Day 15

Greetings from the Pennell residence in Montgomery, Alabama! This morning we left historic Tuskegee and continued our trip west. We got moving around 8am, and got onto route 80. It was a pretty uneventful day running wise. We made our way down the road about 15 miles before getting to Jeter's Diner. We got a pretty nice meal of eggs, pancakes and corn bread for next to a steal. After the meal we got going on the second half of our run. It was early on in the second half where I found our first Alabama license plate! Andy and I were both very excited, but we still need to get at least 2 more before we cross into Mississippi. We were stopped a few times by locals wondering what we were doing. They were all very supportive and wished us good luck.

We eventually finished our day of 29 miles and made our way to Arrowhead, about 8 miles outsie of Montgomery. Before we knew it we were picked up by the legondary Mr. Pennell! We've heard about this man for years but none of us had ever had the opportunity to meet him. He rolled up, helped us get our joggers into his truck and had large bottles of Gatorade waiting for each of us. We made our way to their house and enjoyed our first experience with Mellow Mushroom pizza. I'd heard nothing but great things about the place, and it definetly delivered. After dinner we hung out with the family, and swapped embaressing stories about Pennell.

We really appreciate the help we've gotten all throughout Alabama so far. We haven't had a chance to personally do the Blog over the past few days so I'd like to thank Big Red and his family, Prof. Daniels, Liz, and The Pennell's for all they've done for us over the last few days.

-Durkin

I don't have much to add today since Durkin did a great job, but I would like to briefly share my thoughts about yesterday's stop in Tuskegee. Before we entered the town it was just another stop on the map, as far as we were concerned. We knew very little of the town or the rich history that it held. Only after spending a few hours walking around and talking to people we were all very moved. We would like to especially thank Professor Daniels and Mrs. Sims for taking the time out of their day (especially on Valentine's Day) and giving us a tour of the city. The campus was beautiful and the history surrounding it was visible everywhere. I am thankful that we were given the opportunity to meet such wonderful people and to be shown a small part of their world. I wish we had more time to explore the town and see all that it hard to offer. Please check out Mrs. Sims website and the work she is currently invested in. www.shilohcommfound.com Thanks.

-Andy