Hello hello. It's been too long since I've last posted anything. I first had to maximize my time in my dealings with the media by dedicating ALL of my time to communication and photo editing. Since having to part with Brad's borrowed computer, I've had minimal access to the Internet except at eclectic cafes in the more progressive towns of England.
Since the landing of the U.S. rowers I've been on a whirlwind. The Yorkshire Warrior team landed and I officially met Captain Paul Tetlow of the Yorkshire British Regiment. He had 3 weeks leave and suggested a bit of a roadtrip... He didn't have to do a lot of convincing as it was finally time to put down the computer and just enjoy this amazing country. I have photos... loads of photos to share but can't access my portable hard-drive from this computer. I need to start writing down all of the places we visited as it's beginning to be a bit of a blur. It's hard to believe we fit so much travel in to a relatively short time. I'd have to say that the Lake District was my favorite spot. We hiked up a beautiful mountain near Keswick (pronounced "Kezik") where we did a bit of scrambling and dodging piles of sheep poo. I decided to run ahead with the inspiration of Fell Runners that seemed to populate the surrounding towns. Running down the steep grassy hills brought back the sensations I experienced when running in Hood to Coast... it brought back the soreness as well.
I've really enjoyed running around the beautiful public footpaths, through rugby and corn fields, quaint towns, and long stretches of country road. Although it makes me sound as though I've been running the entire trip, I haven't... but the opportunities I've taken have been unbelievable. While in Warminster, I ran through military territory and local farms to reach the top of the largest hill that overlooks the town. I was greeted with wild flowers and two trees that stood, side by side, in indefinite companionship. Looking out across the rolling hills of countryside, townships, and farmland... I was taken with such incredible emotion. I paused for a few moments to sit under the tree and take it all in.
This morning, whilst in Brighton, I stumbled across race organizers preparing the road as a starting line for a women's only 8k run. I decided to enter for the challenge and sense of accomplishment that only makes race runners continue to cough up high entry fees. After ingesting a full English "fry-up" (minus the bacon- think ham not the crispy stuff- sausage, and baked beans) of tomatoes, mushrooms, an egg, toast, juice, and tea, I headed down to the race start. I had difficulty with the contents of my stomach but managed to remain in the top 10 of 450 women! I finished the 8k in 36:20!! I'm awaiting the official results for my place standing and chip time. I feel wonderful and just wish I'd train a bit to see how well I could do with an added boost.
I've been walking around Brighton searching for jobs and ducking into Internet cafes to get a fulfilling amount of time for correspondence. I never feel as though I get enough for the time I buy. I'm in search of my next adventure. I'll be off to London tomorrow to collect my passport and catch up with "old" friends from my first 2 weeks in England. I really need to get a job... think positive thoughts.
