A Grey, Humid, Beautiful Day on the Road

Daily miles: 29.45 | Total miles: 10,549.74

I got up at 5:30am and collected all the clothes I had washed the night before. Except for my running kit, everything was still damp despite the ventilator blasting all night. Not exactly ideal — but by now they’re hanging up again, hopefully drying a little more.

At 6:30am I met Jay and we had to carry the buggy downstairs. Jay and the man who works at the hotel did it for me. I’m very spoiled at the moment, I have to say — but deeply grateful. We crossed the road for a morning coffee. I was tired, the sky was heavy and grey, it looked like rain… but off we went. Another day in India.

The humidity was extreme. After about two miles I was completely soaked in my own sweat, but running with Jay felt wonderful. Around mile 5 the climbing started — a steady hill for a couple of miles. Along the way we met lovely people. So many stop to wish us well, ask if we need water, food, or a ride. The generosity is endless.

At one small place we stopped for coffee. Someone asked about my journey and within minutes a whole part of the family gathered around the buggy. We took photos. The coffee was the best we’ve had so far — they gave it to us for free, along with biscuits. Later someone handed me a guava; I’ve never had one before, so I’m curious to try it.

Two dogs kept us company for a while, trotting beside us. Throughout the day people stopped to talk, to ask, to encourage. At one point we met six men walking a pilgrimage route, dressed in their ordinary clothes, carrying nothing but faith and determination.

Except for maybe an hour of sunlight, the whole day stayed hazy and grey. About two miles before our destination the sky darkened again and a storm looked imminent. Just as we arrived in Nangali the first heavy drops fell, but it never quite turned into a downpour.

After receiving directions, we checked into the only accommodation in town. A group of schoolchildren came by and asked me many questions — we took a photo together before Jay and I carried the buggy upstairs. I’m starting to truly like the hotel rooms here.

I took a shower and then we went out for dinner — delicious as always. An auto rickshaw took us there and back, and I thoroughly enjoyed both rides.

Now I’m back in my room, ready for sleep. I’m so happy to be here. Thank you for reading, and I hope to see you tomorrow.

Andrea

And Jay — thank you for your company, patience, love, all the organizational and logistical efforts, and your understanding. Spending time with an inspiration like you is priceless.