We began our stay in SJPdP by emptying our packs, reorganizing and realizing we don’t need everything we have anymore. It was very liberating and our packs feel better.

Noël decided after 87 days it was time to get a haircut and he shaved for the second time. He looks like a new person!!

Noël did our laundry in the shower and reapplied waterproof stuff to our boots. It was a sunny day so the clothes dried fast.

We found the best Italian restaurant in St Jean Pied de Port. It’s right next door to where we are staying. We visited with another couple who were just passing through. Funny thing is they are Presbyterian.

Tears keep welling up in my eyes the past few days. Not sure what that is about other than it’s been an amazing journey and we are a bit tired. Speaking of that we had planned to go back to the Italian restaurant for dinner, they open again at 6:30, but we fell asleep around 5:30 and woke up at 9. The restaurant was closed by then. So we just went back to sleep. I guess after 87 days there’s some sleep to catch up on. 😂

A new opportunity vs a disappointment. The Napoleon Route over the Pyrenees is closed until 1 April. It could even be closed longer due to the weather conditions. It’s the way I have always gone. There’s a lovely stop 9kms up called Orisson. All along our journey we have commented that we will be in the best shape to tackle this mountain this time. Unfortunately the timing didn’t work. So now we have the opportunity to get to Roncesvalles another way. Not as steep but apparently still tough and beautiful. We will be on our way early Friday. And we are excited!

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