A Rainy, Challenging Day

I knew today was going to be a long one, so I got up early, prepared myself, and was out on the road just after 6 AM. It was still dark, and the weather forecast had promised rain. Well, it didn’t take long for that prediction to come true. What started as a drizzle quickly turned into steady rain, soaking me right from the beginning.

Fifteen miles in, I reached Biscoe. Drenched and unsure whether to stop or push through, I hesitated before stepping into a small store. That’s when I met Angie, who greeted me kindly and immediately offered me the restroom to dry off a little. It was a small but much-needed moment of kindness. When I stepped back outside, to my surprise, the rain had momentarily stopped. A small win.

Highway 70 stretched ahead of me, often resembling a levee with water on both sides. Along the way, I noticed signs marking the area as part of the Civil War Heritage Trail and the Trail of Tears. I crossed several rivers, a reminder of how much water defines this landscape.

At mile 25, as I reached Hazen, a pain in my left leg started creeping in. It wasn’t too alarming, but I decided to be cautious, alternating between walking and running. No need to push too hard today.

Then, about ten miles before Carlisle, the rain came back in full force. I was drenched once again, longing for a warm, dry place to rest. Just two miles before my destination, I made a quick stop for groceries—fruits, water, yogurt, rice, and cereal bars—only to realize after walking out that the cashier hadn’t given me one of my bags. Exhausted, I forced myself to go back to the store, only to find that the bag was gone. Frustrated but determined, I went through the store again, picking up everything I had bought earlier. Now, at least, I had my fruits.

Finally, I arrived at the hotel, only to be told that my reservation had been canceled. The man at the reception then tried to charge me more for a new booking. Not having any of that, I insisted on the original price, which I eventually got. But when I reached my room, another small misfortune struck—I couldn’t find the key. I searched my pockets, checked every compartment of my buggy, and retraced my steps outside. Just as I was about to give up, I found it slipped down into the rear bag of my buggy. What a day.

Thinking I could finally settle in, I was met with yet another inconvenience—no WiFi in my room. So here I am, sitting in the hotel office, longing for a hot shower, food, and sleep.

Some days are just harder than others. The small difficulties pile up, and my patience wears thin. But even on tough days, I remind myself why I’m here. I love this journey. I love moving forward step by step, meeting incredible people, and experiencing the world on foot. Today was a challenge, but tomorrow is a new day.

Thanks for reading. See you tomorrow.