The human body is made up of approximately 70% water. Yesterday, mine was composed of 70% Lake Ponchatrain. As athletes we’re told to “leave it out on the course”. Today I did just that. Unfortunately I used up everything before I was finished swimming.
The swim
Massive waves dominated the lake. Visibility was difficult with the swells coming in quick intervals. Being a poor to fair swimmer already, my injury and subsequent lack of training, I was totally unprepared for the chop of the water.
The beach start was nice. The sand was soft but packed and there were no rocks to worry about in the water. Knowing my ability and training level, I started at the very back of my group. We all ran/walked as far as possible before putting our faces in the water. When I finally put my face in the water and started freestyle I was pleased to note that the water was a churlish brown and that I couldn’t see anything. Good news—I would not have panic attacks due to seeing something in the water.
After about a minute of attempting to swim freestyle I gave up. I switched to my comfort zone of side stroke but told myself that I would switch back once I cleared the massive head-on waves when we turned. I actually kept my word and did switch to freestyle—for about a minute. The waves overwhelmed me. The amount of effort I had to put out just to get a little distance was disheartening. I got my focus back and knew I could weather it and just keep going.
About half way through the swim my right calf started cramping. At first it was small cramps but then it turned to take-your-breath-away cramps. I flipped on my back and forced it to relax. I attempted to do a little more freestyle but discovered that the cramps were just as bad doing that. Because it was easier for me I kept up the side stroke, knowing it would tire out my legs but also knowing I didn’t have much of a choice anymore. My left leg joined the cramp party a few minutes later. I floundered out in the waves just telling myself I could see the next turn buoy.
Finally I reached the buoy and headed to shore. The minute my feet could touch bottom I started walking. I was exhausted. I started the wetsuit extraction process and was searching for a stripper. I was lucky to find a guy that had experience. I plopped my butt on the ground and he yanked it off perfectly. Wetsuit in hand, I trotted through the grass and sticker burrs to my bike.
The bike
I transitioned to the bike relatively fast (considering my energy level). I wanted to make sure I didn’t forget anything.
The minute I got on my bike I put something in my stomach to avoid bonking. After a mile or so I noticed that my energy level was still low and that pedaling was taking more effort than it should. I had to stay in my small chain ring but figured I would pay attention to my new obsession: the cadence.
Both calves were still very sore. The entire ride they threatened more cramps.
The bike course was mostly flat. There are two hills and both of them are in the first 5 miles of the ride. When doing an out-and-back course that means that there are two hills in the last five miles as well. Ugh.
All I can say for the bike is that it felt like there was headwind for most of a lot of the ride. We had several out-and-backs. I am not sure if it was a true headwind but it taxed my already over-taxed body. Pedaling was all I could do. I was very happy to pass a few people from my age group (having started at the very back it was nice to know I was no longer DFL).
I love my new bike. I really do. It is light and pretty and enjoyable to ride but I was in a state of bliss when I was able to rack that sucker and abandon it for the last discipline of the race.
The run
I transitioned relatively well. Again, I made sure I had everything I needed (and nothing I didn’t, like a helmet). The run out was quite a distance away from the bikes so I got in practice jog to see how my legs would tolerate me. They complained but didn’t give out. The run is my favorite because you can actually stop running and walk—whenever you want. I took advantage of that for most of the course.
My legs (calves and quads) were exhausted still. Since I’m still having trouble w/my legs I’m not able to properly use my glutes and hamstrings. I really did try to force them into service but I was now mentally whipped as well so it was too hard. I managed to keep a good pace when I was running but my body was winning the battle over my brain. I would say I walked ¼ of each mile (minimum).
About mile 6 I started to feel nauseas. Some of the Gatorade was mixed rather strongly and that first sip had been a surprise and I thought it upset my stomach. The heat (82+) was also a factor. There wasn’t much shade on the course. Also, there was the fact that I was carrying most of Lake Ponchatrain in my stomach. Whatever the cause, I ended up stopping at mile 7 to completely lose my lunch. I was considerate enough to remove myself from the course (away from everyone else). I don’t know how but that took even more energy from me. I consciously drank and ate more so I could get as much energy as possible.
The last few miles were down Esplanade. About mile 10 there was a surprise. A parade was coming towards us. Really—a parade. Part of our exorbitant registration fee was for street closures and cop protection. Somehow this parade managed to get by all of that. There were floats and about 5 cars with people (a small parade) with a few hundred people following. The crowd decided to be on our side of the street. Dodging drunken people intent of following their parade is not easy. They took up the entire street and we (the tired runners) were left to attempt to make our way through them. The police stood there and watched with expressions of “what do you want me to do?” The bright side: it was loud, there was music and it completely distracted me from how tired I was and how much my body hurt.
Our final stretch was into the quarter. We turned on Decatur for the last stretch. The smell of the French Quarter hit me before I could process why I smelled it. It was nice to be cheered on by a bunch of drunk people (in the middle of the afternoon) as I struggled the last half mile.
Due to so many injuries of late, I wasn’t remotely prepared for this race. I knew this going in and I am not surprised by my time (I’m actually a little pleased it wasn’t worse). All in all am proud of this race. I took it seriously this time—no swim rescues this time and no pity for a new friend having a bad run. It was just me this time. It may be my slowest time but I did it.
Monday, April 19, 2010
Thursday, August 7, 2008
update so far
Monday Aug 4, 2008
Signed up for scuba class Sunday--a big deal for me since I'm a little hesitant about the 'remove your mask while under water' test. It is a one-on-one thing. Bryan will be my instructor; he is the director of something at the whale shark center. Rob (Director, in charge of everything at the whale shark center) was talking about him and got him to take me on as a student (he is certified as an instructor but normally doesn't teach).
Bryan gave me my book, loaned me the videos to watch and sent me on my way Sunday. Monday I arrived ready to test. We were supposed to meet at 9am and start the paperwork part first. I had finished my quizzes and just started on my final exam when Rob burst into the office with a very happy look on his face (this look is only slightly different from his normal happy look). The diving trip had found a whale shark while on their trip. Bryan and Rob needed to head out for pictures soon. I quickly finished my exam, bought some cookies at the store across the street, and prepared to hit the water with them.
I was the only person who was a 'customer' on the boat. Everyone else was either a scientist or a dive master who was training as a whale shark diving expert.
Tuesday Aug 5, 2008
So I passed all of my tests on Monday and was to start my water instructions today. Bryan told me to meet him at 8:30am to start with the instructions.
He strolled up about 9am or so. No worries, we're in Honduras. Shortly after he arrives, Bryan informs me that he has a 10am meeting. We're in the water only a few minutes and then it is 10am. Luckily we were able to finish the first lesson before the meeting. I had water stuck in my ear and couldn't get it out. I hate that but I know that if you are patient it will eventually come out.
Two hours passed, Bryan came out of his meeting and we ate lunch together before hopping back in the water.
We got through most of section two before we got to the 'fill your mask up' part. He walked me through it and we went slow. I did ok with the fill your mask half way and then empty it. When we got to the 'fill your mask up, remove it, put it back and then empty it' part I basically freaked out. I knew I would have trouble with that part and I was correct. Luckily Bryan was patient and we did other things to calm me down, like playing underwater frisbee.
We descended down, making sure to equalize the ear pressure. I realized that my left ear wouldn't equalize. When we got to the bottom, my ear really hurt so I signaled that I needed to go up. He asked me questions (about my ear) and determined that we needed to end the session then so I could get my ear checked out. We only had one more part to finish on part two--the 'fill your mask, remove it, put it back on and clear it' part of the test. He said we could finish it the following day.
I went to the hyperbaric chamber (next door) and the lady looked at my ear with the ear thing (can't remember the name of the instrument). It was inflamed, swollen, and bleeding. Hmmm...not really good. She told me that luckily my eardrum didn't burst. whew.
No underwater for 1-2 days.
Bryan and I determined that I would return to her the following day to get her ok for my return. If not, there was no way I could finish the course (since we leave Saturday).
Wednesday Aug 6, 2008
Thursday Aug 7, 2008
I knew that I should stay completely out of the water so I stayed home. I sat around in the hammock and read a book. Very nice.
I was walking around the reef (shallow) and saw a baby lobster (so cute) and an eel. The neighbor kid was around and wanted to see it too. He tried to fish it out (promising he wouldn't hurt it--catch and release). About an hour later he ran over to our house with it. It was completely wrapped up in the line--choking itself. He thought it was already dead but I told him it wasn't. We removed the line from his neck and from his mouth. We had trouble with the hook removal. Tom got his tools and did the best he could--cut it as close as possible. The hook was all the way down. The eel could still open his mouth but I'm not sure what his outcome will be...
The guys returned from their diving and Mike was on the phone a lot. Turns out his father's condition was getting worse and he needed to leave. His father has lymphoma and hasn't been doing well. Mike wasn't going to go on the trip but his father seemed to improve some so he came. Chris helped secure plans for Mike's departure. He was able to get on a plane and off the island fairly quickly. When Chris returned from the airport 30 minutes later, we learned that Mike's father had just passed away. It is horrible to know that since Mike was trying so hard to get there. That brought the mood down quite a bit. We reallly like Mike and we have known his family for over 10 years. His dad was a great guy.
To cheer everyone up, a game of golf commenced. I declined to play this time and focused on chasing the cowfish that comes by each afternoon.
Signed up for scuba class Sunday--a big deal for me since I'm a little hesitant about the 'remove your mask while under water' test. It is a one-on-one thing. Bryan will be my instructor; he is the director of something at the whale shark center. Rob (Director, in charge of everything at the whale shark center) was talking about him and got him to take me on as a student (he is certified as an instructor but normally doesn't teach).
Bryan gave me my book, loaned me the videos to watch and sent me on my way Sunday. Monday I arrived ready to test. We were supposed to meet at 9am and start the paperwork part first. I had finished my quizzes and just started on my final exam when Rob burst into the office with a very happy look on his face (this look is only slightly different from his normal happy look). The diving trip had found a whale shark while on their trip. Bryan and Rob needed to head out for pictures soon. I quickly finished my exam, bought some cookies at the store across the street, and prepared to hit the water with them.
I was the only person who was a 'customer' on the boat. Everyone else was either a scientist or a dive master who was training as a whale shark diving expert.
The actual snorkeling was slightly terrifying; it reminded me of what I think paratroupers do...jump from fast moving objects, quickly. Our captain looked for boils. A boil is where the fish are quickly surfacing. It really looks (and sounds) like the ocean is boiling. You can also see lots of birds circling the area, hoping for an easy meal.
The instructions for swimming with whale sharks:
1. wear your gear and be ready to go
2. when Bryan yells 'ready', be at the back of the boat, ready to go
3. you can't make a splash when you get in the water
---fin tips in the water pointed down, then slide yourself gently into the water (so you don't splash and scare the shark away)
That sounded easy. The actual trip was not easy; I felt like a paratrouper. What happened: the captain found a boil and raced to it (we were in a definite speed boat). When he got to the boil, he yelled "go" and that was our indication to get in the water. What I haven't told you is that the boat didn't slow down at all. We were supposed to get in the water with the boat near full throddle.
After attempting to get in without a splash from a boat moving near full speed, I was in the open ocean looking into bubbles. I couldn't see a thing. After a few seconds (maybe 5) the bubbles disappeared and there was an enormous black animal with white spots near me. The whale shark was absolutely gorgeous and close. I can't remember what I saw first because there were 6 different times we went in. One time we landed almost on top of the poor shark. Each time we definitely were swimming with it and it was amazing. I wish I had an underwater camera. One of the girls on the trip (training to be a whale shark dive master) had her camera and got some great shots. Rob promised to share the pictures with me. The scariest part of that experience was after the whale shark swam off. We were floating there in the middle of the deep blue sea. You couldn't tell if it was 100feet or 1000feet deep. Naturally I envisioned Jaws swimming up from the deep. Nothing like that happened. We were called back to the boat so we could be paratroupers again.
Tuesday Aug 5, 2008
So I passed all of my tests on Monday and was to start my water instructions today. Bryan told me to meet him at 8:30am to start with the instructions.
He strolled up about 9am or so. No worries, we're in Honduras. Shortly after he arrives, Bryan informs me that he has a 10am meeting. We're in the water only a few minutes and then it is 10am. Luckily we were able to finish the first lesson before the meeting. I had water stuck in my ear and couldn't get it out. I hate that but I know that if you are patient it will eventually come out.
Two hours passed, Bryan came out of his meeting and we ate lunch together before hopping back in the water.
We got through most of section two before we got to the 'fill your mask up' part. He walked me through it and we went slow. I did ok with the fill your mask half way and then empty it. When we got to the 'fill your mask up, remove it, put it back and then empty it' part I basically freaked out. I knew I would have trouble with that part and I was correct. Luckily Bryan was patient and we did other things to calm me down, like playing underwater frisbee.
We descended down, making sure to equalize the ear pressure. I realized that my left ear wouldn't equalize. When we got to the bottom, my ear really hurt so I signaled that I needed to go up. He asked me questions (about my ear) and determined that we needed to end the session then so I could get my ear checked out. We only had one more part to finish on part two--the 'fill your mask, remove it, put it back on and clear it' part of the test. He said we could finish it the following day.
I went to the hyperbaric chamber (next door) and the lady looked at my ear with the ear thing (can't remember the name of the instrument). It was inflamed, swollen, and bleeding. Hmmm...not really good. She told me that luckily my eardrum didn't burst. whew.
No underwater for 1-2 days.
Bryan and I determined that I would return to her the following day to get her ok for my return. If not, there was no way I could finish the course (since we leave Saturday).
Wednesday Aug 6, 2008
I waited until the afternoon to head over to the hyperbolic chamber for my ear check. She looked in and said that there was no blood and the swelling had gone down a lot. I asked if I could go under and she said I could (as long as it didn't hurt). Woo hoo--back to trying to scuba.
Bryan and I practiced the mask bit and I got the mask filled half way but still was anxious about the other part (removing it completely and putting it back). To calm me down, he suggested we do a quick swim around the pool. As soon as we were more than a foot under water, my other ear refused to equalize. I tried and tried but it wouldn't clear. It didn't hurt so I wasn't worried but I knew it wasn't good. I signaled to Bryan that my ear wasn't good so we surfaced. He agreed that it wasn't good and that we should stop. Sad times--no diving license for me this time. I get to keep the credits I earned for a year (so I can continue somewhere else).
I returned home defeated. Chris, the keeper of the house (landlord so to speak) created a golf course on the property and there were 9 holes. They played Tuesday but it was mostly his friends and Frank. They talked me into playing since they needed another person for the scramble team. One team was Frank, Mike, Randall, and James (New Zealand guy they had been diving with all week). The other team was Chris, Jody (his wife), their friend Tom (who was staying in the apartment below), and me. Chris really went all out and created tee boxes, flags and 'holes' in the sand for the balls. It was great. That game of golf quickly turned into night golf. Naturally the team I was on won.
Thursday Aug 7, 2008
I knew that I should stay completely out of the water so I stayed home. I sat around in the hammock and read a book. Very nice.
I was walking around the reef (shallow) and saw a baby lobster (so cute) and an eel. The neighbor kid was around and wanted to see it too. He tried to fish it out (promising he wouldn't hurt it--catch and release). About an hour later he ran over to our house with it. It was completely wrapped up in the line--choking itself. He thought it was already dead but I told him it wasn't. We removed the line from his neck and from his mouth. We had trouble with the hook removal. Tom got his tools and did the best he could--cut it as close as possible. The hook was all the way down. The eel could still open his mouth but I'm not sure what his outcome will be...
The guys returned from their diving and Mike was on the phone a lot. Turns out his father's condition was getting worse and he needed to leave. His father has lymphoma and hasn't been doing well. Mike wasn't going to go on the trip but his father seemed to improve some so he came. Chris helped secure plans for Mike's departure. He was able to get on a plane and off the island fairly quickly. When Chris returned from the airport 30 minutes later, we learned that Mike's father had just passed away. It is horrible to know that since Mike was trying so hard to get there. That brought the mood down quite a bit. We reallly like Mike and we have known his family for over 10 years. His dad was a great guy.
To cheer everyone up, a game of golf commenced. I declined to play this time and focused on chasing the cowfish that comes by each afternoon.
Sunday, August 3, 2008
Saturday and Sunday
You must stay or at least visit the Jade Seahorse. It is the most unique and eclectic hotel you will see. Rumor has it that the owner was on LSD when he designed the place and it is very understandable that he would need that sort of influence to tap into the creativity it took to come up with this place. Everywhere you look you find something. When you look up the work creative in the dictionary you see this man's picture.
Saturday afternoon we moved to Paradise Regained, a house on the beach. We have a golf cart and bikes at our disposal. Snorkeling and scuba diving is just a quick walk out from our back door (approximately 100 yards through a coral reef to the open water where scuba shops bring divers).
We explored quite a bit of the island (approximately 6 miles wide by about 3 miles long) and have eaten at some of the many food vendors.
I spoke with Rob (my new BFF at the Whale Shark Center) and he hooked me up with Bryan, his director at the Whale Shark Center. Bryan has agreed to take me under his wing and give me one-on-one open water diving lessons (I'm paying, of course). I'm quite nervous still but feel a little better since it is just him. He seems very nice and I like that he is highly recommended from my BFF.
Last night (saturday) and this morning I watched the scuba videos (on loan from Bryan to watch at my leisure at home) and read the manual (and answer the questions).
Tomorrow (Monday) I begin my water portion of the class. We're doing practice water dives and then the real thing. I should be fully certified by Wednesday. After that I get two free fun dives, woo hoo! Friday morning I've planned to do the whale shark encounter trip. While they can't promise you'll see a whale shark, they certainly try to find one. If they can't find one, they look around to find something interesting for you to see and take pictures of. Oh, Rob (new BFF) as also loaned me his awesome underwater camera so I can take pictures while diving and snorkeling! Bonus!!!
Saturday afternoon we moved to Paradise Regained, a house on the beach. We have a golf cart and bikes at our disposal. Snorkeling and scuba diving is just a quick walk out from our back door (approximately 100 yards through a coral reef to the open water where scuba shops bring divers).
We explored quite a bit of the island (approximately 6 miles wide by about 3 miles long) and have eaten at some of the many food vendors.
I spoke with Rob (my new BFF at the Whale Shark Center) and he hooked me up with Bryan, his director at the Whale Shark Center. Bryan has agreed to take me under his wing and give me one-on-one open water diving lessons (I'm paying, of course). I'm quite nervous still but feel a little better since it is just him. He seems very nice and I like that he is highly recommended from my BFF.
Last night (saturday) and this morning I watched the scuba videos (on loan from Bryan to watch at my leisure at home) and read the manual (and answer the questions).
Tomorrow (Monday) I begin my water portion of the class. We're doing practice water dives and then the real thing. I should be fully certified by Wednesday. After that I get two free fun dives, woo hoo! Friday morning I've planned to do the whale shark encounter trip. While they can't promise you'll see a whale shark, they certainly try to find one. If they can't find one, they look around to find something interesting for you to see and take pictures of. Oh, Rob (new BFF) as also loaned me his awesome underwater camera so I can take pictures while diving and snorkeling! Bonus!!!
arriving in Utila--Aug 1, 2008
We left for Honduras Friday morning. Our flight was scheduled for 9:10am but it was over-sold so we didn't leave on time.
While sitting at the gate, waiting to board, we struck up a conversation with the gentleman next to us. He discovered we were headed to Utila and quickly popped out a business card and information about whale sharks. Jackpot. I had just run into the director of the whale shark research institute based in Utila, Honduras. What luck.
We were bumped up to 1st class (Frank's bump is automatic and I get to ride the coat tails of his luck frequently) and that is where Rob, my new BFF, was sitting. Of all the luck, he was sitting across the aisle from us.
When we landed in San Pedro Sula (Honduras's airport), he led us where we needed to go and spent the two hours waiting with us. During that time he bought us drinks (me a single rum & coke, he and Frank had doubles). He showed me pictures and videos of his dives. He copied these for me! I now am the proud owner of these fabulous pictures and can't believe my luck. I promised that I would try to find a way to integrate at least one picture or video into my curriculum. Hopefully I can get in more than just one; those videos are phenominal! He made me promise not to selol them or pass them off as my own (like I could).
We boarded a flight from SAP (San Pedro Sula) to a small town I can't think of the name of. It was a 40+ flight in a crop duster that I knew would crash. I took a video and the sound of the engines is incredibly loud.
After landing at the Utila airport (a small landing strip that has no terminal), we were met by our host Chris. Chris was on a four-wheeler. They had accidentally overbooked the house and we were staying at a hotel for one night. We bid Rob goodnight and promised to find him later at the bar. We rode to our hotel (Jade Seahorse), threw down our suitcases and found a bar with food. Iguana juice is my new favorite drink--fresh limeaid with rum (good rum, not the nasty stuff that is normally served in bars).
We met up with Rob and had a few more drinks then had some delicious local food at Dave's. What a day!
While sitting at the gate, waiting to board, we struck up a conversation with the gentleman next to us. He discovered we were headed to Utila and quickly popped out a business card and information about whale sharks. Jackpot. I had just run into the director of the whale shark research institute based in Utila, Honduras. What luck.
We were bumped up to 1st class (Frank's bump is automatic and I get to ride the coat tails of his luck frequently) and that is where Rob, my new BFF, was sitting. Of all the luck, he was sitting across the aisle from us.
When we landed in San Pedro Sula (Honduras's airport), he led us where we needed to go and spent the two hours waiting with us. During that time he bought us drinks (me a single rum & coke, he and Frank had doubles). He showed me pictures and videos of his dives. He copied these for me! I now am the proud owner of these fabulous pictures and can't believe my luck. I promised that I would try to find a way to integrate at least one picture or video into my curriculum. Hopefully I can get in more than just one; those videos are phenominal! He made me promise not to selol them or pass them off as my own (like I could).
We boarded a flight from SAP (San Pedro Sula) to a small town I can't think of the name of. It was a 40+ flight in a crop duster that I knew would crash. I took a video and the sound of the engines is incredibly loud.
After landing at the Utila airport (a small landing strip that has no terminal), we were met by our host Chris. Chris was on a four-wheeler. They had accidentally overbooked the house and we were staying at a hotel for one night. We bid Rob goodnight and promised to find him later at the bar. We rode to our hotel (Jade Seahorse), threw down our suitcases and found a bar with food. Iguana juice is my new favorite drink--fresh limeaid with rum (good rum, not the nasty stuff that is normally served in bars).
We met up with Rob and had a few more drinks then had some delicious local food at Dave's. What a day!
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
Tuesday and Wednesday
TUESDAY, July 8th
I didn't get any sleep again but I dragged myself out of bed to explore the trails with Richard. After all, he was waking up to show me so I needed to go. We didn't need to drive anywhere since he was showing me how to get there from the house. It was a very short walk--down the neighborhood street, across the busy street and down one shop (next to the restaurant/pub). Nice.
This was to be a test of memory because, as he promised, there were lots of turns to remember.
First we traveled down a very broad green space. People like to walk their dogs in this area. It is near the train tracks. After passing through an open field, we had to turn and go under a bridge (next to a golf course). After walking through some small trails that were mostly overgrown with brambles and stinging nettles, we came to a road. We crossed it and Richard showed me two ways to go. One is alongside a very nice house (with loud, barking dogs) and the other is at Schering Plough. We traveled up a little and then had to turn around--Richard had to get ready for work.
Instead of heading out to Covent Garden (in London) I found a day spa and managed to book an appointment. It was 1.1 miles from the house so I found directions and walked. Naturally, as I walked there, it started to rain. Hard. The day spa was wonderful. I had a mini-facial and a one hour massage. Heavenly.
I think Richard was disappointed that I didn't go running or to London. I suspect he is worried that I'm bored--wrong! I'm really loving it here. Karen (his wife) is so nice and she is also funny. Add to that, she is also a fantastic cook.
Christina (Richard & Karen's youngest daughter) and her friends returned from their European adventure Tuesday night. We all had dinner and then viewed most of their photos (there were probably a thousand--no exaggeration, really). Since Richard was driving them to the airport at 5am, there would be no trails with Richard on Wednesday.
I didn't get any sleep again but I dragged myself out of bed to explore the trails with Richard. After all, he was waking up to show me so I needed to go. We didn't need to drive anywhere since he was showing me how to get there from the house. It was a very short walk--down the neighborhood street, across the busy street and down one shop (next to the restaurant/pub). Nice.
This was to be a test of memory because, as he promised, there were lots of turns to remember.
First we traveled down a very broad green space. People like to walk their dogs in this area. It is near the train tracks. After passing through an open field, we had to turn and go under a bridge (next to a golf course). After walking through some small trails that were mostly overgrown with brambles and stinging nettles, we came to a road. We crossed it and Richard showed me two ways to go. One is alongside a very nice house (with loud, barking dogs) and the other is at Schering Plough. We traveled up a little and then had to turn around--Richard had to get ready for work.
Instead of heading out to Covent Garden (in London) I found a day spa and managed to book an appointment. It was 1.1 miles from the house so I found directions and walked. Naturally, as I walked there, it started to rain. Hard. The day spa was wonderful. I had a mini-facial and a one hour massage. Heavenly.
I think Richard was disappointed that I didn't go running or to London. I suspect he is worried that I'm bored--wrong! I'm really loving it here. Karen (his wife) is so nice and she is also funny. Add to that, she is also a fantastic cook.
Christina (Richard & Karen's youngest daughter) and her friends returned from their European adventure Tuesday night. We all had dinner and then viewed most of their photos (there were probably a thousand--no exaggeration, really). Since Richard was driving them to the airport at 5am, there would be no trails with Richard on Wednesday.
Here is a picture of the local ATM. They're called a 'hole in the wall' here. This one is really called that!
WENDESDAY, July 9th
I had originally planned to visit the Chislehurst Caves on Wednesday but Tuesday night Richard talked me out of it. He had checked the forecast and it was supposed to be the rainiest day of the week on Wednesday. Since my schedule is flexible I had no problem moving my cave tour to Thursday.
This meant that I needed to get out on the trails by myself. I looked out the window at 5am (since the sun rises at 4:45am) and decided that there was no rush to get out. At 6am it was sprinkling so I didn't get up. 7am was the same (a little heavier actually). By 7:30am I couldn't even sleep anymore. I keep looking out the window and finally at 8am it was only lightly sprinkling. I put the running clothes on but wasn't sure what to wear. The temperature was in the 50s according to the online weather website. With the rain, I wasn't sure what to wear. I didn't have my entire running wardrobe and all my accessories with me so I had to make choices. Long sleeve or short sleeve. Raincoat or light jacket? I had forgotten to bring the hat (I remembered it but somehow it didn't make it in the suitcase).
I had another delicious breakfast and realized that I had eaten too much. Today's adventure would be mostly walking. After much deliberation I chose the raincoat (for the camera's protection).
I headed out and hit the trails. The light rain wasn't too bad. I didn't feel the need to put the hood up even though most of the people I saw were carrying umbrellas. The rain was so light you couldn't feel it. For a short while, the rain did get harder and I put up the hood but for the most part it was nice. I remembered all of my turns and managed to cross the street and find Schering Plough. I chose to go that route instead of walking up the road (with lots of traffic and no shoulder).
The trail was nice and wet and very overgrown. I managed to miss most of the bramble, despite it's attempts to cut my legs. Suddenly I got very warm and needed to take off the jacket. I realized I was climbing a long hill. Off came the jacket.
Naturally the rain intensified once the raincoat came off. I carried on with my walk (occasionally running) because I wanted to get as far as I could.
I soon came to another street. I realized that I had just completed the first section of the trail and was now standing at the mid-section Richard had shown me on Monday evening. Very exciting--he would be so proud.
I scurried down the road (again, very narrow winding road with no shoulders--not the best for pedestrians) and found the footpath entrance. I took a picture of the gate and entered.
This part of the path was for horses and had recently been maintained. There were large gravel chunks on the path so there was no mud. It was loud (no bunnies would be there) but clean and the weeds/evil bramble were kept at bay.
I then arrived at the entrance to the woods. Another landmark I had found!
I went through there and had choices to make. I decided to take the woods to the right. Richard had told me about them but hadn't shown me. It was very scenic. I encountered two horseback riders and we all laughed because by then it was pouring and we were all soaked.
This trail started to stink. I don't mean that it wasn't fun or was poor. I mean, it smelled. BAD. I kept thinking that it smelled like manure or a pig farm.
I found a gated entrance that was fenced off. Intrigued, I went closer and discovered that the gate was slightly open. I entered but only went a little ways in--the smell was too much for me. I decided to turn around and head the way Richard showed me.
I went down the footpath (no longer for horses so it was once again tight and overgrown) and started to grow tired of the heavy rain. I had been out for an hour so I decided to turn around and head back to the house.
I found my way back without a problem. I was so excited about it.
Tomorrow I plan to go see the caves and hopefully get in an afternoon/evening run. The weather website promises a better forecast so I'm hopeful.
Monday--July 7th
I woke up at about midnight and could not go back to sleep. I tossed and turned but just could not get to sleep. Finally, about 4am I fell back to sleep. When Richard knocked on the door about 5am (to go run) I told him I was exhausted and apologized that I didn't want to go. He was very nice about it and went out for a bit himself. Keep in mind that he has been nursing his ailing knee and has done no running or walking for a few weeks. So nice of him! I felt really bad about it, however I was so tired that I just went back to sleep.
I didn't do much that day. I read a guide book on London that Karen (Richard's super-fantastic wife) loaned me. Throughout the day I made notes of things that I may/may not want to do.
Richard came home and immediately suggested that we go see the middle section of the footpath so I could recognize it. Sounded like a plan. Since it was chilly and sprinkling (not hard rain, just light rain) we took our jackets.
It was WET! The ground was wet and the tall weeds only added to the moisture my shoes collected. Richard pointed out (several times) that his shoes were made of Gore-tex so his feet were dry. Mine were far from it; both my shoes and socks were super saturated.
The trails were great but I was definitely worried about finding my way around. Since I had seen the end of the trails and now the middle, I was very unsure of the path because I had never seen the origin. We had fun--he enjoyed showing me his running/walking routes and I enjoyed seeing them. We looked for rabbits and foxes but saw none.
We were out for longer than anticipated. Richard noticed that it was 7pm and we were late for dinner so we headed home. As usual, Karen had prepared a delicious dinner. After dinner we agreed to get up at 5am and explore the beginning of the trails.
I didn't do much that day. I read a guide book on London that Karen (Richard's super-fantastic wife) loaned me. Throughout the day I made notes of things that I may/may not want to do.
Richard came home and immediately suggested that we go see the middle section of the footpath so I could recognize it. Sounded like a plan. Since it was chilly and sprinkling (not hard rain, just light rain) we took our jackets.
It was WET! The ground was wet and the tall weeds only added to the moisture my shoes collected. Richard pointed out (several times) that his shoes were made of Gore-tex so his feet were dry. Mine were far from it; both my shoes and socks were super saturated.
The trails were great but I was definitely worried about finding my way around. Since I had seen the end of the trails and now the middle, I was very unsure of the path because I had never seen the origin. We had fun--he enjoyed showing me his running/walking routes and I enjoyed seeing them. We looked for rabbits and foxes but saw none.
We were out for longer than anticipated. Richard noticed that it was 7pm and we were late for dinner so we headed home. As usual, Karen had prepared a delicious dinner. After dinner we agreed to get up at 5am and explore the beginning of the trails.
Arrival--Sunday, July 6th
.jpg)
My flight was at 10:25pm from IAH to Heathrow airport. I'm not big on the international flights just because they take so long and (since I'm cheap) the seats are so darned close together. Oh well. I chose the later flight with the hope of me getting some sleep.
I ran early Saturday and was tired from that. Actually, I had maintained a fairly busy day prior to my departure (run, Katy Fit sign up, packing, birthday dinner party, airport) so I hoped I would be so tired that I just passed out.
When I checked in I had good luck. I checked the seat assignments and was able to score two seats
for myself. That was the only good luck I had. After take off it was just one big mess. I had scored a first class blanket and pillow (thanks to the girl in front of me as we boarded) and, since the movie choices were of no interest to me, I was stretched out across the seats with my personal pillow piled on top of the 1st class pillow. I was warm because I had the blanket wrapped around me and I started to drift off. Suddenly I felt myself falling. The flight attendant (sitting in the seat behind me--the area was curtained off so they could sleep) had pulled the 1st class pillow out from under me! I turned around and asked for my pillow back. She told me it belonged to the other flight attendant. Liar!!!! I told her that a girl had handed it to me as we boarded and that I would like it back since she pulled it out from under me (literally). She ignored me. A few minutes later she walked up with an economy class pillow and blanket. She never apologized for pulling it out from under me. Believe me--that will pointed out in my complaint letter to Continental.
I digress...
I arrived in London and was promptly greeted by Richard and Karen. The weather was drizzly and cold. Since it really wasn't raining, I couldn't complain. What was nice was the temperature change. Coming from 90+ degree weather, I really appreciated the 60+ degree weather.
We immediately drove to a cute little suburb and took a canal cruise. We were in a long, skinny boat. Luckily there were lots of windows and a roof because it rained the entire time we cruised.
The scenery was lovely--lots of ducks and gorgeous flowers--along the canal. I wish I knew the name of the town but I don't. I just know it was exit #17 from the highway (I navigated a little).
Richard & Karen live in Ickenham. No one seems to know this little town. While it isn't a major metropolitan place, it certainly isn't something to be overlooked. It is situated 18 or so miles northwest of London. It is near Ruislip (pronounced 'rye slip' or 'rice lip'). There is at least one tube (subway) stop in Ruislip. One is just around the corner from Richard & Karen's house.
So, we arrived at Richard & Karen's home in Ickenham and Karen provided some yummy dinner. We watched the finals of Wimbledon and I went to bed at the respectable hour of 9:45pm. Richard and I had agreed to get up at 5am and have a look at part of the footpaths I could run.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)