Energy in Motion

Daily miles 33.59 | Total Miles: 13,655.45

I got up, had a cold coffee, and started packing, organizing the buggy in front of the hotel because of the stairs. I had already thought I would leave without breakfast, but the kind staff told me I could have it early if I wanted. Of course—never say no to fuel for the day.

Before eating, I walked over to the beach for a few moments, watching the sunrise. Calm, soft, and beautiful. Then I went back for breakfast, sitting there by myself with a mix of dolce and not-so-dolce food, the sun in my eyes, looking out the window at palm trees and the ocean glimmering across the horizon. Sometimes it’s hard to grasp just how beautiful the world can be when we allow ourselves to really see it.

After thanking the staff, I got ready to leave. The first steps are always a bit awkward, especially maneuvering the buggy, but once I passed a large construction site, I slowly found my rhythm. I moved between the promenade and the road, depending on what worked best. The promenade is not always ideal with the wheels, and when it’s crowded, I prefer not to disturb people if I don’t have to.

At some point, I found a bicycle path—safe, smooth, and with incredible views of the ocean. I was in a great mood until I saw a tunnel ahead. I didn’t think much of it at first, but when I got there, I realized it was a dead end. I couldn’t believe it. So I turned around and ran back—about a mile—before taking the coastal road instead. It was steep, but once I climbed up, I was rewarded with beautiful views.

Pushing the buggy uphill was tough, so just before mile 10, I stopped at a café. Blanca made me a cappuccino, and I spoke with some guests in my now “fluent Italian.” When I told her about my journey, we connected instantly. She gave me a small wooden heart to carry with me. I like it. Roberto, another guest, joined us, and for a moment, the three of us simply shared time together. Those moments stay.

Back on the road, I passed a woman talking on the phone. As I ran by, she called out, “Vuoi un caffè?” I said no, I had just had one. She insisted—“Un caffè, come on!” So I stopped. She made me an espresso, and of course, it wasn’t about the coffee. It was about the energy. Her spirit, her generosity—it lifted me. I left with a full heart, completely re-energized… or maybe just a caffeine high. I’m not sure.

There were more climbs after that—steep, hot, and demanding. I was sweating, working, and fully in it. And I loved it. Eventually, I found myself on another long bicycle path, this one alive with cyclists and runners. Perfect conditions. I was flying—smiling, greeting everyone. Maybe today I said my millionth “hi” on this journey.

There is nothing better than feeling energy—my own, the energy of others, and the energy of nature all around me. It’s the best state to be in.

Along the way, I met Harry and his friend, two cyclists. Harry is Austrian, so of course we exchanged a few words. Then I continued into San Remo, where the busy streets slowed me down a bit. I needed to get some groceries anyway. I passed a statue and learned that the famous Milan–San Remo Bicycle Race will take place tomorrow. Lucky timing. I also briefly spoke with Nicola, who was working with a TV crew.

With about three miles to go, the roads filled up, but I kept moving, greeting people as I went. I love the reactions—maybe surprise at first, but most people smile back. It’s such a simple exchange, but it connects.

Toward the end, I ran through what felt like the longest tunnel, one just for pedestrians and cyclists. Every few meters, there were boards on the ceiling with sports facts. I didn’t get bored today—there was too much to see, to feel, to take in.

Eventually, I asked a few people for directions and found my way to the hotel in Ospedaletti, where Carlo had a room for me. I brought my things upstairs, went back out, and now I’m sitting in the lobby finishing my socials.

I’m hungry. I need a shower.

And tomorrow… are you ready for France? Let’s go. Andrea