1/3/2015
The sound of voices woke me early. People were heading to the lobby for the complimentary breakfast. In the middle of the street, vendors were setting up stands with arts, crafts, and food. Many of them wandered in and out of the hotel lobby greeting the staff.
The weather report had predicted rain for several days and it made me cautious. For my run to Navarre, the rain never showed up. Instead, warm rays of sunlight tickled my skin. The cold temperatures of the rest of the country danced in my mind as I bathed in the light. I figured my turn had come for a nice running day. For my warm up, I perused the stalls of the downtown farmer’s market.
Obstacles have been around every corner. I turned a corner and there was my first obstacle of the day. The obstacle was several miles long. Yet again, I had to cross a bridge. Yet again, there was nothing that separated me from speeding motorists. On this day however, I ran with my back to the traffic. I could hear my heartbeat in my head. As the cars sped past me, missing me my inches, I said to myself, “Just take another step.” Those words kept my feet stepping.
Many miles after I had conquered the bridge, a guy in a truck pulled up next to me and told me he saw me crossing the bridge. He wanted to tell me I was doing a good job. It’s funny how those words of encouragement put a smile on my face. While the changing environment and wildlife had fueled my run, the compliment gave me a second wind. After our little chat about my mission, he asked, “Do you need a ride to town?”
I was happy to answer, “No, thanks though. I’m only a couple miles away.” The chat was like a little pep talk. I cruised to the Best Western Navarre. The air stayed warm despite the descending night. In the distance I could see an island with several skyscrapers. The view was grander from the hotel. I could see a long bridge connecting the mainland to the island. When I stepped into the room I started a salt bath. I would soak away another completed day.
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