DAY 47 ~ 10/31/21

It was an absolutely gorgeous day to walk, with beautiful blue skies, very little wind and a high of 72°. We walked a total of 15 miles today. The first 8 miles were a welcome site for our feet as the roads were flat and the pavement was not sloped. I needed a break from the hills and sloped pavement that’s for sure. But then the hills came back for the last 7 miles which once again kicked my butt. I think the past 10 consecutive days of these hills are taking its toll! I was moving slower than a turtle for the last 2 miles. It’s also the 13th day in a row of walking without a day off. Five more 16 mile days to go before my next day off this Saturday. Breathe Mary breathe!

On the gravel road section of our walk today, a man with his two sons stopped on the road and asked if we needed a ride. We told him our story and I think he said wow at least 5 times. They were all wearing orange hats so we asked if they were hunting. He was, and ended up telling us all about the hunting season details in Missouri and Arkansas. He also told us about some regulation that happened four years ago which now requires his young son to provide a Social Security card to get him his hunting papers, or something like that. He was very friendly and interesting.

A man waved from his home as he was sitting with his son outside in his yard. He said “Morning! Beautiful day isn’t it? Y’all be careful walking on that highway!”

We again were met with several dogs. Their excitement and connection make my day. My favorite were the goat keepers!!

We spent most of the day on Hwy 115 which was part of The Trail of Tears. I walked with and in honor of the Native Americans today! I shed a tear too.

We ended the day in the cute little town of Pocahontas, AR around 4 PM. We decided to search for a restaurant for dinner while we were there and ate at Hickory BBQ. We all had ribs which were absolutely delicious!!