Back 'home'

I'm back now from an unexpectedly fantastic trip to London. The change of pace and level of socialising has left me feeling like I've been on vacation for 9 days, instead of on a business trip.

I feel quite disorient(at)ed to be back on US soil, particularly because by the time my plane took off from Stansted, I had been absolutely convinced (by myself and friends) that we ought to move to London asap. I arrive back in NY on a beautiful spring day, and can't quite remember what all the highly persuasive arguments were. It's very confusing. But I suppose I should remember how lucky we are to have such options.

I do recall one of the indisputable reasons is that London is a wonderful city for the long distance runner. Training for a marathon there must be heaven. Especially if you are anything like me; someone who likes to explore far and wide, who isn't scared just to examine a map on a Friday and hit new roads, paths and parks on the Saturday (and not just stick to the same old routes.) Two of my runs there are most memorable - both about 6-milers.

The first originated in Twickenham and brought me along the ridiculously picturesque river path to Richmond and back along the opposite bank. It was perhaps 60F, sunny and bright, the bird chorus easily overpowered noise of nearby, unseen traffic. There was an occasional sun shower, but this only hightened the whole experience. Everything was so green and lush and sparkling and pretty. It was easy to forget I was right in London. It was a sensory treat for my hardened New York soul.

The second originated in Borough, where some friends of mine live. I ran from their townhouse to the Tate Modern, then struck off east along the Thames past the London Eye and the Houses of Parliament, to Vauxhall. I turned around at a bridge and sped back, faster than I've run in years.

My legs spoke of the effect of that run today; they were weak on my 4.5-mile local route. They - as I - felt tired, but happy.