Unfortunately, that means that many people are leaving after tomorrow's last class. There are so many great people, and two weeks is far to spend with them. Actually, it is hard to believe that two weeks have gone by so quickly, and it is sad that those that are leaving don't get to experience Scotland more. This is still a city I love quite intensely. It is beautiful in the rain and the sunshine, a glory in the twilight rays of 10 o'clock. As I have said, it is a deep city. Tomorrow is the farewell party, and I must perform a skit with the tutors and directors. I can't tell you yet, as some in the program may read this, but it will be quite humorous.
On Monday we watched "Cabaret" with Liza Minnelli because there was a lecture on Isherwood later in the week. In combination with the lecture, the film was quite good, and the songs are irritatingly catchy. I've found myself humming them all week.
There was a SUISS reception with the directors, board, and benefactors on Tuesday (a quite stuffy affair) and a book reading by A.L. Kennedy on Wednesday (go buy "The Blue Book" on August 4th, it seems very good -- about a couple of fake psychics traveling across the Atlantic post WWII. Her wit is keen and piercing; I'm looking forward to getting it).
The weather has held out pretty well, still giving us just enough sun to get by on. Evenings have been spent in discussions with students and the tutors over pints -- good conversations that last into the night. Lectures have been compelling and thought provoking. In all, I've been very pleased with the first few weeks.
On Tuesday, I went running, and made it 4 miles. Unfortunately, I really hurt my foot. I'm not sure how, and there is no swelling, no pop or crack, but later that day I started feeling pain at every step at the very top of the foot, right above the toes, and also radiating a bit up the ankle. It has made walking around in Edinburgh a less pleasurable experience. I'm taking ibprofen, and trying to rest it as much as possible. The pain is still present, but not as intense, and there is still no swelling or cracking of any kind. I'm very disappointed, because I believe that means I will not run for the rest of my time here, which was one of my major goals.
This may also complicate my weekend plans. I was feeling a bit lethargic after not doing much over the past weekend, and so I have booked a train to Fort William and a night's stay at the Ben Nevis Inn with the intent of climbing the peak of the highest point in the British Isles. Luckily, my foot feels much better in my hiking boots, so I'm not too worried. If it becomes a problem, I will turn around.
I'm VERY excited about the trip. It marks the first truly new experience I'll have here. Most of the other days have been repeating visits to favorite pubs, or walking down familiar streets. Ben Nevis is a whole new adventure, and a very grand one at that. I will have tons of pictures if my endeavor is successful. Hoping that the weather is nice. Regardless, at the peak, at 4406 ft, it will be close to freezing, so I must pack the right gear. If you'd like to see more about the climb, visit the link below:
I just hope I'm not biting of more than I can chew, but as those who know me well are sure to tell you, I'll enjoy making this "bad life decision."
Keep me in your thoughts as the weekend approaches.
1 comment:
I was wonderinv when you would strike out on a new adventure! Be careful, pack water and food. I know you'll bring rain gear:)
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