Running

I went for a run this morning. I am happy to be in the countryside for technical training- the city is too congested and the roads too congested to enjoy a run. I am outside of a town called Moca in the north of the country- beautiful rolling hills, platano trees and farm animals have replaced the chaos of Santo Domingo. To try to integrate myself a bit more while I run I try to follow the same customs as if I were walking. This means that I say hello to everyone I pass on the street. The Dominican Republic is not like running in the suburbs in the states where everyone is typically in their houses and rarely do you run into someone else walking. Here in the DR everyone is outside- first of all it’s too hot, the breeze is a welcomed relief and secondly, most businesses open up to the street. Local stores are set up like kiosks so the local patrons sit outside and enjoy a cold drink and conversation- most everyone is outside. As a result I think I have waved and said good morning to almost every local family. Usually twice- once on my way out and again on my way back. I have to admit it’s great, they wave, smile, occasionally a local man passing on a motorcycle will offer me a ride, (he’s thinking- poor girl is running, she is obviously in desperate need of a lift!) and this morning a woman asked me if I was exercising, I said yes and told her it was for better health, she laughed and gave a heavy sigh… they wouldn’t dream of waking up and running 4 miles when they have hours of cooking, cleaning and washing clothes to occupy their day. Occasionally a few men on the street will jog behind me for a few blocks because they think it's so funny. It definitely produces quite the spectacle. I hope to continue running once I arrive at my project site, it will be a great way for me to get to know the area and introduce myself to EVERYONE!
October 20,2007