Day of Contemplation

Daily miles: 26.81 | Total miles: 8,628.48

My alarm rang at 5:30am. It was a cool morning, the outer tent wet with condensation. I started packing, organizing, getting ready for the day — the usual routine. But just a few minutes later, I realized that today would not feel like a usual day.

I left the parking lot and stepped back onto the highway. I started running, but my mind simply could not get my body to cooperate. It’s hard to explain, but there are days when running just feels impossible — like everything is heavy, both physically and emotionally. I felt sad, uncomfortable, uneasy, my thoughts circling endlessly without landing anywhere helpful.

At first, I tried to push those feelings away, to force myself into a more “positive” mindset. But what good does that do? So instead, I let the emotions be there. I accepted that today would not be a strong running day and settled into walking.

The weather warmed up quickly, the sun making the walk hot and slow. My head felt tired, and all I could focus on was reaching Cocklebiddy, getting a room, and resting.

When I arrived at the roadhouse, a cyclist named Kevin was outside. He’s riding from Perth to Adelaide and had already heard about me from other travellers. He greeted me warmly and started a friendly conversation, but I just couldn’t find the energy to match his mood. I apologized, and he kindly mentioned that their water plant was broken.

Inside, I asked for my room, but was told there was no water. I said I didn’t mind — I just wanted a place to rest. Then the owner came out and rather briskly told me that without water, I couldn’t stay in a room. At that point, I didn’t have the capacity to argue or even explain how tired I felt.

So I stepped outside, took a minute to breathe, and recalibrated. The best thing I can do is make a new plan. I’ll recharge my devices here, get some food, and later pitch my tent. That’s good enough for today.

Not every day on this journey is epic or joyful — some are simply about putting one foot in front of the other, letting the hard moments pass, and trusting that tomorrow will feel different.

Thanks for being with me on days like this, too. Be well, Andrea