Rolling Hills, Warm Hearts, and 3,000 Miles
I got up knowing today would be shorter than yesterday, so I took some extra time in the morning. After getting started, I ran about five miles on a backroad before hitting the highway. Taking a left onto the highway, I knew I'd be there for almost 30 miles.
Soon, I realized today's route felt like a rollercoaster — up and down, up and down. I tried to settle into a good rhythm while staying alert to the traffic. At one point, there was a close call with a truck. Tyler, the driver, and I were both relieved everything turned out fine. Not long after, a friendly police officer checked on my safety and then kindly escorted me the rest of the way to Oxford. The hills today were tough but made for good training.
Arriving in Oxford wasn’t exactly smooth — the roads were narrow due to construction, so I maneuvered my buggy carefully through the streets, up and down the main street, and alongside the University of Mississippi, 'Ole Miss.' I enjoy university towns and appreciated the lively atmosphere, but I was still glad when I finally reached my hotel, which I had booked that morning about two miles from downtown.
When I checked in, Monica, the receptionist, greeted me warmly. We struck up a conversation, and she called me a strong woman — and sometimes, when you're tired, words like that really help. Later, Monica knocked on my door with an unexpected invitation: dinner at her home with her family. Of course, Monica is originally from India, and I love Indian food. After a quick run to the store for water and supplies and a much-needed shower, Monica picked me up for dinner.
At her home, I met her husband, her daughter, and her mother-in-law. We shared a wonderful meal with just the right amount of spice — plus a special dessert: birthday cake from her daughter’s celebration the day before. It was such a warm and special evening.
Today also marked a big milestone: I reached the 3,000-mile mark! That leaves 13,300 miles to go. Are you ready? I am. Thanks for following along!