1/31/2015
The sounds from the road have changed slightly from state to state. On my 153rd day on the road, bugs hummed like nature’s engine as I ran along the Tamiani Trail. Birds chirped and of course cars zoomed. As a lady attempted to make an illegal turn, a guy in a large truck screamed obscenities. When I looked around for creatures performing the live soundtrack, I saw nothing. How did such tiny creatures create such big sound?
My first bridge of the day had cyclists racing on the southbound side. I ran against traffic on the northbound side toward Punta Gorda. When I hit the middle of the bridge a large gust blew a chill through my spine yet the sun secretly cooked my skin. The bicycles used as plant holders and decorations gave the town a laid back and organic feel. I was surprised to find the town rather quiet. My day actually passed without much commotion. I found Crystal running towards me from North Fort Meyers in short time. She had run around three and a half miles to meet me and found herself parched. We meandered to a roadside stand to try and purchase squash priced at three for a dollar. Crystal asked them if they accepted credit cards. The kind ladies were unable to process credit card payments but they gave us a couple of mandarin oranges and a bottle of water. This helped power Crystal to the retail center where Crystal had parked the trailer.
My mom, Crystal, and I needed fuel and our luck found us in a shopping center with a Jet’s Pizza. Customers shuffled in and carried out a variety of tasty treats. Of course we ordered a vegetarian pizza with thin crust. The large pizza provided us with nourishment and leftovers. Only when a burning sensation from the jalepenos on my pizza fried the senses on my lips did I realize the power of the Florida sun. I smeared a gob of medicated lip balm on my lips and hit the road.
Right before I was to cross my second and final bridge of the day, I spotted a truck ablaze. It was strange seeing the burning vehicle without hearing sirens from a fire engine. Police directed traffic and guided me towards my destination. While running through downtown Fort Meyers was nice, I was ecstatic to set foot into the Hilton Garden Inn. Kids splashed in the pool, guests dined in the restaurant and I was greeted with open arms and big smiles. The room was quite special as well. It was a king suite with a super huge bathtub. After 34 miles it would be my first priority and my final destination of the day.
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