Bits and bobs...

..To use a very British phrase

Wanted to post a few updates because I'm trying to get back in the habit of writing a couple times a week. So don't be mad if these aren't super entertaining... it's all about the routine people!

1. Training for a half marathon - Most of you know that Ric and I are running half of the Two Oceans marathon in March, and for a while I thought you didn't really need to train for a half. I mean, it's only half right? People train for full marathons, but training for a half seemed a little sissy. Until I tried to run five miles. And realized that the race would be another five miles. And then another three after that. So we've started a full-on training regimen. And you can find it on the Internet here. I'm trying not to take the "novice" category too personally.

2. We love visitors - the Bremer hotel in Hampstead, London seems to be quite a popular place to stay, if I do say so myself. We've had almost all immediate family members come through the doors, and quite a few friends. More to come on Thursday with Ric's friend Bob and his girlfriend spending a few days with us. And my dad is next up at bat with a trip planned for early April. So keep booking those trips! The exchange rate is falling as we speak, which means everything is just getting cheaper and cheaper (well, depending on your perspective, I guess).

3. More about Africa - we booked our flights and confirmed our permits for the Gorilla trekking (they only give out a certain number every day) so it looks like we're really going. I'll be asking for well-wishes and crossed fingers before we leave.

4. Yoga - it sounds nice, doesn't it? Gentle stretching. Calming music. Deep breathing. Well, that's all fine and dandy unless, like me, you haven't been to a yoga class in more than a year and all of a sudden think you can get right back into it at a level 2. Boy was I kidding myself. Went to a class on Saturday at Triyoga in Primrose Hill and have not yet recovered. Come to think of it, I'm not sure that I'll ever really be the same. I feel like I've been hit by a bus. Couldn't move for two days (ask Ric - I was a lump on the couch). I know it's really good for you and everything, and I'm going to keep going, but MAN was that one of the hardest exercise-related things I've ever had to do.

And, as a final note, just wanted to point out the report that came out this week saying the quality of life in the UK surpassed that in the US for the first time since the 1900s. You'll just have to come visit and see for yourselves!