We finally got out for a run. It was bright and sunny and freezing. While I’m running I always wonder why I do it, but after I run I’m always glad I did it. Running alongside the Arno and out to the far reaches of Cascine Park was beautiful and quiet at 9:00 a.m. on a Wednesday. Closer to our street, I did my best to ignore the strange looks from Italians prompted by my choice of running gear – white running shoes, black leggings, grey running capris, a grey t-shirt, a lavender jacket, and gloves. Ok, I did look a little strange, but I’m running after all. Maybe I’m going to have to invest in a cute little running outfit from the Cascine Market next Tuesday.
Ged, our work-a-day director of the AIFS program, is organizing a running group for students every Tuesday evening. I intend to join them. There is a half marathon in April, which I have no intention of doing, but it also has a 10k, which I am hoping to be ready for. It took me just over 3 weeks to complete “week 2” of my Ease into 10k program – not bad since I moved to a foreign country right in the middle of that. If I stick to the program, running 3 times a week, I should be ready by April. Somebody wish me luck.
A Year Abroad 
Good luck! You can do it no problem. So much easier to run in a new and beautiful place. Easier to get distracted and forget how much your body aches! xoxo Bob
Hi Bob, Thanks for the encouragement. I hope you’re right about the distraction part. I was so frickin’ freezing when we ran on Wednesday that I couldn’t focus on much else. I did see that there was a pyramid in the middle of the park. I wonder why it’s there.
You can do it, Lois! You know what they say about putting one foot after another. It’s literally true. The next thing you know, you WILL be doing a half marathon.
I’m jealous!! I haven’t been able to run since my little *accident* at Thanksgiving, but am hoping to get back into it pretty soon! 🙂
LOVE!
Lois,
You will definitely be ready!?! I am sending over some running vibes right now….can you feel them. Have a great time. Sorry, we were unable to make the trip this time around. Maybe next time, hopefully in the near future. I really want you and George to meet my husband, Mike ; ) Have a great time!
xoxo,
Kim
I hope so. Everyone tells me that if I can run a 5k, then I can run a 10k. I just don’t get that logic because it is TWICE as far. But I will stick with the program and trust that I will be ready in time. Tuesday night I ran with a bunch of 18-22 year olds and I had to keep reminding myself that I am twice as old as they are. But, I hung in there and held my own, just a little slower than the rest. Thanks for all the encouragement and good vibes. I do appreciate it.