Day 17: Buongiorno

We have arrived in the Italian part of Switzerland, so it will be Italian from here on out. We have climbed SIX mountains/ridges to get here. Three in the Jura and three in the alps. I should make some notches in my walking stick to indicate this, like kills on the fuselage of a fighter jet. Also, there was the Ballon d'Alsace, so seven total. Phew. 

We have had some rough days struggling in the rain and the heat, but we are here in Ariolo, with full bellies and restored spirits. We should be in Italy proper in two or three days. 

We have been singing songs and discussing all manner of things, including fantasy novels, history, music, theology, memories, hopes, dreams, homestarrunner cartoons, and girls. At other times we have been silent, taking in with awe the beauty and grandeur of the beautiful European countryside and contemplating the peregrine nature of our pilgrimage. 

Ever at the forefront of our minds are the prayer intentions entrusted to us as well as those who are praying for us. 

I apologize for the lack of pictures in this post, but follow me on Twitter or Instagram, both with the handle lukestager. 

Please continue to pray for us.