Lazy day

These dog gone hills are wearing me out, and its so nice to think that its just a preface of things to come. I decided not to bother crossing Tallahassee today. Gonna spend some time resting at a local park up the road, then head up to Mickey dees for supper. After, I will find a nice spot for the night. It's odd that finding a spot to sleep is easier in populated areas. No signs, no fences, just an empty lot with trees that no one takes a second glace at.

Day 17

Yesterday was a long one, about 22 miles, and the latter part of it was spent enjoying the new thrill of hilly terrain. Currently in about 15 miles from Tallahassee, and though looking foward to sidewalks and a store on every corner; not sure if I can cross the city by today which leaves me in a possible territorial dispute with the homeless denizen. A few days back, some older folks stopped and gave me $10. I guess I was looking forlorn, because shortly after, another couple stopped and gave me food. It was milk and cheese, and not something I eat, being lactose intolerant; but they looked so sincere, and I didn't want to offend them. It was a very kind gesture on both counts. I also was given an ice cold Pepsi from someone living alongside the highway. Just now sitting by the side of the road writing this, someone pulled over just to see if I was okay. I have really only started on my westward journey and looking forward to what it holds in store for me.

Fear

On these long stretches between towns I start off my days adventurous and excited for what comes next. But its towards the end of the day that my thoughts turn dark, where I feel like an inept intruder upon an unforgiving landscape. Looking for a place to pitch my tent, away from prying eyes; away from observance or danger, its then that the fear takes root in me and takes on a life of its own. It's not the darkness or the distance, but a constant nagging of the what-ifs or what-thens. Even before the walk, there has always been this fear, of not succeeding, of not becoming what I feel I was meant to become. And its a fear that has often crippled me into static stillness. Which is a main reason I chose to walk across America. There are parts if this journey that are very exciting and adventuresome. But there is also a dangerous and scary side to this walk, that threatens to paralyze me into nervous worry. Especially as the night comes and I need to find a place to sleep. Last night was one if those nights, it was a frenzy of worry and paranoia. I setup my tent and lay down, not unrolling my sleeping bag until an hour had passed, which in my mind marked a timeframe for my escape into the woods to go unnoticed. The night had come and I unrolled my bag and slept. I awoke at 6am to the cars going by and stepped out if my tent to a quiet stillness. It was really quiet beautiful. The pine needles carpeting the ground muffled the sounds of the highway and the faint morning light could be seen through the trees. It was still and peaceful, and thinking about it, was likely that way before I went to sleep. And so the only difference was my perception. And that my fear the previous night drove the beauty away. I started this walk knowing that it was what I needed. That I needed to break out of a shell of static stillness and paralyzed thought. I guess I just need to have faith that things will be okay, otherwise it will be as if I never left, stuck in place.

Perry & Beyond

Today I'm feeling reflective of my life until now and the people (you know who you are) who have chosen to stick with me through life's ups and downs. And find myself grateful for their support. And though walking across America is exciting, its also a little stressful for me but also for those who supported my decision. So, I want to thank everyone who has supported my walk with donations and words of encouragement. I have decided to stay 19 north from Perry then get on 20 through Tallahassee. I mainly want to avoid those long stretches if I can help it, but I also want to avoid bear country. I know, I shouldn't be so worried, but after reading about that bear photographer that got killed by his subject, makes me a little wary. Stopped at WalMart today and picked up a front tire, to hop as a spare. The pavement has worn it down, and I just want to be prepared. I did look for a sweatshirt and sweat pants to help me through this cold spell, but they didn't have any. This is Florida after all and its really not supposed to be this cold. My sleeping bag is toasty, but breaking camp and starting the day with summer clothes and a hoodie does not for a good time make. Feeling kinda lazy and don't expect to make many miles today.

Perry & Beyond

Today I'm feeling reflective of my life until now and the people (you know who you are) who have chosen to stick with me through life's ups and downs. And find myself grateful for their support. And though walking across America is exciting, its also a little stressful for me but also for those who supported my decision. So, I want to thank everyone who has supported my walk with donations and words of encouragement. I have decided to stay 19 north from Perry then get on 20 through Tallahassee. I mainly want to avoid those long stretches if I can help it, but I also want to avoid bear country. I know, I shouldn't be so worried, but after reading about that bear photographer that got killed by his subject, makes me a little wary. Stopped at WalMart today and picked up a front tire, to hop as a spare. The pavement has worn it down, and I just want to be prepared. I did look for a sweatshirt and sweat pants to help me through this cold spell, but they didn't have any. This is Florida after all and its really not supposed to be this cold. My sleeping bag is toasty, but breaking camp and starting the day with summer clothes and a hoodie does not for a good time make. Feeling kinda lazy and don't expect to make many miles today.

Oasis

Went to bed last night at 7 and woke up today at about 10. My feet seem to be getting used to the abuse, as I just checked them and only a small blister to tend to. Last night was cold, but my 0-20 degree bag kept me very warm. Airing out my gear including my sleeping mat which has developed a sort of marshy slime. But as I've officially left the swamps behind (according to the atlas) I should be fine. Also doing laundry. My socks take a terrible beating and leave them with an odor that can only be described as ripe. All in all, I am doing well spiritually. Thanks to all of you who reached out to me with encouragement. Looking at the map, I am very happy with my progress, and have a new route planned. A novelist that I follow on facebook A. American will be in Destin next week. I had hoped to meet him, but not sure of the timing. I'm just taking the day to renew and rest, but I am restless. I'm so used to walking now that, not walking seems odd.

Made it!

Made it to Perry and the first gas station is a Sunoco which also happens to be the office for the campground behind. Kinda pricey at $10 a night, but couldn't walk the extra 10 miles for a cheaper fare. I got two nights, and just took a shower. My feet are torn up. Many new blisters and soreness footwide. The campground is kinda trailer parky, but compared to the days stealth camping, just heavenly. And having a convenience store so close is just, well, convenient. I'm so glad to be here, and away from the walk for a few days. I already promised myself to stop doing stupid stuff, and my Id agrees. My other resolution is to get out of the swamp and to a more reasonably forested area.