JOURNAL FOR WEEK TEN
August 25 through August 31, 2006

Paul Completed The Run Across America In 108 Running Days

FRIDAY, AUGUST 25:  48 MILES -  Highest Mileage Day Of The Trek  (Sunny, 80 Degrees) [Total: 1,631]
Stopping Location: Milbank, South Dakota (click here to see the location via MapQuest)
Stopping Elevation: 1,152 Feet

DAY 64: Note from Rob: [Paul called at 12:15 p.m. his time]  He is passed the halfway mark.  He has a long day today with 48 miles planned.  He is 26 miles into the run with 22 to go.  The halfway point was at Rush Lake, South Dakota and Paul made another video that I will get next week.  I am expecting a CD of week 8 any time.

Entry from Paul: Wow!!!  What a Day!  This morning I reached the milestone of the half way point of this trek.  The 1,600 mile marker was at Rush Lake, South Dakota and I stopped and made a brief video that I will be mailing tomorrow.  It is really good to be at the point that I have more miles behind me than in front of me. 

Today's total distance was 48 miles from Webster to Milbank, South Dakota - the longest mileage day so far.  The weather was clear, 80 degrees and only slight winds. I did the 48 miles in 12 hours and am pleased with that time considering the weight of "Bob" and the total distance of the run so far.  Today's 48 mile day is definitely the farthest I'll run in a single day on this trek.  Tomorrow will be a 33 mile day to Milan, Minnesota where I'll stay in a Bed and Breakfast. 

I am currently 10 miles away from the Minnesota Border and will enter that state around 8:00 a.m. tomorrow. 

I am really looking forward to the journey through Minnesota and it is at this point in the run that  there will be more towns and people each day that I continue east.  Some of you have asked about the humidity and if I am experiencing problems due to that and I can say that my body is acclimating well and it appears the humidity is not hindering my performance. 

In closing today I want to answer a question that Glen Small recently posted in the guestbook.  He wants to know what the most unusual thing is that I have seen along the side of the road.  Glen's question sprang into my mind this morning around the 12 mile mark of my day when I glanced down and saw a set of false teeth! I got a good chuckle out of it and can only imagine why someone's teeth could have flown out their car window.  I tried to call Glen, who is a friend, but was unable to reach him.  So, Glen, I hope you're reading this. 

That's about all for today, and tomorrow South Dakota will be in my rear view mirror.  Time to ice and rest.

Guestbook Entries For Today:

  Wave goodbye to the Dakota's!! Wave once for me as well! I really hope that the people I talked with today are indicitive as to the ones we will talk too the rest of the trip! Enjoy your homemade ice cream in Milan, Minnesota. Keep looking forward to the Atlantic. Good job! - Diana (Missoula, Montana)

  Nice job on the run; sometimes dream of doing it myself one day. Good luck on the 2nd half. - Mark (Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania)

  Paul - We enjoy reading your logs and continue to watch and follow you daily. Your reports in South Dakota reminded us of the hot, humid, stormy, unpredictable days the plains can throw at you. You've handled this stretch as if you were running on a treadmill in an air-conditioned rec center. Your resolve, strength, attitude, and determination in all areas - physically, mentally and emotionally is impressive and inspirational! Adam asked what place you were in and while we explained it is not a race with others we did tell him you were dominating the figurative challengers (emotional, mental, etc...). We're thinking and talking about you regularly... Congratulations on your progress and God bless and God speed - The Huse Family [Brad, Kelly, Adam, Drew, and Ty] (Bozeman, Montana)

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SATURDAY, AUGUST 26:  33 MILES (Sunny, 82 Degrees) [Total Mileage to Date: 1,664]
Stopping Location: Appleton, Minnesota (click here to see the location via MapQuest)
Stopping Elevation: 1,007 Feet

DAY 65:  This morning I crossed into the state of Minnesota! It's sooooo good to be done with the Dakotas. I finally feel like the west is behind me. I have now completed the states of Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Montana, North Dakota and South Dakota. Whew! I'm beyond the half way point and am nearing the 1,700 mile mark. I feel pretty good at this point. The reason I say "pretty good" is because I'm a bit tired. In the past 36 hours I've run 81 miles - which is more than 3 marathons. The temperature was 82 degrees today with sunny skies... and 88% humidity. The forecast is for much of the same.

I wanted to put yesterday's 12-hour run of 48 miles into perspective for any students who may be reading this... particularly the students from Russell Elementary in Missoula, Montana who participated in the virtual run across America last school year. If you were to run from Missoula to Hamilton, that would be about 48 miles. Or, if you were to run from Missoula to Drummond. Also, if you were to go to a standard 1/4 mile running track you would have to do 192 laps around the track to equal 48 miles. Now, think about doing that while pushing 65 pounds the entire way. That's sort of what it's like out on the road. Of course, there are other factors that I contend with on a daily basis... such as weather, road conditions, elevations, cars, people, and more. I often have people tell me, or write to me, that they are absolutely amazed that I can cover such long distances on a daily basis. Much of my ability is rooted in my personal faith, a tenacious determination, acquired mental strength, and a genuine physical ability to withstand hours on the road. Many athletes possess these qualities and I am certainly not "unique" in the world of ultra-marathon runners - or "journey" runners. I may be unique to you because you don't personally know anyone else who can do such extreme running. For me, it's just something I can do well... and I am very motivated to cross the entire United States and stop when my running shoes have touched the edge of the Atlantic Ocean.

Today was a challenge for me. To begin a 33 mile run a mere 12 hours after getting off the road from a 48 mile run is not easy. As I write this, I'm tired. However, tomorrow will be an easy 25 miles to the town of Montevideo, Minnesota. I'm looking forward to getting off the road early and relaxing.

All is well. I am in my 7th state of this 15-state trek across America. Minnesota is green and is a location I've looked forward to reaching. I will be in this state for the next 10 days. Thanks for stopping by to see how I'm doing. Tonight I am in a bed and breakfast that is very nice. My host, Nancy, made a wonderful dinner and even did my laundry for me! What a treat! A few local runners will join me tomorrow morning for the initial miles of my day, and I warned them that I may be slow to begin with. The 81 miles I've completed in the last 36 hours will take a bit to loosen up from.

Until next time, please know that runners are people too. Be kind if you see them on the edge of the road.

Guestbook Entries For Today:

  Great Job...We saw you when you were just outside Lemmon, SD. Wanted to wish you well and say that although we did not stop and and talk to you we have continued to pray for you to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Keep up the faith. - Joyce Peterson (Haynes, North Dakota)

  Paul, Congratulations on "getting over the hump" and crossing the half-way point. I keep watching your progress with a mix of awe and envy. I hope to get to meet you at the finish. Stay safe out there! - Wayne Baker (New Jersey)

  Way to go Paul! You're half way home - what a remarkable feat! Congratulations! It must be a great feeling to know you are on the downhill side of this adventure! We're all pulling for you and can't wait to read about your adventures every day! Take care! - Jan Bixler (Missoula, Montana)

  Congrats on being more than halfway finished. I think the cause is just great and hope all is blue skies and open road to complete the journey. - Leo Helmer (Juneau, Alaska)

  Wow!!!!!!!!  GREAT JOB! - The SerVoss Family (Missoula, Montana)

  Congratulations on entering the last half of your run. It is wonderful to know that Vicki and the kids are home safe. They too are great troopers in the run! Without their total support and love this run would not be a success. Congratulations to ALL the Paul Staso Family! I look forward to the updates and the ultimate successful finish in Delaware (I understand they have a great Ice Cream Store in Lewes). Stay safe and healthy. - Irene (Missoula, Montana)

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SUNDAY, AUGUST 27:  25 MILES (Sunny, 82 Degrees) [Total Mileage to Date: 1,689]
Stopping Location: Montevideo, Minnesota (click here to see the location via MapQuest)
Stopping Elevation: 932 Feet

DAY 66: This morning started out with a group run involving a few runners from Milan, Minnesota.  We ran together for a while and then I continued on my own to Montevideo, MN.  It was a 25-mile day.  The weather was the same as yesterday, warm and humid, and I had my third flat tire in 1,700 miles. 

The country road I ran on today had a nice wide shoulder and very little traffic.  I arrived in Montevideo a little after 2:00 p.m. and enjoyed a relaxing afternoon. Tonight I am in a Motel and tomorrow morning I will be on the road at 5:30 a.m. to do the 39 mile day to Marshall, Minnesota.  The weather is forecasted to stay the same. 

I still feel a bit tired from the 48-mile day I put in a few days ago and tomorrow's distance will be the farthest planned until I reach Rochester, MN. Some of you may not be aware that there are PACE run shirts for sale. The proceeds help fund this trek across America.  Please consider getting yours today. Thanks for checking in and I'll keep running.

Guestbook Entries For Today:

  Hi - I am soooo proud of you for your running, and all because you are fulfilling your promise to our kids at Russell (and of course, due to that daughter of yours!!). At any rate, keep up the good work and be safe from all those who are not. Will you please have Vicki tell me (or you) when you think you'll be in Peoria; my parents want to get a hold of the Peoria Journal Star and they want to know the details of your arrival! Take care! - Joan Kuchel (Missoula, Montana)

  Via a club member I read about your adventures over there. Fantastic that you have done halfway. This club member - Björn Suneson - will do the same thing as you do now in 2007. So I wish you all the luck and hope you will be without injuries during your "trip". Good Luck PAUL !!!!! You will make it!! - Arnold Mulder (Gothenburg, Sweden)

  Just a quick note to let you know that I am still following your progress. Can't imagine 48 miles in one day and then up again in the morning and back on the road. Hard to believe that one has such dedication!! I had a really good laugh when you shared your funniest find (set of dentures) to Glen and all of us. I can't imagine what one person thought when they woke up one morning without their teeth!! Quite an expensive loss. Take care of those feet and keep on pounding the pavement! God be with you. - Bobbi Patton (Elliston, Montana)

  Keep it up Paul. Still checking in everyday and following your progress. You are great!!!! - Jonathan Wright (Kuna, Idaho)

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MONDAY, AUGUST 28:  39 MILES (Rain, 70 Degrees) [Total Mileage to Date: 1,728]
Stopping Location: Marshall, Minnesota (click here to see the location via MapQuest)
Stopping Elevation: 1,161 Feet

DAY 67: I was in my rain gear all day! I ran 39 miles from Montevideo to Marshall, Minnesota today in 70-degree temperatures and steady rain. Highway 59 took me south all day long... and if I didn't start going south I would eventually end up running into the Great Lakes. I will now be heading east on Highway 14 in the direction of Rochester, Minnesota. I was contacted by a television station there today and we've arranged an interview during my day off in Rochester on September 5.

My life was nearly reduced to a memorial cross on the edge of the road today. Two teenage boys in a car thought it would be funny to swerve their car in my direction to splash me with a puddle of water. The driver, who was traveling at around 55 mph, began to head toward the puddle while the boys had wild-eyed, laughing faces and then they started to hydroplane. The back end of the car started to slide and "Bob" and I had to simply fall to the left in the mud and gravel to try and avoid the back end of the car. He barely missed me and then put the brakes on to regain control, but only after he had sufficiently sprayed me with water and some rocks. As soon as I rose to my feet, he took off. I tried to get the license plate number, but didn't get it all. He was from Minnesota and this happened on Highway 59 just north of Clarkfield. When I pulled "Bob" over onto his side I slightly strained the lateral muscle on the inside of my left knee. It bothered me the rest of the day and tonight I am icing it. I've had the worst experiences with teenage drivers! Some have intentionally pulled their speeding cars as close to the shoulder as possible to apparently try to scare me. They just don't think that one wrong move on their part could end my run... and my life... permanently. I have a wife and four kids I want to make it home to, and this morning a teenage boy nearly took my life and could have destroyed my entire family. Yes, I was upset. Perhaps it's a good thing that he kept on driving.

Tomorrow I will run to Walnut Grove, the town where Laura Ingalls-Wilder grew up in the story books. I'll be staying with a family there for the evening. It will be a 30 mile day and the forecast is for sunny skies.

I have completed 1,728 miles of this trek so far and am 54% done with the journey across America. I'm truly enjoying Minnesota and all of the green grass, trees, and even the rain. It's such a change after being in the dry, brown, rather desolate countryside of eastern Montana and the Dakotas.

Today the Juneau Empire newspaper in Juneau, Alaska printed a story about P.A.C.E. Run 2006 and that story is included below. Juneau is the town where I attended and graduated from high school. I have fond memories of Juneau and am grateful to the Juneau Empire for printing a story.

From the Juneau Empire:

Paul's running adventure Juneau-Douglas High School graduate trying to run across the continental U.S. By LEO HELMAR JUNEAU EMPIRE The saying goes that even a journey of 1,000 miles must begin with a single step. Courtesy of Paul Staso   On the road: Paul Staso takes a break in Montana during his cross-country run in August. Next to him is his stroller, which carries a tent, shoes, water, clothes and other essentials. Paul Staso, a 1983 Juneau-Douglas High School graduate and Internet marketing specialist in Missoula, Mont., has already eclipsed the amount of miles used as hyperbole in the proverb. With gusto, endurance and the fourth- and fifth-grade classes at Russell Elementary in Missoula behind him, the 41-year-old hopes to run until there isn't anymore continent. His goal is 3,200 miles, from Haystack Rock in Cannon Beach, Ore., to Cape Henlopen State Park in Lewes, Del. When Staso completes his journey, he may be the first person to run across the continental United States to settle a bet. He wagered with the students at Russell Elementary, where his wife, Vicki, teaches physical education, that if they ran the equivalent of 3,200 miles during the 2005-06 school year, then he'd do it for real. The wager helped the kids get fit in Missoula, but also meant that Staso is now in Day 66 of his journey as he enters Minnesota. He is just over halfway to his goal now. As of Sunday, he had just finished running through the Dakotas. Today is Day 66 of his journey. He's also kept a running log of his travels on his Web site, www.pacerun.com. "I have now completed the states of Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Montana, North Dakota and South Dakota," Staso said on his online journal. "Whew! I'm beyond the half-way point and am nearing the 1,700-mile mark. I feel pretty good at this point. The reason I say 'pretty good' is because I'm a bit tired. In the past 36 hours I've run 81 miles - which is more than three marathons."   A few miles down, a few thousand to go: Paul Staso poses with a highway in Montana in front of him during his run across the country. After 66 days, the 1983 JDHS grad has just entered Minnesota. He plans to touch down in lower Delaware in late September. Along his journey, he's pushing a 20-pound stroller that carries essentials, such as water, a tent, shoes and clothing. It is also equipped with a solar panel to power his global positioning system, phone and iPod. Staso's name shouldn't be unfamiliar to folks in Juneau. He graduated from JDHS in 1983, and was a member of the track and field team from 1980-1983. During his Crimson Bears track days, Staso held a number of Region V records and was a regional champ in the 110-meter high hurdles. He was also a torch bearer for the 2002 Winter Olympics. This isn't the first time Staso has tried to run across the country. In 1986, he attempted to break the record for a U.S. crossing with a 46-day jaunt from San Francisco to New York City. In the attempt, billed as "Trans-America '86," Staso received sponsorships from Timex, Gatorade and a laundry list of other corporations. Thirty-six miles into his adventure, however, a ligament injury forced Staso to end his quest. People can follow along with Staso's journey on his Web site. In addition to journal entries, there are photos and videos of his journey, along with biographical information and a detailed history of people who tried to run across the country. The curriculum and story of the Russell Elementary runners achievement is on www.seeusrun.com.

Guestbook Entries For Today:

  Wow! Just read the Juneau Empire this morning and I think it is great what you are doing. Thought I would give you my verse from the Bible that I liked when I was training for my marathon. "You broaden the path beneath me, so that my ankles do not turn." Psalm 18:36. Here are a few other verses that I gave my Pastor when he was running the Mt. Roberts Tram Run. "It is God who arms me with strength and makes my way perfect. He makes my feet like the feet of deer; he enables me to stand on the heights." Psalm 31-33. Keep up the pace and don't look back. I love all the pictures. I think "Bob" is a great friend to be running with you. Reminds me of "Wilson" from the Castaway movie. I bet "Bob" is great company. Have a great day. God Bless. - Darla Orbistondo (Juneau, Alaska)

  Push on, Paul!!! Great pictures. Your family has really 'grown up' since we've last seen you all. We are proud of you and all you've accomplished thus far. Stay safe... - Sharmin McCalla (Phoenix, Arizona)

  Your incredible. Been following you for a week now via your web-site, told some people from my running club and they tell me that they're following your progress too. I'm now searching for my Credit Card to make a donation. So from all the members of city of Norwich Athletics Club (CoNAC) in the UK we wish you all the best... we'll be watching you!!!! Good Luck Adam. - Adam Lewis (Norwich - Great Britain)

  I took photos of you for the Juneau Empire when you were in high school and I remember your first try to run coast to coast. Good luck. - Brian Wallace (Juneau, Alaska)

  Saw a story about your run in our local paper this morning. Very impressive. Remember that the really rough days are important for good storytelling (easy for me to say from my comfortable chair). Best of luck. - Dan Robinson (Juneau, Alaska)

  Paul - WOW! You've surpassed the halfway mark and are now in territory I know quite well. I graduated from Luther College in Decorah, Iowa. When you get into town give a shout out for the LC Norse First, though, you are going to be running through some very beautiful parts of Minnesota. Have a great run! I sure hope I get to meet up with you when you are in Cedar Rapids. Keep up the fantastic work! Your determination to see this through is inspirational. All the best. - Amanda Freese (Cedar Rapids, Iowa)

  People like you Paul, keep the world moving! I wish the best for you!!! - Marcelo Stucky (Lindau, Germany)

  Half way came and I forgot to say anything! I was just so glad that you were out of the Dakotas and I wouldn't have to listen to Diana about lodging anymore that it went right by me! Anyhow... way to go! You're doing a fantastic job and no doubt will make it! I know your average of 12 hours off the road seem to fly by, and the hours pounding the pavement seem to take forever, but before you know it you'll be looking at the Atlantic realizing your dream. You'll be a member of a small group of people! YOU'LL BE A CELEBRITY!!! Congrats on the half way... here's to more miles behind you and fewer in front! - Stacey Rossmiller (Missoula, Montana)

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TUESDAY, AUGUST 29:  30 MILES (Sunny, 78 Degrees) [Total Mileage to Date: 1,758]
Stopping Location: Walnut Grove, Minnesota (click here to see the location via MapQuest)
Stopping Elevation: 1,217 Feet

DAY 68: Hello from the home of Laura Ingalls Wilder. Yep... I'm in the town of Walnut Grove, Minnesota. It's where the "Little House on the Prairie" is, according to the writings of Laura Ingalls Wilder. Today I ran 30 miles from the town of Marshall and I crossed Plum Creek on my way into Walnut Grove. If you've never visited the hometown of the Ingalls family, you really should. There is a wonderful museum here (www.walnutgrove.org/museum.htm), and there is certainly signs of the Ingalls family around each turn. I appreciate Nicole Elzenga, the Collections Manager of the Laura Ingalls Wilder Museum, for taking time to meet with me.

Tonight I'm staying at the ranch of Bruce Johnson in Walnut Grove. Bruce and his friend, Sunny Ruthchild, made me a wonderful dinner and helped to contribute to my daily caloric needs. Sunny owns Merryweather Gardens and provided some wonderful vegetables for dinner. I will certainly sleep well tonight with my appetite satisfied.

Tomorrow I will be running 25 miles to Springfield, Minnesota and it will be nice to have an easy day... and the weather is supposed to be like it was today (Sunny and in the upper 70s). There's not much shoulder on this Highway 14, but I'm doing my best. I did end up getting a flat tire today, but that only makes 4 flats in 1,758 miles. It is time, however, for new tires for "Bob" and I plan to put those on in Rochester, Minnesota, when I arrive there in the next few days.

Today was a day for being stopped on the road by curious onlookers. The Marshall Independent newspaper printed a story about the run and I had a lot of cars stop on the shoulder of the road. I ended up getting one hour behind pace as a result of roadside conversations, and that makes a difference on a long day. Luckily, today was a shorter day of only 30 miles. Now that I'm in more populated areas, I believe this will occur more often. I'm going to try and limit individual roadside conversations to no longer than 5 minutes (unless it's a reporter). If I don't put a limit on how long conversations last, I won't be home in time for Christmas! I'm currently on pace to wrap up this trek around October 20th.

Also, I'm going to limit the time that runners can be with me on the road to around 30 minutes - and preferably within the first half of the day. Any longer than that and I find that I get off pace and lose my focus on my day's running. I truly hope that runners can understand this.

There are some exciting things being lined up for my visit in Rochester and I'm looking forward to that stop on the road. Actually, I look forward to every day and each place I get to visit. This is a great journey and I'm really enjoying it!

Brett is maintaining the web site for the next few days while Rob is busy with some other matters as his teaching year gets underway. I truly appreciate both Brett and Rob for all that they do to keep this site current. I've got another CD of pictures to mail out, and some more videos. So, there will be more things to see soon. It's time to ice my legs and wrap up the day. By the way, my left knee is feeling pretty good.  I was a little concerned after yesterday's incident with the teenage drivers, but it is going to be fine. Talk to you later from another milepost down the road!

Guestbook Entries For Today:

  Hi Paul. How scary that those teenagers just about ran you over! I have been remembering to keep your safety and health in my prayers and I am so glad to hear that you are okay. What a bunch of jerks! I am really enjoying reading your journal, looking at the photos and videos and keeping track of how you are doing. I must say that this has made me more aware of joggers and of giving them a lot of room when I drive by. Keep up the good work. I am glad to hear it has cooled off for you. - Chris Benson (Missoula, Montana)

  You are an inspiration to us all! Best wishes to you on the rest of your journey and safe travels! God's Blessings upon you! - Tammy (Marshall, Minnesota)

  Paul, I don't know how many times you called today! I lost count early in the day! You may have been slowed down today by curious people, but your own energy level seemed high. Humor was definitely part of your day! You have now officially been filled in on the Laura Ingalls-Wilder trivia today! In answer to your one question today that stumped me, Mary's husbands name was Adam. (I called Stacey) Just a slight memory lapse on my part! Have a good run today, and be nice to Bob. His "feet" are tired and blistered too! - Diana Sontag (Missoula, Montana)

  Hey Paul. And Adam's last name was Kendall... heehee. A true Little House on the Prairie Fan. Keep up the good work little brother. I Love You. - Wendy (Tolsona, Alaska)

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WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 30:  25 MILES (Sunny, 80 Degrees) [Total Mileage to Date: 1,783]
Stopping Location: Springfield, Minnesota (click here to see the location via MapQuest)
Stopping Elevation: 1,020 Feet

DAY 69: This was a very good day. I enjoyed a comfortable 25 mile run from Walnut Grove to Springfield, Minnesota. The weather was nice and the drivers were gracious in giving me a little room on the very narrow shoulder. I did, however, have a construction zone to go through for the last 7 miles. I want to extend my appreciation to one of the flaggers for her nice encouragement, and for giving me some homemade beef jerky and cold water.

I arrived at the home of Paul and Sharon Pieschel in Springfield and took a shower and became acquainted with this wonderful family. They are very active in their community and I am very impressed with the services and friendliness of this town of 2,000+ people. After being interviewed by a local newspaper reporter, and having a nice dinner, I enjoyed an opportunity to speak for 15 minutes to the local high school girls' volleyball team. I got a picture with them and their coach and will have it posted on the web site! Thanks girls for listening and I wish you a fantastic season!

Tomorrow my journey will continue 29 miles down the road to New Ulm, Minnesota. I will be in a hotel tomorrow evening and will be preparing a new CD of images and video to ship out so that we can get some new pictures on this web site. Thanks for your patience!

I'm having such a great time on this trek across America. I can tell that I've broke through to a different level of energy. Perhaps it's because I'm finally in a location with landscape colors, more people interested in my endeavor, food more readily available, and opportunities to share the story of this trek with others. Whatever it is, I am really in stride right now and am confident that I will see the Atlantic Ocean in about 7 weeks.

My body is doing well, and "Bob" is hanging in there. New tires are needed (for Bob, not me)... and I truly need my next pairs of running shoes, which are waiting in Rochester. The soles on the bottom of my shoes are truly worn down. As of today, I've put 500 miles on each of the two pairs of running shoes I have with me. Yep, time for the next pairs of shoes! You really don't want to put more than 500 miles on a single pair because there is an enhanced risk of acquiring an injury as a result. In all, I will go through 6 pairs of running shoes to cross the 3,200 miles of this coast to coast running trek.

Time to ice down and catch some much needed sleep. Thanks again to the Pieschel family for everything they have done to make me feel welcomed in Springfield. This is truly a town to visit if you're ever in the area!

So long from this milepost!

Guestbook Entries For Today:

  Hi Paul. Just heard on Sunday through the Fredricksons of your great run. This is the accomplishment of a life goal for you and I couldn't be more thrilled! God has finally opened all the right doors and you're there -- more than halfway!!! Wish I could run a few miles with you. I'll keep up with the site from now on. JOY! - Donna Detweiler (Bothell, Washington)

  Back at school this week and, of course, I will post signs to remind students to check on your progress. Bet you're bummed about missing the Hallmark Channel's "Little House" marathon this weekend. Congrats on making the halfway mark...keep trekkin'! - Martha Robertson (Missoula, Montana)

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THURSDAY, AUGUST 31:  29 MILES (Sunny, 81 Degrees) [Total Mileage to Date: 1,812]
Stopping Location: New Ulm, Minnesota (click here to see the location via MapQuest)
Stopping Elevation: 899 Feet

DAY 70: This morning I left Springfield at 6:30 am and ran 29 miles to New Ulm, Minnesota, where I am staying at a motel for the evening.  The temperature rose to 81 with clear skies, although a weather change is expected to roll through soon. The forecast for the weekend is clouds and a good chance of rain. Since I am not going through Rochester until Monday it is likely I will be rained on before I get there. It will be good to reach Rochester to pick up my next two pairs of shoes. It's time! On my way to New Ulm today, I was stopped by a newspaper reporter from the town of Sleepy Eye.  That was the only stop I had all day. It is nice to get off the road early and tomorrow will be a 28 mile day, arriving at the city of Mankato. 

I don’t have Internet access tonight, and hope to have it tomorrow.  All is well, thanks for checking in.

Guestbook Entries For Today:

  I am the local PE Teacher in Lewes, Delaware and have been following your progress all the way. I spoke to you by phone last spring. I also write a column on "running" in the local paper, am president of the Seashore Striders, and manage an event production company. You are an inspiration to all runners! I just introduced to our staff your whole story and the elementary kids involvement last year and we as a school have decided that we are going to walk/run the journey back all 3200 miles! We are hoping that when you arrive in Lewes, DE that can be our inspirational kickoff. I am excited for you, our school at Shields, and for running in Delaware. Keep up the great work. I have worked on your lodging for the final week and am pretty confident that through the Seashore Strider family we are going to cover any holes you have. I will send an e-mail to the housing coordinator for you. - Tim Bamforth (Lewes, Delaware)

  Hi Paul. Catching up on reading your journal. I am so glad you were paying attention to the teenage drivers -- they really don't use the brain God gave them. Enjoy the lush green of the east. That's definitely one of the things I miss. It's so soothing to me. You're doing an incredible job. And your influence and commitment is extending around the world! Keep it up! - Gin Graham (Missoula, Montana)

  Wow! What a trip down memory lane. "Little House on the Prairie." No matter what Stacey and Diana tried to tell you - they did not share a coke. They each had one with the popcorn while watching their favorite weekly show. The states are leaving fast now. Seven more to go! You and Bob keep up the good work and stay safe. We look forward to seeing you back in Missoula. - Irene [Stacey and Diana's Mom] (Missoula, Montana)

  Wow! It was great to check up on your progress. It had been awhile since I was able to check. I am glad you are in God's hands safe and sound each day. We will continue to pray for your safety and health. We miss you and can't wait to see you home. Great job!! and keep rollin' on. Love from all the Joys. - Diane Joy (Missoula, Montana)

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