DAY 21 ~ 10/5/21

Had to say goodbye to Paige after she dropped us off at our starting point today. We both shed some tears again. This is so hard! But it’s bringing us closer together in a way. Sounds strange but it’s how it feels.

I walked 13.1 miles today. Joan made it until the last few blocks and had us come get her. We were both dragging today. I found this to be my most challenging day. Had to push through and give it everything I had. I think what got me was we did 5.1 miles before lunch (Joan and I ate at Panera-yum) then 8 miles after. I’m used to the reverse order. Lesson learned. I’m better in the morning for the long portions. It was really great to see Clarence and the RV at the stopping point. It seemed like it took an eternity today.

We walked through the rest of Peoria all day, then south to Pekin. We walked over the Illinois River. Was a beautiful view from the bridge on both sides. Was really cool to walk the places Paige and I drove around last night.

I’ve officially crossed the 300 mile mark and 3 weeks on the journey, which is about 20% to the goal. Hard to believe I’ve come this far already, and even harder to believe I’ve got 80% left to do.

Joan made a tater tot casserole tonight that was fantastic!! I’m so grateful for her willingness and for everything she does!! I’m also very grateful for all Clarence does with the RV. He also does our grocery shopping and fixes whatever needs fixing. I would be lost without both of them!!!

I worked almost 4 hours this afternoon. I’m pretty beat after this strenuous and full day. Gonna sleep well tonight.

The link to yesterday’s news video segment and story is below. We were told it was going to be on the 6, 9 and 10 o’clock news segments. Paige and I were gone for the 6 o’clock time slot so watched the 9 o’clock news. Unfortunately our story didn’t make it. We couldn’t keep our eyes open for the 10 o’clock segment so we didn’t see it live . Clarence told us about it this morning. The news and weather anchors talked a bit after the story which doesn’t appear in the link below. They were really shocked I was going 1440 miles, and the weather guy said that he thinks he gets 1440 steps a day, jokingly. Then the news anchor mentioned walking all those miles that she might be there by Christmas. Too funny!!

News Link

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