Living the Life

The last two days have been "lazy days" around Oxford. We've read, rested, enjoyed copious amounts of tea, talked and talked and talked, and just enjoyed living here in this beautiful city. I've gone running and discovered new things that way, we've tried new pubs and new beers, and met new people. Last night we went out dancing and had a hilarious time together. So, not too much news to report as far as travels and adventures go. This is what I wanted from the trip, really: the chance to get to know Oxford and London as a local and to absorb the culture of this small area. I feel like the last two days have been that way.

I've been so lucky that there's a group of us who are like-minded and can laugh and talk together for hours. We've all been really fortunate to have clicked so quickly, and, although there are always individuals that manage to get under the skin a little bit, it's been really undramatic and easy up to this point.

Running is hard for me here. I didn't realize how bad I am at running by myself, and I've had to cover more miles alone on this trip than I ever have before. I'm not making it to my goal distance on long runs, but I'm doing pretty well. My speed has increased quite a bit since I got here because the weather is cooler, but I've had a hard time readjusting my pace to "easy" now that I'm not visiting with friends along the way. The trails are extraordinary and lined with the most beautiful scenery I've seen in a long time. It's the perfect time to reflect and just listen to myself, so I have enjoyed that time. In Austin, since I don't trail run, I'm usually around a good number of people when I run and it's very central, whereas here I see runners sprinkled throughout but it's not the same crowd or city noise I'm used to. It's nicer and calmer, but it forces me to confront that quiet space running brings.