Tuesday 21st of September.

After my soujourn in Sumène my friends dropped me off at Saint-Guilhem-Le-Desert and since then the eroded paths have been criss crossed by gnarled and exposed tree roots.

Arriving in Saint-Jean-de-la-Blacquière on Sunday meant there was not a single shop or restaurant open. I was now really grateful for the chestnuts and figs I had found. Perhaps that was all I would be eating for the rest of the day. Fortunately a pizza van turned up so I had dinner on a bench in the village square while watching the sun go down. I realise I am still so attached to my “secure” habits and today found myself worrying about food. I still have some learning to do, such as surrender and trust that all my needs area being met. Surrender and allowance are the wiser options and healthy alternatives to useless worrying.

I am booking accommodation 2 days in advance. It has as taken me awhile to get over my initial barriers of fear and start the walk. The first few days I was not used to carrying the weight of my backpack. Now it feels more comfortable on my back and today the modest 14km walk was pleasant with a comfortable temperature at around 23°C. The fresh breeze is invigorating while wandering along enchanting paths through the verdant countryside. The villages gradually appear, are passed then fade into the background. On the straight flat tracks the walking cadence has a way of keeping me in a musical mood and I stride along with a happy song in my heart.

• Camino