Day 25 Relax, Day 26 Chandler to Casa Grande – 38 miles

9/20/2014

It’s funny how important a childhood best friend can be. The impact they have on our lives is great immeasurable. Yesterday I had the pleasure of hanging out with my best friend from middle school. Even after many years removed, it the good times are still vivid and fresh in my mind. Conscious of my tight budget, Roger did not expect an extravagant dinner or much fanfare. He was happy to just order pizza, hang with me and Crystal, and watch cable television at the Chandler Hilton. So again the purpose of this journey is about the people. Literacy and fitness are still the main objectives but on an adventure of such magnitude how could it not be about connecting.

Today the holiday was over. It was back to business in a big way. I began my run in the AM hours. I didn’t have many stops and the legs stayed fresh. It was another transition of scenery. The southwestern architecture and desert landscaping gave way to a natural untouched feel. I crossed into the territory of the Gila River Indian tribe. This time we had paved roads the entire way. Good for my running and good for the support vehicle. Once I passed the last of the strip malls and franchises I ran parallel to a canal. It was on my right and hills were on my left. Guarding the hills were saguaro cacti fifteen feet tall. They dotted the landscape. Some were young and others were several centuries old. You could tell from their height and from their protruding arms.

I wasn’t sure if there were more dead animals on the road than usual but I counted about five crushed snakes, a dried out lizard, one petrified scorpion, a decomposing desert wolf, and possibly a rabbit. Of course I observed many lively creatures as well. I enjoyed the smooth grace of eagles in flight. It looked like they were just so calm as they glided through the air. Of course there were dozens of lizards as usual. One of them even tried to race me today. In the town of Sacaton two angry dogs approached me but when I barked back at them they turned tail and ran home. That will teach them to mess with a warrior.

Periodic clouds provided peppered coverage but it was enough to keep me from burning. The weather was actually very cooperative until I was about to reach my destination. A dusty wind kicked up and my vision went hazy. That only lasted a couple minutes and I cruised into the Fiesta Grande RV resort with the notch of 38 miles under my belt. I jumped in the pool for a quick cooldown and hydro therapy. As the refreshing liquid healed my body, my tummy began to rumble loudly. I think the sound resonated through the water. We decided to head to the buildings across the street and ask Chilli’s if they would donate a meal for our cause. A guacamole burger with a black bean patty later, I smiled and I was ready for rest.