Holding Space for a Hard Day

Daily miles: 22.58 | Total miles: 8500.87

I woke up at 6:30 am after a cold but beautiful night under the stars. I’d left the tent door open to enjoy the view, and every time I woke up during the night, the sky felt like a gift — quiet, endless, full of light. By early morning, though, I needed gloves and a jacket to stay warm for those last few hours of sleep.

When I finally got up, the tent fly was soaked, so I hung it up to dry while packing the rest of my gear. I set off around 7:30 am, feeling okay at first, but my lingering cold — now paired with a cough — slowed me down as the miles passed. Add a headwind that pushed against me with every step, and it quickly became one of those days that felt more like a battle than a run.

I felt tired, sad, and honestly just worn out. Instead of fighting it, I let the emotions roll over me, reminding myself that sometimes this is exactly how it has to be. Not every day on a journey like this is easy.

Reaching Mundrabilla Roadhouse felt like such a relief. I checked in with Amie, who got me settled into a room. It was on a higher level, so I had to carry a step up to get to it — which later disappeared, apparently borrowed by someone else.

I treated myself to a vegetarian omelet at the restaurant and tried to catch up on my socials, when suddenly I heard someone say, “How are you, Andrea?” I turned — and it was Arsh! What a wonderful coincidence to see him again. We had a great chat about his culture and life before another friendly man, Manpreet, appeared and immediately offered me his coffee. The generosity of strangers never ceases to amaze me.

Later, I did my laundry with the help of the staff and met Pam and Rob, two lovely travelers who gave me beans and other goodies for the road. Their kindness, like so many others I’ve met along the way, makes even the hard days feel meaningful.

My cold is slowly working its way through, and I’m hopeful I’ll feel better soon. For now, I’m just grateful for the people I met today, the food in my belly, and a warm place to sleep.

Thanks for checking in — take care out there.