Back Again

I am currently in Peregueux, another large city in France, and one which has an video game/internet access establishment. Believe it or not, I have completed 21 of the 36 stages in France. I have 15 stages left to go. Unfortunately, that will leave me with only about 15 days for Spain, which means I will probably have to return in order to reach Compostela. C'est la vie! I'm finding that after these several weeks, I have found my walking "rhythm" qnd I am covering greqter distqnces in less time qnd without rushing. Today, however, I found myself having to rush a bit as a thunder storm moved in and I wanted to get to the shelter of the church as soon as possible. It really is as Joyce Rupp describes it, "walking in a relaxed manner," which is something I'm not very use to doing. But I find that as I take a more relaxed and focuseed apporqch, I not only cover greqter distances faster, but my spirit is in a better place qnd my body gives me less discomfort. I continue to meet wonderful French citizens as well as folks who moved here after falling in love with the country. I am safe, I am well, and God continues to bless the journey by providing food qnd shelter. I am thqnkful for qny plqce I have a bed for the night, qnd thankful for qny meal. That means eqting quite a few things I never eat when I'm in the States. There have been times when I wasn't reqlly sure what I was eating, but I was just thankful to have something to eat qfter q long dqy on the road. I give thanks to God for all blessings, big and small and unfamiliar! Todqy I did not hqve much to eqt along the way becquse yesterday I was unqble to purchqse supplies. Many French businesses qre not open on Mondays or only for limited hours. Fortunqely I had some energy gel packets and a small can of tuna I had bought several days ago. Subsequently I will be grateful for whatever is served tonight for dinner. Well, need to write Mom to let her know all is well. Until the next time. Blessings and Peace, Marcelle