This morning I woke up feeling a bit low. In fact, I already felt it last night. I was tired and didn’t really like my campsite, even though it was incredibly beautiful.

Well, I don’t really know why I felt that way. Maybe it was because it was a bit chilly? Maybe because today’s stage was again a lot of country roads and dirt tracks? In any case, I got going and tried my best to lift my spirits.

At some point I had to decide which way to go. Either 3 1/2 km on a country road with very little traffic, or into the forest through a nature reserve. It would be a bit longer, it would be much more winding and much more up and down. On the other hand, it would definitely be more beautiful. Also, the sun had come out by that time. So I chose the latter. It also turned out to be a little less passable because not so many people went that way. I’m glad I did, even though it didn’t immediately help my mood. Just when I was starting to think really dark thoughts, think, as if sent from heaven, there was a bench in the middle of the forest and a box of soft drinks including a bottle opener and an invitation to just take one. I did so with great pleasure and decided to have lunch right there. All of a sudden, the day was different. Suddenly everything looked bright. I’ve read about so-called ‘trail angels’ and what it did for hikers to meet some. You have to try it yourself to experience how wonderful it is on so many levels. I left with renewed energy and walked with s new spring in my step, ended up finding an absolutely wonderful campsite and was able to enjoy a cup of tea in the evening sun. What a day!