A Good Day to Create

Daily Miles: 30.71 | Total Miles: 16,487.27

My alarm rang sometime after 5 a.m. after what felt like sleeping in heaven. After yesterday's handwashing session, clothes were spread out everywhere, drying and airing as best as possible. So the morning began with hot coffee, tidying up, packing, and getting everything back into its proper place.

A little before 7 a.m., I was organized and ready to go.

The air was cool after the storm that had passed through the night before. I felt great. Well, almost great. One leg wasn't particularly happy, but then again, this was day 547. At this stage it's all about making it work while still enjoying the journey.

The Avenue Verte continued to guide me through the Normandy countryside. The temperatures were pleasant in the morning, and I found myself settling into a comfortable rhythm. Sometimes these are the days I enjoy most. Nothing dramatic. No major obstacles. Just moving forward, taking in the landscape, and quietly appreciating that I still get to do this.

Around mile 20, I stopped at a wonderful place called Café Vélo Jaune. It is run by David, a Scottish man who welcomed me warmly. After I told him about the World Run, he insisted that the coffee was on him.

How nice.

I sat in the shade with a black coffee, hoping it might provide a little extra energy for the final ten miles of the day. Around me were beautiful flowers, and the sun was already becoming strong.

Just as I was about to leave, I started talking with two cyclists from Paris. We had a short but enjoyable conversation before they continued on their way.

A little later, a car pulled up beside me and the driver asked for directions. I laughed and explained that I don't even speak French. Somehow people still seem to assume that after all this time on the road I must know where everything is.

About two miles before reaching my destination, I stopped for groceries. With Sunday ahead, I wanted to make sure I had enough food with me.

On the way into town, I met Said, and shortly afterwards I arrived at my hotel in Forges-les-Eaux. There, Vir, the owner's son, welcomed me warmly and made sure I had a room that suited me.

That is amazing customer service.

Once checked in, I turned my attention to a reel idea that had been sitting in my head. It required quite a lot of props, organization, and concentration. Within minutes I had created complete chaos in the room.

I loved it.

I laughed quite a bit while filming and putting everything together. Sometimes creativity is messy, and today was one of those days.

Tomorrow will be cleanup day. But tonight, I'm happy.

Thanks for checking in. Andrea