July 31
Another 6am breakfast, and a groggy crew packed up the 3 vans needed to transport all 20 of the core walkers, the 5 additional guest walkers from Boston, and our luggage back to the route. We said our goodbyes to Geshe la Tsulga and Ani Tsunma-la of the Kurukulla Center and our gracious hosts and set off to begin the next leg of our journey.
Today's 15 miles began at 9am and were mostly uphill on a tiny shoulder of a 55 mph zone on Route 1. Still, we received much support from passing cars (and ambulances and army trucks) who did their part by "Honking for Tibet." Despite the groggy start, we were in prime form today as the miles seemed to fly by quickly.
Palden-la and Rigzin, his translator, were especially energized as they purchased identical pairs of New Balance (made in the USA) sneakers along the way. We had a snack break at the Gillette Stadium, home of the New England Patriots, and ended up completing 12 miles before breaking for lunch--a special treat of momos provided by fellow walker, Tenpa Tsering's family!
After completing the 15 miles at 4pm, we led the 3 van caravan through the chaotic streets of Pawtucket, Rhode Island finally reaching Providence and our new home at the Beneficent Congregational Church. We are looking forward to cooking dinner and an early bedtime.
