Riding the Wind from Tribune to Sharon Springs

The day started early: I was up at 5:50 AM to pack and get ready for breakfast at 6:30. Sharon had prepared a beautiful spread for me: fruit, granola, yogurt muesli, and some homemade sourdough bread with butter and cheese. Thank you, Sharon — it was such a treat.

After breakfast, Dan, Sharon, and I loaded my buggy onto their truck, and they drove me an hour back to Tribune. We arrived around 7 AM (mountain time!). We said our goodbyes. As I organized my gear, I immediately noticed the wind — already strong and blowing from the south, luckily at my back. I put on my rain jacket and pulled the hood up, which helps block the noise and keep my headspace calm. Of course, it also turns me into a sweating machine underneath, but the calm it provides outweighs the discomfort.

Just before setting off, Harold stopped by. He had seen me packing up and thought I might be cycling or walking across the country. I explained my run, and he kindly gave me some water — another little gift from the road.

I usually start my runs slowly, giving my legs time to warm up and easing into a steady rhythm. Knowing today was relatively "short" at about 30 miles and with the wind helping, I settled into a nice pace after about two miles.

The road stretched out endlessly ahead. The wind was relentless, the humidity intense — but my spirit was just right. I kept thinking about how far I’ve already come, and how incredible this journey has been. It reminds me to stay steady: some days are great, some not so much, but it’s all part of the flow, just like life itself.

Running long distances now feels like an emotional dance: I welcome all moods and feelings, recognizing and integrating them instead of resisting. That’s an important realization for me — and one of the most rewarding parts of this experience.

I didn’t stop much, just for a few quick breaks. Otherwise, I ran straight through, absolutely drenched in sweat under my jacket. I could feel the salt drying on my face. The gusts grew stronger over the five hours I was running. At times, they almost lifted my feet off the ground, pushing my body forward with each step — it felt like I was playing with the current, laughing at how it carried me along.

Of course, I’m well aware that if it had been a headwind, I might not have been so cheerful! I've already thought ahead to tomorrow: if the wind changes, so will the experience. But today was a good reminder to enjoy things when they align — and to trust that even the tougher days have something to offer. As the song says: "The answer, my friend, is blowing in the wind." Tomorrow will be another experiment, just like everything else in life.

The last three miles were a gentle downhill into Sharon Springs. I had booked a hotel ahead of time, and check-in was at a quirky little 24/7 silver diner beside it — another classic American moment. It still amazes me how many places are open around the clock here.

When I got to my room, my legs, body, and mind fully felt the day's run. I stretched out on the bed and listened to the howling wind outside. I pulled back the curtains and watched as dry plant parts swirled and flew past my window. The power of the wind today was, once again, truly something to witness.

Before settling in, I stopped half a mile before the hotel to pick up some supplies: beans, bread, and apples for dinner. Now, I’m winding down, tired but content, hoping for an early night.

Thank you for being with me on this journey — every mile feels a little lighter knowing you're following along. Tomorrow, I’ll have more to share about how I dealt with the next chapter of the wind. Until then, take care and goodnight.