From Here to There

Two flights, a metro ride, and a bus ride landed the weary travelers at this bus station. Lucky for us, we arrived at the airport around 11 am, Spaniard time. This gave us most of the day to travel further and find our accomodations for the night.














This trusty city map of Guadalajara, Spain (no, not Mexico), that we found at the bus station, allowed us to find our host site. We had to walk from the bottom of the map to the top, uphill. So, off we go.















The walk through town was pleasant. We were surprised at how quiet it was. No traffic, no people, no noise. It was a bit eerie. Most of the businesses were closed too. We later found out that most of the people were on holiday (vacation). We did see many other pilgrims moving about.















When we reached the Salesian school, which would be our home for two nights, we recieved a warm welcome by the Salesian priests. As soon as we arrived, lunch was served: sandwiches, chocolate pudding (yum) and a juice box. Since we were all starving, we were very grateful. We did, though, have the oppurtunity to enjoy this meal every day at every meal with slight variations.

After lunch, we were shown to our living quarters. Being on a pilgrimage, you accept what is given and we did graciously. As expected, we shared the space on a gym floor with a group of girls from Congo. That was cool to talk to them. They speak mostly French, but a few spoke English. It is always a joy to meet and talk to people of other countries.


















Later in the afternoon, we headed down to a local park for Mass. When we arrived, there was a Marian procession.














Our Lady of Antigua was processing down the street with all the faithful. The statue was just beautiful and full of detail. It was was a blessing to witness this act of faith. Those processing, joined the already waiting crowd for Mass; there were hundreds of people attending the liturgy that evening.














Father Avram estimated about sixty priests concelebrated at Mass that afternoon. It was a sight to see. Our pilgrims were quite impressed. We tried to explain to them that this was small compared to what we would experience later.

In the Beginning

Now that I have an internet connection, I will be posting about my pilgrimage to Spain. Join me if you desire to relive some of my memories.

Before we left, we were aware of the many talents joining us. We had two guitarist, a violinist/keyboardist and many singers (eighteen total for our ensamble.) Remind you, we have never played or sung together before this trip. Amazingly, the Holy Spirit was at work and we sounded great! Here we are at SFO warming up for the upcoming week.

Our first stop was Toronto, Canada. Right by our departure gate, there was an acoustic chamber.

We decided to warm up more and get into the spirit of World Youth Day. We sang many praise and worship songs that attracted a small crowd. It was a lot of fun and a great way to burn time. We are officially pilgrims on our way.

Amazing Site

Finally able to post. Spent the past two days in Guadalajara, Spain. The photo below was taken covertly at the Cathedral of the Assumption in Toledo, Spain. An amazing place to see! We spent hours taking it all in. Just beautiful!!!

I arrived in Madrid today and look forward to the kick off Mass tomorrow night that officially starts World Youth Say.

I've been praying for all of your intentions. Keep us in yours. Thanks. Many blessings.

4th of July Chinese Style

Since we missed the Fourth of July back home, we had our own. Actully, our tour guide didn't just guide us in the local customs and history, he seemed to have also guided Anthony, of all people, to a place they sell firecrackers. Intrestingly enough, you can light these off just about any where and nobody cares. They even gather around to watch. I caught this video too late to see Bryan run away from the very start, but here is what I did catch. Enjoy.

And We are Off

So, it all comes to a close. We flew from the Shanghai airport to Beijing airport (where you can buy beer in the soda machine), then directly to SFO. Long, uneventful flight. We are home safe. Thanks you all for your prayers and for following us on our trip.

Next stop: Madrid

Before our final shopping spree, we visit the Yuyuan Garden in Shanghai. It is so beautiful in this serene get away. This private garden is situated right in town. When you are in the garden, you forget you are in the middle of a bustling city. We truly didn't get enough time in this peaceful oasis.

Our last hoorah in Shanghai and China, for that matter, was the Shanghai Acrobat performance. What an incredible display of talent and strength. Some of the things we saw were mind boggling; some even creepy. The contortionist had me squirming in my seat. Tomorrow morning we have to be out by 7am to catch our flight home. Not looking forward to the long ride, but I guess we have to come home some time or another.

China was a wonderful experience! I could have stayed on much longer. There was sooooooo much more to see. Maybe next time. Bon Voyage.

Silken Treasures

Part of the tour in Shanghai took us to a silk factory. Here you can see the machines they use to unravel the fine silk strands from the silkworm coccoons and how they are combined to create a silk thread. After the tour, you get the opportunity to purchase the beautiful products.