Smiles Along the Seine

Daily Miles: 27.88 | Total Miles: 16,402.14

I woke up after a short night of sleep in a hot room shared with five other women. Quietly, I slipped out of bed and organized myself as efficiently as possible, despite my tiredness and the limited space. By 7:15 a.m. I was ready for the breakfast that was included, and of course I was there right when it started. I also spent some time doing research and planning before finally leaving the hostel and making my way out of Paris.

To be honest, I was glad to leave the city. First I had to navigate back to the bicycle trail, and then I followed the Seine once again. It certainly wasn't the most direct route, but at this stage of the journey, efficiency matters far less than enjoyment. Running along the river, away from traffic, feels exactly right.

Right at the beginning of the day, I met a group of friendly young boys who were writing their exams this week. After that, I continued along the river, stopping every now and then to simply take it all in. Sometimes I almost feel as though I want to prolong these runs, as if moving a little slower could somehow make the journey last longer.

Around halfway through the day, I encountered yet another bridge with stairs. In the past, I might have groaned about it. Today I simply looked at it as strength training and carried on, step by step. There was also some excellent street art along the way and, best of all, hot weather. Really hot weather. Just perfect.

For about ten miles in the middle of the run, I followed a trail that was busy with runners. As I have done many times during this journey, I conducted a little experiment. I put on a big smile and said "Bonjour" to every runner I passed. About ninety percent smiled back or greeted me in return. It is amazing how easy it is to make each other happy, even if only for a second.

Later in the day, I needed to buy food and drinks, which led me into a large shopping mall. Wow. I think I must have walked nearly two miles inside that place. At least I found everything I needed and left well supplied with food and hydration.

When I arrived at the campground, the security guard welcomed me warmly. Once I found my campsite, I discovered that a couple was already sitting there in the shade. Karin and Maarten from the Netherlands turned out to be wonderful company, and we enjoyed a great conversation together.

After setting up, I had a shower, ate dinner, and settled into the evening. Then my neighbor Günther came to the rescue by lending me an adapter so I could charge my devices overnight. A small gesture, but a very helpful one.

So tonight I am grateful for rivers, sunshine, smiles from strangers, and kind people who make life easier.

Sleep well. Andrea