DAY 22 ~ 10/6/21

I felt 100% better today. Walked 17.2 miles total, walking through the rest of Pekin Illinois and then on a wonderfully quiet paved farm road the rest of the day. Weather was cloudy with a nice wind to keep me cool. Passed by a coal power plant. Don’t think I’ve ever been that close to one. Went over a bridge going over railroad tracks with miles of railroad cars filled with coal. What a sight!

Joan walked the first 11.7 miles before lunch. Clarence picked her up on his way to me at our arranged stopping point which was 12.7 miles from our starting point this morning. About half way, she started walking crooked. She said she hurt her hip and back from carrying her backpack with uneven weight distribution. She said she wasn’t in pain and just had a kink. I asked if I could carry her backpack for her, but she said she’ll be alright. After a short while of her walking crooked I told her I will take her backpack. She again said no but I said I’ve done it before so I know I can carry one on my back and one on my front. I asked her to take it off so I could show her. I carried it the rest of the way for her. So glad I could help, as she’s been such a help to me. I had to take a selfie to remember the moment.

I walked another 4.5 miles after lunch on my own this afternoon. There were a few sprinkles but didn’t need to even take my rain coat out. It’s been a three week stretch without rain. Unreal. The RV was waiting for me again at my arranged stopping point and just as I approached it, a car with two men stopped and asked if I needed a ride. I touched the RV and said this is my ride. Perfect timing!!!

I worked another 3+ hours tonight. My eyes are really tired again. Gonna be an early night that’s for sure!!