Something new: Exercising

Today I managed to get up and go running. I always imagine myself to run like someone in a Nike advert: determined, confident and able to run more than eighteen steps without needing an oxygen mask. The reality is far from the advertising.

Things I need to work on:

- A co-ordinated running outfit. I look like I have ingested LSD and *then* got dressed in the dark - and for a bet. I didn't even have matching socks (I think I have one of each pair with me - the other halves are in the US).

- Being able to run for more than three minutes without feeling like I am going to pass out. I am hoping that this will sort itself out. Surely there was a time when Zola Budd couldn't run for a bus? I live in hope.

- Not to spend too much time distracted by my MP3 player and therefore risking falling in the Thames / running into other people / running over people walking their dogs and crushing said pets.

- Staying motivated. I don't think I will ever reach the point where running becomes something I 'need', 'look forward to' or 'enjoy'. It's a hassle.

Tomorrow I am getting up very early to go up (very far) North. So that's my second day of running cancelled. Don't want to overdo it - heaven forbid.