Stage 14, June 24

High in the mountains, it was very cool last night. We had a great sleep, a wonderful breakfast, and left by 9:15. 

At the top of the pass was this image of a pilgrim prayin before our Lady.  

We climbed about 500 feet to the Passo Della Ciso, the top of the mountain, where we regrouped for the descent.

The descent was 10 miles, it was wonderful, especially after climbing the other side of the mountain yesterday.

After the descent, we rode through heavy traffic toward the sea. We stopped at a wonderful place for sandwiches, and then headed into Carrara.

We could see where marble has been taken for many of the beautiful statues by Michelangelo and other great artists. It almost looks like snow in the mountains, but it is much too hot today.

We arrived in Camaiore after 64 miles, where we are staying at a very nice small hotel, Locanda Le Monache. Paolo took the van to get Fr. Terry from the airport at Pisa. Fortunately for Fr. Terry, he and his clothes all arrived safely. 

However, his bike did not quite make it! He will either be riding in the van tomorrow, or renting a Vespa!

Camaiore is a beautiful little town, and we could see the hills which we will have to climb tomorrow morning. They're calling for rain.

Giancarlo went with me to the church to ask if we could celebrate mass there. However, they were having a funeral. 

So, Father Terry and I can concelebrated with the parish priest at the 6:30 Mass for the Solemnity of the birth of St. John the Baptist.

After Mass, we watched all the Italians mourn as Italy lost any chance for the World Cup in soccer. We had a fabulous supper, prayed evening prayer, and went to bed.