3...2...1...Buon Anno Nuovo!

Less than 24 hours remain in 2012. More than enough goals remain unchecked from 1 January. Actually, if I'm honest, a few still remain unchecked from 1 January 2011! (Damn pullups.)

Rather than wallow in defeat, I'm going to celebrate my 50% completion of my 12 for '12.

I....wrote my adorable girls (Caroline, Kiery, & Catherine) monthly, visited 3 new countries, completed level 4 of Italian, volunteered over 50 hours, ran a marathon, and learned to cook 3 new Italian dishes.

Not quite as satisfying as a few of my 2011 goals (flee Monterey & get a cat come to mind) but accomplishments none the less. Best part? In no way do these 6 completed goals (or the ones left waiting to be accomplished) even begin to define my year, let alone sum it up.

So, on the eve of another year...the one in which I turn 3-0...here are my goals partially to motivate, but mostly to keep me honest once the next 365 days have past. 

1. Obtain and maintain a weight in (classified) range.
2. Streamline rent payments
3. Running of the bulls
4. Monthly trip (3+ hours away)
5. Finish bedroom decorating by 31 January
6. Be social once a month
7. Blog more
8. Run a sub 2 hour half marathon
9. Learn to drive manual transmission (roll over from 2012)
10. Not ignore Ravi's illuminated dashboard lights
11. Write the CI girls monthly
12. 3 Unassisted pullups (3rd year on the list)
13. *Classified*

Yeah, this has gotten a little more sophisticated from the night Lindsay and I sat at the Brit writing our 10 for '10 goals on Sierra Nevada coasters! Same rules apply though- some of my goals are "classified" but rather than blocking them out I'm counting on the fact that our brains are not wired the same way and you can't decipher the visual I've picked for the goal.

Wishing you a fabulous sparkly 2013!

<3 Katie & Neeks

Week 2: Completed!

I, Sea Biscuit (SB) would like to announce to the known world that Speed Racer (SR) and I have completed week two of seventeen long weeks of training on our path to a 4 hour Paris Marathon time.

You did read that right- I said 4 hours. Why 4 hours? Well, most simply, if Oprah could do it, so can we. And yes, I did fess up to my SB nickname dubbed many years back in Monterey (some days I just miss my GWB and OG so much that if I refer to myself as SB to take me back to those times).

Week 2, that's right- we did move on to the next week, ended with a 9 mile run. Or you know, a 10K that had a 5K tacked on to it. All of our runs were outside this week in fabulously cool weather and our marathon day leggings made their debuts. For those that saw us, well, you really couldn't miss us with our purple and pink neon-ish awesome pants---right?

So far we're still on track and even though one of our cross training days rendered us near useless for lifting anything more than 5lbs the next day, our bodies are actually being good sports about being beaten back into submission.

The biggest challenge so far?

Actually staying in our 10:40 to 11:10 pace per mile. Do you have any idea just how slow a 10:40 mile is? SR asked at one point if we were supposed to be speed walking instead of running today. Hmm. I just realized that she may not appreciate being called S-R, so back to Speed Racer it is.

At any rate, week 2 of training is D-O-N-E and I'm ready for a shower, snack, and nap.

Paris Marathon Week 1A

Well, we did it! Week 1A of training is complete towards our next marathon: Paris in April 2013!

Why 1A? Well, we were so eager to start training again that we started a week early to either repeat a week mid training (to accommodate a 1/2 marathon) or have a mulligan week.

We called MULLIGAN loud and clear and officially kicked off this past week. Best part about our re-do? The workouts were so much easier! Sprints? No big deal. Timed runs? We covered more distance. Long run? Actually completed. And that's impressive considering it's been months (like our last race) since either of us had ran over 5 miles and we did 7 at a decent clip. 

Yay us! Yay for 16 more weeks of training until the main event :)

Go Figure

In the days leading up to my half way done with living in Naples, things got a little crazy. Not horrible crazy, more like the of course this is happening right now. Long story short- my car window got smashed in hours before I left for Munich this past weekend. I think the phone call to my extended family celebrating Thanksgiving in Napa went something like:

Hey mom! Happy Thanksgiving. Things are good, but my car was broken into. They grabbed my GPS and keys. The GPS doens't work most days so good riddance, but yeah, they have my keys. My gate clicker, the pedestrian door, my alarm sensor, and yeah, both keys to my house. Call someone? It's 4am out here. 

No dad, my home address isn't listed as home in the GPS and I'm pretty sure nothing had my address written on it...I don't even know my physical address most days. Already called my landlord in NJ to have him relay the message to his parents since I'll be on on plane when it's a decent hour to call. And yeah, my house is about 20 miles away from here. 

All I know is I now have another check in the box for my Naples check list. It's sad, but true, that pretty much we all head over here knowing that at some point we're going to get robbed. Guess it was my time. Poor Ravi has had a rough year, but in the scheme of things it wasn't bad. My car was still there. My purse wasn't snatched. I still have all my IDs (as in the various forms I have, not different names). And perhaps most important- all my locks were changed within 24 hours and my neighbors all took the time to watch (even more closely) who was coming/going from our "compound."

Another thing that I know without doubt is that my Naples family is absolutely (!!!!) amazing. From my first responders checking out the damage and driving me to the airport at o'dark-thirty, coworkers tracking down phone numbers for me while I'm in Germany, discussing repair options, offering transportation and lodging while it got resolved, changing out locks without even being asked, vacuuming all that glass out of my car (talk about giving blood), to my landlady giving me a hug as soon as she saw me. They have all kept the tears from spilling multiple times and never even hesitated to provide the help I reluctantly asked for.

Even today after meeting the famous Bulion, fabulous because he tracked down my window and replaced it in less than 24 hours, I still had issues. Go figure-right? The main driveway gate didn't want to open. After realizing that it was going to be an issued, I circled the block to try again. Lucky for me two guys were standing on the corner (same 2 guys I gave a look to on round 1 because a) I didn't recognize them and b)they were sort of blocking the space I need to get into the driveway) so when I tried again and failed, they realized I needed help. One went over to the door to "encourage" the slacker door. Several honking cars, my car partially in the "gate" and a stubborn door later, his buddy starts directing traffic through. I kid you not, I'm sure I'm known as la americana in these parts because at this point everyone has a story about me trying to get in my freaking driveway.

So (yeah, we're so not done yet) it's about this time that two neighbors that live downstairs are trying to walk out. Ha. Not happening with my car blocking the exit, and street. Then my landlady has a guest or 2 leaving her house. I kid you not, they say something about the door and then le americane...which last time I checked it's just me, but maybe I heard wrong because at this time I was just laughing at the situation, you know 5 Italians trying to help me and none of them spoke English and I'm an Italian level 4 drop out. So I follow the hand motions and back my car out and wait for the signal to get back into the garage. For those of you who know my drive way, you know that the t-intersection there is anything but fun and it needs to be approached just right. But you know, with full visibility back it's amazing how easy it can be after all these months of practice!

As I drove through the gate, the guy who had been so patient with me passed off my telecomando and I gave him my best grazie and sorriso.

Uffa. As frustrating as these things can be I love the fact that when in Italy, you always know you're going to have an audience and if you're lucky enough they just may be willing to help. Okay, maybe if you're rocking the skirt and boots your chances increase and a smile can never hurt, but what I'm saying is for as much commentary/teasing/whatever you want to call it us Americans have about the Italians, I have yet to meet an Italian that I just don't like. Well, should I ever meet the person(s) who crushed Ravi's window  I may not care for them but we all know I had a hate/hate relationship with that GPS...I probably would have just handed it over if given that option and spared the nightmare of Ravi's repairs. Oh well, guess I have to have a few challenges for all the amazing adventures?

Who wants to bet that I won't have gate troubles tomorrow when I'm leaving for work???


 

100% Real

Over the summer one of my coworkers picked up this really annoying saying that he felt the need to bring back it Italy with him:

Hey, I've got a question. (Long pause) Are you for real?

As annoying as it is to be asked multiple times  a week if "I'm real" or not when I speak words that he often doesn't want to hear, I've found myself asking myself on multiple occasions if this life of mine is real. The funny part about it, I know it is. This is my life and it's all REAL.

Well, today was another "is this really my life" sort of days. It started off by me actually watching the sunrise in my bed (nope, still woke up at 0400 but refused to get up). Ask anyone who has actually be on my patio, the pictures have nothing on the real deal of my view. Over 365 days of watching the sunrise, I'm still caught in awe in the mornings on just how fabulous the sky lights up; especially those mornings when I can watch the stars fade. Totally worth being a minute or two late for work!

Next stop I was headed to the main train station with the Minions' mom to get her back to the minions. As I chose to ignore the GPS for the signs, and then went back to listening to the GPS I realized that I have some trust issues. Well...maybe more like control issues? Seriously. How many times I have written about me and the latest battle with my GPS? Luckily I wasn't solo during this adventure, but with the time crunch to get her to the station in time for the train....we may have flown through Chinatown. Like I told her...I only have one speed here in Italy. It's a tad slow for the autostrade, but in towns it's just fine. Yes. She made it and when I listened to the GPS on the way out, I even recognized where I was. I mean, prision in the middle of town is my landmark for SHOE ALLEY.  But that's tomorrow's adventure.

The final destination of the day was the Cuma ruins. A place I've been wanting to go for about 6 months but due to crummy weather or sheer laziness on the weekends it hasn't happened. For a while we even talked about going after work over the summer, but never made it. But that's okay, because we made it today and couldn't have planned a better fall day to go check out this part of my backyard.

Literally. I drive by this ancient city every day on my way to work. (Pretty cool that I can say that- right?) At any rate, we finally showed up and conquered the city. It was rather amazing to see all that was back there- tunnels, towers, steps all holding the history of this area from a long (long) time ago. Even while playing "use your imagination" to recreate the temples and towers that once stood tall, covered in marble and other stone where only rubble now exists.

As far as the history of the city and everyone who lived/built there is still lost on me and I'll probably pay more attention next time around. Yep. Next time around. With admission being so cheap and giving you enterance to other monuments and ruins in my area of the peninusula, I think I found my new "time to get away and think" place. It's for sure made it to my "we've gotta go check this place out when you're in town" list.

I Still Prefer the Destination

I love to travel. The exploration, adventure, & learning that comes from being plopped down in a new location is something I can only describe as one of my passions. The buildings, colors, smells, food, people, geography, flora, landmarks, and just the "feel" of the city beckon me to look up various airfare prices at least once a week so I can pick a new place to explore.

Growing up destinations were mostly domestic and travel was often completed by car. With the family van loaded up we'd trek out for summer camping trips in the National Parks, visit Colorado to see the aspen leaves quiver in the October wind, drive to Disney Land, or head north to Oregon to visit relatives. The travel days were part of the adventure as we would stop in cities along the way. Visit the quirky roadside touristy stops. Pick up fresh produce from the stand on the side of the road. Although the time spent in the car was often frustrating with 3 kids often bickering about something, a) it was always the fault of my brother or sister and b) it's part of the things that (now) make each of those trips special. The trips that required airplanes; Indiana/Ohio trip to visit family and friends, Cancun for Fanta e pan, Florida to catch the cruise ship after time spent at Disney World were not only exciting because of their destination but because of the airplane ride! Of course when back on the ground and loaded into the back seat of a car you either get 3 cranky kids or some of the best radio talk shows the world will never hear coming out of the Fanta bottle...but don't let me digress into family vacation stories.

But, oh airplane rides! They were different. How is that plane rides with your family or friends are always a million times better than a complete stranger? Is it because you're not afraid to spill over into their seat and use that shoulder as a pillow? Is it because you can agree on "time shares" for the window vs aisle seat? Because you're comfortable with passing out if you really are tired? Have someone to chat with when all the movies are lame? Someone decides that it's time to drink and your row single finishes all the red wine on board? Or you know, my personal favorite- playing truth or dare with the entire group your traveling with (all recent 8th grade grads) and get the "this is a reminder for those in economy class, that the service buttons should only be pressed if something is needed" announcement and then bursting into laughter as the other passengers try to settle in for sleep on a 16+ hour flight to Osaka, Japan.

Problem is, I'm becoming not so much a fan of the actual travel part...as in the traveling from your residence to your destination and don't even get me started on the return trip. As I sit here in the Munich airport waiting for my last connection flight of the day you can bet that it's really just these long transatlantic flights I'm talking about. Travel solo has it's perks- better chance of moving seats, not having to worry about someone else's eating schedule, but it gets boring. No Dad, this doesn't mean you should have driven up to SFO to keep me company while I sat there forever. First of all- I'm thankful that my return trip wasn't impacted at all by this week's storm. Second- I'm shocked that we've actually been early on both arrivals today. Third- I really do want to head home and I think that's what kills me. And if that fact isn't enough...I have to work in the morning. Yeah, not one of my more brilliant planning moves.

When traveling by train or car you really don't have the stop and wait torture. If you've stopped it's for the night, fuel, food, or a I-80E road closure (that was a fun road trip day). Well, when you're on a layover you're just there. There in the airport terminal with normally my luck the partial construction These over night flights are particularly the worse for me cause I'm ready for sleep when we are boarding (which is why I napped), then I'm being served food,  and just when I think I'm passed out for good... it's time for more food? I'm so confused and definitely not in need of airport food, not even a beer. Why did they serve me breakfast at 4pm local time? How come it was so hot on the plane I couldn't sleep? And why is it so dark? And why am I so grouchy? And tell me again why I agreed to book tickets with a 2.5 hour layover in Munich? The flight is less than 2 hours!

Ironic part? I already know I'll be looking for a new travel destination by the end of the weekend. BUT flights within Europe are so much less painful than this one. And don't let this talk you out from visiting me...it really isn't that bad I'm just super tired, anxious to get to Naples, & beginning to wonder if I can wait another 24 hours to pick-up Signore Nico.

CA Girl Gone Italian

No doubt about it- I'm leaving California knowing without a doubt that I'm not the same person I was when I made the original trek in May 2011 or even in January of this year. Funny thing about it? While in Italy I didn't see this change was taking place, but throw me back in my "natural habitat" and suddenly it doesn't seem so natural anymore.

And yes, we're talking more than the culture shock.

I'm still trying to figure it all out and although it's driving me crazy...this is one of those things that I'm okay with the outcome so, if I can't put my finger on exactly what has changed I think I'm going to be alright.

I Am A Warrior

When I first discovered that I could run and finally admitted to myself that it was sort of fun...I started to do searches for local races. I'd do searches for 10Ks or shorter, but really would only check out the 5Ks. It was at this time I discovered the world of mud runs and the Warrior Dash. More than a tad intimidated by the 13 obstacles including jumping fire pits, scaling walls, mud pits, and balance beams I opted to register for the Big Sur Half Marathon instead but promised myself that I'd be running this Warrior Dash hopefully within the next year. (I realize the logic makes no sense on this one but knowing how I operates does this surprise any of you?)

I trained and got through that half but was hurting bad afterwards so I took a long recovery period. During this time I registered for the local mud run because I figured I should probably train for something like the Warrior Dash. Well, before training started I spent that fateful New Years in Tahoe and we know how that turned out...

Fast forward 3 years into my running relationship...through the ACL injury, through the move to Italy, to a day I was sitting at my computer thinking hey, I wonder what races are taking place while I'm at home and did a search. The original plan was to run the Pumpkin 10K in Half Moon Bay the day after I arrived. You know, all jet lagged and yes, registering any available family members for it as well. But, as so often the case with me I was debating back and forth and I didn't know which race to schedule my return flight round. Turns out this procrastination is just what I needed because the next morning I had an email announcing that the Northern California Warrior Dash event was taking place not only not too far from the house BUT while I was home! My poor office; I think everyone knew how excited I was about this discovery. 

After being unsuccessful on getting my brother to also register I decided that I had to jump on this chance and shell out the big time bucks with my late registration. Did I do any special training? No. I was still training for the Lisbon half- so I was good with running and mud? Doesn't require much additional skill. All those obstacles? Not nearly as intimidating now that I'm a little more comfortable with my running ability.

Race day came around and I threw on my normal "mud gear" and as we headed out to the event the panic started. Katie, you've ran 8 miles over 3 days in the past 2 weeks. Mud means slippery stuff, Stanley may have something to say about that. You have t-rex arms and I'm pretty sure you'll have to be climbing walls. Of course this was all in my head because I pretty much go radio silent before a race. Walking into the event area was insane- muddy people, people in costumes, people in various states of being dressed, beer, lots of beer, music blasting, flames in the air, and English. Lots of English.

Before too long my wave was off and running. And running we did for the first mile or so along a dusty path. As people complained about the dust I laughed thinking that maybe my running in Naples was helping me prep for this air quality as I starting passing people.

First mud pit was a riot. You could tell some began to rethink registering. Making my way up and through the pools in my path I was thankful for my late start so lots of foot holds had already been made. With a water station strategically placed there, so many people stopped to wash their hands and wring out clothing. Um really? We're just getting started people. No, I didn't stop and jogged on past the people complaining about heavy feet.

A serious hill and a tunnel later I came to the first wall. Eek. Thank goodness for foot holds and my legs. That's all I've got to say. Here's the course map. I figure that's way easier to show you and plus it shows you what I knew about this race when I was registering.

Hands down my favorite were the cargo nets. People are silly trying to go up the middle of them. Why work so hard with a wobbly ladder when you can use the rope near the edge? Oh well, thanks for keeping those parts mostly clear for me. The balance beams were great too- until I had to wait for someone to dismount.

The barbed wire one was rather entertaining too- mainly because I'd see bits of tutu tulle snagged on the barbed wire. (Good thing there won't be any along the Paris course when I plan on debuting my race tutu!)

Although I may have recorded my slowest 5K time ever it was a blast and I actually finished it faster than I thought I would. And when I saw that I finished 963 out of 7482 I realized that I really miss events in the United States. Granted this really is more of a fun event and not a "true race", but it was a nice break from the really competitive racing in Italy, although you know I was still racing with people along this course that didn't know we were racing.

It's Go Time

No, not time for me to "go" back to Italy.
Not time for me to tear up as I see my daddy walk my beautiful sister down the aisle.
Shoot, it's not even time for mia sorella to get in her dress and say "I do."

So where are we going?

Deep into the land of wedding mayhem of course! The family has all their wedding day wardrobes back in our possession. The bride (finally) has shoes that I love and will add to my collection. More extended family arrives tomorrow to kick off the wedding festivities: bridal shower, bachelorette, rehearsal dinner, reception set up, makeup, pictures, ceremony, PARTY TIME, clean up, after party...

Yep. I need some sleep. Once all my purchases from tonight are put away in their appropriate stacks.

Mama Mia, I'm Not in Naples Am I?

It keeps on happening. 
I think I'm settled in and then *BANG* out of nowhere something hits me.

It's like the place I've called my home for um 26.5 years is a completely foreign land to me and in this land there are strange and mysterious things.

• Laundry machines here fit more than 2 outfits at a time. And...get this, can wash and dry all those clothes in just about an hour.
• Loud beeping trucks come by once a week to collect garbage and recycling we've collected in city provided cans. (Okay, so in MdP we have mini trucks coming by daily, but I just never see them, let alone hear them since I'm already at work.)
• Should food scraps find their way in the sink at a flip of a switch they are pulverized and washed down the drain. (Good thing my family composts the large stuff so that still feels "normal.")
• Browsing all the other options in the store I get overwhelmed...especially when I see the price! Neeks' 5 pack of mice are a whole dollar more at Walmart! Speaking of shopping, it's so nice not to have to do the "so that's how many dollars" computation in my brain before deciding on an item. 

Ugh, it's good to be back- honest. Just taking even more time to adjust this time around and I'm not even jet-lagged. Well, I am but so much to do that my sleeping hours are restricted so I had to work through it. The cure for jet-lag perhaps?

We Meet Again Jetlagg

The last 48 hours have been....well, I'm not sure how to describe them especially right now when all my jet lagged body wants to do is sleep, but for some reason I can't manage to stay asleep for more than 5 minutes. And 5 minutes isn't even a cat nap. So you know, if this post doesn't make any sense it's because I'm walking around in a dream cloud.

Yesterday was spent re-adjusting to a lot of things as we drove up to San Jose to pick up my sister and my soon to be brother in law. Everything just seemed so different and not just due to all the road construction and business changes along the 101 corridor. Cars went the speed limit. Those that didn't go the limit were pulled over by the CHP and ticketed. Cars stayed in their lanes, even when we were at a standstill. Cars were freaking HUGE.

Target seemed to have more options than I remember and then I went into shock when I realized that just because I didn't see what I wanted on their shelves, there were other stores I could find it in.

Sitting in a French/Vietnamese restaurant for lunch with my family I squealed with joy when cilantro was served on my shrimp crispy crepe. CILANTRO! My taste buds joined in the celebration as they tasted something other than tomatoes, basil, or olive oil.

My brother being the awesome brother he is, even took the exit allowing me to have my first milkshake in I can't even tell you how long from In-N-Out. Actually, it was probably on 31DEC11 now that think about it...all I know is the vanilla shake was amazing and guilt free since as I consumed it my bridesmaid dress was at the tailors being taken in.

Running along the hills this morning, on a trail, felt like I was back in nature. The cold morning air felt fabulous and caused me to run too fast the first mile- oops. On the way back, other runners and dog walkers all passed, each responding to my "good morning" without a "what in the world is she doing" look on their face. I didn't have to worry about cars. I didn't have to avoid trash piles. I just was on the look out for wildlife- bunnies, hawks, birds.

Am I happy to be home? Yes! Is it clear that life in Italy isn't the same as it is here? Um, yes. Do I prefer one to the other? I don't think so. And if you Italian folks are concerned that I'm not going to return...my cat is in Italy so you better believe I'll be back.

My Adventure...HOME!

Thursday Night (in Italy)
2000: Nico was dropped off at "spa" where he was feeling rather brave all things considered. No growling, no meowing, no hissing...even with a little boy calling him "she" and really wanting my not so much a lap kitty to be a lap kitty. When the boy learned that I was going home to visit and he'd have my cat until Halloween, I was told "okay, go."

Giants won! And my internet was reliable enough to feed me the entire game via GameDay. Woohoo!

Packed. If you want to call it that.

Short nap.

Friday Morning (in Italy)
0300: Alarm went off. Expected Nico to tell me to get up. He didn't.

0400: departure from house because without Neeks there, it's just a really large boring place to be.

0500: Naples Airport- with lots of folks. Stuck on bus outside of plane due to system failure. Sweltering heat. AC turned on while it's raining outside.

Sprinted through MUC airport after bus with heat on dropped us off.
Quadripled screened by security as they are making their last call.
Made it to flight and the attendants accuse of me of having too big a smile of my face. "Hey, I'm going back to the states- what's not to smile about?"

FOREVER LONG FLIGHT. Lots of movies to watch. Lots, especially when you don't feel like sleeping more than 45 minutes.

Spotted a mini green lady in the water welcoming me to the USA.

Newark custom's guy told me the Giants got lucky; I told him we'd take it and oh, by the way? Grand slams aren't just luck as my stamped passport was returned to me.

Found gate.
Got in line.
Turns out it was the wrong flight...really there was no room for me on that one to get to SF a tad earlier?!

Friday Night & Early Saturday Morning (in Italy)
Slept from NJ to CA with the exception of hourly wake ups which I dealt with by eating a few Junior Mints before seeing what I could out the window. BTW. Huge body of water out there maybe one of the Great Lakes?

Landed in SF! Late. Because really, why would any of my flights be on time?

Found gate. Plane wasn't there. Listening the grumblings of folks around me they had all been "awaiting aircraft" for a while and also dealing with delays. Checking the board (again, for the 5th time) I saw the gate changed.

Found new gate.

Sat at gate. And sat a bit longer watching people rush up asking if the Monterey flight was boarding yet. Nope. No plane.

Plane finally shows up. Thank goodness it showed up before any fog!

Landed in Monterey and found my parents. Okay, they found me first, but I'd been up for really the past 30+ hours.

Got home.
And now I'm awake.
Why? Oh you know, it's my morning...in Italy.

48 Hours & Counting...

As I sit here blogging with yet another repair guy here at the house I can't help but think I should be working on something a little more productive.

But I wrote all my girls yesterday.

My house is relatively clean as the result of having my landlord in town and being given 30 minutes warning before Monday's repair crew showed up and a mere 15 for yesterday's visit.

The washing machine is running its first load of laundry in about 6 months. They claimed it's fixed, but I'm still a skeptic or just really forgetful on how long each load takes.

I mean, there is the challenge of packing for my 2+ weeks home but I think my current plan is brilliant- pack only the essentials (running shoes, ipod, makeup, an outfit or two) and then just go shopping when I get there. And with that little of packing to do, I'll just take a nap after work on Thursday and then stay up since I have to leave my house by 0400 to get to the airport in time.

Brilliant.

Alright, shortest repair guy visit all week. Time to go spend time with my Nico kitty before he goes to his boarding school tomorrow evening to have his second lesson in "family living + dog" while I'm gone.

Safari in Italy

Neeks and I headed down to land of the minions this weekend for a little R&R at their "country house." My cat is awesome when it comes to car travel; just a few peeps while leaving town and then nothing until he was back in our house. He honestly spent 99% of the time curled up on the back seat sleeping! (Maybe there is hope for the plane ride home?)

Once we arrived and the hissing/growling (just from Neeks) settled down, Jess and I took off to ZooSafari over in Fasano. ZooSafari has a rather large section of land that you take your own car through to see animals. We're not talking the wild animal park near Roseburg, Oregon either. This one has you driving through an enclosed area with lots of full grown lions (mostly old males that are rather mangy and ill looking), crazy active tigers, bears, zebras, a million hoofed animals (goats, sheep, deer, horses, bulls, etc) and giraffes. You can't forget their herd of giraffes that didn't get to roam free, but could stick their heads in your car windows.

But let's talk cats. Big cats.

While driving through the lion pen we ignored the sign to roll up our windows. The guy operating the fence didn't seem to care and truth be told these looked like grumpy geriatric lions as they laid flopped on the ground growling and grumbling to each other. There were a ton of "simbas" male lions, a few females, and closed off a bunch of lion cubs were playing with their mom, protected from the only 2 young and healthy looking lions in the pen. Seriously, all the kitties appeared to have some sort of eye issue or lumps, to the point we were asking each other if we thought this is where rescued lions came.


Feeling a little sorry for these lions, especially after comparing those to the ones I saw in Kenya, we waited for the gate to close behind us and the next one to open, and we were on to the tigers (after a short detour through emus). As we drove into the tiger pen we saw one coming from the water pool. It looked so much healthier than the lions and content shaking the water from its coat. On the next part of the circle we realized that we were in there with about 8 full grown tigers, 2 other cars, and a park employee in his white jeep. There were tiger babies too and even at the size of a medium dogs they were adorable attacking mom, while 2 other tigers hung out just on the other side of the fence. I'd say it was about this time that we spotted one tiger moving from the upper part of the pen to the pool and another one, opposite side of the road looking like it wanted to play. As we laughed at this huge beast acting the same way our kitties do and snapped some pictures, a tiger came sprinting from behind the car, cutting in front of our stopped car while the tiger who wanted to play on the passenger side of the car got ready to evade it.

Talk about panic. These were full grown tigers! AND OUR WINDOWS WERE MOSTLY ROLLED DOWN. The white jeep took no time to speed down to the part of the small loop we were on and most of the tigers ran back up to their pen. What did we do? Made sure those windows were rolled all the way up and made our way to the bears. Seriously. I think it was scarier than when the bull elephant was getting angry while I was in Kenya, in the open land cruiser. I mean I've seen what a bear can do to a car...2 or 3 tigers? Eek.

After that adventure, not much else in the ZooSafari part is worth mentioning...although I did make friends with the ugliest camel ever.  Our next stop was to walk into the actual park to see the rest of the animals- like LEMURS!

First stop, just walking around and seeing some primates. And then the lemurs! They were settling in for an afternoon nap. There were lots of signs on their cage too- but I was only sure about the don't touch the animals one. But since this is Italy and people bring food in to feed the animals...you can guess how that went. There was also a sign that said something about the animals have access. To what? Still not sure. I guess it's time to Google Translate that picture.

Second stop, il trenino per il villaggo delle scimmie (the monkey train). Now, way back last June when attending my Hail one of my coworker's had told me about this place. Apart from the trulli houses they said I had to visit ZooSafari because the monkey train was a lot of fun. I'm pretty sure I was told to take food to feed the monkeys too, but that slipped my mind until I saw the sign for this train.  Wanting to know exactly how this measured up to the image in my head we utilized our ticket and climbed aboard the caged train and were promptly locked in.

The train rolled forward as since we were facing backwards, the first thing I saw was a man holding a gun. Interesting. Then it started. Monkey screeches. Kids crying. Banging on the roof. Hundreds, I kid you not, of baboons flocked to the train climbing up the wire and standing at the end of the metal pipes in hopes that food would be dropped out. The poor primates staring up at us had me searching the floor for any crumbs that may have been missed and a few pieces of stale bread were passed off to the expectant hands on the other side of the wire. When they realized all the food was gone, the baboons started to walk away, waiting for the next train to hopefully bring a better buffet. As the train rolled out I didn't know what to think other than Only in Italy. Seriously. Could you imagine something like that in the states? More sad for the monkeys than traumatized (although I may need therapy) we were unlocked from the train and walked away still dazed at what had just happened. The little kid was still screaming and crying, just in case you were wondering.

The man that took our ticket for that train told us (well, we think that's what his Italian meant) to make sure we also used our ride on the Metrozoo per il lago dei grandi mammiferi. Scared after the experience from the last train ride, the tram with glass windows offered little comfort as it rolled on the track...past hyenas, a panther, a cataract filled eyed cheetah, and a bunny. Yep a bunny. He was either food for one of the cats or just really stupid in picking his home.

The train dropped us off by the brown bears, polar bears, hippos, rhinos, and lake. The lake had 3 islands, one occupied by lemurs and the tenants of the other 2 were MIA. In walking around the green algae filled "lake" 3 pinnipeds- 2 spotted seals and a huge sea lion made their trek from the center to the shore. We did our best to figure out what was living on the 2nd and 3rd island...we knew it could climb since a rope attached the two. Finally the occupants decided to move- more monkeys! They looked content, but then we started guessing what would happen should one of the sea lions get a little too close to their water front property. Seriously. A bag of coffee to anyone who can tell me where monkeys and seals live in harmony. Then we also go to thinking that salt water really shouldn't have a film of green algae growing on it. Then we go to thinking...it was time to get moving because this was getting too depressing.

Back into the Metrozoo, we rolled back into familiar territory- land of the scimmie. It was our luck that a train was just rolling in so I was able to relive the terror from a bird's eye view that I was already trying to forget. Of course with a view of the entire pen, we spotted a monkey drinking from the water spout, a baby monkey riding the back of its mom while chomping an apple core, and lots of other monkeys just chilling out ignoring the train all together on the remnants of a kids playground- complete with metal slide (ready to burn anyone stupid enough to touch it in the late afternoon sun). We waved to the man with the gun since it seemed like the appropriate thing to do and then were back to the station.

After a quick exit it was back to the lemurs. By now they were awake and thrilled to see that some people were not following the post about "non tocare gli animali" and feeding them bits of bananas and cookies.  Then a lemur was on the same side of the fence as us- he apparently wanted first dibs. He flew over our heads, into the tree behind us where apparently another one of his friends was waiting. Then I saw it. The most adorable thing ever- a baby lemur! There were actually a few of them in the cage, but this one was so close that it was rather tempting to lure him out (he could have easily squeezed between the wire) and toss him in my purse. I think Nico would love a baby lemur sibling. The baby could just ride up and down the stairs on Neeks' back. And yes, he'd have to stay there to avoid being un antipasto per Nico.

So yeah, lemurs were the highlight of my day. They even made the tortoises (all different kinds, including the kind(s) I want look boring. I mean, what's cooler sounding "my pet lemur...." or "my pet tortoise?" Speaking of pets, if you ever go to this place...skip the birds! I think we get more of a selection of birds at the local pet store. Then again, I did leave feeling like I had just left the pet store after seeing so many types of canaries and finches.

Alright, so before I start sounding like a zoo snob, which you know I sort of am. (Didn't we already establish this with the aquarium post?) I'm going to sign off and go figure out where it's legal to have a lemur as a pet. They are so stinkin' cute!!!!

Lisbon Rock 'n Roll Half Marathon

Woohooo! 2:14:11. I'm going to barf. Keep moving. You can't puke in public.

There's the clock...that arch is the correct one...sprint, you have it in you. FASTER. You promised Lori you'd make her proud. Well, that was stupid...but you said you would...make it happen.

Keep going, it's all over in just a few more meters.

Oh Crap. Cobblestones...I just may roll after all.

Less than 2 minutes to find that finish line...is it that arch in the distance?

Okay, when you have to you can do a quarter mile in less than 2 minutes. True it's not after you've ran 10+ miles...but what if lions are chasing you?

For those of you who have never ran a 1/2 marathon, well those were some of the thoughts going through my head in reverse order the last few miles. And no, I didn't puke over Lisbon...but that does seem to be my body's way to tell me it's had enough. (Not really a selling point I guess when it comes to finding new recruits to train with.)

At mile 10.23, I was turned loose by my fabulous running partner because she knew I'd be grumpy if I didn't get a new personal record (PR). After a minute or so of pleading her to stay with me I realized she was right and took off after Wonder Woman. I mean, sounds like a great first person to choose to pick off-right?

The miles up to #10 were alright. The course was mostly paved and relatively flat, but the sunny sky and 26C temp threw in a challenge. The start out on the Vasco da Gama Bridge with a whole lot of others made for a slow start. How slow? Check out this picture that most likely was taken prior to the start of the race, but even once the race started the helicopter overhead indicated blocked paths. I often tease about full combat running...well I had a flash back to my water polo days as I ran though any opening with my elbows jabbing the arms and sides of those trying to get in my way.

Why the helicopter? Apparently this race was being televised! Did you catch it? If so you may have seen my full combat running method.

Walking to the front of the 10K-ers we found that a lot of people were lined up and ready to go. Lots. It was sort of nice knowing that unlike our local races we'd be among the last to cross that finish line...assuming there was still some sort of indication of the finish line when we crossed.

Prior to be dropping off on the bridge, we had a fabulous bus ride out to the drop off point. We called it the arm work out...you know, 20+ minutes of standing on the bus, holding onto the overhead bar for dear life with each turn we took.

The morning started off just about like any race day, woke up, showered, spent too many minutes pinning the race bib on my shirt because I refuse to ask for help. Ever. We took off to the starting point with what felt like everyone in Lisbon. The only difference was they were all wearing their race shirts. Um. Is that something that only us Americans don't do? I don't know how you can wear the shirt until you've ran the race! At any rate, it was pretty easy to pick out the other Americans and/or experienced runners. Once off the metro, we made a dash for coffee, because as Michael so eloquently put it- "because a morning without coffee is simply uncivilized." Then again he's seen the coffee-less Katie so maybe he was just trying to avoid a repeat performance?

At any rate, I'm pretty impressed with this Rock 'N Roll event. Stations were well stocked. Course was well marked. The expo was small (and no face cut outs for pictures!), but we had no issue getting our packets. The bling goes great with my collection. The results and photos were posted by the time I was home the next day. All in all, it was well set up. Am I going back next year? No. I've got other races to run...like Dublin in August! Who else in LPN is going to join me? 

Destination: Lisbosa Part I

Portugal: Tiles, ceramics, the face of the witch when looking at the map.

Okay, small view of Portugal so it's a good thing I went to check it out- right? When I saw the Rock 'N Roll Half was taking place in Lisbon and tickets were super cheap I knew it was time to make Lori start training, make a long weekend, and pack a bag.

So I did.

Upon arrival we got tickets for the hop on hop off bus. Hey, we were there to run a race, so we couldn't be walking all over the city!

Wait. It didn't start here. Rewind.

We drove up to Rome. Trusting my GPS to get us to the hotel. There were some doubtful moments as we drove through the darkness (it was 11pm) and after 3 hours of singing Dixie Chicks one too many references to "Goodbye Earl" whenever our backseat passenger wasn't playing nice. We made it.

Next morning we flew out of the airport. Landed in Lisbon a few hours later.

Found the expo. Picked up our packets. Starred at the bridge crossing the water (river...not ocean!) and began to panic about the race I was running in 2 days. That bridge is something like 17km long! Walked along the water before deciding it was time to check into the hotel.

Checked in. Headed back out to find second lunch because after the early morning start and time difference- we needed food. Stumbled upon a place not too far from the hotel to experience some local cuisine. The meal was alright, a little bland but something new. The meal included dessert and knowing I don't like flan (ick), we both picked caramel mousse. (Lori, if you're reading this, just skip ahead because you know how it turns out and well, don't relive it.) Said dessert arrived looking more like pudding, but not creamy and dense. Some spoonfuls later to try to figure it out I called it quits. Lori had quit after fewer tastes. Our plates were cleared with a you didn't like? and we sat waiting for the bill. While we waited, I noticed the man behind the counter retrieving our bowls from the dish pile. Lori noticed him pulling back out the large container of "mousse" and scrapping our bowls back into it. Yep. The bowls our germ covered spoons had been in. Yuckity, yuck, yuck. Hopefully we're the only 2 who have ever had this batch and didn't like it.

Lori, it's safe to start reading here -->  Queue waiting for the bus.

We hopped on the bus to see the the red (or was it blue) round. Within a few stops the  temperature dropped and as those smarter than I headed in, the cool air felt refreshing, even with the sky started to spit just a tad. I'd like to say that there were some interesting things along this line, but I sure don't recall any. I recall the rain picking up and I just started laughing as I saw people darting downstairs and to the few seats with overhead covers. When we ended up back where we stared

Determining that none of us were hungry, we headed back to the hotel for a short nap before going out. I think within 2 minutes of laying out on my bed (twin size with race packets, jacket, and other various things taking up more than its fair share I was out. That's the last I remember of the day one in Lisbon because the next time I woke up the sun was shinning though the window and I was still laying on top of the bed cozy with my backpack and I was dressed and ready to go...in yesterday's clothes. Oops.

10 Weeks Gone?

10 weeks ago, Lori my running partner, and friend started our latest training program. The goal? To get under a 2:15:00 finish time at the Lisbon Portugal Rock N Roll Half Marathon.

At the start, we both were trying to convince our bodies that the Rome Marathon was 4 months ago and that it was okay to start running again. The deformed toenails, calloused feet, and crackling knees sure put up a fight in the beginning.

But we didn't listen. Why would we?

We pressed on day after day of 100+ degree heat. As the miles started to stack up, our average pace started to decrease. Sprint days at the track turned into adventures in the African plains, because well, I think I was delusional from all the heat. Hey, all I need to do is say "Nala" now and she starts sprinting. Our strength training days turned into "let's beat up our bodies" because t-rex arms don't look good on anyone!

In the weeks leading up to this weekend, we've been collecting information for what works for us. Why? Well it's fun to figure out what really motivates you when you're still 2 miles out and wanting to pull up a seat at the coffee bar while you wait for Lori to go grab the car. It's fun to taste new flavors of Gu. Actually, that's a lie. It is fun though to get new running shoes because you've put so many miles on your other pairs they shouldn't go any further.

So, tonight was our last official run before the race on Sunday. It went something like this:

Katie: Did I really say 3 miles?
Lori: Yep. I'm starving and a beer sounds great.
Katie: I ate candy all day, but with peanut butter so that's protein- right?
Lori: I'm starving.
Katie: My toe still feels broken, but this is only 3 miles right?
Lori: Yep. 3 miles and it's great weather to run.

Now we're both changed and ready to go. So we start walking.

Katie: Eventually we need to start running.
Lori: You mean this doesn't count towards our 3 miles?
Katie: Nope.

5 minutes later we're running and as we turn the corner the high school track (?) teams are getting ready to run back over towards the school.

Katie: Today we are simulating race day conditions...
Lori: Oh no we're not! It's a slow day- remember?! Don't get that crazy look in your eye.
Katie: C'on. You know I hate people in front of me...

Lori made the move to pass them first. Go Speed Racer Go!  And no, I didn't switch to full combat running mode.

Like normal, mile 1 sucked but 2 and 3 rocked. Well, I think they did? Today was one of those I'm totally zoned out runs where the rhythm of my feet against the street was only interrupted a few times by either a beep (mile completed) or telling Lori where our route was taking us next. Not Lady Gaga, not Pink, not even Cascade were invited on this run. Seriously. When was the last time you ran without you iPod? It's becoming a habit of mine to leave it behind. The first week was horrible but now I crave the pondering time. I sometimes even think of answers to mysteries I forgot I had! And if you are carrying a conversation? It's amazing on all the nonsense stuff gets left out when you only have time to get 5 words out before needing another gulp of air.

So yeah, this training program is complete. Hands down it's been the most fun I've had training for something in a while. Granted it was a lot shorter than the prep for Rome, but running our longest run (10 miles) this past weekend I was ready to tack on that 5K!

It's All How You Look At It!

Maybe the newness really hasn't worn off. Maybe the routine is not yet established. Maybe I'm looking at the world through rose colored lenses. I'm not sure what it is- but I always have to do a double take when someone tells me how miserable living in Naples is.

Really? Are we living in the same place?!

Don't get me wrong- the Naples culture has its quirks. So many quirks that I can see how it could be overwhelming. Even with these critical difference I've been fortunate enough to think back on other times of my life that have prepared me for this: tea parties, crazy drivers of Salinas, living in pine tree infested areas with above ground power lines, windy back roads.

But that's not the point of this post.

I was just thinking once again how fortunate I am to be here while I watched the sun come up over Vesuvio with my Italian kitty and espresso in my Starbucks DC mug. You know, the one I bought when I resolved to be working in DC by 30?

Sure I could curse at the growing trash pile outside my gate (no one seems to know why it hasn't been picked up in 3 days). I could kick myself for agreeing to 3 years out here (my 30th year will be spent in Italy). I could criticize the parts of Italian life that I still haven't fully adopted (dinner at 8?), but why would I?

The sunrises and sunsets from my roof are only intensified by the pollution. The fireworks at all hours of the night just adds to the twinkling stars in the night sky as I chat with friends on a roof top with fabulous wine. The littered streets help me pass the time running when I'm counting empty water bottles. Sunbeams sparkle off the water reflecting an indescribable  blue. Power outages give me a reason to light my candles and listen to the rain coming down.

Even in the moments when the "what I miss the most from the states" game starts...garbage disposals, Target, and Mexican food...they are really all things that I can live without for 3 years. And typically that is the verdict of the other players of the game, because we are being paid to not only work, but also live in this crazy, beautiful, amazing place.

After all, wasn't one of the goals for the end of this tour to be able to talk about "when I lived in Italy" down the road? If I'm going to talk about how I lived in Italy...I want to tell how I really lived in Italy. Not how I lived in an Italian town like an American. I want to have stories about how I went to Sicily for the weekend or ran through an itty bitty town before being handed a watermelon and medal.

It's all how you look at it and if I've left any doubt in your mind about how I'm looking at my time here in Italy, let me sum it up:

It's AMAZING! And, thank you once again for paying your federal taxes to give me this opportunity!


***Trash was picked up after 3 days. Longest it's ever been in MdP. Still have no idea what the deal was...maybe the garbage man was sick?***

Passing Out Wildcards Left & Right?

Recently in the early morning baseball banter back and forth with my coworker I came across a very disturbing fact.

At first I didn't believe him and called my coworker delusional (I mean, he is a Dodgers' fan after all), but after we raced to "Google it" we got our facts straight- 2 teams per league will advance via wildcard!?

What in the world?

And perhaps the most ridiculous part is that they have a 1 game play off game to figure out who advances in the wildcard spot. (Because really, the normal season doesn't give each team enough opportunities?)

Lucky for me the Giants' magic number is now 2 so advancement looks pretty good. The problem is, now I need to worry about a 3rd place team coming in and taking the World Series title? (ie the Dodgers if they can get their act together....ha, I couldn't even type that without laughing out loud. Okay, maybe it was more of snicker.)

Ugh. We both had to check when this came into effect, apparently at the start of season. So just chalk this late discovery up to "living in Italy, where baseball ranks below soccer, volleyball, and basketball."

Let's Go Giants- I want to see you play while I'm home next month!

And Now We Wait...

Got the official dress!
Found the shoes!
Invitations mailed.
Found another dress
Made all necessary reservations.
Now it's time to find the bling.

And when I say bling I'm not talking race medallion...although my newest one being earned in a few weeks may work... And no, also not talking about the one that will live on my left ring finger one day. I am however, talking about something a little sparkly for the ears. Just something little, since it's not my wedding day but my (not so) little sister's big day!

Even after the wedding prep I've been involved in it seems crazy that Nini is getting married in 31 days! (Yep sister, that's your deadline.) Maybe that's because every time I'm asked "how do you like him?" I'm reminded that I haven't met my future brother in law and that I won't until only a few days prior to their union. Good thing my sister has exquisite taste and extended family has met this guy and hasn't said anything too ridiculous! Kidding Chase (and Nina)- anyone who can take a detailed email on "how to be Kate's stand in at Thanksgiving" and go for it rocks in my book. 

I've got to be honest, helping plan a wedding from overseas is crazy. Throw in time zone differences, the inability to see any dresses prior selection, no cake tastings, all means I need to count a ton on my amazing parents to do the leg work. It also means that emails are sent out at all hours of the day to make sure things fall into place. But you know what? This is my sister's day and even though the above may sound like complaining it's been totally easier than sharing a room with her growing up. Seriously...do any of you remember those wars?

At any rate, figured I owed you all a "real life update" although boating, Amalfi, and traveling are my real life activities these days...figured you'd want a more "normal person real life" update. For those I will be seeing in less than 30 days I can't wait! Seriously- between the frequent calls home, writing familiar zip codes, and making my lists for the trip home, I think California is becoming my most frequently used word.

Maid of Honor Out.

Summer Isn't Over Yet!

It is cooling down, but there is still PLENTY of sun to entice new freckles to come out, and to make the cool sea water feel perfect!

How do I know?

It was a boat day!

No, I didn't go adopt 3 adorable kids this weekend, but I did manage an invite to hang out with them in Ischia! I guess the lack of Coach Katie in their lives convinced their dad (one of my coworkers) that it was time to hang out. That or he really did want to see the bridge that I jumped off of on the 4th of July!

Our day started off with a quick stop in Procida to fuel up the tanks. *Note that if you have to pull up pier side, you probably should wait until the line is tossed ashore and you're tied up before jumping ashore...especially if you have a few kids still in the boat. No, this wasn't our boat, but they were with us. Dumb Americans* Once that was done, we were off to meet up with another coworker and have some serious fun.

The day was spent splashing around, jumping off the bridge & cliffs, and swimming to shore to soak in the terme and eat lunch. Yep. You had to swim to shore for both the terme and restaurant. Although the thermal pools were packed, we found a space and the kids started to grind away the rocks creating a sandy/algae mud mask. The boys decided that I deserved a spa day and told me to "sit back, relax, you're going to look great." Yep. Nothing screams "relax" like a 5 and 9 year old applying mud to your face.

We (okay, maybe just the under 10 crowd, influenced by me) also picked rocks that they wanted carried back to the boat. Somehow they kept getting larger and larger. Luckily they were lava rock so didn't weight a ton, but talk about awkward! One of them actually did make it back to the boat- way to go guys!

On the way back to Monte di Procida to turn in the boats, we stopped in a small cove along Procida, under the old prison. Well, we actually stopped before that when Miss Fancy Pants lost her balance while we were flying along the water and grabbed the kill switch while trying to recover...Such a klutz! With the sun setting, I found a cozy spot on the boat to laugh at them debating if they wanted to get in or not. And yes, I may have gave them an encouraging push- but that's what started their round of "jumping the plank."

8 hours after taking off that morning, we returned to shore. Worse part ever. I was practically ready to go inquire on what a house boat would cost me. I love the water, so much so that it still amazes me that I only work for the Navy and am not actually in the Navy. Here's hoping for a few more weeks of summer and boat rental opportunities!

Il gattino ha uno anno

Look who is 1! Okay, maybe he's older than that, but today we celebrated his "Gotcha Day." It makes me smile to think about how much he's grown and changed over the last year...

Granted, he still loves the fire place but no longer as a place to hide, but as his main route in/out of the kitchen.

Crinkling paper still produces the better results than calling his name, but he knows his name (and all the variations of it).

Mr. Rat is now approx 1/5 his size, rather than 1/2.

And perhaps most important, my Little Prince has learned to share attention and even make friends (both feline and human) so he had a few guests over to join his celebration!

The Royal Mile (Day #2)

Just a regular start to the morning- if your regular start is waking up, not quite remembering where you are, not knowing the source of an extremely loud blaring or the red lights flashing...Oh, it's the fire alarm! I wonder if it's for real?

No joke.

I opened my room door- didn't see a soul out there.

Tried calling the front desk- no answer.

Started to get dressed because I knew it was super cold out there. Then I realized that I needed my contacts in since I didn't pack my glasses. Something like 5 minutes later I was finally out my door ready to face the day should I have been kept out of my room for some time. As I walked by the man in a robe waiting for the elevator (yep, during a fire alarm) mumblings from other guests were pretty much the same as those floating in my head: How did I have time to get dressed and this guy is still in his robe? Shouldn't there be some kind of loud speaker announcement?If this is real why isn't there a fire truck?

Queue flashing lights, siren, and fire truck.

I still don't know the reason of the alarm; no one seemed to want to inform us guests but as we filed back into the hotel I was reminded that we were an hour behind Italy and that I have a major issue with time changes. Two plus hours of news, music videos, and ESPN later plus a 30 minute nap I started my day- with tea (hey, when in the UK) and cookies.

Our second start to the day took us up the hill to the Edinbugh Castle. There we froze in the drizzling fog and strong wind as we were lead around the various building atop the hill. Eager to get inside, despite a glimps of blue sky, we visited the gem room and the room where Mary Queen of Scots gave birth to James, the future King of both Scotland and England.

At 1 o'clock we naturally lined up with all the other guests to watch the 1 O'clock Gun be fired. The tradition dates back to 1861 when it was established to serve as a time signal to boats in the Firth of Forth (the water way). After the shot was fired, and our spot of tea consumed, we headed back over the dry ditch and walked along the Royal Mile. Destination? The Palace of Holyroodhouse. Distance? You guessed it, 1 mile away.



Once arriving to the Palace, we walked around the perimeter but all agreed we were castled out. So, in true Katie touring fashion, we walked towards the grass covered extinct volcano we had spied on from the hill the day prior. With the sun peaking out from behind the clouds we sat in the park area for a while and watched the most adorable dog splash in the fountain until we declared it time to walk back up to the castle and find ourselves a pint of beer.

Destination Ed-in-burrrr-aah

I mean why not? Nessie. Kilts. Bagpipes. Braveheart. That's pretty much how my brain processed Scotland whenever it came up in conversation. Well, used to. I now can add several other things like: rain, haggis, scotch, castles, clan wars, stone walls, highland cows, amazingly clean air. 

I left Rome on a hot muggy Friday morning and arrived in Edinburgh Scotland a few hours later to find low fog and drizzling rain. Even with my boots, jeans, and layers (the top one being a short sleeved sweater) I got crazy looks from bystanders. Sure it was a good 30 degree cooler than Italy, but this Monterey girl felt right at home as I found my way through the fog and rain to find my coworkers at the hotel. I found them no problem, and was promptly given shortbread cookies from their stash that had been refilled after the raid of the maid's cart. Fortified with sugar and tea we headed out to do exploring around New Town.

The first destination was The Georgian House located on Charlotte Square. New Town's start was in 1750 when Old Town started to get too crowded and many wanted to provide a better environment for the wealthy. The house looked like it belonged in one of PBS' historical movies- complete with the servants bell outside the kitchen door with each bell labeled with the location. As we toured the dinning room, bed rooms, drawing room, parlour the realization that I would have died growing up in this time period sunk it. I'm not sure if my parents would have been able to marry me off; have you seen my needle point skills?! Then again we found some rather fun clothes in the play room, but since we weren't exactly their target audience there was nothing that would fit...so we had to settle for bonnets.

Our next stop was a scenic walk through Rose Street where we spun the VitaminWater wheel and all walked away with "gold medals and bottles of their newest flavor. Hydration is important, especially when you're continuing your walking tour that will eventually land you at the Edinburgh's Disgrace, but more on that later because we have lots of other things to talk about- like all the fun things along Princes Street! 

For those of you that have traveled with me, you know I like to do the "oh! look at that thing up there...let's go find out what it is" method of traveling. Well, along Princes Street there were lots of pointy towers and interesting buildings so I was in heaven. Granted my travel companions may have not appreciated my method, but I let them help pick the order. It worked out- the perfect balance between wandering but still having a destination. As we walked along the park (so much green) both museums and monuments lined our walk. I was happy because we found the Old Calton Burial Grounds and on the gray day, the stones looked beautiful with the green grass growing up along side. Yep. I love old cemeteries almost as much as windows! Although it was in the cemetery that I realized things weren't that old here in Scotland. Guess that's because everything was destroyed? And let's face it...I'm living in an ancient civilization zone. Not much can beat the ruins I see on a daily basis...

But then we saw it!
What did you see Katie?
Thanks for asking.

On top of Calton Hill we saw several monuments. Apparently Edinburgh is known as the Athens of the North. I still don't fully understand this comparison, but as such apparently they needed their own parthenon. Well, a partially completed one. The National Monument of Scotland AKA Scotland's/Edinburgh's Disgrace was originally planned to commemorate the Scottish soldiers and sailors who fought in the Napoleonic Wars. That was the plan, until funding fell short and it was never finished. (Typical government project?!) Apparently proposals have been made to revamp the project on several historic events but again funding issues and lack of local enthusiasm have ended any plans.

The view from the hill was amazing providing a near 360 degree view of Edinburgh and the surrounding communities. The Royal Mile laid out beneath us and the ancient volcano (now seriously eroded after a glacier wiped out large portions of it) towered above just about everything. The water ways connected the surrounding pieces of land while reflecting the gray sky. It was absolutely stunning. Toss in a few little birds splashing around in rain puddles and make the air heavy with the scent of fresh fallen rain and well, I was ready to pack up my bags and relocate!

Mud Run: 2012

Some days it feels like I just got here. Other days it seems like I've been here too long and it's time to hit a Target immediately. Days like today though, make me realize that I've been here over a year and in that time I've carved a niche out for myself.

Last year on the day of the mud run I had just moved into my castle, was Nico-less, and still knew very few people. This year's edition? Um, well my house may still look like I just moved in at times, but the Nico fur helps with that...but I knew a ton of people at the race! I even had friends and coworkers join me this time around for the 5K event.


Pre-race photoshoot

The course was tougher than last year, but with all that running Lori makes me do, our time was an improvement on last year even with the increased numbers of obstacles like climbing a wall, tires, and sandbags trying to knock us out. Note to self: don't play video games the night prior that required throwing punches because you need your arms for the belly crawl! 

The course & all its challenges

So once we were done with the race (and not too muddy) it was time to get muddy and have some fun! Or you know, running partners- and friends need some therapy after all those miles in heat and if that's not enough...wall climbs are not easy for those of us with t-rex arms!

Post race fun in the mud

Operation Overboard

232 kids, 15 containers of cornstarch, 7 2L bottles of Diet Pepsi, 5 ocean insights, and 1 large squid only begins to summarize this year's VBS volunteering adventure.

Seriously.

Last week I dove into Operation Overboard with a bazillion kids and only slightly fewer volunteers as the Exploration Station leader.

Translation?
I was in charge of all the science experiments that tied into the week. Yep- I always knew I'd use my biology degree one of these days! Maybe not quite exactly the way that I thought I'd be using it, but apparently I was the only one willing to take on this challenge. Well, not the only one...my fearless co leader from the green team last year VOLUNTEERED to help out with the station. Good thing too because as our experiments didn't turn out as planned just hours before show time, I needed her brain power to revamp the lesson/tie in to our ocean insight of the day. Hey, I was there for the science part- you know, to make a mess and make things explode.

Just like last year, the week proved to be a challenge, especially as the sleep deficit increased with the long commute home each night. The botched experiments, supply shortages, lack of voice, & messes to clean up each day were only magnified with said lack of sleep. Fortunately, each evening while I was chatting with the parents they relayed stories told by their kids which was my motivation to get up the next morning to do it all again. Well, the promise of beer and burgers Friday night after clean up may have aided a tad...

Among the challenges each night I was reminded why I was there...for the kids. The first night was a success- attack of the slime. And yes, I do mean attack! By the end of the night the cornstarch/water mixture was over the tables, chairs, floor, clothes, and kids. Success? You betcha. (By the way, I just checked yesterday and there is cornstarch back on the shelf at the commissary if anyone wanted to know.)

Perhaps the most hilarious part is learning what happens when you ask "what do you think will happen?" to kids age 5-11:

When I add salt to the oil & water, what will happen?
What do you think will happen when raisins go in the soda?
If we shine this black light on this water- what will the water do?

Believe it or not, the answer is the same for all of these questions- it's going to explode!

I think that means in scientific terms:
(H₁): An explosion will be observed no matter what Miss Katie mixes together.
(H₀):  No explosion will be observed when Miss Katie mixes items together.

Needless to say, we were unable to reject the null hypothesis many a times during the week, so I decided that we were going to make something explode on the last night. Of course tying in volcanoes to the ocean insight of "change the world" is easy- volcanoes change the geography- easy enough. Making sure that a 5 year old doesn't leave VBS thinking that s/he will explode if s/he becomes a Christian a little bit of a challenge. Making sure the kids don't have volcano nightmares, even more of a challenge!

Luckily living here in volcano central most of them realize that not all volcanoes spew out lava. Of course that didn't stop a 3 year old from telling me "don't touch the lava, you'll die" after our baking soda and vinegar volcano. So naturally I had to put my finger in the soapy red suds to prove him wrong to which he responded "oh, it's fake lava!" Someone give the kid a gold star.

Some of the other memorable kids' quotes from this week were:

Oh, I stand corrected.
The raisins can't make up their minds!
Tigers are my favorite ocean animal.
(When asked about their Bible story time) Once upon a time there was a princess...

By closing on Friday night, a little sticky from exploding Diet Pepsi/Menthos volcanoes all night (don't you dare waste Diet Coke on such things!), it was great seeing all the kids perform for their parents. And yes, despite not being a Dive Guide this year, some of the girls from the purple team insisted that I get up there to perform Undignified. Funny how long that song seems when you're up there flapping your arms like a chicken and realize far too many of your coworkers are in the audience. Oh well- it's all for the kids right?

Clean up was a breeze with our relocation to outside for the last night and before too long we were on our way for the VBS tradition of beer and burgers. And let me tell you, that beer was fabulous!

Oh and I'm going to throw it out there now, because it's going to take lots of applicants to find a Tanya replacement for next year---who wants to be my co leader?  I can't promise we won't have many hiccups along the week. I definitely can't promise that the kids will listen. I can't even promise what we'll be doing. BUT I can promise there will be a burger and beer waiting for you on Friday night in celebration of another successful WEEK-O-VBS!

1 August Notice

To the crazy, wonderful, unpredictable Italian drivers:

Thank you for the last 11 months filled of sudden 3 lane transitions to make your exit. Thank you for your creative interpretations of what those white lines mean (you really are supposed to drive between them). I've enjoyed our time spent at standstills on account of you wanted to have a conversation with a friend on the sidewalk.

Scooter drivers, this one is also for you and your weaving at excessive speeds through traffic; halting to turn your bike 90 degrees to change lanes in stand still traffic; horn toots notifying your presence.

Buon viaggio e visto en setembre! And thank you for the open roads. Come to think of it, if you want to take September off as well I don't think many would complain.

Arienzo 5K

This week's running adventure lead us to a little town named Arienzo for a 5K/10K event. After the recent Vesuvio trail run, we were a little weary, but those fears were pushed the back of my mind as we drove through the back roads with fields and well kept neighborhoods going by our windows. No trash filled the shoulders of the road either! And no, I'm not the only one who notices this stuff because it wasn't too long before all the passengers in the car were commenting on it.

When we arrived, our group of Americans was good in size, large enough for us to win the club prize, and we stood around while registration was completed. It was during this time that 6 piece marching band started to play along the starting area. It took us no time to realize that one of the trumpet players was holding his instrument with one hand and in his other hand a cigarette was waiting for a break in his part. And that is just what happened! As soon as he could, he moved the trumpet down, and lifted the cigarette to his mouth instead.

Closer to the event start, a priest took the stage for prayer and maybe even a quick scripture reading with commentary. It was pretty interesting to see this group of runners, primarily males in their 40-60 in their way too much spandex outfits pausing to cross themselves and recite the Lord's prayer before a race. The priest wasn't done until he splashed holy water over the crowd. Yep. Only in Italy!

The race course was along the roads of town and then some gravel paths. There were hills, but for the most part they were  short and steep, so although I had to break my "run like the Italians ie no walking, just run slower than walking would be plan" I was able to power up one of them. Of course by this time the "cool" of the morning was long gone and the sun was full strength on us racing along these roads.

Although the 10K-ers moved on ahead after the first turn (it happens when you purposely start yourself in the back of the pack), it was alright because this hands down was the best marked path I've seen. Well, for most of us. Turns out one of my coworkers found a "short cut" that lead her back to the finish line about .2 miles before she was supposed to arrive there. Water stations were stocked and ready to give us water after those killer hills (even before the first mile). Roads really didn't need to be blocked from traffic because of how they organized the course and also, I'm pretty sure that all community members were either running with us, volunteering, or had already walked to the town's church for Sunday mass.

Lori-less and iPod-less on this race, I was forced to listen to my feet crunching the gravel and my lungs not so efficiently taking in oxygen. But you know what? I'm actually learning to like running without the added noise. But don't get me wrong, with Evacuate the Dance Floor or MMMBop remixed streaming through my ears my step is always faster. Well, unless I decide to take a dance break...then no guarentees.

Pretty much from the get-go there was another female ahead of me, so I just stayed a few yards back from her. My grand plan was to beat her at the final stretch...but I guess she also pounds out the last portion of course. I almost got her, but almost doesn't count when she crossed first. I got 3rd and she got 2nd. So although I'm frustrated that a few more quick steps would have moved me up...I placed! Yes, there were more than 3 females running the 5K. (Please don't ask me how many more though!) And you know what? My time wasn't half bad considering the hills so that was more encouraging than anything else as it marked the end of week #1 of training for the Lisbon 1/2 Marathon.

So, my prize for placing? A crate of food: plums,  pasta, canned tomatoes. Lots. I think this is Italy's way of telling me that after 3 years of living here I will like pasta.