I have a smile on my face that is impossible to get rid of right now thanks to some wonderful friends!

Last night Emily, Sara and I dined outside at La Bodega where we split a bottle of Spanish wine and more food than any of us could stomach. It wasn’t the most memorable food but the temperature was perfect and we spent more time laughing than anything else.

I am coaching Renaud’s girlfriend as she gets back in shape and starts running. We’ve spent two evenings together talking about health and fitness while running along Lake Geneva.  The two sessions have made me fall in love with running all over again. I love being able to help and support someone along their journey to a healthier lifestyle! I’m going to talk more about it in a separate post but for now, all you need to know is that I am so proud of her and she is doing wonderfully! I think the best part is her positive and realistic attitude about the whole process!

This morning’s speed workout found Emily and I on the opposite side of the lake before the sun which meant we stopped for a sunrise stretch break after our last sprint! I relish these mornings as I know come November the cloudy, cold days will replace the brilliant sun filled mornings. 

I head to London this weekend! My long run will be more fun than two weeks ago just by the mere fact that I finally get to meet Charlie! We’ve followed each other on Twitter for over a year so I can’t wait to spend 10 of my 16 miles chatting and seeing more London sights! She put together a route and everything for us. Now, I wonder if she can also tell London it really doesn’t have to rain for another long run. Unfortunately the 90% chance of rain beginning at 5am on Friday makes me think that I need to upgrade my water resistant running jacket to a waterproof one. Any suggestions?

I am leaving straight from work tomorrow for the airport which means I should already be packed and ready to go, right? Never mind the fact that most of my running clothes are in a dirty pile or that the house is a wreck. I guess sometimes happiness is more important than clean running clothes.

Last but not least, I finally answered my sushi craving! Tonight I had great intentions to make a huge salad, taking advantage of the leftovers in the refrigerator before leaving for London tomorrow. While I’m sure the salad would have been delicious, I couldn’t refuse a sushi invitation! During our run this evening, Sarah mentioned how much she loved sushi and that there was a great take out sushi spot near their flat. Little did I know that while I held Ugo she and Renaud were planning a sushi dinner.

I haven’t had sushi since leaving New York so even the simplest of salmon rolls made me smile tonight! Some how, I found myself watching the Belgium versus France futbol game and eating sushi at 9pm instead of packing. Like I said gang, what is more important? Clean clothes and a packed bag or sushi and laughter with friends? Always choose friends, especially when living in a new city.

Your turn! What are your tips and motivational suggestions for someone starting down the path to a healthier lifestyle? In my post where I share more of my thoughts I want to include some of yours!