I've been following the ordeal off and on since August 5th, but the last 18 hours have been riveting for me.  To see that first rescuer go down the shaft and start loading the guys up - definitely makes you appreciate your family and the conditions we are privileged to work in here in the US.  I've had the streaming video feed online since they started and just watched as number 26 emerged from the top of the shaft.  I'm incredibly impressed by the effort and diligence that has gone into this rescue effort.  I'm also grateful that NASA was able to contribute their knowledge base as well - it seems like a great application of everything they've done in the last 50-plus years.

Though the mining operations around the world have little to do directly with my day-to-day life, the rescue of these guys is definitely a story that applies to everyone and I decided that if I was going to watch the first guy, each of them deserved the same respect.  I missed a few for work and sleep, but they all are equally amazing for surviving thus far and I really hope they get all the support they need to get readjusted to live above ground.

Just seeing the top of the capsule emerge with the first miner was enough to make me cry, let alone seeing him be reunited with his family.  Later when my husband came home in time to see the second miner, he commented on how he's not sure how the guys can bear to let their families go once they start hugging them.  I'll continue to watch until all the rescuers are out as well as the 33 miners and until then...

Chi! Chi! Chi! Le! Le! Le!