Today was my first full day in Reykjavik and it was phenomenal. It´s the capital and a very small city in Iceland and right on the water. It reminds me of other cities in Europe with its quaint streets and cafes and bars on every corner. It was a beautiful day – sunny and around 60 degrees – so it seemed like everyone was taking advantage of the weather and enjoying their meals outside on tiny tables almost in the middle of the street. Most of the streets and sidewalks are cobblestone which is adorable. My feet, however, don´t agree.

I spent the morning walking the city and exploring the cute little homes and cottages and shops. I went to the Modern Art Museum and Hallgrimskirkja – which is a church from where you get an amazing, 360-degree view of the country from the tallest point in the city. Wow! I saw Reykjavik from the top – all of its rooftops are different bright colors – and Mt. Esja (a volcanic mountain range in Southwest Iceland) in the distance and of course the ocean. I can´t put into words how beautiful it was. But I´ll include a picture so you get a small idea.

I made my way to the Laugardalsholl Sports Hall where packet pick up was for the race tomorrow. At that point my feet were saying, ‘What the h*ll are you walking 3 miles to the EXPO for, knowing you´re running a half marathon tomorrow?!’ My feet were right – that was a stupid idea. Finally got my packet and proceeded to one of Reykjavik´s well-known thermal pools, called Laugardalslaug, for a bit of relaxation. My feet approved. There are many thermal pools in the city. To me, they look like a huge, crowded hot tub. Well, multiple huge crowded hot tubs. At these thermal pools, also called hot pots, the water is pure, coming from thousands of meters below the ground. It comes from the run-off of water used to provide geothermal electricity to the region. Pretty cool. And with it being only around 60, the water felt wonderful. And it was so clean! In fact, you are required to take a shower ‘without a swimsuit’ prior to going into the pools. There is a very specific drawing as you enter the showers as to where you must wash AND there´s a guard making sure you do! Let me tell you, guys, I saw more naked women today than I´ve seen in a year in Charlotte. Jealous??!!

With happy feet and a nice warm body I used the local bus system to make my way back to town. Again, my feet applauded me. Stopped at a little deli for a local beer and a panini. Candace, I hope you´re smiling as you read that.

I´m back at the hotel but off shortly to check out the wine scene in Reykjavik. Someone´s got to do it, right?! But it will be an early night for me as the half marathon starts at 8:40 tomorrow. Hopefully by the time my friends and family wake in the morning, I´ll be done and enjoying a celebratory beer with the rest of the finishers.

Stay tuned…