On the third day of my second journey along the Camino Frances, I left from the town of Zubiri in the early hours of the morning. A thick mist enveloped the landscape, creating a sense of mystery and wonder. Pamplona is only a 16 km walk away, so no need to hurry, but to take it all in instead.

Along the way, I encountered some fellow travelers who shared their stories with me. I asked them for their permission to take their portraits, as part of my photo project to capture the faces and souls of the Camino.

The trail led me through verdant fields, tranquil forests, and along a serene river. I felt a deep connection with nature and its beauty. I stopped at a cozy café, where I enjoyed a hearty breakfast. The café was a haven for pilgrims, offering rest and refreshment.

The transition from the rural to the urban was abrupt and startling. I arrived at Pamplona, a city alive with people, music, and festivities. I indulged in the local delicacies of Pintxos, small bites of food served on bread, at a famous bar called Gaucho. We drank, and we laughed.

That night, there was a big football match between the local team, CA Osasuna, and the mighty Real Madrid. The whole city was in a frenzy of excitement and anticipation. But the rain came, and so did the defeat. Osasuna lost the match, and the city was plunged into sadness and disappointment. It was also the night when the temperature dropped significantly. I felt a chill in the air, as if something ominous was about to happen.

The next morning, I left Pamplona and headed towards the Alto de Perdon, one of the landmarks of the Camino. It is a hilltop with a metal sculpture of pilgrims and a row of wind turbines. The sun came out again, and I admired the view of the valley below. The wind turbines were impressive, and their sound was hypnotic. They were a symbol of human ingenuity and the power of nature.

I continued my walk to Puente la Reina, where Jim had rented an apartment for us. It was a luxury to have a place to wash our clothes, relax, and sleep in a comfortable bed. We had drinks and dinner together, and we laughed so much that our stomachs hurt. It was a wonderful evening, full of joy and camaraderie.

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