Panama ~ Our last day (or rather our last two)

Walking along the ocean in old Panama
We enjoyed our last breakfast at Casa Paraiso and then Bill and Judy drove us to the old part of Panama City.  We walked along the ocean, did a bit of shopping, enjoyed looking at the restored buildings, visited the catheral and then ate lunch.


Apparently, they allow cats in cathedrals in Panama








We were able to get through the security check in plenty of time and wait at the gate.  Unfortunately, it didn't take long before we learned that our flight was going to be delayed by an hour. Knowing that we didn't have much layover time, we were concerned about making our flight to RDU.



After landing late, we sat on the plane waiting for an open gate.  Finally making it to a gate we stood, waiting to exit the plane when an announcement came on that we needed to be seated so that Border and Customs agents could board.  They did so and escorted a gentlemen off the plane, obviously in handcuffs, who was followed by two gentlemen.  It made for much discussion.


After getting through customs and immigration, they let us know that we had missed our connection. We headed to try and rebook flights.   After an hour and many discussions about ways to possibly get home, including possibly renting a vehichle and driving home, we decided to fly via standby on Sunday.   The airline put us up in a very nice hotel (sure wish we could have enjoyed the room and especially the multiple shower heads for a few more hours).









Waiting for our van to the hotel
We were back at the airport by 7:30.  When we left on Saturday evening, the only ones who had tickets were Bob and me for the late evening flight and all of us were on standby for earlier flights.  On Sunday morning, the first flight out,  we were #1, #4, #6, #8-10 on standby.  Thankfully, we were able to get Ty on the first flight.  Then Bob was able to get tickets for Susan and Mike via Charlotte back to RDU.  And then a ticket for Barry on the afternoon flight.  Given the fact that there were still 17 on the standby list, it was truly the working of the Lord that got Barry a seat on the flight.  Bob and I flew out on the 9:00 flight and so we all arrived back in NC within 24 hours of our scheduled time.  We had plenty of opportunity to practice patience and trust in the Lord's provision for our trip home.  It was probably the most difficult aspect of the trip.  But with some time, it gave us another opportunity to see God's hand of provision and His care for each of us.  We have much to thank the Lord that He has shown each of us during our time.

Still smiling 

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