Mark Yackel-Juleen, owner of the Shalom Hill Farm kindly let us stay at his facilities, which included a stone cottage built in the 1890s. It was so peaceful to be away from all city noises, and to just hear the wind rustling in the trees. A few frisky cats and a smiling dog entertained us, along with a few roosters which reminded us to wake up in order to make sure the sun came up in the early hours of the morning.

The Mayor of Windom, Kirby Kruse enthusiastically came out of the City Hall to run to the Court House at a cracking pace. He left a few of us scrambling to catch up!

The men's team represents, with rousing song and demeanor. A barbershop quartet we are not, but at least we don't scare the pets too much.

Sadie Volk of the Tri County News was excited to have something global come through her quiet county. In her stylish flip flops she ran with the torch for a bit and said she was eager to sign up for the next run! We wish her luck on her upcoming 10K and her kind-hearted service to geriatric patients.

Rahn Larson of WindomNews.Com sports a smile almost brighter than the torch!

The Windom City Administrator was initially mistaken to be the Mayor due to his smart attire, and he provided a warm reception for the runners.

Ratuja maneuvering through the construction on Route 60, earning herself her own lane.

Salil slugs it out in the 100 degree heat.

Natabara veers off into the rough.

Minnesota coordinators from Minneapolis arrive in Mankato to share the torch with young runners at the YMCA at South Riverfron Drive!

Girls on the Run (and a few understudies) get ready for a run through Mankato.

And they are off!... "Wait a second -- which way do we go?"

Our men's team had trouble keeping up (notice them in the back of the pack). Girls on the Run coordinator Sheri leads with the torch.

Some young speedsters get a second wind and take off sprinting!

Mom is in back (in blue) looking proud of her striding daughter.

Yes, "awesomeness" is a dictionary word (ok, urban dictionary). Fearless is for sure. The support at the end of the run was cheerful and vibrant as the group arrived at the YWCA at South Broad Street.

Photo outside in the heat....

Ahhhh. Air conditioning and snacks! But wait, someone announces there is a sprinkler outside!

Notice the rainbow -- landing right at the YWCA!

Feeling peace in our hearts.

Girls on the Run and the YWCA are presented with a Certificate of Appreciation!

Notice the excellent penmanship and spelling! And how did they get those cool S's all around the edges? Much appreciated!

May Peace Prevail on Earth -- Peace Pole representatives also joined us.

Later in the evening, the Olive Garden Italian Restaurant on Adams Street treated us like royalty as we were treated to a fantastic meal with even more fantastic service. Special thanks to Lauren and Betsy (in center holding torch together) who served us, and Kyle (2nd from left) and Risé in management for being so generous. Look at all those happy faces on the runners! Big smiles in our stomachs as well. This will help for the running tomorrow!

And lastly...

This picture was leftover from Sioux City. This proves we embrace all types!

– Natabara

Distance: 65 miles

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