Day 26 – Get Your Kicks On Route 66

27 May Day 26 – Get Your Kicks On Route 66

Today I really felt like I was living Route 66

The Signs

As you hit some of the small towns on Route 66, not only do you see the brown signs the point you in the right direction, there are the famous signs painted on the road. I have always loved emblems and brands, seeing this sign on the floor really hit home that I was living Route 66. Some signs your aren’t sure how authentic they are, but still, even if they have only been there for a couple of years, it is really cool walking over them and thinking back to when this was a main freeway across America. I read today that Route 66 was decommissioned in 1985, the year I was born. Quite a cool coincidence.

Landmarks

I walked through Odell today and saw a historic Gas Station. I thought i would take some time out to go inside and see what it was like. I met Eileen, who worked there and it was amazing talking to someone who worked in one of the famous landmarks. The Gas station had some of the original tools in there as well as a full shop of merchandise. Eileen told me that there was a guy called Alex who was a couple of days ahead of me walking 66 to raise money for a cancer charity. It would be great to try and meet him on the route, but after Illinois Route 66 kind of dissappears. So I am just heading to the major towns along the route.

Sunset

After a day of grey skys, Sir Michael and I walked the last leg together and in our last mile we saw the most amazing sunset. It was such an uplifting moment. It really was like something out of a movie. I only had my iPhone with me so I hope it does it justice.

Jim

A huge thanks to Jim, who Ali & Helen met. He let us fill up with water and wished me well on my way. Depending on how we are doing for time I might try and catch up with him. Now off to bed to try and catch up on some sleep!

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