Wednesday, July 16, 2008

Santiago!!!

So we are spending our last night on the road. Can you believe it? We can´t. I am not sure if I will sleep tonight or not because I am so excited about finishing this journey. We are a bit sad that we are not finishing with very many of our first group, but had a wonderful dinner with many friends tonight. During dinner German, Spanish, French, and English were spoken. How many times does this happen at a dinner table?

We are in a very nice albergue tonight and should sleep much better tonight!! We plan to leave by 5:30 in the morning so we can make it to the mass at noon. Hopefully we can walk 20 kilometers by 11:30. We already made a reservation at a place so that we don´t run into our same problem from yesterday.

We are trying not to expect much tomorrow so as not to be disappointed upon our arrival. Steph, we think there may be a webcam but are unsure. We will find out and let you know. We should arrive around 4:00 AM Central time tomorrow.

Thank you all for all your prayers and comments. You have no idea how far they have pushed us. It is great to know that someone is reading your blog and praying for you.

Love you all and we will see most of you soon

Mel and Toni - just two pilgrims

9 comments:

Stephanie said...

Woohoo! The finish line! I am going to see if I can find out if there is a webcam and get up early and watch if there is. I mean, they have webcams in wedding chapels in Vegas; why not in Santiago!!????!!! Congratulations on completing a MAJOR accomplishment. I am proud beyond words.

Love you!

Humphrey said...

Blessed are those whose strength is in you, whose hearts are set on pilgrimage. Psalm 84:5

I can’t imagine the emotions you are feeling at this amazing time. I don’t have words for your journey, but God does. My prayer for you tomorrow is that you will soar into the city and feel the full impact of what an amazing experience you have had.

but those who hope in the LORD
will renew their strength They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. Isaiah 40:31

Regardless of the many reasons pilgrims take this walk, I am certain that two have walked in the name of Jesus.

All the nations may walk in the name of their gods; we will walk in the name of the LORD our God for ever and ever. Micah 4:5

Father in heaven, Mel and Toni are finishing their journey. Be near them on their final day and on the days to come as they complete their adventure and fly home. Protect them on their flights; go before them and troubleshoot so that their trek home will be pleasant and peaceful.

Mary said...

You both are awesome and I'm so proud of you!!! May God continue to watch over you as you complete your journey. My eyes are tearing up at this moment because I'm seeing the symbolism so clearly of your long and sometimes difficult journey as pilgrims reflecting the journey of all our lives, with the final goal in sight. It makes me imagine how it will be when we finally reach the gates of heaven, knowing our time of testing and trials has come to an end and we can find rest and peace for our weary souls. Thank you for sharing your wonderful experience with us all. I love you guys!

{courtney} said...

It has been amazing following you through this journey! Thank you for sharing it with us. I can't even imagine everything running through your minds and hearts at this point. Congratulations!!! Can't wait to see your precious faces again and hear it in person!

mark and donna said...

There is nothing we can add that has not already been said except amen. Hope you have a safe and enjoyable trip home.

Stephanie said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Stephanie said...

It's 4 am and I'm up. I couldn't find a webcam, so I wasn't planning on getting up, but God (and Ainsley) had other plans. So, even though I can't see your arrival at the cathedral, I am praying and crying as your amazing journey ends. I can't imagine the emotions you are feeling at this moment. I pray for relief and continued safety. May you rest in His arms today and find comfort after such a long struggle.

I love you both so much, and have learned so much from your journey. Thank you for sharing your lives with us.

Cindy H said...

I'm waiving my checkered flag as you arrive. You guys are true champions. I am so proud of you guys. You two have really inspired me that nothing is impossible. I can't even imagine making this journey. It really shows how much faith and trust in God that you two have. I pray that I can too be a pilgrim like you guys. I know that this journey has come to an end but I know that your journey with God will last forever. You guys are wonderful examples of God's work. Bless you.

Grande said...

Looks like you made it...

I had a funny image of you two as Mary Tyler Moore doing a couple of 360's in front of the cathedral.

Can't wait to see you. I'm praying for you.

GP