RN: My favorite way to relax is to exercise. Now that I’m at my mom’s, I managed to get my full workout in at the local YMCA. What a pleasure! Many of you know that, in Falmouth, I go to the gym every day to work out and socialize.  I have lots of buddies at the Falmouth Sports Center (FSC) and I enjoy yakking with them—hey FSC!  I miss you!! 

During this trip, working out has been pretty challenging.  Sometimes, I get my friends to take me to their fitness center.  For example, there was an awesome student fitness center at West Virginia University.  In Paduca KY, there was a 24/7 fitness center within walking distance of our Airbnb, and, when I got there, I found the door unlocked and unguarded.  Finding no one to give money, I stayed and did a workout sans cardio equipment because the ellipticals (all 2) were broken and the 2 treadmills could not be started.  At other times I have had to make do with whatever pathetic fitness room the hotel provides. These usually consist of one very old elliptical, one equally old treadmill and a peloton-like fitness bike and a random set of free weights, often with no bench.  In one particularly sad place, there were no windows, no TV, and the only working cardio equipment was the treadmill, which I was walking/running on for about 30 minutes when all the lights went out and plunged me into pitch darkness!  I realized the lights were on a motion detector and I waved my arms around but it wasn’t enough movement to get the lights on.  I couldn’t find the STOP button in the dark, and suddenly realized why you’re supposed to put the emergency clip on your clothing.  I grabbed my phone to turn the flashlight on and forgot to walk, so I fell off the end of the treadmill.  Thankfully, I stayed on my feet and the lights came back on.  Whew!

This is the cardio room at WVU:

This is the 24/7 fitness center in Paducah. Nice weights but no cardio…

FE. On the other hand, I find it quite relaxing to enjoy a nice lunch. When visiting Mom in Fullerton we make it a point to have a meal in Kentro, a straightforward, friendly place with good Greek food and wine.

But my favorite time here is to sit on Mom’s wonderful patio, enjoy the last sunlight, the beautiful flowers and vegetation, and a sip of wine. A great way to recover after 30 days and 6,000 miles on the road!