The Journey Home
This post is dedicated to describing the last few days of the 10k or Less - MIDWEST project. They were not like the other days of the project, in that I think it is in these final days I truly stopped worrying about the task I was trying to accomplish. I had enjoyed the entirety of the trip, but these moments were different. Heading towards home, I thought of the road behind.
Last Nights
I spent many nights by myself on the road. Whether it was in the awkward cramped space of my Jeep, the weirdly spacious 5 person tent, or even swinging in my hammock I was usually alone. I spent a lot of this time thinking about why I had done this. Why set out on this trip? I came to the conclusion that there doesnt always have to be a point to things, just enjoy them.
Boss, MO - Table Talk at the Yard Sale
With a population of 288, Boss was one of the smaller towns I visited. However, this crew right here is one of the most lively and character filled bunch I've ever spoken with. Every year they get together and have a yard sale. I just happened to roll into town on the day of the Sale, and walked away with a few stories and keepsakes to remember to town by.
Alto Pass, IL - Grammer's - The Flying Pig
My stop in Alto Pass was brief, and it was spent mostly at Grammer's eating my fill.
These are my favorite types of places to eat. The place in the middle of nowhere, that serves the most kickass sandwhich you've never heard of.
New Harmony, IN - Sara's - Harmonie Bier
How often is that you get to drink the oldest beer in Indiana? Well if you live in New Harmony, IN or go to Sara's, quite often.
The egg salad sandwhich was decent, but the conversation with locals was even better. Lots of people drinking with family and friends on the weekend.
New Harmony, IN - New Harmony Labyrinth
A symbol of New Harmony and the Harmonists who settled the area originally in the early 19th century. It was a place of meditation and reflection. It focuesed on internal or self evaluation, using a labryinth to represent this.
Corydon, IN - Frederick's Cafe - Patty Melt
The old state capitol, Corydon is both historic and lively. With plenty to do and explore, I really did not have enough time for the town.
I did not have enough time for a lot of the towns I visited. Still, I don't know if I would change the format of the trip, I liked seeing so many places and meeting a ton of people.
But with that comes the problem of never staying in one place to long.
The sandwhich was really good, but my mind was elsewhere.
There and Back
Day one of my trip on the left, and day 30 on the right. Thanks to my family for believing and trusting in me enough to take on this adventure, I know it probably stressed you out (mom).
10k or Less: Midwest
This concludes the first leg of the 10k or Less Project. I have learned so much. About myself, about the places I visited, about people, and about what's important. If you've come this far, thank you for reading. The journey was made possible, and more fun by people like you. I look forward to finding out what waits around the next bend in the road, so long for now.
-L.J.