Open Letter from Mile 26

Hello. Allow me to introduce myself. I am Mile 26.

Several of my friends have told me you are coming by for a visit this weekend. I can hardly wait to meet you. Please tell my friends I said hello along the way to my house. In case you need directions, it is quite simple. Start on Broad Street, and run all over Richmond. You will pass several monuments, homes, bridges, rivers, and buildings along the way. It is actually a nice trip. Be sure to take a look around.

In case you get hungry or thirsty I have asked my friends to have some beverages and appetizers for you. My cousin, Mile 2, will be the first one to offer you a drink, but not the last. My family likes to drink! But, look out for Mile 7, Mile 13, and Mile 19. They are the black sheep of the family, and can sometimes get a bit rowdy. Rumor has it they are planning a party for you. They are even bringing cowbells!

I also must warn you about my friend Mile 20. To put it bluntly. . . he is a bully. He likes to try to tackle people and give them wedgies. He tries to hold them down on the ground too. I have found if you keep your feet moving he can't catch you. So whatever you do when you get near his house (which ironically looks like a big wall) keep moving!

I should also warn you about my crazy Aunts, Mile 16 and Mile 22. I am sure you have some of these in your family too. Every time you go by there house, they are trying to give you candy and snacks. Right now they seem to be fond of gummy bears and pretzels. Both Aunt's are nuts!

Yes, you will have quite the adventure getting to see me. Along the way, you will probably curse my name. You may even consider not coming to my house. But I assure you, once you arrive, I will make it worth the trip. So, lets make it a date. Meet me at my house this Saturday between the hours of 11:30 and 2:00. I guarantee, I will be waiting for you.

Sincerely,