When the Miles Weigh Heavy, Kindness Lifts

Daily Miles: 27.92 | Total Miles: 7,824.62

My alarm rang at 6:30am. Coffee, packing, and checking the weather forecast. I could hear the rain outside, and the forecast said it might ease between 8 and 9am. So I waited until almost 9am—feeling a bit antsy as always when I’m not moving—but it was worth it. I dodged most of the heavy rain.

The first 20 miles were fine to run, but the last 8 miles were another story. The wind picked up, a steady headwind, and with the incline my legs just couldn’t find the strength to push myself and the buggy uphill. I walked, and had to make peace with that. It was exhausting and frustrating, but also another good lesson in patience and acceptance.

When I finally arrived in Port Germein, the sun was shining, it felt warm, and I was happy to step inside for a break from the wind. I had booked a room in a house with self check-in—always interesting to see how those codes work. My room was dark, but it had decent wifi and, most importantly, a bed.

Later I walked down the road to see Australia’s longest wooden jetty—1,680 meters long. It’s currently closed due to storm damage and safety concerns, but still impressive to look at. There’s also a lighthouse and a shed nearby.

I then went shopping in the post office, which doubles as the town’s general store. Robbie, a wonderful man with a warm smile, gave me everything I needed for only AUD 5. Such a cool deal—and even more, his positivity and kind words lifted my spirits. Sometimes you just can’t do it all for yourself, and today Robbie’s encouragement gave me the boost I needed.

Stepping out of the shop, I saw a group of locals gathered outside the pub. I figured I’d better introduce myself as the stranger in town, and of course, they were open and welcoming. Adam, Eric, and the others seemed to enjoy hearing about my project, and I was glad I stopped by.

Back in my room, I had a shower, did some work, and will finish the day with rice and beans before getting ready for tomorrow.

Thanks for checking in.

Be well, Andrea