Distance Walked Today: 42 km
Total distance = 1972km
Yesterday, I had to take a rest day due to cold and fever. I stayed at the Copper Mountain Motel, kindly hosted by Sonal Behen. On the night of March 2nd, I couldn’t sleep well because of the illness. But Sonal Behen’s mother lovingly cooked Pav Bhaji for lunch—it was warm, delicious, and full of care. The family showed such kindness, offering me two nights at their motel. I am deeply grateful for their hospitality and love. Thank you so much, Raju Bhai and Alpesh Bhai, for connecting me with such a lovely family.
This morning, my health was still not great, but I took some medicine that helped me walk a bit. The route was uphill and challenging. I wasn’t sure how long I could continue, but I didn’t give up—I kept moving forward. Around 1 PM, I felt drained and had no appetite, but I knew I couldn’t walk much farther without food. I ate some snacks gifted by Dr. Namitha Ji from Phoenix and Prerana Kulkarni Ji from San Jose (she had sent them by parcel). Their care gave me energy.
The road today—Highway 60 East—was rough. Until Superior, it was a four-lane road, but afterward, it became just two lanes with no sidewalk. It was dangerous. Twice, trucks had to brake hard right in front of me. I had nowhere to move. Thankfully, the drivers were alert—I’m lucky to be safe.
After about 3 km of walking through the cactus-filled desert I’ve seen for the past 20 days, I entered a different ecosystem. The land changed—no more Saguaro cacti, and instead, red rocks, larger trees, and more greenery. The temperature also dropped. It’s now about 5°C in Globe, and it will go down to -2°C or lower as I head towards Show Low.
Midday, I felt both mentally and physically exhausted. I lay down on the earth for a 10-minute rest. After walking just 1 km more, I realized I’d left my phone behind. I had to walk back, leaving my trolley by the roadside, and thankfully found my phone lying on the ground where I had rested. My mind was clearly tired.
This region, Apache County, has many copper mines. I seen large copper mining areas. I know it was once a prosperous place. As I entered Miami town, I saw some ghost houses—perhaps signs of a declining economy.
By 7 PM, I reached Globe, a charming town with beautiful old buildings and plenty of restaurants. My destination was USA Inn, where Daxa Behen was waiting for me. She welcomed me warmly and gave me a cozy room. Her family has been here for many years. She’s originally from Gujarat, India, and heard about me through Raju Bhai.
Daxa Behen had prepared a delicious meal and welcomed me with such joy and warmth. It was a beautiful experience of Gujrati hospitality, and it lifted my spirits.
Looking ahead, my next big destination is Show Low, about 140 km away. It’s mostly an empty road, with little to no water sources along the way. On Sunday, Vasu Gooty Bhai from Phoenix will drive out to meet me with supplies of water and food to help me continue this journey through the barren stretch.
With deep gratitude and love,
S. Nitin 😇🙏❤️