Peaceful but Strenuous

Daily miles: 31.41 | Total miles: 10,321.48

The run was peaceful and beautiful, but also strenuous because of the long climb.

I woke up, had my coffee, got ready, and headed out. I knew a mountain was ahead, and part of my mind was curious (and slightly nervous) about how steep it would be. But I also reminded myself: stay present, don’t waste energy worrying about something that hasn’t arrived yet. Deal with it when it’s right in front of you.

So I enjoyed the scenery — calm, expansive, and stunning — and the few interactions I had along the way.

The climb was steady and gradual — challenging, yes, but thankfully not nearly as steep as yesterday’s 25% adventure. When I finally reached the top, I sat for a moment, took in the view, and then began the descent.

On the way down, I met Lee Jin and Kim Sung — two young men walking from Busan to Seoul. It made me genuinely happy to meet them. One used a translation app to tell me: “I’m rooting for you from the bottom of my heart.” Such a beautiful sentiment. When we took a photo together, we counted “3-2-1…” and said “fighting!” I love the enthusiasm — even if “fighting” isn’t really my natural vibe.

Once I arrived in Suanbo, I wanted to call the hotel that was still 4 miles away — and my phone is currently not working. So I asked someone to make the call for me. The first person declined. The next — a taxi or shuttle driver — kindly helped. I then negotiated the price and booked a room. After everything was sorted, I showed him the map of my run. He smiled widely and said, “Number one!” His energy lifted me, and with that joy I ran on.

I stopped to buy some food and then reached the hotel — a sulfur spa hotel. The smell is strong, and now even in my hair after showering — but my muscles are deeply relaxed, so I’ll take it.

Along the way today, I saw many people working efficiently in the fields, harvesting massive amounts of cabbage — perhaps ahead of approaching snow.

Thanks for checking in.

See you tomorrow, Andrea