Genk to Sint Truiden – 32km (yesterday)
20C
Terrain: cycle paths and country roads

Rest day today! Well needed, my calf muscles were literally screaming at me yesterday. I think an average of almost 35km per day for the past 7 days had taken its toll.

Yesterday was quite possibly one of the least rewarding days so far in terms of route (and this seems to affect my morale a little).

The day started with what was essentially a strip mall (but with a wonderful cycle highway).

 

 

 

 

 

 

Then it wasn’t so bad with some trees and one of the largest canal locks I have ever seen.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Different shades of grey…

 

 

 

 

 

 

Then the last two thirds or so, I didn’t see any real nature at all. Mostly one long very straight road with buildings of some description all the way along (the sun did come out though). It might be that Belgium is more densely populated but it may have just been specific to this stretch.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Some familiar brands popping up now, getting closer to home (France).

 

 

 

 

 

 

This being said, towards the end I did have one of the most amazing ice creams I’ve had so far on this trip, hmmm. I think I will be a qualified ice cream ‘taster’ by the end of this.

 

 

 

 

 

I was pretty pleased to eventually get to Sint Truiden (which by the way is another very beautiful town).

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

After some rest and relaxation I’m feeling perked up and hopefully ready to go again tomorrow morning.

If I’m honest, I’ve found the last few days a little tougher mentally. I’m not sure whether it’s because the novelty has worn off or because I’m finally feeling a little lonely. Woe is me! Loneliness was definitely something I had expected before I started out (I love the time I spend with friends and family) and I’ve been quite surprised that I haven’t really felt it so far.

I think it’s a combination of knowing I’m going to see people I know quite soon (my mum is going to join me in 10 days) and at the same time knowing that I’ll be missing my wonderful friends’, Greg and Jen’s, wedding next week. I love you both and will be there in spirit!

I suppose the reality is that I have the luxury of feeling this loneliness while knowing that the people closest to me are alive and well and I can speak to them frequently, something I am truly grateful for. The sad reality is that many refugees (one of the main reasons I am undertaking this challenge for those who are new) have no idea where their families are, not to mention whether they are deal or alive.

I am indeed incredibly lucky and so very grateful for the all the amazing support I have had so far.

In the mean time, I have Bob to keep me company!