Thanks so much for posting this!
I also stop in whenever in Castrojeriz and am so pleased to hear that others also hold fond memories of him!
My first visit was 8 years ago and I just loved his store and him! I have no idea what I bought but what I do remember was our conversation. He told me that he was getting on in age and that there was no one to care for the shop when he no longer can, that his children were not interested. I felt then and there that his store must continue!
This past month I was once again in Castrojeriz, just passing through but in need of gloves which I had lost a few days before. Would he still be alive? Would the store still be open? What a wonderful surprise to see that he still is there! Once again we talked - about changes along the Camino, his store and the pleasure he has in still running it. "How old do you think I am?" he asked. "Around 80 by now I guess". With a twinkle in his eye he said, "I'm 86 but am still clear of mind". Once again he said that the shop's future was uncertain.
It was time to walk on so we said goodbye. He took my hand and thanked me for stopping in to check on him. What a lovely smile!
For days I thought about him and his store. It would be wonderful if someone would take it over, I even thought about it, although it would not be the same without him.
May he be healthy and happy for years to come.