Chasing Dreams and Bridges

Today started early in Sardis, Mississippi. After packing my things, I dropped my room key at the reception and checked what they had for breakfast. The options? Plastic-wrapped muffins, bottled juice, and coffee. I had already brewed a strong cold instant coffee in my room, so I only sipped a little of the hot coffee and grabbed some muffins. While there, I chatted with Nicole, the friendly lady at the reception. I told her how much I value conversations during my journey—they keep me grounded and connected.

Later, about four miles down the road, Nicole passed me in her car and rolled down her window to wish me good luck again. Moments like that really lift my spirits.

Before leaving Sardis, I stopped at a gas station to stock up on water. The folks inside were curious about my run, and we took some photos together. They couldn’t tell me much about what lay ahead, so I figured it was best to carry extra water just in case.

I merged onto Highway 315, a stretch of road that would take me all the way to the Mississippi River. Knowing this would be a long day, I had booked a hotel room the night before so I could rest well and catch up on my online updates. The only place available before the river was a casino hotel, so I figured it would have to do.

The morning run felt beautiful. Sardis had some morning traffic, but once I passed the line of cars turning left, I kept going straight and soon found myself on quieter roads. The first 14 miles were a series of rolling hills, gentle but persistent. Occasionally, dogs ran after me, which I never enjoy. But soon, as I crested one final hill, the landscape opened up to flat plains and wide-open spaces. It felt incredible.

The morning had been cool and overcast, perfect for running. Later, as the sun pushed through, the temperature and humidity began to rise. Oddly enough, I liked it. The heat sharpened my focus, and I felt light, steady, and strong.

Once I crossed Highway 61 and reached Highway 49, I knew I had about nine miles to go. Traffic remained light for most of the day, making for a peaceful run. About two miles before my destination, I spotted the bridge in the distance. It may not seem remarkable to others, but for me, crossing the Mississippi River feels significant—a goal I've held onto for a long time. Tomorrow morning, I’ll take those steps with fresh legs and a rested mind, savoring the moment.

When I reached the casino hotel, I checked in and asked for the Wi-Fi details. To my frustration, there was barely any signal. The main reason I had booked this room was to work online after my long day, and this seemed to be a recurring issue lately—hotels advertising Wi-Fi that barely works. Even after speaking with the hotel director, who claimed they never promised "free Wi-Fi" (though they clearly did), I knew I couldn’t change the situation. I reminded myself that sometimes, acceptance is the best response. I'll write to them tomorrow as soon as I can access my email.

For now, it’s an early night. Tomorrow, I’ll wake up fresh and ready to cross that bridge, marking yet another milestone in this incredible journey.

Thanks for following along, and I’ll post again as soon as I can. Take care, my friends.