This morning we collected our compestelas. We were at the pilgrims office by 8am and there was already a large lineup. We waited for about 45 minutes until our turn. This time, my Latin name came out as “Sionnam”. Different than last time. Odd.
We left the office and headed directly for the church. We noticed yesterday that unlike 4 years ago, there is now a large line to get in. We stood in line for TWO HOURS for what we thought was entrance to the church, it wasn’t. It was entrance just into the Portico of Glory (their super fancy entrance way) and nothing beyond. Not that it isn’t beautiful and amazing (and has the indent of the handprints from pilgrims in the marble) but we have seen it before and don’t know if we would have spent two hours in line for it. Afterwards we realized that full entrance to the rest of the church was at the side – no lineup.
We went in twice. Once to see the tomb of saint James and then later for mass. Unfortunately, no botafumerio swung this time. We are fortunate that we saw it swing last time. It is very hit or miss.
We spent the rest of the day poking into shops and doing some shopping. Some souvenirs were purchased and some back to school clothes for Karis.
Tomorrow is Mom’s birthday! We are heading to Finisterre for the day and night. We’ve rented a car. Wish me luck that I don’t have to drive through any of these massive traffic circles 
