A Slower Day, A Deeper Reflection

Daily miles: 27.29 | Total miles: 8,025.31

My alarm rang at 6am and I knew I wanted to cover about 28 miles today — walking this time. That meant roughly 7 hours on the road, so I started right on time at 7am.

The night in the tent had been good. This morning I woke to a funny sound, probably a bird, and smiled at the moment. The night wasn’t as damp as the one before, so packing up was easier. I had my cold instant coffee, packed my gear, and set off under an overcast sky.

From the first step, I put myself into the right mindset — not stressed, just open to enjoying this different kind of day. Walking brings a whole new perspective: different muscles, different rhythm, time passing differently. I waved to passing cars, let my thoughts wander, and consciously enjoyed the slower pace.

Days like this remind me how extraordinary this journey really is. To have dared to dream this big, to say it out loud, to plan it, organize it, and actually do it — that still amazes me. I’m proud that I followed through on this idea, which has become such a powerful survival strategy for me.

You might think that after 8,000 miles, all this must feel normal. But honestly, nothing feels normal — maybe it never did. I’m only slowly starting to accept that. Today, I walked, and I’ll probably walk for the next few days too. And that’s okay. I know I will complete this run one way or another. There’s nothing I have to prove, nothing to show — just me, figuring out life as I go.

Curiosity has always fueled me. Even when I feel lost (which is often), I keep walking, running, moving, living. Passing the 8,000-mile mark is a big milestone — and yet I’m not even halfway. There are still so many days ahead, so many experiences waiting. I love taking it one day at a time, but also holding a long-term view.

On my way through Kyancutta, I met Margarete and Ned — a lovely little chat that brightened my day. After another two and a half hours, I arrived in Wudinna, where I’m staying at Tony’s motel hotel. (Tony also owns a place in Keith — highly recommend!) The staff here is very friendly, and I’m sitting in the dining room now, surrounded by people enjoying great food. I plan to do the same soon.

When I arrived, I met Wendy and Megan out front — thank you both for the warm welcome!

Today was a day to think slower, to reflect, and to be grateful. I’m taking it easy tonight, celebrating 8,000 miles, and enjoying the journey through this incredible landscape.

Thanks for following along. Be well.