Rolling Into Bend: A Shift in Scenery and Spirit

Daily Miles: 33 miles | Total miles: 5,532.98

My alarm rang at 4:00am sharp, and today—I didn’t snooze. I knew I wanted to start early and make the most of the day ahead. The morning was cool, the sky gently glowing with the promise of sunrise, and everything felt calm and focused.

By 5:00am, I was back on Hwy 20, legs moving steadily through the familiar undulating rhythm of this high desert terrain: downhill, uphill, repeat. Sagebrush flanked both sides of the road. The sun rose just after 6:00am, and with it, the heat. It’s incredible how quickly the temperature rises out here.

But this stretch felt different. Unlike the quiet, remote desert days behind me, today had a destination—Bend, a real town with busy streets, snowcapped mountains in the backdrop, and the Deschutes River running through it. A place where I could do laundry, recharge with some stronger WiFi, and rest with a bit more convenience. That knowledge gave me a spring in my step.

By mile 21, Michael pulled over, bringing me icy water and snacks. We chatted about where we’d stay and planned to meet again as I entered the city. Those last few miles into Bend felt special—like I was crossing a subtle line from solitude into community again.

At the city’s edge, Michael was already waiting with more water, and from there it was just 2.5 miles to our RV site. I was hot, dusty, hungry, and beyond happy to sink into a chair when I arrived.

I called my sister to hear about their travels, downed a couple protein drinks, and prepared a sandwich with Michael. Now it’s time to catch up on social media, finish laundry, prep dinner, and of course, get ready for tomorrow. The days are always packed—no matter how early I rise—but that’s part of the magic.

I’m still wrapping my head around the fact that I’ve run all the way to Bend, Oregon. The Cascades are near. The Pacific isn’t far. But I won’t get ahead of myself.

One day at a time.

One mile at a time.

One step at a time.

Thank you for following along.

Thank you, Michael, for your support and kindness.

And thank you, world, for the privilege of running around you.