TerryandKenViaFrancigena2022

Day 18. 38°C and a rest day in Laon. 0.0 km.

We were due for a rest day and didn’t want to battle temps in the high 30s. Plus…hey…a laundromat.

There is a saying that “the Camino provides”. We needed to pick up some bike repair supplies and this shop was literally across the street from our Ibis Hotel (chosen for its location, cheap price and mostly air conditioning).
Found a German military cemetery from WW1, hidden away. So spartan. Metal crosses with four soldiers to a cross. Only name, rank and date of death. Not a flower in sight. Just sad.
One lonely wreath in a cemetery of 2653 soldiers.
This raised different emotions. There were a few Jewish headstones scattered amongst the crosses. They gave their lives for a country that later turned on them in the most horrendous fashion.
What a contrast. Dropped Ken off to do the laundry (yes, you read that correctly) while I went into the medieval city to visit the Cathedral. I just love these balloons. They are so cheerful.
The Cathedral sits on a very small square and they had all kinds of games set out.
Giant lampshades?
I have been to many cathedrals in my lifetime but this is the first that actually took my breath away when I stepped inside. It is very austere and is known for its luminosity…the interior is all white stone and when the light pours in through its many windows the effect is stunning.
Laon cathedral. Gothic. Completed in 1235.
Candles for the folks and Ryder in front of St Theresa
So many side chapels dedicated to saints.
Putting new pedals on Ken’s bike.
Proof of life. And a big pile of green beans.
Teensy and the Bugsnax enjoying a tarte aux pommes.
Ken wondering if he is going to get any.

And no there is no photographic evidence of Ken doing laundry all by himself!

Song of the day: Mad Dogs and English Men, by Noel Coward. About going out in the mid-day sun.

terryzitnak

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