the secret to feeling "at home"

Most people like going on walks because they feel the physical activity would benefit them in some way. I agree, but it's so much more than that. On many occasions, I've been told by friends and family to go for a walk or run because I genuinely could use the endorphins. Too stressed? Go for a walk. A little down? A run will definitely do you some good. Upset? Those turn into a "run-for-your-life" paced run, which always bring you back to a sane temperament. For me, as a result of needing a way to center myself, I've learned that going for these adventures creates a more firm grasp on where you are. The morning after I arrived I couldn't wait to go and explore Veyrier. It was beautiful! Snow-covered mountains and silly European houses and street signs. You could never get bored exercising here. Going out and getting lost (it's not intentional, but does happen the first few times you explore), you find comfort in being able to find your way back to where you started. Here especially, the first time I got lost and had to ask for directions I felt like I'd deserved a medal. GETTING LOST IN FRENCH?! Probably deserving of a gold medal. The run just became that much more refreshing as I'd accomplished such a feat. Between my adventures and taking the bus into the city over the course of the last few weeks, I've begun putting all my accrued knowledge into making shortcuts or seeing just where one route meets with another. It's so exciting! There are places that I've explored in Veyrier and its neighboring towns that those that have lived here for years haven't seen. Sophomore year at University when my friends and I were allowed to have cars, I already was familiar with how to get from one place to another the back roads, as I'd run them often the previous year. What a good feeling. It makes you feel like you truly are a part of the place you're living, not just existing as an individual in a big, unfamiliar place. The icing on the cake? I've finally found my place in the world. Where I belong. Where there are people just like me and they don't even realize how close it makes us without speaking a word. IN EUROPE EVERYONE RUNS IN SPANDEX! Men, women, shorts, pants, in shape, probably-shouldn't-be-wearing-spandex.. everyone! I don't feel like I'm being provocative by wearing the best article of clothing imaginable for my runs. Europe: 1, States: 0. (Except for a select few running companions over the years!) bonne nuit de Veyrier.