Lake Michigan to the Mississippi River

When we crossed the Mississippi River today, i felt an overwhelming sense of accomplishment. I felt satisfied that we had pushed our bodies to carry us across the state of Illinois--over hills and under bridges and through grass and gravel and sticky asphalt. We have both fallen and cursed and laughed. At times, we have both been equally scared and frustrated and tired and famished. We have both slept on the same hard ground each night, under the same rickety tent. We eat the same food and drink the same water. I'm more than grateful for my travel companion. This has been a long 200 miles. I'm ready for hundreds more.

But first, a nap!