to run

Well, soon after I moved to Prague I heard about the marathon that is in early May. I thought to myself, "Sure. I think I can run a marathon." Mind you, this is without any training. I think my optimism can carry itself a bit far sometimes. But I figured I'd get a few runs in about three weeks before the race and see what happens. So I did. My logic was that I get very bored with running and therefore, training for 3 or more months just isn't feasible. If I only give myself a few weeks, then maybe I can get a little bit of training in, run the race, and then be done. I ran about six miles on my first run. It hurt but not too bad. I ran about eight miles on my second run. This one felt quite good and I was feeling like the marathon was possible. Then on my third run I tried to do about 15 miles. I couldn't do it. I had to walk the last 3 or so miles. I was frustrated, thirsty, tired, and defeated. But who am I kidding? Why did I think I could go out and run that far? I'm not as young as I used to be, although I am still young. The result is that it looks like the marathon is a no go... maybe next year I can just be disciplined and actually train. We'll see. But I'm thankful that God has given me legs that can run. I'm thankful that I can see the beautiful river and trees that I run beside. I'm thankful that even though 26.2 miles is out of reach I can still enjoy using the legs and lungs that God has given me. I know that most of you probably think I'm crazy for even attempting to get ready for a marathon in three weeks. And I admit that I can't disagree with you. :)

Easter and the sound of music

run, eat, and talk

Today I got to go for a run with my best friend David. We didn't know exactly where we were going, so it turned into a pretty lengthy run. But that was ok, we went at a pace where we could talk the whole time. And then we went and had a great dinner and talk some more. I'm so thankful for this friendship because it goes deep so easily. That's not always the case... I know this for sure. But with David, it's easy.

I think the best part about our conversation (that covered many topics) was how we both feel like we were designed to be exactly where we are. We both live in Prague and we both work at hostels/hotels. It's a bit difficult to explain, but we are both confident that this is what God made us for. It's a dream come true to live in Prague. It's also a dream come true to work where you feel like your gifts fit perfectly. Now I'm not trying to say that we're the best managers or anything, but it's nice to feel like you're right where you belong doing exactly what you should be doing. We have God to thank for this. 

Anyway, I hope that makes sense. I just wanted to put a few thoughts down before going to consult with my pillow till morning.

love and peace,

d

Praha

I had such a great weekend. I met some new friends from all over Europe and spent good time with some old friends as well. My flatmates are wonderful people and I'm really enjoying getting to know them. And thankfully, they don't mind (or at least I think they don't mind) all my questions about culture and language here in Praha. 

Last Friday David and I took a long walk all around the city. I know it's been said before but this is truly a magical place. I'm no photographer but I took a few pictures that I'll include here. 

Each day I feel more and more at home. There's still the uncomfortable situations that arise: not realizing there was assigned seating in the movie theater, not sure why I couldn't buy the banana at the grocery store, spending 10 minutes staring at the yogurt section to make sure I wasn't purchasing some cheese or cream. But I love all of it. And I know with time I'll begin to figure out more of these situations and feel as if I belong here. I look forward to that. But for now, I'm going to enjoy these difficult moments with a smile and a little laughter.