Renee learns a new sport

This morning, I discovered that Saarbrücken does have a Nature side. I met my boss and his wife and her Nordic walking class and went for a serious walk in the woods. Only 4°C, but sunny and not cold if you keep moving.

Nordic walking involves lightweight poles with fancy wriststraps that keep you from losing them every time you let go (which is every step). It is a bit like learning to ride a motorbike - coordinating hands and feet and getting into a smooth routine of motion. Quite relaxing once you get past tripping over your poles :-)

We walked through the woods from Am Kieserhume all the way to the university and back in an hour and a half, looking over a river, small towns and the campus from about 100 meters. I got to practice my German and my boss told me he's organizing a field trip for the local engineering association to Barcelona to discover Gaudi!

Next week, same time, same place. In the meantime, tomorrow it's back to the 10-k jogging program. My new long term goal is the East Coast Trail when my current contract is up ... or maybe for summer holiday next year if I can't wait. I miss Newfoundland.

*ack!* If that isn't enough exercise for one day, one of my new house-mates just called me up to invite me for a walk along the river with friends. At least I think that's what he said - man, these Saarlanders talk fast!