18 miles today. Moderate terrain. Did well.

I’m getting to know more people now. Walked much of today with other pilgrims. Ate lunch with Ivan from Lyon. Former basketball player who knew UofM from their basketball team. When he met me he said “you must be Bill the American.” Not many of us out here, so I’m famous.

Bill, have you learned any French customs?

First, they have bread with every meal. Its great bread, but man, I’d weigh 1000 pounds if I lived here.

Second, they totally clean their plates. I mean everything. They’ll scoop the last crumbs or sauce onto their fork with their knife. I asked about it and was told “We learn very early to only take what we want, and not to waste anything.” I sat a table of 20 people and every plate was wiped clean accept mine. I quickly cleaned up the last bits to save face.

Third, like other European countries, they eat late. Restaurants don’t open until 7:00 and don’t start filling til 8:00. Too late for my liking.

Fourth, they like their meat rare. “Medium” here is “rare” by US standards. I don’t dare ask them to cook it more.