1/11/2015

While the ALCO discount store was clearing its inventory and preparing to shut its doors, they still showed generosity and kindness to two weary travelers. We waited for the store to close for the evening before plugging in our trailer. Once the customers had cleared out, we flipped on the heat. The gadget started with a deep guttural growl. A couple weeks ago, when the chills began, the heater made more of a high pitched shriek. These noises did not bode well for our comfort as the coldest of winter days probably still laid ahead.

The heater held out for another evening although the loud sounds periodically shook me in the night. It was in the morning that I received the loudest wake-up call though...

1/9/2015

A frosty mist rolled out of my mouth the moment I stepped out of the trailer. Even though the temperature was frosty and the water beside the road was frozen, I felt comfortable. I ran bundled in a couple shirts, a wool beanie, compression pants and running pants, and a bandana. I was not going to let a little bit of cold slow me down. Yesterday I ended where the 231 met the 20. The numbers of the roads mean very little people that don’t inhabit the area but I thought it would be nice to shed some light on a wonderful road for runners.

As I ran, a never ending corridor of forest green trees protected me from nature’s elements. There were plenty of areas where I could turn into wooded areas but I stayed on the 20 for efficiency...

1/8/2015

Panama City Beach was a stop filled with great people. It would have been great to arrive at a time when school was in session. The beaches I ran past were ghostly due to the weather. When I ran on the sand, I saw only one set of footprints. They were mine. The muted sound was the perfect symphony for my leisurely run.

The morning had started out with word that NBC news in Panama City Beach would be doing an interview about our mission. The momentum of this run was slow to build but as with all organic growth, there is more longevity. Like a marathon versus a sprint, the mindset had to be on completing one step at a time. The interview with reporter Kelly Baumgarten was thorough. Both Crystal and I were impressed at how much information she acquired...