Full Moon and the Ambracian Gulf

Daily miles: 33.88 | Total miles: 12,217.11

I started the day with a nice cold coffee and was out on the road by 6:30 a.m. It was still dark, the full moon shining over the lake. I wore two headlamps, one forward and one backward. The temperatures were cool, and knowing the forecast promised a relatively dry day, it felt like a good way to begin.

The first miles were quiet and calm. Snow-peaked mountains sat in the distance, and everything felt still. After about 8 miles, I walked down into Amfilochia, right on the Ambracian Gulf. The view opened up suddenly and made me stop for a moment. I bought a koulouri for breakfast and then continued along the ocean, staying close to the water for much of the way, with only a short section inland.

Because of the ongoing tractor protests, the police diverted traffic onto the road I was walking on again. It felt busy at times, but I stayed focused on moving forward. At mile 16, my sister came by with the van. We stopped briefly, and then I continued on. Along the way, I met Imrech (76 years old) from Slovakia, traveling by bicycle on a long journey of his own. Moments like that always remind me how many different paths cross out here.

There was mostly sunshine today. I met my sister again at mile 22. She was sitting on the step at the entrance of the van. Blue sky, blue ocean, interesting clouds, and the sun warming the air—it was one of those moments that felt simple and complete. After that, the route turned inland for the next few miles. There was a short section of drizzle, but overall the weather stayed kind.

Once I arrived at the van, it was the usual routine—and the best part, of course: dinner with the oldhouse.

Thanks for checking in, Andrea