A large part of my intentions of coming to South Africa is to challenge myself. Whether that is through being exposed to unfamiliar culture, conquering fears, or simply learning to live day to day life with ease, today I faced another challenge.
I've never been much of a runner. And by that I mean, I have always hated running. A lap around the softball field to around the outfield fence was enough for me. But today I did something I would never in my life be excited to do. I ran a 5K. Yes, the 3.2 miles isn't that remarkable of an accomplishment, but considering running 3K (which I did two weeks ago for my "training") was the longest distance I had ever run before, this was a big deal. I didn't collapse, like as a kid I was generally prone to do, didn't get heat exhaustion, and never quit to walk. After the 4th K marker and the finish line was in sight, I kicked it into gear and sprinted the last 200 yards. Today was a great accomplishment.
After crossing the finish line - get this - they didn't have water. They were offering Coke to people. COKE! Crazy. South Africans and their pop, I'll never understand.
Once I got back to the house I cooled down in the shower and spent the afternoon reading outside. Got absolutely fried but it was nice to have a warm day in the sun.
Yesterday was also a great day. Our house had an organized activity, Bo-Kaap, where we go into a Muslim neighborhood in town and they teach us how to cook. Considering how little cooking skills I have, it was really enjoyable. Except I came home feeling totally sick. I have a feeling it was too many things fried in oil.
Overall it was a very nice weekend. Great weather and great activities. This week ahead is the last week of classes, then I have to turn it up a few notches and finish strong with finals. This weekend was the last bit of freedom I'll have for a while, and I wouldn't have rather spent it another way.
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