Singing into Shkodër

Daily miles: 31.21 miles | Total miles: 12,533.39

I slept well. Cold coffee. Ready to go.

At 7:00 a.m., I entered the restaurant after being told breakfast would be served then. I asked if I could take it to go, but that wasn’t possible. So I sat down and waited. I ate some scrambled eggs, packed the rest, and headed out.

I felt good. Light. Looking forward to the day.

The weather seemed promising — dry at least for the morning — and that alone made me happy. After only about two miles, I met Pascal from Konstanz, Germany. He’s cycling all the way to China. I had seen pictures of him before with a running friend I would meet later that day. What are the chances? We chatted for a while, two travelers on different wheels, then I ran on.

A short pee break. Later, a croissant break. The temperature was warm — perfect running weather. My body felt strong and steady.

Along the way, I met a couple selling chickens, eggs, orange juice, garlic, and more. They were excited to meet me, and I was just as excited to meet them. Encounters like that make the miles feel lighter.

Many people gave me a thumbs-up. Some asked where I’m from and where I’m going. I had a big smile on my face, and it felt impossible not to.

At one point, I met two young men collecting scrap metal. They were riding a tricycle cart converted from a moped, slowly moving along the roadside. You could tell they work hard for what they earn. Life here isn’t easy for everyone, and some carry heavier loads than others. We exchanged a few words and then we each continued on our way.

As I got closer to Shkodër — considered the cultural capital of northern Albania and a gateway to the Alps — I could see the snowcapped mountains in the distance. They had been accompanying me quietly for miles, like silent guardians.

The sun came out. Traffic increased. And there it was — Rozafa Castle, perched high on its rocky hill, watching over Shkodër.

And then I entered the city. I felt incredible.

Sometimes, when I run into a city in beautiful weather and everything feels open and alive, something inside me just explodes with joy. I sang. I shouted from the top of my lungs, “I made it to Shkodër!” I probably looked a little wild — but when you carry a smile that wide, people radiate it right back to you.

I arrived at a hotel I had contacted that morning. Fadjola welcomed me warmly. The perfect place to stay. She even prepared breakfast for me to take along tomorrow — such thoughtful service.

Later, after some work, I met Matt Lespine, who started his world run a little over a month ago in Bologna, Italy. Two runners crossing paths in northern Albania. We walked toward the city center, where carnival celebrations were in full swing — music, laughter, a huge party unfolding in the streets. We found a restaurant and had dinner together. It was wonderful to share stories, perspectives, and experiences with someone who understands this unusual path.

Now I’m back in my room, finishing up the day’s work.

Day 420. Still smiling. Still moving.

Thanks for checking in. Andrea