Walking.MOM

May 1, 2011 – October, 2011

Laura Milkins is Walking Home, 2000 miles from Tucson to Grand Rapids, Michigan. She will be live streaming 24/7 with a web-cam strapped to her head. She is asking people to walk with her and share a story. To watch it live, click on the play button below 


 

If you would like to donate to the project, you can do it via PayPal clicking on the button below.



To view the best footage from each week of the journey and interviews with Laura, please watch the Walking.TV episodes.

WARNING: You will need Adobe Flash Player to be able to view the live streaming video. If you still have trouble viewing the video, it may be a technical problem with Laura’s Internet connection. Because this is live streaming using cell phone tower reception, there will be times when the signal is not strong enough for live video. If you have questions or concerns, please contact Laura at: lmilkins@gmail.com

195 Responses to Walking.MOM

  1. Anonymous says:

    Welcome Home Laura! Your such an inspiration. Congrats on your installation winning as well. Cam is so proud of you and everyone else in Phoenix! Look forward to meeting you someday!
    How about the Camino del Santiago next? Only 750km it will be a snap for you. Check out the film The Way it comes out Oct. 14 it is about the Camino del Santiago. I so a sneak peak. I think you will relate to the journey they all are on!

  2. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura walked 10 miles today, from Walker to Grand Rapids, Michigan. She is here at my house, and her cousin Rachel rode a bike over to walk the last stretch with her. FOX TV Channel 3 will air interviews with Laura at 5 and 6pm today. I’m so glad to have her home! There will be a welcome home artist celebration for her tonight from 7-9pm at Calvins’ 106 Gallery, on 106 S. Division. Come if you can! I’ve enjoyed doing this update, and will miss it. Love you all
    ~ Jane

    • Lisa Hansen says:

      WELCOME HOME LAURA! We are glad to hear you are safely home. We have been keeping watch silently throughout your journey. We hope your reunion with your family is sweet. The kids say to tell you hello.
      Spencer, Lisa, Caden, Paxton, Daisy, Calvin and Macy Hansen

  3. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura’s walking 16.5 miles today, and its lovely out (albeit cold). We had no luck finding her a host in Ravenna yesterday, so I drove to get her and drop her off at her cousin Rachel’s home in Grand Rapids. Laura had a fun time with family; Rachel and her boys, Stuart and John. Rachel took Laura back to Ravenna today, so Laura could resume her walk. Tomorrow she will come to my doorstep!
    ~ Jane

    • Sarah Bergman says:

      so very cool! congrats on the long journey, Laura. We all wish we could be there with you when you return, the way we sent you off with a walk and stories back in May. You’re amazing!!!

      Love from Sarah and all of us (McCool, Danny Martin & Nick G!)

  4. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura’s walking 16.5 miles on a cold, blustery day in Michigan. Last night she stayed with Kay and Gary; he who just retired recently as CEO of The Muskegon Chronicle, and she of Parent-Child Workshop for Orchard View Schools. Kay went to Morocco with The Peace-Corps in 1965, where they started a womens center, which is still in operation. Their friend, Mary showed Laura the renovated downtown and waterfront area of Muskegon.
    ~ Jane

  5. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura walked 10 miles today, in a fierce wind near the lakeshore of Lake Michigan. She had a great time with Elizabeth and her huge, black Italian Lab. Laura took a nap, then they went to dinner at Ruth Ann’s. She has a Golden Lab.
    Sorry these messages have been so tardy.
    ~ Jane

  6. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura’s walking 10 miles today. Last night she stayed with Judy, who is a co-worker/friend of Mary Rose. She helps her son, who lives next door, raise Spencer, his son. Whatta woman!
    ~ Jane

  7. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura’s walking 14 miles today on a dreary, wet day. Last night she stayed with Mary Rose Wayer(her deceased step-father Pete’s wife) and her daughter Lizzie at the farm on Polk Rd where Laura spent her teen years helping him repair vehicles and maintain the premesis. They laughed and cried together, looking over old photos in reminiscence. Laura has a host for tonight on her way to Muskegon, MI.
    ~ Jane

  8. Anonymous says:

    Mom report:
    If you’ve been watching, you know I met Laura and Karen (friend from Pentwater School days) when they alit from the Badger onto Michigan soil in Ludington Saturday evening. After Laura gave an interview to Jennifer, a reporter from the Ludington Daily News; we ate at Luciano’s, then Karen and Laura went to Karen’s home and I to a friends for the night.
    ~ Jane

  9. Anonymous says:

    Mom report:
    Laura walked 11.5 miles today.She was accompanied by my sister Mary (who drove up from Grand Rapids last night), and best friend Tracey from grade school in Pentwater (who drove up from Lafayette, IN yesterday after work). We stayed at Laura’s father’s home on Lake Michigan last night. Thanks, Greg!

    Laura walked 3 catch-up miles into Pentwater on Monday. We stayed at my absent host friends’ home. Laura spent 4 hours getting her hair done in the morning. Meanwhile, our friend, Tink was busily fixing Laura’s broken zipper and refurbishing shattered cloth pockets and cuffs on her pants. We took a snooze, then had a picnic at the beach and watched a superb sunset.

    Laura walked 12 miles and I 6.7 on Sunday. I drove to Hart to retrieve Laura and we had some breakfast with her host, Karen. We then we returned to the dock in Ludington to start our walk to Pentwater. Our friend Tink picked me up and my niece Rachel, her son John (who had just turned 10 on Saturday), and Rachel’s friend Justin joined Laura. We all got together in town at the Antler Bar for dinner.

    If you’ve been watching, you know I met Laura and Karen (friend from Pentwater School days) when they alit from the Badger onto Michigan soil in Ludington Saturday evening. After Laura gave an interview to Jennifer, a reporter from the Ludington Daily News; we ate at Luciano’s, then Karen and Laura went to Karen’s home in Hart, and I to a friend’s in Pentwater for the night.
    ~ Jane

  10. Chris says:

    Hey-
    Wow- I just moved back to N. MI from Florence in April. Very tragic story on this end, but I find what your doing inspiring. I often wondered how long it would take me to bike it. Let’s share some AZ stories if you have the time or inclination.

  11. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura walked 13 miles yesterday. Ben, a reporter for the Manitowoc Herald-Times (who wrote an excellent article about her project) told Laura who to talk to at the Manitowoc Maritime Museum to get a berth on their submarine. Karen, an employee of the museum, gave Laura a sleeping-bag and pillow and Laura went on a tour of the sub along with a large number of Cub Scouts who were staying there also. In order to get a night’s rest, Laura ended up sleeping in the museum instead.
    ~ Jane

  12. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura has a short 13 mile walk today, and it’s lovely out. She stayed with Laura and Jim last night on their farm, which his grandfather started. They have 10 kids, and Laura is one organized gal!
    ~ Jane

  13. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Today Laura walked 14 miles in Wisconsin, on her way to Manitowac. Last night she stayed with Susan and Jeff, who are on their way to Grand Rapids today to see their son, Tyler. Laura made some dinner while on Skype with Calvin’s 106 Gallery on ArtPrize opening night there. As her hosts got home, they hung out and chatted while Laura was physically absent but virtually present at the Gallery.
    ~ Jane

  14. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura’s walking 20 miles to Sheboygan, WI today in lovely countryside. Last night she stayed at the Tree of Life Retreat, which is sponsored by St. John Lutheran Church in Plymouth, WI. Her hosts, Bill and Jeanne(sp?) were very hospitable and kind, cooked her dinner and left breakfast goods for her this morning. Laura loved the company, but also the serenity of being alone in a cabin. She will Skype tonight between 6-9 pm at Calvin’s 106 Gallery, located at 106 S. Division, so you may ask her questions live.
    ~ Jane

  15. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura’s walking 20 miles today through beautiful WI farmland. SHe was whipped and took a nap right away before making dinner for her hosts, Tammy and Joe. They have two enthusiastic, sweet boxers who have somewhat replaced their grown children. They chatted about a cabin they’re working on, among other things.
    ~ Jane

  16. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura’s walking 20 miles today, and is very greatful for no wind. She stayed with David and Loretta last night, and met two of their four kids, Kay and Renee. They took her on a nice tour of the town, which is known for it sculptures; notably The End of the Trail bronze. Loretta’s a nurse and David works at a rivet-making company.
    ~ Jane

    • Loretta says:

      We loved hosting you, Laura. David is actually a tool and die maker at a steel manufacturing plant in Mayville WI. Have a safe and enjoyable time as you continue on your journey. Loretta

  17. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura walked 17 miles today. Her hosts of last night, Bob and Anita agreed to come retrieve Laura and let her stay with them for the next two nights. She’ll take tomorrow off to rest and get caught up on postings, etc. Bob is an ECLA (Lutheran) minister, so will be busy tomorrow, as will Anita who has some family obligations. I found their conversations quite interesting and thought-provoking last night.
    ~ Jane

  18. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura will walk 17 miles today, and the wind has abated, yea! Grant McGovern, of McGoverns in Sun Prairie has been a wonderful help to Laura. She stayed Wednesday at McGovern’s for a reduced rate on Wednesday and he arranged for her to stay in a rental apartment in the next town last night. He brought an air-mattress, pump, bedding and towels. so she was very comfortable. They had some great conversation at meals, which he also covered. Erika and Art, friend Gretchen’s aunt and uncle took Laura to breakfast this morning.
    ~ Jane

  19. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura’s walking 17 miles today. Katie, her host, let Laura have her garage combination over the phone, to let herself in before she got back from classes. Laura was touched by her willingness to trust a stranger coming into her home. Katie said her mom wouldn’t recommend someone wierd. And that, folks, is the point of Laura’s project; use old-school social connections to provide a safe community.
    ~ Jane

  20. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura bid Bernice adieu, then made a short trip of 9 miles today to Madison. She spent some time this morning at a sporting-good store, getting thermals, sport gels, replacement sunglasses and socks. My guess is that she’s carrying a bit less water, but has to bundle more now. It’s expected to cool down appreciatively for a while.
    ~ Jane

    • Bev Hamilton says:

      My mom, Bernice, was so excited to have Laura stay with her last night. Mom made certain Laura got the socks, glasses, etc. that she needed to continue her journey.

      Now mom wants to get a new computer and internet so she can follow Laura’s journey. (I’ve wanted her to do this for ages.)

      • Laura says:

        Hi Bev,
        Thanks so much for telling me this. I’m honored. I loved staying with your mom and hearing her stories. She is such a kind lady and you are lucky to have each other. :)

        Cheers!
        -Laura

        • Bev Hamilton says:

          Mom stopped by yesterday (Tuesday, 9/13) so that I could show her how to track your journey on my computer. She spent about an hour watching you and reading your blog.

          Today I watched a bit while doing paperwork and called Mom to “report on your progress.”

          We both wish you a safe journey.

  21. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura’s walking 17 miles on a beautiful, windy Wisconsin day. She and Cleo went to a touching ceremony yesterday. The crowd clapped enthusiastically for the bravery of those who have gone before in 9/11/2001; and for those who serve us all today. Levonne came for dinner, and treated at Culvers (a fine Wisconsin-based frozen custard company), a great way to end the day!
    ~ Jane

    • Jennifer Amundsen says:

      Seems likely Laura will be walking through Madison, WI. She would be welcome at the home of two fellow K alums nearby. Shoot us an email to my address, above, if she is interested. (Hopefully Internet reception will be a bit better as she gets closer to Madison, too.)

  22. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura’s not walking today. She’s staying with Cleo for two nights (Levonne said she’s jealous because she had Laura stay but one), and will head back out tomorrow. Cleo and her husband made cheese; starting with 10 dairy farmers milk to make Swiss cheese, and ending with 50 farmers, making many varieties of cheese.
    ~ Jane

  23. Anonymous says:

    Mom report:
    Laura walked 14 + miles today, and is staying with a friend of her hostess of last night, Lavonne. The two hit it off nicely, went to a to a fish-fry. Laura said the onion rings were to die for ~ maybe that’s why she’s feeling a tad poorly today? Lavonne made Laura chocolate-chip pancakes for breakfast.
    ~ Jane

  24. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura may not walk all of the 22 miles to her next town, as she’s a tad under the weather. Her next host is willing to pick her up, however. Last night she stayed in a motel and was given vouchers for two meals, which was nice.
    ~ Jane

  25. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura’s walking 11 miles today, in a strong wind again. The terrain is hilly, so reception will be very uneven. Her hosts are Tom and Debbie, a “retired” couple. He is mayor of the town, and was at a council meeting, and she had piano students last evening. Since they were busy at their jobs until after 8:00pm last night, Laura hung out in a nice pub and got acquainted with some locals, one of whom bought her dinner.
    ~ Jane

  26. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura walked 14 miles today, tough going into a strong head-wind. Last night she stayed at The Wisconsin House after walking 17 1/2 miles. The owner, Brenda was gracious enough to comp her for the night at her charming B&B. The internet reception has been poor, as has phone service. On Monday,after a 23 mile walk into Dubuque, she stayed with David and Lisa and their 4 children. Laura made pizza and curried rice with vegetables, which the small-fry enjoyed.
    ~ Jane
    ~ Jane

  27. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura has 26 miles ahead of her today. She really enjoyed her hosts and their family of the last two days. She made side dishes, and skipped the ribs last night. After she left them, she met Charity, a runner who walked a short bit with her (following a 6 mile run). Charity has a lead for Laura’s host for tonight, yee-haw! It’s always good to find a host ahead of a lenghty walk, just in case Laura runs out of steam after about 20 miles, and can ask to be picked up by them.
    ~ Jane

  28. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura spent the day today resting, working on her project, and being interviewed. Her hosts of last night and tonight are Fred (police chief) and Beth. They have 3 boys; Nate, Nick, and Jake and a dog, Isis. Laura’s been on the phone a lot today, and just got with me to tell me details.
    ~ Jane

  29. Laura says:

    It’s DUANE and Nancy, folks.

  30. Laura says:

    Mistaken Mom report:
    I so apologize to Darryl and Nancy for the goof about their names….haste definitely made waste in this case.
    ~ Jane

  31. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Today Laura’s walking a mere 12 miles (which would be ten too many for most of us). She’s walked 1632 of the 2000 miles to Grand Rapids. It’s a small world; her hosts, Darryl and Nancy went to Calvin College, the very institution which has her venue for ArtPrize! Darryl is a Lutheran minister in Iowa, and they both hail from Grand Rapids, MI. As with so many hosts, they are warmly welcoming, bright and engaging people.
    ~ Jane

  32. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura’s walking 21 miles on one hot, humid day in Iowa. Last night she stayed with Jennifer again, and got to meet her husband, Jason. Jennifer is a master-gardener. 18 people buy shares in the anticipated produce output, and come get the goods at harvest time.
    ~ Jane

  33. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura’s walking 17 miles today, getting a late start because she was trying out her new camera. She stayed with Jennifer (Jeanette’s twin) and her 2 year-old, Sam. They went out to Olive Garden for dinner. Jennifer helped critique Laura’s artist’s statement for ArtPrize in Grand Rapids, MI. Reception was spotty today, which made installation of her show at Calvin’s 106 Gallery with curator, Sarah Baker and technology guru, John Warnock a bit more difficult.

  34. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura is staying at her host , Jeanette’s here in Iowa today to get some work done. Jeanette is the daughter of my sister Ann’s friend Dave Bickford from Grand Rapids. Laura will be able to accomplish a lot with everybody out of the house for the day. It’s the first day of school (Anna in 3rd grade and Anton in 1st), and the parents work. Anton eagerly showed Laura the horses out back, and they picked apples to feed to them. Laura then cooked dinner and they played a counting game. Laura said it was a fun time with their family.
    ~ Jane

  35. Laura says:

    Laura walked 8 miles today. Don, her host of last night did graphic design for the air industry. Last night Karen, Sam and friends from the night before came and had a fun dinner out with Laura and Don. Don’s deceased wife was a direct descendant of Christian Metz, founder of The Amana Society, and he’s quite the historian on the subject.
    ~ Jane

  36. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura’s walking 16 miles on a cloudy day. She had a superb time with her hosts, Karen and Sam and their friends who are retired music instructors. Sam was in the first Peace Corps group in the 60’s who met with President Kennedy then went to Nepal. Karen’s taught early elementary, finishing her career in a well-appointed day-care center. (I did NOT say retired from, because us teachers continue indefinitely.)
    ~ Jane

  37. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura’s shooting for 21 miles today. Hosts Louise and Roger took Laura to a high school football game last night, which they left at halftime, owing to Laura’s fatigue and the score: 0-21. They are very civically involved farmers, with crops in corn and soybeans. He showed her a short video taken from inside the Camero he built, as he was drag racing. Cool!
    ~ Jane

  38. Laura says:

    CORRECTION: It’s Iowa, not MO…..duh.
    ~ Jane

  39. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura’s walking 15.5 miles on another beautiful day in Missouri. She felt wonderfully welcomed when her hostess, Lea(sp?) had made cookies for her to munch on when she got to their home. Her husband Dick’s father started the bank in town in 1946, and his sons and he carry on the tradition. The town is a lively one, and her hosts were great. Laura greatfully sank onto a superb mattress in their former bedroom and had the best sleep last night.
    ~ Jane

  40. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    HELP ! ! !
    We need a “60 flat-screen monitor and 2 small ones for Laura’s venue. Our funds are limited, so if anyone would be willing to loan us equipment for a month, it would be great! Any ideas of other sources would be helpful, too. Please pass this on!
    ~ Jane

  41. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura’s walking 16 miles today and it’s lovely out. She had a really fun time with the Methodist youth group PROS last night. Their progressive supper started at her hosts Larry and Diane’s home and went on to other houses; finishing with a bonfire for s’mores, song and prayer. Awesome!
    ~ Jane

    • Terry & Diana Pollard says:

      It was so much fun to host Laura at our home last night in New Sharon, IA! We had a great visit and a great time! She’s on an amazing journey and we are so glad we got to have her stay with us. We pray for her safety and well-being the rest of the way! – Terry & Diana

    • Jennifer Linder says:

      I am one of the PROS youth and meeting Laura was an amazing experience! We had a blast with the progressive supper & her being there made it a lot more fun! She is on an amazing journey!
      ~God Bless~
      -Jennifer

  42. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura’s walking 21 miles today. Yesterday she was stopped 3 1/2 miles short of her goal because the bridge was out. Her host was nice enough to pick her up and show her how to get around it. She spent the balance of the evening with Mary, an outgoing chatty gal. Laura went to bed early so she could get a ride in the morning with Mary’s daughter, Christine. Mary’s husband, Wayne works three jobs, so Laura saw him briefly this morning when she got up. Laura has a host for tonight.
    ~ Jane

  43. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura’s walking 20 miles today. Her hosts, Beth and Steve took her on a tour of the area southeast of DesMoines in Missouri, which Laura found beautiful and interesting. Bruce is an avid cyclist, enters races, rides 20 miles daily, 60 once a week. They both have a Masters Degree in Theology from a Methodist seminary, and now minister in the Church of the Nazarene. Laura does not have a host as yet in the next town, but has several leads.
    ~ Jane

  44. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura plans to walk 22 miles today in breezy pleasant weather. She already has a host for tonight, which is nice.
    ~ Jane

  45. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura’s walking about 4 miles today, from one side of a city to the other to get some supplies. She still has a great deal of work to do, and is staying in a hotel another night. She reports that people in Missouri don’t show as much interest or at least aren’t as inquisitive about what she’s up to as they were in Kansas.
    ~ Jane

  46. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Sorry so late, went to help my sister close up her cottage in Grand Haven, MI. Laura worked on postings today, so no walking done. The reception is very intermittent. Sorry all.
    ~ Jane

  47. Anonymous says:

    Mom Report
    Lauta’s walking 20 miles today, on a windy day. Last night she turned ALL electronics off because of a very strong thunderstorm, whose high winds have done some real damage fairly near to, but not where she is. I’m away from my computer and records, so that’s all folks……
    ~ Jane

  48. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura’s walking 20 miles in lovely weather today. Jean Ann and Bill, her hosts of last night will pick her up and house her another night. Their small town of 300+ is a lovely, lively one. Pig farming is well-husbanded and the main income source; so they are able to support a grocery, beauty salon, etc. Bill retired as their k-12 school superintendent. The quilting circle will celebrate 50 continuous years 1114. Everyone is like family in a small town, as Laura knows from having grown up in Pentwater, MI.
    ~ Jane

  49. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura’s walking 13 miles today, making it to Iowa, her 6th state! She started off at noon yesterday after the storm, and met her hosts for lunch along the way. They picked her up once again after she had gone ? miles. Linda showed Laura her quilting and greeting-card making. She encouraged Laura to pick out a couple of cards, one for her father and one for me. I’m looking forward to getting a handmade and hand signed card in the mail soon!
    ~ Jane

    • Bruce Hartnett says:

      Jane, this is fun!
      Did you notice, that AFTER Laura stayed with Sharon & Dick, evidently, Linda & Terry took over again, and drove a long way past Sharon & Dick’s just to pick up Laura again for a third night? The funny thing is, that the bedroom Laura was in last night looked suspiciously like the same one she stayed in at Sharon & Dick’s. Also, there seemed to be NO internet connection at Linda & Terry’s.

  50. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    No walking right now, lightning is attracted to electronics. Laura has lots of postings of photos to the map, etc. to keep her busy. She enjoyed cooking for her hosts, Sharon and Dick, who moved to Missouri from Minnesota. A long-time resident of the town told Laura what used to be there when the population was over 150 people: a movie theater, auto-repair shop, market, etc. Now the census is about 50 people, and those amenities are gone. People used to come into town one day a week to swap what they’d grown and made.
    ~ Jane

  51. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura will walk 15-17 miles today. Hard to estimate, due to another bridge being out and having to take a detour. She enjoyed another nice night with Linda and Terry; having had a good time meeting family members at a reunion held at the Senior Center where he works as well as chatting with two neighbor women who came to visit.
    ~ Jane

  52. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura’s taking her Sunday day of rest. The internet application she needs to use in order to stream is not available to her right now, but she may be able to get on later at McDonald’s. Her hosts, Linda and Terry are good company. They are having a family reunion today, and still were willing to take Laura in. Shows that some people are willing to extend themselves for their fellow human, regardless.
    ~ Jane

  53. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura’s walking 18 miles today, and says Missouri weather has been kind to her; 80 degrees with a cool breeze at her back most of the time. She had a great time with her hosts, the McEonkey’s last night. (Not sure of the spelling, nor of Mary Ann’s husband’s name due to poor audio.) They had their brother, sister-in-law and niece over for dinner and to watch the poor Missouri Chief’s lose at football.
    ~ Jane

  54. Laura says:

    Tardy Mom report:
    I was fired briefly, with no severance pay!
    Laura walked 14 miles on Thursday, having to wait out a thunderstorm before walking. Her hosts, Linda and Ron were very fun people. They took her to an Amish farm (where Laura didn’t stream out of respect for their desire for privacy) and bought some home-made goodies. Ron, who is a native of the area took her on a tour, including his old family farm. Linda’s a retired teacher, as am I.
    ~ Jane

  55. Bruce Hartnett says:

    “Host Dad/Campaw” Report: Laura only made 8 or 9 miles yesterday, and didn’t have the internet all night again. As she said during the walk yesterday, she hadn’t felt very well the night before, so she was still under recovery. She’s going to walk only 12 miles today, but has a Host lined up for the next stop.

  56. Bruce Hartnett says:

    Former Host Bruce Report for Laura (since her mom Jane is on vacation):

    Laura found a host for last night, and therefore also has a host for tonight. She plans to walk 15 miles today where the new host will pick her up and return her to that point tomorrow.
    As she was forewarned, she lost any internet connection with last night’s host, but is sure it will return once she walks a ways this morning.

  57. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura’s not certain how far she’ll walk today. She had a terrific time with Sharon & company last night.
    I’m going to my sister’s cottage in Grand Haven, MI for the next couple of days, taking a mini-vacation from everything, including posting here.
    ~ Jane

  58. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura took Sunday off and had a great time with Judy, Bill and their Standard Poodle named Archie. Today she’s walking that 15 miles I mentioned yesterday. It’s much more temperate with very lush vegitation, since she’s walking along the Missouri.
    ~ Jane

  59. Laura says:

    Tardy Mom report:
    Laura stayed at a truck-stop near St. Joseph last night. She planned to walk 15 miles today. She has a host for tonight. Sorry about the skimpy info, but havn’t connected with her today.
    ~ Jane

  60. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Today Laura’s planning to walk 26 miles. Last night she incidentally became part of a murder mystery play rehearsal, then slept in an art gallery. Because of not making the same kind of social connection one does with a host, she’s pretty much on her own today; no place to stay tonight and nobody to call if she needs to be picked up. Oh, well…tune in tomorrow to see what today brings.
    ~ Jane

  61. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura may walk 12 miles later today. Her electronic equipment functions poorly due to sun-spot activity and rain, and she could be reduced to a grease-spot should lightning strike. The bridge at Atchison over the Missouri River is out due to flooding, so she’s taking an alternative route. She’s enjoyed a great time out in the country with Karen and her three dogs; a Great Dane, a Red-Heeler, and a Jack Russell.
    ~ Jane

  62. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura’s walking 20 miles today, in cooler (80’s) rainy weather. Candy, her host for last night lives on a spread with a mule, horse(es?) and other critters. She and Laura joined her friends for dinner and good company at a bar.
    ~ Jane

  63. Laura says:

    Mom report:

    Mom report:
    Laura’s walking 15.5 miles today. It’s HOT! Lawyer Janet, host of a few days ago, is an animal right’s advocate and found Laura a bed at the Humane Society. Laura rode on the HS parade vehicle last night, giving out stuffed animals, candy, cat treats and collars. Janet called to see how she slept, and Laura said it’s quiet after dark.
    ~ Jane

  64. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura’s walking 20 miles today in 110 deg. heat, and says it’s not affecting her badly. Lots of people have stopped to give her Gaitorade or water, which she gladly accepts. She and host Annette put a meal together last night, as host Ed tried to find her a new route avoiding flood-plain areas. He’s a mortician and his wife does imaging. They volunteered to go to Joplin to help during the crisis there.
    ~ Jane

  65. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura plans to walk 20 miles today. She may ask to be picked up early by her next host if she is exhausted. If that happens, she is returned to the pick-up point to faithfully walk every mile of the way. At Janet’s yesterday and got caught up on some business and took a day of rest. They got along really well, and tonight Laura will stay with her daughter in NW Kansas. Idaho here she comes!

    • Jamie T says:

      Idaho is to the north west of us. Isnt she heading Northeast? If so would it be illinios or Iowa? I have been following her, since she was here in Manhattan KS. I bought her some gatorade and took it too her while she walked with Zoe and Carl. I wish her wonderful travels.

    • Cam Milkins says:

      Mom, it’s Iowa. Idaho is just East of Washington state. =)

    • Perry says:

      Glass of water in white cup!!!!

      I was just on cj online which is Topeka Ks newpaper and seen the write up about you walking home…Yesterday I passed you 2 different times taking my son to the Doctor. After dropping him off at home I gave you a glass of water in a white cup (we was out of bottle water at home). Keep it up and be safe and God bless you!!! Silver Lake Kansas…

  66. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura’s taking a day off, its’ Sunday after all. Her host is Janet, the mother of RaeLynn, who also hosted her. They got along very well, chatting away as we women do.
    ~ Jane

    • Michael says:

      I believe I saw you in Topeka this morning (July 31) at 1150am next to the 470 exit. You were sitting in the grass next to the curb and I thought you were hurt, so I pulled around and then a van pulled up to pick you up, along with your stuff. I was glad you weren’t hurt (which was my initial thought). Now that I know you are walking 2000 miles, I wish you good health in your journey.

  67. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura plans to walk 17.5 miles today. She stayed with Allen and RaeLynn last night. After dinner, Allen got together with a friend and RaeLynn and Laura had a good time hangin’ out. This morning, RaeLynn took Laura to see a friend’s herd of buffalo who are raised totally naturally(solely grazing for food), before dropping her off to resume her walk. Windy day, perhaps rainy….?
    ~ Jane

    • Kyle Boyd says:

      Walking from AZ to Michigan? Wow… My family and I are from Topeka, KS, and were going flattrack racing in Clay Center, KS… Passed you on Hwy 24 around St. Mary’s or Wamego in the humid afternoon heat. My bro-in-law and I were in the truck trying to figure out what that person walking had strapped to them, but my wife and daughters stopped in a white minivan and gave you a couple of ice cold water bottles… Hope they helped a little in the heat. This has been a terribly hot summer around here, looks like the midwest heat wave is starting to break though. Good luck making it home!

      The Boyd Family

      • Laura says:

        Thanks Boyd Family,
        I remember then well! I had just run out of water. What providence. :)
        Thanks a million. Looks like the heat is breaking for a little while. Whoo!

        Cheers!
        -Laura

  68. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura plans to walk 18 miles today. Sylvia, Laura had a fine time with you night before last, I apologize for not mentioning your name. Bill and Jennifer hosted Laura last night. They adorn their high-ceilinged home with the most extensive photo gallery I’ve ever seen. Bill has a serious Hot-Wheels collection as well.
    ~ Jane

  69. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura and Shantelle(hosts Jamie and Tim’s daughter, whom I forgot to put in yesterday’s blog)walked 13.5 miles together Wednesday. Walking is so much more fun with company. Today, after Laura had an interview with Andrew, Zoey and Carl joined her to walk 6 miles. Laura hopes to walk another 14 after they are picked up. Zoey is Carl and Quintana’s daughter. It’s very windy in KS today, I could barely hear them.
    ~ Jane

  70. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura had plans to walk 22 miles today to the next town, but got off late. Laura had a really fun evening and morning getting to know her hosts Jamie and Tim, their kids Tim, Karian and Kaleb, friend Quanita, and two sweet dogs. She may be picked up short of the next town by Quanita, a viewer whom I chatted with here a couple of days ago and who has been just great at helping Laura find hosts and getting from here to there along the way. Laura’s hosts tonight are Jamie’s relatives.
    ~ Jane

  71. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura’s walking 13 miles today and it’s beautiful out. She’s been stopped for her autograph twice, a novelty for her and something to get accustomed to. Linda and Bob hosted her last night. She was In heaven when eating their own fresh corn, canned beets done in a traditional way, and a potato-onion dish that Bob cooked outdoors. Congrats Brooks on your awesome achievement of becoming an Eagle Scout.
    ~ Jane

  72. Anonymous says:

    Mom report:
    Laura’s walking 13 miles today, on a beautiful Kansas day. Bob and Linda hosted her last night. Laura was in heaven when Bob cooked fresh picked corn on the cob from their garden, accompanied by beets and a potato onion dish. Their house is lovely, and Linda is into scrap-booking. Congratulations to Ben for the awesome achievement of becoming an Eagle-Scout.
    ~ Jane

  73. Dallas says:

    You are an amazing woman. I live close to Abilene and read the article in the local paper. I have friends in Wamego and Seneca that would be awesome hosts if you need help in those locations. Be strong and Godspeed!
    Dallas

  74. Ms. Milkins,

    A friend of mine forwarded your project website to me because on August 3, 2011 I will leaving my home town of Missoula, Montana and walking 1460+ miles to Los Angeles and hope to raise $1 Million for non-profits doing good work helping the homeless. Congratulations and I will be watching your progress as I head south to L.A. My web site is under construction but I will be doing a few things similar to your project. I will be doing video blogs, etc. and hope to collect a number of great stories along the way. If you’d like to check it out the web address is myonemanmarch.org. I was reading that you had a recent loss and I find it interesting that I too had a recent loss. My older brother’s oldest daughter (Rachel Lynn Millhouse 22 y/o)was killed by a drunk driver in February. I started reflecting on my own life and the next thing you know I am forming a 501 c 3 non-profit foundation and training to walk to Los Angeles. Although my schooling was in Psychology, and I worked as a therapist, once I discovered acting and the creative process I knew I would be more fulfilled as an artist and am better for it. My mother was an lifelong artist and taught Art at one of our local high schools. I won’t take up any more of your time but as an actor I will say, “Break a Leg!”

    Stephen T! Millhouse

  75. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura’s walking 18 miles today, on a cooler day. They had a genuine thunderstorm last night, and Laura was told about going to the cellar if the sirens went off. She and Mary had some interesting conversations, some of which Laura thought might be uncomfortable for some of her viewers. But as Mary said to a neighbor, “Can’t we disagree on the subject of abortion, and still be friends?” A couple of boys named Ben and Brook are walking along with Laura as I write this. They checked with their dad before going with miss intrepid.
    ~ Jane

  76. Hannah C. says:

    Wow! Laura, you are on a roll! Great job walking- hope you’re having the time of your life! It’s good to see you have so many generous hosts that are so kind. Keep walking- Hannah :)

  77. Laura says:

    Mom report addendum: Oops, she walked for 11 days straight.

  78. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura’s taking a day of rest, after walking nearly two weeks straight. She has work to do; but right now is enjoying giggling, eating pie, and relaxing with Mary,her host. You go, girl!
    ~ Jane

  79. Tonya says:

    Hi I am a manager at the Green Acres Bowling Alley and Grill. We would like to offer a meal during your stay in Abilene. Please send me an email if this works for you=] We are celebrating 30yrs in the great town of Abilene!! We hope that you find your stay in our town pleasant!! God Bless You, Tonya

  80. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura was dropped off before Salina to walk into the town, will walk beyond it for some miles, then be picked up by her host today(too many miles to go to the next town in one day). Her time with Doug and Diane was a fine one, and a plus was that dinner was already being prepared when she arrived, yea!
    ~ Jane

  81. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura walked 8 miles today. Ray, one of her best buddies, who drove from Oklahoma to hang with her today picked her up, they went for a dip at Kanopolis State Park and are currently driving to look at some interesting geological formations at Mushroom Rock Park. Laura made a Chinese stir-fry for Karen and Scott, who housed her last night, and they seemed to enjoy the food. As often happens on this journey, former host Bruce with whom she stayed nights ago in KS has found her a place for tonight with a friend of his.
    ~ Jane

  82. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura will walk 15-25 miles today, depending on in which town Sharon finds her a host.
    Laura’s friend Gary and she watched her in a really fine interview on KSN TV. The link is: http://www.ksn.com/news/local/story/AZ-woman-leans-on-kindness-of-Kansans-on-walk-to/bfjwiC6niUO1KlUdtTwI0g.cspx After they got caught up, Gary treated her to a motel room, and he retired to his RV for the night. He’ll pick Laura up later today, then be on his way. Tune in tomorrow for another surprise visitor.
    ~ Jane

  83. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura’s walking 17 miles today. She had an interview KSN TV, an NBC affiliate, which will air at 6:00 and 10:00pm tonight. Woo hoo! We may be able to get it online, she says.
    Her new Montara boots are very comfortable. When the wind’s not blowing, she uses an umbrella to ward off some very hot rays. What a picture!
    Later today she will meet up with Gary, a friend from Boston whom she’s not seen for over 8 years. More about that encounter in tomorrow’s post.
    ~ Jane

    • Sarah Krom says:

      Watched the news clip. Was short but GREAT. slated to play again at 10. They provided a link on their website http://www.ksn.com. You may be able to also view the clip thru the website they often post them!

  84. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura plans to walk 15 miles today in her new and very comfortable Montara Boots, which were donated by Ahnu. Her very accommodating hostess, Roxanne will once again retrieve her to stay over for another night. Last night Laura cooked Eggplant Parmesan, mmm, my favorite dish! Tonight she will be interviewed by Great Bend’s NBC affilliate, KSN!
    ~ Jane

  85. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura plans to walk 16 miles today, trying out her third pair of new boots. Roxanne and Laura got along well and had enjoyed dinner at a friend of hers. I spent a long day on the water (actually have a life outside the ‘net), and was not home to catch the specifics on Justin TV.
    ~ Jane

  86. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura’s walking 20 miles today and has a host for tonight. Ruth and she had a pleasant evening together last night. She’ll have some interesting stuff to put on the blog tonight. It’s a lovely day in Kansas.
    ~ Jane

  87. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura walked 11 miles today. Last night the postmistress in Kinsley drove Laura to the next town on her route, where she stayed in a motel because everyone was busy with the state fair back in Kinsley. Yesterday was a bit frustrating for miss intrepid. The nice gal took her back this morning, so today she could faithfully walk the round-trip they had driven.
    ~ Jane

  88. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura’s walking 14 miles today, and has no host in the next town as yet. No worries, short day walking to a small town has always resulted in her easily finding a place to stay. Yesterday she stayed in a town that was having a celebration, so she couldn’t find a host to stay with. She had the number of a b&b that was very easy on her budget, and it worked out fine. Her hat blew off twice yesterday, rendering her web-cam useless today. She’ll have to hit a larger town down the pike to fix or replace it. For the present, we get a view of her chin from the computer’s cam.
    ~ Jane

    • Mary Courtney says:

      Jane, does Laura have a place to stay in Great Bend? Anne will take care of it. I’ve been out of town and not in touch with her.
      Mary

  89. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura’s walking 20 miles today, and logged 17 rather than 15 yesterday. It’s humid, but there’s a breeze to make it more pleasant out. She stayed with Gayle and Kent yesterday, having a barbeque with shish-kebobs for dinner. Because it’s been so hot, they’ve been grilling out daily.
    ~ Jane

  90. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura will walk 15 miles to the next town, where she already has a host lined up. That’s the nice thing about the small towns being close together; social links are well-established. Laura is enjoying this part of the journey as it has been much less taxing. She is able to more fully enjoy the towns and her hosts; what with shorter walks between towns, pleasant weather (so far), and great people who are in touch with their neighbors. Also, there is some greenery due to a few rain-showers here in KS.
    ~ Jane

  91. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura’s taking a day off from walking to work on her project. It’s a shame she has so much to do that she can’t spend part of the day as a tourist in Dodge. After she an interview last night, she cooked dinner for Mark and Bobby. The 4 resident dogs sat watching her, hoping for a tidbit. After dinner the three sat and chatted on Bobby’s porch. Laura found the mud-swallow nests that could be seen in Bobby’s garden interesting.
    ~ Jane

  92. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura’s walking 15 miles today in Kansas. It’s humid (actually rained yesterday) and in the 70’s in the morning; then the wind picks up and the temperature rises 30-40 degrees later in the day. Miss intrepid finds these conditions work just fine for her. She drinks about 3 gal. of water during the day. She stayed with Bruce Hartnett last night, and they had a great time talking about music and genealogies. He plays bluegrass music on the mandolin, and he and his 87 yr. old father sing duets together. He must be tall to be calling Laura little girl, or perhaps it’s meant in a paternal way, since he’s a generation removed from her in age. His father included Laura in his weekly lunch out with him and his boys. Bruce’s brother and wife will host Laura tonight.
    ~ Jane

    • Bruce Hartnett says:

      Jane,
      You’re correct on the “Tall” part! Once-upon-a-time, I was at least as tall as “your” “little” girl (I’m perhaps even slightly older than yourself). Glad to be one of the ones keeping her safe on her trek.
      I was hoping this afternoon that you were able to “catch” the jibe I gave her about walking a little further than planned yesterday( i.e., besides being slightly O.C.D., a “space cadet” {forgivable because she IS and artist}), even though “we” showed her the planned as well as the other direction she was supposed to have taken. She’s doing well, and I’m sure Bobbie and Mark will provide a good reference for the next stop. I hope to catch a friend or two further along to help out too.

      Hope to meet you on your return trek to Arizona!

      Bruce

  93. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura plans to walk 12 miles today to the next town. It’s nice when she has a shorter walk to make, because she can linger over breakfast and talk with her hosts before setting off. Looks like another beautiful day in Kansas.
    ~ Jane

  94. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Today is Laura’s 40th birthday! I am sooo proud of her. She was going to take the day off, but wants to press onward. She’ll walk 12 miles today, a short jaunt. Last night she stayed with Scharlene, a Methodist pastor who is married to the pastor in Hugoton, where Laura stayed 2 nights ago. The ladies breakfasted at a cafe run by a Mennonite woman, and had delicious food! The Mennonites left Canada in the 1800’s because of persecution, moved to Mexico, then Kansas. They preserve their German traditions of language, dress, and spiritual simplicity in life.
    ~ Jane

    • Enrique says:

      Thank you, Jane, for keeping us posted.
      And congratulations to Laura.
      And thanks for the interesting info about Mennonites. They are still a very big community in Chihuahua, México.

      All the best.

      Enrique

      • Laura says:

        Yeah, I was surprised to find that out… this world is so much more full of interesting communities than I ever imagined. :)
        Besos,
        -Laura

  95. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura plans to walk 21 miles today, and has a place to stay tonight. There’s a nice breeze and it’s not quite so hot. Last night she stayed with Pastor Heitman and his wife(sorry, I forgot to ask their first names). Laura cooked them Indian food, they chatted about different recipes and food experiences and Mrs. Heitman showed Laura her garden.
    ~ Jane

    • Kelvin says:

      Pastors Kelvin & Donna Heitmann are our names and Donna said, “Not my garden!” Kelvin is the gardener and both enjoy cooking. Laura’s food was great.

      • Laura says:

        Mom tries, but sometimes information gets scrambled over the phone with wind and truck noise :) Glad you liked my cooking. It was great fun meeting you. Thanks for walking with me and sharing your home for a night.
        Cheers!
        -Laura

  96. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura will walk 15.6 miles today. She stayed with Patty and Tom at a farm in the country last night. She had a fine time with them. Tom sold his beef last year, fortunately. Keeping up the cotton and corn crops alone has been a struggle this year. Their home is lovely, Laura reports.
    ~ Jane

    • Michelle says:

      Hello Laura, I just received a phone call from my uncle (we kid around with him cause he looks like Tony Orlando, LOL!!) that lives in Satanta, KS. He said he was able to visit with you for a short while today. He wanted to pass on to you to have safe travels on your way to Michigan. Hope you enjoyed the hometown hospitality that the little town of Satanta, KS has to offer. May your travels in Kansas be safe, yet memorable as Kansas has many different cultures to see.

      • Laura says:

        Thanks Michelle!
        I have very much enjoyed the hospitality of Satanta. It’s a very lovely place and everyone I’ve met has been nice to me, including “Tony Orlando”. :)
        I wish I had more time in each town… but then it would be snowing when I reached Michigan. But I love getting to know our country this way. It’s much deeper and more interesting than just driving through.
        Cheers!
        -Laura

  97. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura has walked 12 miles on a windless, very hot day. Later in her walk a light breeze started up and made it more pleasant. She had a really good time with all the folks yesterday at the 4th of July celebration. Her hosts were great! After the festivities; she enjoyed the input of the ladies and small-fry. She also went to the market to buy a bleaching kit, treated her roots, and now has more harmonious haircolor.
    ~ Jane
    Historical fact: The towns are no more than 17 miles apart along her route which follows the railroad because that’s how far a steam-engine could travel before taking on more water.
    ~ Jane
    teresting reason: Steam engines had to take on water every 17 miles along the RR line.

  98. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Miss intrepid is taking this 4th of July holiday as her first real day off since March; when she was working a job, helping plan the performance event with Mexican artists, and getting everything ready for “Walking home stories.” She is enjoying the 4th of July celebration chatting with local people in the town where she is staying. Nobody in that drought-ridden part of the world is chancing sending small, colorful incendiary noise-makers into the air in celebration of the holiday.
    Last night she stayed with Jola and Michael and went to a non-denominational church service. The electronics used for music and voice amplification affected her audio reception and made it hard to hear the singing and the homily. The pastor spoke of resentments hurting us physically as well as spiritually, but I will leave it to her to expand on the topic, since I could hear fragments of his homily.
    ~ Jane

  99. Laura says:

    Laura had a fine time with Mary, her host last night. Today she got off early, and will walk 17 miles to the next town. The people she’s staying with have invited her to a church picnic; and she will arrive in time to shower, rest and enjoy the evening. She plans to stay in that town over the 4th, either staying with the same host or another family.
    ~ Jane

  100. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura gave me the day off from blogging yesterday because she intended to do so since she took the day off to get some work done. Oh, well.
    Laura’s walking 20 miles today in Kansas, as the wind keeps whippin’ down the plain. The methodist church found her a place to stay with a teacher in town.

  101. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura will walk about 19 miles today, being picked up by Pastor Christopher of the Christ Lutheran Church. The churches have allied to provide lodging and food for the many pilgrims coming through their town. Interestingly enough, one has to be brought to the sheriff’s department for a check to see if they have any warrants out, before the bestowal of Christian charity. She is really exhausted, owing to sore feet and walking in the prevailing wind. People are nice, and that ameliorates the physical pain.
    ~ Jane

    • Mark Nickles says:

      Actually, the warrant-check is a good policy, which the Ministerial Alliance of Cimarron County also has in place. It’s a sad fact that there are people in the world who prey on the kindness of others. We’ve had some pretty dangerous folk come through this part of the country, simply because it is “off the radar.” However, I don’t think any kind of check was done on Laura in Boise City. I could be wrong, however….

      • Laura says:

        HI Mark!
        Thanks so much for your kindness. I appreciate you making so many calls on my behalf and for bringing me dinner. I awoke refreshed and ready to go the next morning.
        Thanks,
        -Laura

  102. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Not surprisingly, after having walked 23 miles in a prevailing wind, Laura slept for a whopping nine hours last night. Her feet were killing her. Showing Christian kindness, the members of St. Paul’s Methodist church took up a collection to cover her room at a hotel. She’ll walk 16 miles as the wind comes sweepin’ down the plain, humming “Oklahoma” lyrics as she goes.
    ~ Jane

  103. Laura says:

    Laura reached me briefly to say she’d walk 23 miles today.
    ~J

  104. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura walked about 22 miles yesterday. Her host, Roberta picked her up just shy of the tiny town of 125 people she stayed in last night. I got help from the Pam, the postmistress in the town, who’s related by marriage to Roberta. That’s the way it is in small towns. Limited or no reception while she crosses The Panhandle of Oklahoma: so I have no idea what she will walk today.
    ~ Jane

  105. Laura says:

    Mom report revision:
    The day is cool and Laura will reach Oklahoma today. She’s battling wind head-on and will be one tired puppy at the end of the day.
    ~ Jane

  106. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura’s walking 24 miles through some desolate terrain in NM. Fill that water-bottle to the brim, girl!
    ~ Jane

  107. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura’s taking a day off to work and rest. I’m happy to hear that, since the temperatures are brutal in NM.
    ~ Jane

  108. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    The population density in NE New Mexico is VERY low and there are many miles between towns. Night before last, she stayed with the mayor of a town with the population of 2, teehee ~
    She plans to walk about 15 miles today. The temperatures are expected to reach 104 deg. F today, and there is no shade. She has nowhere to stay tonight so far….cheery prospects for our intrepid girl.
    ~ Jane

  109. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura was pretty much incommunicado from yesterday afternoon until this morning, when her nice hostess let her use her line to call me. She’ll walk 16 miles today and is in great spirits as she nears the New Mexico border.
    ~ Jane

  110. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Yesterday Laura walked 12 miles. She’s getting a late start today. She’ll breakfast with her friends, who are going back to Tucson today. She aims to make 20 miles today, but….
    ~ Jane

  111. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura’s going to shoot for 20 miles today. She and Julie are having a fun time together. Julie says her feet are burning, hmmm….incipient blisters?
    ~ Jane

  112. Jessica Henderson says:

    Hi Laura How are you? Ive been reading comments that are left and i see you seem to be doing great!! I dont know if you remember talking to me I was the AARP rep that you spoke to and presented to me that you were going to walk and wanted to reach out to people to see if there was anyone that would walk and share your stories/and stay in their home as well. You are very inspirational and I wish you the BEST of luck on your walk!

    Jessica

  113. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura made 19 of the 22 miles she planned to walk yesterday. Todays goal is 20. She is having a great time with Tom and Julie.
    ~ Jane

  114. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura will walk 22 miles today, joined by her friend, Tom Willett. It’s cold and windy, which is not great. She’s excited to have another day with good company!

    ~ Jane

  115. Azul88 says:

    YEA LAURA! Keep it up! Glad you’re enjoying the beautiful country- and that you have company to walk with. We’re all keeping an eye out for you- good luck and have fun! :)

    – Hannah C.

  116. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Today Laura plans to walk 18 miles, with her new friend, Doug. He’s hiked the Appalachian Trail and is up for the pace she’s keeping. She’s rested and happy to have company for the next couple of days.
    ~ Jane

  117. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura’s having a wonderful time walking through beautiful country. She’ll walk 17 miles today. She said she couldn’t imagine how the gourds and flowers could survive this extended drought.
    ~ Jane

  118. catbowl says:

    Something has gone wrong with the web site. I can’t access any of the clips or the live feed. They say on justintv that they are no longer available. They had maintence earlier today…could they have deleted all the clips?

    • Laura says:

      I think they fixed it. There was a problem with the whole site, but there has been a problem with my page specifically… they deleted clips that shouldn’t have been deleted. Normally, they keep them for a week. Feel free to complain. I have sent them a message too. :)

  119. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura plans to walk 13 miles to one town and either stay there, or find a place at the next town, 7 more miles down the road.
    ~ Jane

  120. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura got a late start today because she had some business to attend to. She’ll walk @ 15 miles today, and sleep in a hammock tonight. There was no room in the inn, but it’s balmy at night, and she’s good with that option.
    ~ Jane

    • I go thru 4 pr of NB 993’s each year. A trick I learned when my shoes are new (1st 50 miles) I put Scotch Sealing Tape, the clear sticking kind a person uses when shipping postal packages. Put the clear tape on the part of the shoe that comes in contact with area of the foot thats causing the blister. It makes a SMOOTH surface between the sock on the shoe during the breaking in period. It works……………Watching from Michigan Jim

  121. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura walked 11 miles today and has found a host home. She loves her new boots! There is a blister issue from having worn walking shoes. I expect she will return to longer walks in a day or so….
    ~ Jane

  122. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura plans to walk 20 miles today, and can stay at a Baptist Church facility tonight. She’s always hopeful that she may encounter a host person sometime during her day. Good luck, honey! The boots are wonderful, she reports.
    ~ Jane

  123. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura’s walking 17 miles in her new Solomon boots. Hope there will be no bad blisters of the newly-shod.
    ~ Jane

  124. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura’s taking a day off in Santa Fe. She’ll get some new boots, suntan lotion and band-aids; giving her blisters a chance to heal. The leather walking shoes Chris gave her have now conformed to her feet, and she’s weighing (pun intended) whether to carry them so she can alternate. She’s right on schedule as of today, owing to have walked longer stretches between towns in western NM.
    ~ Jane

  125. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Laura plans to walk 16 miles today, uphill. She’s walking through a Pueblo reservation for part of the day, so will not be allowed to film. She took a train to get to where she left off walking yesterday. (She sure goes out of her way to faithfully walk ALL the miles.) She has a host for tonight, and is being met by a friend of a friend to take her to the host’s home.
    ~ Jane

  126. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    There is a glitch in Laura’s route plan, since the Pueblo Nation has ceremonial affairs going on right now and can’t help her find lodging. Uncertain how far she will walk today. More info tomorrow.
    ~ Jane

  127. Laura says:

    Mom report:
    Today Laura started out early and will walk until the ash from the Arizona fires fills the sky, then will stop. Maybe 10-11 miles?
    ~ Jane

  128. Laura says:

    Mom report on Laura’s walk. She plans to walk 25 miles today, after which she’ll be picked up by her host of last night and stay one more there. She’s upbeat as usual, and looks great to me.
    ~ Jane

  129. Laura says:

    Daily mom report: Laura plans to walk 22 miles today, in her borrowed shoes. She’ll need to get boots, so her ankles are protected from brush. How timely it is that just when her boots were giving up the ghost, her host has the same size feet as she.
    ~ Jane

  130. Laura says:

    Mom report: Laura’s taking a day off from walking.

  131. mattyb says:

    Hi my name is matthew. I see you online all the time. I could never do what your doing. Good Luck.
    (this is catbowl and I work with Matt and helped him with your website and he wanted to comment.)

    • Laura says:

      Thanks Matt, I’m glad you enjoy it. It is hard work, but a wonderful journey so far. :)
      (catbowl, thanks for helping Matt post this.)
      -Laura

  132. Laura says:

    Mom report: Laura plans to walk 15 miles today. Charlie’s just dropped her off to continue her trek. As for reception, they stayed at a casino where no video equipment is allowed, and the internet has been winking in and out. Interesting side-bar: Yesterday Laura met Lee Marmon, noted southwestern photographer.

  133. Laura says:

    Mom here ~ Major oops today; Laura thought she had just 11 miles to go, so stopped at an art gallery and chatted for a while, then at a bar/restaurant called Villa Cubero later on where she was told she still had 11+ miles to walk. (Villa Cubero , opened in 1920 had a motel where Hemmingway stayed and is still open as an all-purpose convenience center.) So, 16+miles today and nowhere to stay until Charlie called. He’s the genuine cowboy who owns Whispering Hope Ranch where she stayed in AZ during the snow and ice storm. He said on the phone that he’d help her if she ever needed him. Laura’s response was, “Er, tomorrow I have nowhere to stay and too many miles to go without a stop-over.” He will pick her up this afternoon, walk with her tomorrow, then get her back on Route 66 so she can safely make it back to civilization. Serendipity rules!
    ~ Jane

  134. Laura says:

    Mom reporting here all: Laura stayed with a nice family last night. The kids were very cute and seemed to enjoy her. Today she’ll walk a whopping 22 miles. Fortunately, It’s supposed to reach 90 deg. again and the wind is down a bit today, which will make walking less strenuous. Did I tell you she loves the heat?
    ~ Jane

  135. Azul88 says:

    So much fun walking with you today, Laura! Wish I could have gone the whole time….:( But thank you for the amazing experience- I’ll cross my fingers so you don’t get rained on! Thank you for staying at our house- and best of luck to you!

    • Laura says:

      Thanks so much for walking with me! It made the time fly by. You are a great walking companion. :)
      I can’t believe you went nine miles… that’s pretty impressive.
      Cheers!
      -Laura

  136. Laura says:

    Here’s the daily Mom report on Laura’s walk: Laura has a 14 yr. old named Hannah walking with her for 10 of the 15 or so miles she will go to reach her next host’s home. Laura had a fun time making individual pizzas for Hanna and her family last night. Her hosts found her a place to stay for tonight. The wind is still strong, but the temperature should reach 90 deg. today, which makes it much more pleasant walking than yesterday. Laura loves warm weather, so it suits her just fine.
    ~ Jane (a.k.a. Mom)

  137. Azul88 says:

    Wow. This is truly amazing- this project is definitely something to be proud of! Good luck, Laura! Thank you so much for being able to come to my house today! I’d love to be able to have a challenge like this in the future- but at the same time I don’t know if I could keep up the stamina. Keep up the bravery! :)

  138. Laura says:

    This is Laura’s mom. She’s walking into a strong headwind doing @ 20 miles today. She’ll call her host to pick her up on his way home from work because she’s done in. That will only cut off 3 miles of so, since she’ll be nearly to their home by then. The waist tie on her pack isn’t well insulated and so cuts into her abdomen as she walks. She called the company, and they had no useful information for her, except to suggest she pad it out more herself.
    ~ Jane

  139. Laura says:

    Hi all, this is Laura’s mom. She’s walking 18.5 miles today to her hosts’ home. It’s wierd that she wearing a hoodie and gloves, walking on a day in New Mexico with temperatures in the 50’s and we have 80’s here in Michigan. It should prove to be a tiring day, with a cold wind, no walking company and going along a noisy highway most of the way. Keep on truckin’, dear.
    ~ Jane

  140. kent begay says:

    i said i would say hi and i promised you a story during your visit to fire rock navajo casino in churchrock (i was the security at front the front entrance). well i thought i share with you little navajo history. like i have said, my name is k. kent begay. nevermind the first name. i tell everyone my mom jinxed me *laughing*.
    well i dont have no one to tell me how i got my last name. but people were name after what they had done in their lives, what they had in possession, or their characteristics. for example, my late fathers’ name was kee lagai begay, translation the “boy with light complexions’ son” or “his son” or ashki la’gai beyi’. beyi is a mistranslation from traders, schooling, census or missionaries who, let’s say they couldn’t prounouce my great-great-great grandfathers’ name so the closest translation they could come up with was, begay. because of my “given-not so well deserved” last name, i have alot of verbal or physical confrontation at outside reservation schooling in my younger days. these days, my name is as common as smith and i’m not so proud of it but it’s been in family for generations. likewise, the yazzie’s – short person, the benally’s – his son or daughter in-law by clan or ke’, clanship. uhmmm i have to run….maybe i’ll tell you more later.. have a safe hike and God bless.
    kent begay
    cousincoyote@yahoo.com

  141. Laura says:

    Hi, this is Laura’s mom. Finding a place to stay for her to stay tonight seemed impossible yesterday, but there is positive news today. Her hosts of Friday night called to say they had found a place for her. Providentially, at breakfast this morning a nice family asked her about her trek, were from the next town down the pike and asked her to stay with them tomorrow night. YEA! No worries for our intrepid Laura for two days.
    ~ Jane

  142. Laura says:

    Today Laura walked six miles to a hotel that has given her a complimentary room for the night. After having completed 20-25 miles every day for the last seven days, her body is demanding she take a day off for rest and to regroup. (Parenthetically, she may also be quite fatigued due to a lack of protein in her diet yesterday.) Her time will also be used to plan ahead for her trek through New Mexico.
    Rest well, honey ~ Mom

  143. Dave H says:

    Hi Laura. I’m the tricyclist who interupted your video promo on Oracle Rd. I planned on joining you for your 1st day walk to Catalina, since I was supposed to be off work. However, I didn’t get off until the 4th, so I missed your departure. Wish you the best and hope you make it! Keep trudgin!
    Dave

  144. Laura says:

    WooHoo! State number 2! Laura is in New Mexico now. This is Laura’s mom. She has been putting @ 20 mi. per day for the last week, seeing some fantastic scenery. Today she is looking at beautiful striated rock formations in those lovely oranges, reds and pinks one sees in Southwestern paintings. She’s feeling great and walking is easier than it has been in such places as the Petrified Forest National Park, and on narrow highway roads with no berm. Since she can’t stream and comment simultaneously, I hope to keep you all abreast of what’s happening.
    ~ Jane

  145. Laura Milkins says:

    Hi there,

    Many people have asked for me to post my location. I don’t feel safe saying exactly where I am each day… but I want you to know what region I’m in and how many miles I’m walking. Because most days I walk 7-9 hours a day and then meet with my hosts, cook dinner, get to know them and fall into bed exhausted, I haven’t posted as many blog posts as I wanted to…

    However, my mom has offered to post a daily update here and let you know how it’s going. Thanks mom!

    Cheers!
    -Laura

  146. It would be great to have a daily update as to where you are and where your next stop is.

  147. I check on you twice a day. (I’m retired) Everything you talk about I can relate to. Such as shoes, uneven surfaces, sun burn, sore muscles, thoughts that go through you mind while walking. Yesterday you talked about how your aches and pains shows up in the last two miles of you daily journey. I’ve go through that almost every day. I just cruise along feeling great until the last couple of miles and then everything bothers me. Your a trooper, stay healthy and safe. “Forrest”

  148. daigoumee says:

    Wow this is a great resource.. I’m enjoying it.. good article

  149. Laura says:

    Snow Day!

    No live-streaming today…
    My apologies. I am still in the mountains with spotty reception. Today there will be NO reception and NO walking. It is snowing here!

    Snow! in May!! in Arizona!!!
    So, I will remain at the Whispering Hope Ranch for another day or two. They are the nicest people and Charlie is a wonderful host. Too bad there is no internet or phone reception… but I never look a gift horse in the mouth.
    -Laura

  150. Laura says:

    Good morning,

    Just a quick message to let you know that the reception will be spotty today. I’m up in the mountains.
    Thanks for watching. See you soon.

    -Laura

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