“You Go Well, Mate” – A Highway Run with Heart

Daily miles: 29.23 | Total miles: 6,389.42

I woke up well-rested but honestly could have slept a few more hours. Still, I packed up, got myself ready, and left the hotel around 8am. I already knew it would be a pretty monotonous day—much of it running along the highway—so I tried to enjoy the first few miles through town, watching the houses and parks go by while carefully navigating the morning traffic.

Just before I reached the highway ramp after a roundabout, a car pulled over. Paul jumped out, asked what I was doing, and with a huge smile pressed some money into my hand:

“You go well, mate!”

What a gesture. Paul didn’t seem like someone with a lot to give, yet he gave anyway—with joy. That kind of generosity always moves me. It’s something I’ve seen over and over again: often those with the least give the most. Thank you, Paul—your spirit carried me for miles today.

After that, I merged onto the highway and settled into the rhythm. I didn’t feel especially light or fresh, but I was steady. Not every day feels easy, but that’s okay. The miles still count. I stopped only for the essentials—food, drink, pee—and spent the rest of the time lost in thought: life, existence, death, meaning. These kinds of long highway stretches become more of a mental run than a physical one.

Finally, I exited the highway and had to stop right away—I was incredibly thirsty. The sun here dries you out fast. After rehydrating, I continued down a smaller road toward the coast. The traffic was manageable and most vehicles slowed as they passed me, which I appreciated. About two miles before my destination, I stopped to pick up groceries, which made the buggy heavy—but I was nearly there.

I arrived at the backpackers and checked in. So far, I have a room to myself, which is perfect for tonight. Quiet, space to breathe, reset, and prepare.

In today’s reel, I continued my Create Your Own Path segment with a small personal reflection around the theme of “I Am What I Am.” I’m trying not to overthink it too much—just create and share with consistency, so I can grow and learn through the process. Whether it’s my running or creative work, it’s all part of the same path.

The sun is down now. Time to shower, eat, rest, and prepare for tomorrow. Thank you for being with me on this journey—step by step.

Dream Big Too, my friends. Andrea