A Journey of Small Blessings

Today started early, as most days do. My alarm buzzed at 5 a.m., and I intended to be on the road by 5:30. But the usual routine of packing and organizing took longer than expected, and by the time I started running through Villa Mercedes, daylight was already casting its glow.

The plan was to cover 30 miles, with a stop at Farga to decide if I’d camp there or push further tomorrow to San Luis. Back on Ruta 7, the road stretched ahead in what felt like a never-ending uphill. Though the sky was overcast, providing a break from the intense sun of previous days, the air carried a weight that hinted at a weather change—palpable, almost pressing down with every step.

At mile 13, I took a much-needed break at a bus stop. Sitting there, I felt the tiredness settle deep into my bones. Maybe it was the deceptive ease of today’s "shorter" distance, or maybe the subtle climb had drained me more than I realized. But breaks don’t last forever, and soon I was back on the road, pushing past the mental fog.

By noon, I arrived in Farga, completing about 24 miles. That’s when the clouds parted, and the sun returned in full force. Seeking refuge, I stopped at a gas station to recharge—my phone, my water supplies, and myself. The air-conditioned café felt like heaven, and I sipped coffee while uploading an Instagram reel, despite the spotty Wi-Fi.

Sometimes, people come up to me during these stops, curious about my journey. Today, a man asked for a photo and told me how inspiring he found my run. Moments like these remind me that it’s not about the finish line; it’s about the effort, the intention, and the connection with others along the way.

After three hours in the cool comfort of the café, I dared to step back into the heat. The sun hit me like a wall, but I pushed on, running to mile 26 before switching to walking the final four miles. Along the way, drivers honked and waved, small gestures that carry immense motivation.

Then, something extraordinary happened. Two men in an SUV slowed down beside me, both faces beaming with a bright smile. One of them handed me an ice-cold fruit cup through the window, wishing me suerte (luck) before driving off. I was stunned, overwhelmed by the kindness of this simple gesture. I stopped under the nearest tree, leaving my buggy by the roadside, and savored that cold, refreshing gift in the shade.

It’s moments like these that fill my heart. The world can be incredibly beautiful when people show kindness and care for one another.

Reinvigorated, I continued on, eventually finding a good spot to camp at mile 30. After setting up my tent, eating, and cleaning up, I settled in for the night. Tomorrow, it’s another 30 miles to San Luis, where I’ve already booked a room.

Every day brings its challenges, but it also brings unexpected joys. Whether it’s a shaded bus stop, a kind word, or an ice-cold drink from a stranger, these little blessings make all the difference.

Thank you for following along. Here’s to the small steps, the uphill battles, and the beautiful souls who make this journey unforgettable.