Frost, Stars, and a Cappuccino in Heaven

Daily miles: 35.67 | Total miles: 5854.85

I woke up at 4:40am, made a coffee, had a yogurt, and began the usual ritual of packing and getting ready — only today, every step toward the kitchen and bathroom reminded me just how cold it was outside. Frost covered everything, the sky was black and glittering with stars, and the crescent moon was still hanging low on the horizon. I can’t say I wanted to step out into the freezing dark, but hey — not every day is a walk in the park.

Back on the highway, it was just me, my buggy, and the night. I wore my headlamp facing forward this time, running against traffic on the right side of the road. The world around me was still and pitch black, interrupted only by the occasional passing car. I took it slow and steady — the air was biting, my fingers frozen even in gloves, and my nose wouldn’t stop running. The first ten miles were tough.

But then the sky began to change. Soft light crept in. The horizon came alive with reds, pinks, purples, and the soft shapes of clouds unfolding above snowcapped mountains. In front of them, the green rolling hills added that perfect contrast. It was stunning. If it hadn’t been so cold, I might’ve stopped to take a hundred pictures.

At mile 21, I reached Winchester. A café sign appeared in the distance — and that alone gave me a burst of energy. What I didn’t expect was to walk into what felt like a sanctuary. A beautiful, lovingly arranged oasis — inside and out. I met Bruce and John, the owners, and was instantly moved by the kindness and detail that filled their place. They invited me for a cappuccino, and I stood there soaking up warmth and inspiration. After four hours in the cold, it truly felt like stepping into heaven.

But I still had 15 miles to go, and as I left, the sky turned gray and heavy. I hoped the rain would hold back — and it did. I ran into Timaru, did a bit of grocery shopping, and finally arrived at the place I’d booked yesterday. It’s a beautiful little room, warm and perfect. I showered, made myself a nice dinner, and now I can feel the tiredness settle in.

Coming in from the cold always makes you feel extra tired — but it’s a good kind of tired. Thanks for following along, my friends.

Dream Big Too.