And I HAVE walked 500 miles and I will NOT walk 500 more!...by NR

Wow, it is surreal to sit here and write that we have arrived in Santiago! Many say that this is when the real journey begins, when you take the road home and piece together all that you have learned and experienced. Emily and I looked at each other after reaching the beautiful cathedral and did not know if we wanted to cry, laugh, sit or stand. I have to be honest, that I was somewhat expecting a welcome banner, but in reality, there were just a lot of relieved people celebrating their arrival. Three hospital visits, one case of bed bugs, an allergic reaction, tendonitis, 32 days, 10 blisters, a ton of laughing, singing and 500 miles later, we have made it! The road is now paved with our story forever and the journey of faith and friendship that it took us on this past month. I am filled with gratitude for this experience. One thing I learned especially today was that pride does not get you far...Em and I were the slowest hikers today because of my knee and ankle. Hundreds past us as Em walked steadily by my side until the very last step. People would give me the most pitiful looks, but we turned it in to the funniest story yet. I have so much to say but I would become random and confusing if I started to decribe it all. So, I will end with a prayer... Lord, thank you for this journey. Thank you for the prayers that have been answered and the provision you had of us during our travels. Every detail was a blessing, sometimes in disguise and you taught us so much. May we continue on this road looking for the arrows that you put in our path, in order to love ourselves and others better than the day before. Thank you for Emily and our friends and family who proved to be relentless in their love and support. I praise you for teaching me, guiding me, loving me despite myself. May I remain in your arms forever...Amen.