Sagebrush, Dust & Determination
Daily miles: 47 miles | Total: 5,499.94 miles
My alarm went off at 4:00 am, but in true morning fashion, I thought I'd rest my eyes for just a few more minutes. Fast forward 40 minutes, and I was suddenly wide awake, scrambling to catch up. I got myself ready quicker than usual and hit the road by 5:30 am.
The early desert light was magical—just me, the rising sun, and miles of winding road flanked by sagebrush, sand, and the occasional burst of desert blooms. I had a clear plan today: run around 45 miles. So I locked into a mindset of flow—economical steps, calm thoughts, and steady effort. It worked.
At mile 18, I reached Hampton—the only spot with a store (or rather, a small, lovely café). I ducked inside and was pleasantly surprised by the welcoming atmosphere. Justin, the owner, greeted me and mentioned he had some breakfast sandwiches, but all I really wanted was a cold coffee. It was heating up outside fast, so an iced coffee it was. While sipping, I spotted a cookie and figured it would be a good energy boost.
Right as I was finishing up, Michael came in. He grabbed a coffee too, we stocked up on some snacks and hydration for the road, and I filled my bladders with water and electrolytes. Then it was time to head back out—27 miles still ahead, and a long construction zone looming.
The next 30 miles were rough: loose gravel, dusty trucks, and drivers who didn’t always slow down. I got pelted a few times, but I kept reminding myself that how I react to discomfort is everything. And somehow, today, I felt mentally strong.
An ODOT (Oregon Department of Transportation) vehicle pulled up beside me and let me know I was currently in the worst of the construction zone—about four more miles of tough gravel to go. After that, things would improve… slightly. Still roadwork, but no more flying stones.
Michael met me again around mile 28. I had started rationing my water by then, the heat and wind were draining, and I was so thirsty. We restocked my supplies, I grabbed a quick bite, and I ran on.
At mile 41, we met for the last time during the run. I downed more fluids, ate a bagel, and pushed through the final six miles. Michael rode his bike up the last hill and told me our camp was just half a mile off to the left. I let out a yell of joy and sprinted that final stretch.
The reward? A peaceful camp spot, a tiny bit of WiFi, and—best of all—an incredible Indian dinner that Michael prepared: warm bread, eggs, and a cold Fanta I’d been dreaming of since that café. Normally, I’m not into soda, but after 45 miles under the sun, it tasted like bliss.
As I write this, Michael is taking care of things at camp. I’m feeling grateful—not just for the dinner, but for the teamwork, support, and quiet presence he brings. Thank you, Michael.
Now it’s time for sleep. Tomorrow, we run to Bend. Big day. Thanks for following along.
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