Good Morning America...

I took this picture at 5 30 or so this morning when I woke. It was prettier than that; but Lech never lets you take a real picture of her. It's always a mediocre interpretation. 

The reason I am up early is because we are going on a very long slog today-retracing the steps of my half marathon from last year. We won't go quite 13 miles, because at mile 11 we will be back at home, and there is no way I will walk past my refrigerator (or bed) at mile 11. My guide knows whom he married. To add some super fun elements- we are taking one highly skeptical teenager, one very fit chain smoker, and one couple who have not walked one step since they have been here. Also they have this adorable way of screaming at each other during stressful moments like lunch on the terrace, or candlelight dinners; but who knows? maybe the ennui of walking up hill for hours is just what the doctor ordered. 

I have warned the newcomers that I listen to music during the dark hours and will not be available for any sort of verbal commiseration along the way. Further, I have been known to break into a run down hill, and/or whenever I sense we are near home. Much like a horse and his barn. 

On the plus side, I am the one with the gummi bears; all you need to do is ask. 

K and G are working, but they want us to go into the wilds with them this evening to "grill a sausage". Normally this is my absolute favorite thing. Outside of town doesn't feel so sound-of- music-y; it feels prehistoric. The grass and bushes are wild and un-mowed; and it is the only time all summer I am treated to such quiet: silence except for the river and the cowbells. 

After this much walking however, I'm not sure I will be able to prepare my own meal. But if I say that to a Schneider he will provide some sort of Coolie to stand at my side and cook it for me, perhaps place it in my mouth. 

So I must keep quiet. 

The locals say there could be a thunderstorm midday, which means we will be approximately 90 minutes from home. 

This should be interesting. 

More, obviously, upon our return. 

xx