Day 181

It was really cold this morning. I woke up before the sun came up and was really cold. I decided to go into the rest area bathroom to get ready. It was warmer in there. I put some stevie wonder on my phone and made the place my home. If anyone would’ve come in they probably would’ve just turned right back around when they saw the spectacle that I was putting on. 
When I went outside it was daylight. I was still wearing my jackets but it was starting to warm up. I packed up my gear and hit the road. I called my brother to tell him happy birthday before I got too far away. I knew that I was going to lose service at some point today. 
The views were pretty today. I had mountains, lakes, horses, geese, cows and other little things here and there. The traffic was still being ridiculous and unforgiving. I decided to just accept the fact that I was going to come within inches of my life on multiple occasions today. I didn’t let them get to me. I stood my ground and just walked along in lala land. 
It was fairly flat the first part of the day but a large hill was approaching. I made it to the top and took a break at the summit. There was a recent controlled burn on one side of the road. It was interesting to see the ashes of what used to be. I walked around to look for treasure that may have been hidden in the vegetation but found nothing. 
It was all downhill from there. I had planned on stopping at the 16 mile marker. That would’ve given me 16 miles tomorrow to a hotel where I can take Sunday off and watch the first week of football. I got to that point and was still feeling ok so I kept going. There is a small town with a gas station at the 10 miles marker. I figured I could make it there and find somewhere to camp near the gas station. If I made it there, my total for the day would be 24 miles. Well within my range. 
I got to about a mile and a half away and came up on a perfect place to camp. I decided to let the gas station wait for the morning. I had everything I needed with me. I pulled up and found a spot for my tent but before setting up I wanted to eat. I was starving. 
I went over to a shaded area with my food bag and made this: one pack of picante chicken Ramen noodles, one pack of chili ramen noodles, one crushed pack of cheese crackers, a handful of peppered beef jerky torn into small pieces. Yum. 
I ate and got full then headed back over to set my tent up. I looked around and there were ants everywhere so I moved and found another spot. Set up and that was that. Tomorrow I only have 12 miles to go and the next day I’m taking off. That’s the plan for now anyways. I may just keep going but I doubt it.