Florida

I had a great 8 days in Tampa with my sister. She really spoiled me and we did lots of pampering. Here's just a quick list of all the fun we had: pedicure, haircut (6 inches for me--easier to wash in a bucket), massage, and 3 yoga classes (power yoga, hot yoga, and hot flow). We also went to watch the Tennessee game at a local restaurant where alumni meet; Beth used to be the president of the Tampa UT alumni association and is still on the board. We did some shopping for a few things I wanted to get and ate at some great restaurants! I also got to meet her "buddy" Mark that I've been hearing lots about. We went to a club on Tuesday where Mark's friend and his band were performing. They played lots of 80s & 90s music and all the band members look like they're still living in the 80s! We also visited World of Beer that my dad has been raving about since his last visit. Besides the few beers, we enjoyed lots of great wine!

Beth has to work during the day, of course, so I had lots of free time. Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday I went on a bike ride each morning and impressed myself by going 15, 17, and 20 miles respectively. And thats in 90+ degree Florida heat, humidity, and sun! I guess I'm more prepared for the biking in Burkina than I had thought! I received a request from Peace Corps to get measured for a bike and helmet so they could have one ready when I arrive. They also asked my experience with mountain biking and bike maintenance. My mom and I went to a local shop to see what I needed before I headed to Florida. I was a little unsure about what to say about biking. I know how to ride but rarely do it and have to admit that I sometimes am a little nervous. I have been riding two different bikes at my parents' house. One was my First Communion present when I was 8 and the other my dad picked up at a garage sale for really cheap at least a decade ago. Needless to say they're not that easy to ride! The garage sale find is my preference and the gears are rusted so I can't change them and only the back break works but not that well. After riding Beth's bike, I feel much more confident and realized I'll be able to handle whatever bike situation I'm put in.