I received a sad message during the night that our American Pilgrims Co-coordinator, Anita, had a bad fall during their group's walk--concussion with possible sutures of her lip. Haven't heard the final outcome. It saddened me because Anita is one who gives her all to the spirit of Camino--my prayers are out there for you, Anita.
The sunflowers smiled at me as I passed them, and I hoped they did to all who need a brighter day! My main goal for today was to walk about half the 33.1 km and see the famous battle area for the Battle of Tours, aka the Poitiers Battle of 732, then take the train to Poitiers. It took me out of the way a few km, but was well worth it--just mulling it over in my mind how significant it was, even though it only lasted a day.
It's basically an outdoor area meant to be walked or cycled; I focused on the starting area that explains what went on. Here is the first major clash between Europe, King Charles Matel and his forces against an Islamic Invasion, the army of the Umayyad Caliphate led by 'Abdul Rahman Al Ghafiqi, Governor-General of al-Andalus. Rahman was killed the first day and it was all over. But it could have turned the other way!
Am sleeping at the Auberge Jeunesse (youth hostel) in a 4-bed room reserved for pilgrims--and I'll be the only one in this room--nice place. There seem to be quite a few people here, just not pilgrims. They wave the 10€ membership for pilgrims!
