was a farm that belonged to the Knights of the Templar for those who are familiar with religious history. I am learning. It was a lovely spot to stop.
Today was a big day 27 km to Aumont Aubac. I spluged on the price but it's very nice. Dinner promises to be good.
So what is it like you ask. It's difficult to explain - there is something so basic and so simple: Each morning you wake up, have something to eat, put on your boots, and walk. I like walking by myself best but it is nice to chat with people now and again. I laughed to myself one day - wondering if I had my divine inspiration if I could or would stop walking. I don't think I would stop. The woman from the Chech Republic said that she doesn't think much about her life - thoughts are simple - what to eat; where to sleep, my feet hurt; how much further... But she says that something subtle inside her is changing but she couldn't explain it: I wondered if subconciously I thought I could walk Jean-Luc into the background but after 4 days I find I am walking him more into my life. Not sure if that makes sense but trust me it's good. Each morning I have a little cry as I walk - usually after something amusing happens and I feel myself laughing with him. Seems to be revolving around an incident with cows. You meet a lot of them on the route.
I am making my way to Conques where I will meet up with Sandrine and her mother for a few days of walking. I should be there by Saturday. Another big day tomorrow - probably about 27 km again but then I have a few easy days. That's enought