This is a quick post to share one more way I attempt to stay, as my grandma Speer would say, “wide-eyed and bushy tailed”. Clean(ish) eating, social stimulation and a positive attitude help me stay healthy while along this unpredictable journey that I’ve chosen for myself.
Physical fitness is another piece of the pie-o-well-being. Some of my favorites abroad have been cave hiking in New Zealand, outdoor gymnasium in Penang, rock-climbing in Yosemite and sand-boarding in Peru. You can imagine with over 3 years of random activities, this beautfiul list could go on and on. Ill stop there and refer you to that snazzy little link to the right of your screen that says “fitness”. Click there or here to see all of the experiences while traveling that have given me some sort of physical activity. Even to the bizarre workouts in airports, you have to make time for yourself… if you don’t, who will?
When my flat mate (aka-amazing friend who’s sharing his space with me) suggested we run a mini marathon I was all for it! With less than 2 weeks to prepare, we started working our way up to be comfortable running a 5K. That may not seem like much to you super-star runners, but considering the last race I proudly ran was a half marathon in 2009, I’m feeling pretty pumped! Here’s a look at my first (and only) race until today.
To my knowledge, a large portion of races start early in the moring to beat the days heat, especially in tropical weather like the Caribbean. Well today we cross the start line at 4pm or in other words, scorching past noon o’clock. I will say however, the coastal drive to the event made for a peaceful beginning.
We’re here in St.Andrew on the East Coast and clearly so is everyone else.
Time to prep for the heated jaunt through one of the most stunning landsacpes I’ve ever purposly ran. The announcer said to pin your number and suggested to stretch out. Jason went Mary Katherine Gallegher style and I decided, “Why yes my shirt is a bit tight, stretching it out is a brilliant idea!”
Of course a Bajan marathon starts at a bar. Here’s a look around while we wait.
Queue up and get ready! But first, always make time for a handstand shot…
Really stop and please take a moment to realize the view that will carry us through this course. It’s simply breath taking… or maybe my breath was out from running, but either way it was magical!
Necessary liquid stations? Not water for drinking, more like “soak me please”!
The following bundle of photos were snapped along the run. Yes, of course I took my camera!
Rounding the final bend brought several thumbs up and a few cheers as we completed what we had started. It doesn’t matter if you walked a lap or sprinted miles, when you cross any type of finish line, I believe there’s an involuntary spark of endorphins that fill your spirit. Rejuvenating to say at the least!
Thank you woman in pink for setting a perfect pace and allowing me to chip in your shadow.
Success! What’s waiting for us at the finish line? A cool down, a few high fives and a snack of local yogurt and fruit! Yes please.
Lastly, a piggyback to the truck for a windows down, sweaty-smile kind of ride home. 
Way to keep your eyes on the road my friend. For anyone who’s ever driven, ridden or been to Barbados, you know this is completely necessary! 
Her Happy Trails 