Hi all,
Just when I thought I was done with this blog....
Today I received the fabulous news that my son's company have agreed to match the donations that he received in sponsorship for our half marathon efforts and they have sent £206 to White Lodge. This means that the total we have raised is an absolutely incredible
£2,473.77!
This is above and beyond any of our expectations and we are thrilled and proud to have raised such a fabulous amount in memory of Jonathan and Nick.
All we need is another £26.23 to reach £2,500 so, if anyone meant to donate but forgot or if anyone is feeling generous please go to:
http://www.justgiving.com/nannyfish
Thank you again to every single person who supported us in any way at all. We couldn't have done it without you.
With love from Team Run Jojo - Jack, Charlotte, Charles and me
xxxxx
Thursday 8 May 2014
Sunday 2 March 2014
We Are Brilliant!
Sunday March 2nd 2014
Well, that's it folks. We have completed our challenge, the Adidas Silverstone Half Marathon. What an amazing, challenging time it has been from when we first started talking about doing this last July to now. Various ailments have been overcome. Personal difficulties have surfaced and been dealt with in one way or another. Relationships have been strengthened and weight has been lost!
I'll attempt to go through the day without being too boring. To start with, I slept pretty well for me. I think the antibiotics for my ear helped. I had no ear pain overnight and I woke feeling refreshed and ready for what the day would bring. Jack did not sleep so well. Maybe even he gets nervous!
After a bit of brekky, we climbed into the car after checking that we had all of the essentials...race number, shoe chip, painkillers, jelly babies....that kind of thing! We left home just after 8 am and Russ drove us there. Jack and I fell asleep for most of the journey..something that I never do normally but I was on the back seat so I was able to lay down so maybe that's why.
We made good time getting there and so had quite a bit of time to kill before we made our way to the start line. I meet Charlotte at the toilet block (as you do) and planned to meet up a little later but we both had itchy feet and needed to get moving so I got my boys out of the car and we walked to what I think is known as The Paddock at Silverstone. I may be wrong with this info because I am not an F1 fan like lots of others in my family! The said area was heaving with people, runners, spectators, volunteers, race organisers. There were queues for the loos, queues for coffee, queues for people dropping their bags off but, overall, the event was really well organised.
Jack and I met up with Charlotte at the start line. We were all feeling the same - nervous, excited and desperate for the race to start which it did promptly at noon. Jack was soon on his way and I lost sight of him pretty quickly. Charlotte and I trotted along at a steady pace for as long as we could before we settled into a walk/run style. I normally prefer doing this kind of thing on my own but with Charlotte beside me we really spurred each other on and we kept up a really good pace.
The circuit is open and mainly flat and it was a very windy day. The head wind on some parts of course was fierce and we suffered because it was blowing into us. However, when the wind was behind us it was lovely.
At various points of the course we could see the elite runners and the wheelchair athletes. the chap who won the race was so far ahead of his nearest rival that I think he finished a good 5 minutes ahead of everyone else. I caught sight of David Weir and several of the other wheelchair guys. They are amazingly strong and so inspirational.
There was also a group of runners who were running with a man who was completing the race in his
power chair. He was using oxygen I think and had had a tracheotomy. I believe his team were running to raise money for his cause as he had obviously had a very serious accident that had left him seriously disabled. The team had a medical support group cycling with them so that shows how poorly the guy was. They finished the race just ahead of us and they got fantastic support and cheering at the finish line. It was brilliant to see.
Charlotte and I saw her parents just as we had completed half of the race. It was perfect timing because that was the only time that we saw them until the end and they had just arrived. I was delighted that they were there to support us and even happier to see them. We gave them a quick hug and carried on our way.
The rest of the race was pretty good. It suddenly dawned on us both that we might actually finish in a time of under 3 hours. That had always been my goal but I thought it unlikely that we would achieve it.
At the 11 mile marker I had had enough. My legs were weak, I couldn't get my breath properly and I was generally knackered. For a couple of minutes I began to think that I wasn't going to make it but then I remembered the jelly babies that were lurking in my bag so I popped two in my mouth and that seemed to do the trick. 12 miles in and we could start to believe that our aching limbs and freezing cold hands, not to mention our very red faces, were going to get us to the finish. Very soon we could
see the finish line. We gathered ourselves for the final flourish and ran across the line in a wonderful time of 2 hrs 52 minutes. Goal achieved!
We had various photos taken by the official photographers and had our timing chips removed from our shoes before picking up our goody bag which contained the official t shirt, various food and drink and, most importantly, the medal.
At the end of the race I caught up very briefly with Charlotte's family before saying farewell and heading back to the car to find Jack. Russ had told me that Jack had put in a really good time and I wanted to see him to see how he got on. His official time : 1 hour 53 minutes. Amazing!!!! I really am incredibly proud of him. He has come to all of the organised events with me and, while not being outwardly enthusiastic about it all, he has proved that he can really run very well. I fully expect that Grandad Fisher is going to tell Jack incessantly for a little while that he should take his running seriously ;-)
The worst part of the day was trying to get out of the car park at the end. It was pretty predictable that it was going to be a problem as is often the case with many such events. I was just glad that I wasn't driving.
We didn't get home until after 6pm so it's been a long old day but my sense of achievement and pride in what we have achieved is immeasurable.
Well, that's it folks. We have completed our challenge, the Adidas Silverstone Half Marathon. What an amazing, challenging time it has been from when we first started talking about doing this last July to now. Various ailments have been overcome. Personal difficulties have surfaced and been dealt with in one way or another. Relationships have been strengthened and weight has been lost!
I'll attempt to go through the day without being too boring. To start with, I slept pretty well for me. I think the antibiotics for my ear helped. I had no ear pain overnight and I woke feeling refreshed and ready for what the day would bring. Jack did not sleep so well. Maybe even he gets nervous!
After a bit of brekky, we climbed into the car after checking that we had all of the essentials...race number, shoe chip, painkillers, jelly babies....that kind of thing! We left home just after 8 am and Russ drove us there. Jack and I fell asleep for most of the journey..something that I never do normally but I was on the back seat so I was able to lay down so maybe that's why.
We made good time getting there and so had quite a bit of time to kill before we made our way to the start line. I meet Charlotte at the toilet block (as you do) and planned to meet up a little later but we both had itchy feet and needed to get moving so I got my boys out of the car and we walked to what I think is known as The Paddock at Silverstone. I may be wrong with this info because I am not an F1 fan like lots of others in my family! The said area was heaving with people, runners, spectators, volunteers, race organisers. There were queues for the loos, queues for coffee, queues for people dropping their bags off but, overall, the event was really well organised.
Jack and I met up with Charlotte at the start line. We were all feeling the same - nervous, excited and desperate for the race to start which it did promptly at noon. Jack was soon on his way and I lost sight of him pretty quickly. Charlotte and I trotted along at a steady pace for as long as we could before we settled into a walk/run style. I normally prefer doing this kind of thing on my own but with Charlotte beside me we really spurred each other on and we kept up a really good pace.
The circuit is open and mainly flat and it was a very windy day. The head wind on some parts of course was fierce and we suffered because it was blowing into us. However, when the wind was behind us it was lovely.
At various points of the course we could see the elite runners and the wheelchair athletes. the chap who won the race was so far ahead of his nearest rival that I think he finished a good 5 minutes ahead of everyone else. I caught sight of David Weir and several of the other wheelchair guys. They are amazingly strong and so inspirational.
There was also a group of runners who were running with a man who was completing the race in his
power chair. He was using oxygen I think and had had a tracheotomy. I believe his team were running to raise money for his cause as he had obviously had a very serious accident that had left him seriously disabled. The team had a medical support group cycling with them so that shows how poorly the guy was. They finished the race just ahead of us and they got fantastic support and cheering at the finish line. It was brilliant to see.
Charlotte and I saw her parents just as we had completed half of the race. It was perfect timing because that was the only time that we saw them until the end and they had just arrived. I was delighted that they were there to support us and even happier to see them. We gave them a quick hug and carried on our way.
The rest of the race was pretty good. It suddenly dawned on us both that we might actually finish in a time of under 3 hours. That had always been my goal but I thought it unlikely that we would achieve it.
At the 11 mile marker I had had enough. My legs were weak, I couldn't get my breath properly and I was generally knackered. For a couple of minutes I began to think that I wasn't going to make it but then I remembered the jelly babies that were lurking in my bag so I popped two in my mouth and that seemed to do the trick. 12 miles in and we could start to believe that our aching limbs and freezing cold hands, not to mention our very red faces, were going to get us to the finish. Very soon we could
see the finish line. We gathered ourselves for the final flourish and ran across the line in a wonderful time of 2 hrs 52 minutes. Goal achieved!
We had various photos taken by the official photographers and had our timing chips removed from our shoes before picking up our goody bag which contained the official t shirt, various food and drink and, most importantly, the medal.
The worst part of the day was trying to get out of the car park at the end. It was pretty predictable that it was going to be a problem as is often the case with many such events. I was just glad that I wasn't driving.
We didn't get home until after 6pm so it's been a long old day but my sense of achievement and pride in what we have achieved is immeasurable.
So, that's the end of this challenge and I really, truly am so very grateful to so many people. Thank you to the wonderful people that have sponsored any of us and helped us raise a whole heap of money. I don't have the final figure yet but I think we will raise over £1500 which is 3 times what our target was. Thank you to my family for putting up with my latest 'bright idea' and tolerating my moaning and groaning about umpteen things. Thank you to Charlotte, Charles and Jack for being part of this wonderful team. Thank you to everyone who has read any part of this blog. I don't know whether it's been worth doing or if anyone reads it but I have absolutely loved writing it.
For me personally this challenge has been about doing something in Jonathan's memory and I feel that, today, his memory has been honoured.
Thank you all so very much.
Love and hugs all round,
A xxxxxxxxx
Saturday 1 March 2014
A Sneaky Extra Update!
Tuesday February 22nd
It's the last week of training and I'm feeling better and more motivated. Headaches seem to have all but disappeared, my blood pressure is almost perfect and I feel less panicky and anxious. Woohoo!
Fundraising is going amazingly well. People have been incredibly generous and supportive. I believe that we have already broken the £500 target between us and we haven't even completed the event yet. Fantastic news!
After last week's malaise, yesterday evening after I finished work at 8pm, I came home and then went to the gym with hubby. He loves the gym and I tolerate it. I hadn't completed a decent walk in almost a week for one reason or another so I felt that I had to get my act together. I managed to walk 5 miles in 72 minutes. It was hard work and there was a tiny bit of trotting but I was very happy with myself. This morning I have no aches or pains and my knee feels fine. I've also lost another pound in weight so it's all good.
I am still having issues with the justgiving website and my pages but I can't waste any more time trying to sort it out. All of the team have their own pages set up and that's the main thing. I did, however, manage to set up a text donate number (text CUTE50 to 70070) on Jack's account and that has been successful thus far.
The other great news is that Jack's employers have a scheme where they match whatever he raises. What an incentive that is! Jack is also going to put in £1 for each individual donation that he gets.
Charlotte's fundraising is beyond amazing and she is really upping the miles in training in the final straight. She, like me probably, will walk/trot the 13 miles but I think the adrenaline will kick in on the day and we will surprise ourselves with what we can achieve. Charles ran 13 miles in 2 hours last weekend which is brilliant and a time that I can only dream of ever doing. I don't think I could ever have done that time....not even in my youth! Jack continues to be totally laid back about the whole thing. He has supreme self confidence. Good for him!
Saturday March 1st
One day to go and I have had to go to the out of hours doctor this morning, before work, due to ear pain. I have an ear infection and have been given antibiotics. My ear is buzzing, thudding and oozing. This is absolutely rubbish timing. I cannot remember the last time that I was prescribed antibiotics for anything. I'm just hoping that they kick in really quickly and that I can get some sleep tonight. Last night's efforts at sleeping were pretty hopeless due to my earache so fingers crossed.
On the positive side, our fundraising goes from strength to strength...or rather, the fantastic people who have supported us all with donations have been totally wonderful and we are much more likely to raise over £1000 between us than the £500 that was our original team target. Honestly, from the bottom of my heart, I thank every single person who has sponsored any of us. We couldn't be more grateful.
When I finish work this afternoon at 4pm I will endeavour to go home and prepare my gear for tomorrow. Charlotte is already packed and ready. She has even had her nails painted orange - a favourite colour of her brothers. I need to make sure that I have everything I need - running number and pins, shoe chip, change of clothes for after the event, painkillers, lip salve, vaseline and so on. Jack isn't going out tonight and will be ready to go when we set off in the morning at 8am.
The race starts at midday and we have to be there by 10.30 am at the latest due the the parking issues at Silverstone. The start line is also half an hours walk from the car park.
So, after months...and I mean months!...of preparation and training, the event is 24 hours away. I've just looked at the time and it's 11.58am. This time tomorrow we will be under starters orders.
It's now the evening before The Day. Work is finished, my ear is feeling a bit better better thanks to a hot water bottle, antibiotics and nurofen and my nails are painted bright red and white - the White Lodge colours. I am trying to sort out my playlist for tomorrow even though I will only be able to listen through one ear piece due to my ear. Mind you, it may be all better by the morning. We can only hope!
I have a bag of food and drink already in the car and I'm about to sort out my kit. Jack is in bed!
Once again, I am completely gobsmacked by the amount of money we have raised so far. We have, indeed, raised over £1000 already. THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!
I was only going to send one last update after last week but I feel that tomorrow deserves an update of its own so you can all have this added bonus. Enjoy!
Jonathan at one of his favourite places, Salcombe.
Much love and thanks to all of you.
A xx
It's the last week of training and I'm feeling better and more motivated. Headaches seem to have all but disappeared, my blood pressure is almost perfect and I feel less panicky and anxious. Woohoo!
Fundraising is going amazingly well. People have been incredibly generous and supportive. I believe that we have already broken the £500 target between us and we haven't even completed the event yet. Fantastic news!
After last week's malaise, yesterday evening after I finished work at 8pm, I came home and then went to the gym with hubby. He loves the gym and I tolerate it. I hadn't completed a decent walk in almost a week for one reason or another so I felt that I had to get my act together. I managed to walk 5 miles in 72 minutes. It was hard work and there was a tiny bit of trotting but I was very happy with myself. This morning I have no aches or pains and my knee feels fine. I've also lost another pound in weight so it's all good.
I am still having issues with the justgiving website and my pages but I can't waste any more time trying to sort it out. All of the team have their own pages set up and that's the main thing. I did, however, manage to set up a text donate number (text CUTE50 to 70070) on Jack's account and that has been successful thus far.
The other great news is that Jack's employers have a scheme where they match whatever he raises. What an incentive that is! Jack is also going to put in £1 for each individual donation that he gets.
Charlotte's fundraising is beyond amazing and she is really upping the miles in training in the final straight. She, like me probably, will walk/trot the 13 miles but I think the adrenaline will kick in on the day and we will surprise ourselves with what we can achieve. Charles ran 13 miles in 2 hours last weekend which is brilliant and a time that I can only dream of ever doing. I don't think I could ever have done that time....not even in my youth! Jack continues to be totally laid back about the whole thing. He has supreme self confidence. Good for him!
Saturday March 1st
One day to go and I have had to go to the out of hours doctor this morning, before work, due to ear pain. I have an ear infection and have been given antibiotics. My ear is buzzing, thudding and oozing. This is absolutely rubbish timing. I cannot remember the last time that I was prescribed antibiotics for anything. I'm just hoping that they kick in really quickly and that I can get some sleep tonight. Last night's efforts at sleeping were pretty hopeless due to my earache so fingers crossed.
On the positive side, our fundraising goes from strength to strength...or rather, the fantastic people who have supported us all with donations have been totally wonderful and we are much more likely to raise over £1000 between us than the £500 that was our original team target. Honestly, from the bottom of my heart, I thank every single person who has sponsored any of us. We couldn't be more grateful.
When I finish work this afternoon at 4pm I will endeavour to go home and prepare my gear for tomorrow. Charlotte is already packed and ready. She has even had her nails painted orange - a favourite colour of her brothers. I need to make sure that I have everything I need - running number and pins, shoe chip, change of clothes for after the event, painkillers, lip salve, vaseline and so on. Jack isn't going out tonight and will be ready to go when we set off in the morning at 8am.
The race starts at midday and we have to be there by 10.30 am at the latest due the the parking issues at Silverstone. The start line is also half an hours walk from the car park.
So, after months...and I mean months!...of preparation and training, the event is 24 hours away. I've just looked at the time and it's 11.58am. This time tomorrow we will be under starters orders.
It's now the evening before The Day. Work is finished, my ear is feeling a bit better better thanks to a hot water bottle, antibiotics and nurofen and my nails are painted bright red and white - the White Lodge colours. I am trying to sort out my playlist for tomorrow even though I will only be able to listen through one ear piece due to my ear. Mind you, it may be all better by the morning. We can only hope!
I have a bag of food and drink already in the car and I'm about to sort out my kit. Jack is in bed!
Once again, I am completely gobsmacked by the amount of money we have raised so far. We have, indeed, raised over £1000 already. THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!
I was only going to send one last update after last week but I feel that tomorrow deserves an update of its own so you can all have this added bonus. Enjoy!
Jonathan at one of his favourite places, Salcombe.
Much love and thanks to all of you.
A xx
Sunday 23 February 2014
The Final Countdown
Hi everyone,
This has been a 'bleurgh' week if I'm totally honest. I have been sapped of energy from Sunday up until today (Thursday) for no real reason I can think of. Maybe its just that all of the extra exercise I have been doing is finally catching up with me. Sleep has been elusive and a trip to the GP showed that my blood pressure was higher than I have ever known it. That was a bit of a shocker as I assumed that losing weight and more exercise would be good for me and my physical health. Of course, the pressure that I put on myself when I take on these challenges is probably not very good for me. I always feel it's determination that gets me through but maybe it's bloody mindedness and stupidity.
This week should have been a wind down week mileage-wise anyway so it's not the end of the world but all I have managed thus far is a 3 mile walk with the dog this afternoon.This is in the wake of a migraine (yes, again) that came on on Monday evening and debilitated me for most of Tuesday. I had a wonderful massage on Monday afternoon and I really felt that lots of tension was eased in my neck and shoulders but I suspect that it may have contributed to the headache.
Due to the ferocity of the migraine, and the continual headaches that I have been getting, I took myself to the doctor (where I had my blood pressure checked as mentioned above) and was told that the headaches are rebound headaches due to the increasing number of pills I've been taking to try to get rid of the pain. I was shocked initially but then I realised that I have been taking more and more pain relief (probably twice a day) without even thinking about it. So I am going 'cold turkey' and not allowed to take any pain relief for a week at least which should put me back on an even keel. I've been taking pills for my headaches but also for my shoulder, knee and hip! The lesson here for me is to only take painkillers if I absolutely have too. It's a trap that I have fallen into very easily without realising.
On a lighter note, this morning's post brought Jack and I our race day information and our numbers etc. It has made the whole thing very real. I have had a look at the course which is basically 3 laps of the Silverstone race circuit with each lap varying slightly. The information also states that they start to put things away after 3 and a half hours so I need to make sure that I'm done before then. My target is 3 and a quarter hours so I should just about do it. I really hope I don't finish last.
Well, it's now Saturday and the lethargy continues. I feel flat and tired and generally knackered. I was supposed to get so much done during this half term break but I really haven't achieved very much at all.
I've just come back from a 2 and a bit mile walk with the dog which was a bit of a chore even though the weather was glorious.
I have a feeling I may have peaked too soon. Either that or the new medication I am on has left me feeling
this way. But, whatever happens, next Sunday will see me alongside Charlotte and Jack, wearing our White Lodge red vests and preparing to do those wonderful boys proud.
Sunday, blog posting day. I have been having serious problems with my just giving page. I can't add Jack to my team, one of my team members has disappeared completely and the link I have been posting no longer works. Grrrrrr.......frustration! I have made several phone calls to justgiving and I have almost sorted out the issues but I'm not quite there yet.
The upshot of all this is that if you want to sponsor me my online sponsorship page is:
www.justgiving.com/nannyfish
Hopefully this will take you to the right place and you can go from there.
Thank you to my sister for ringing me so quickly to let me know that the original link wasn't working. I had just printed off 10 x 2 page flyers to deliver to the neighbours and if I had done that with the wrong info on it I would have felt very stupid indeed!
I would also like to remind everyone that Charlotte, Jack, Charlotte's cousin Charles and I are all raising money for the same cause even though we may all have different sponsorship pages. Our target between the four of us is £500. I have tried to set up a team page but, as previously mentioned, it's been problematic so please, if you want to sponsor any of us, rest assured that all the money raised will be going to the same place....White Lodge.
Finally, as I think this will be the last blog before the big day, may I remind you of the reasons that we have taken on this challenge....reason 1: Jonathan
reason 2: Nick
.....2 brothers who loved each other, who lost their fight for life due to Marinesco Sjogren syndrome. 2 brothers who were loved and cared for by their family, supported by White lodge and other similar agencies. 2 brothers who were uncles, brothers and sons. I never met Nick but I knew Jonathan very well. I know how much I miss him so I cannot begin to comprehend the loss to the family.
Thank you so very much to everyone who has supported me thus far either by donating or listening to me whinge about my aches and pains or by just being there and I apologise if these updates have been driving you mad every week!
This time next week we will be at Silverstone and about to set off (it's a noon start) and I, for one, will be walking my walk for Jonathan and for Nick.
Thanks for reading this and putting up with me!
A xxxx
This has been a 'bleurgh' week if I'm totally honest. I have been sapped of energy from Sunday up until today (Thursday) for no real reason I can think of. Maybe its just that all of the extra exercise I have been doing is finally catching up with me. Sleep has been elusive and a trip to the GP showed that my blood pressure was higher than I have ever known it. That was a bit of a shocker as I assumed that losing weight and more exercise would be good for me and my physical health. Of course, the pressure that I put on myself when I take on these challenges is probably not very good for me. I always feel it's determination that gets me through but maybe it's bloody mindedness and stupidity.
This week should have been a wind down week mileage-wise anyway so it's not the end of the world but all I have managed thus far is a 3 mile walk with the dog this afternoon.This is in the wake of a migraine (yes, again) that came on on Monday evening and debilitated me for most of Tuesday. I had a wonderful massage on Monday afternoon and I really felt that lots of tension was eased in my neck and shoulders but I suspect that it may have contributed to the headache.
Due to the ferocity of the migraine, and the continual headaches that I have been getting, I took myself to the doctor (where I had my blood pressure checked as mentioned above) and was told that the headaches are rebound headaches due to the increasing number of pills I've been taking to try to get rid of the pain. I was shocked initially but then I realised that I have been taking more and more pain relief (probably twice a day) without even thinking about it. So I am going 'cold turkey' and not allowed to take any pain relief for a week at least which should put me back on an even keel. I've been taking pills for my headaches but also for my shoulder, knee and hip! The lesson here for me is to only take painkillers if I absolutely have too. It's a trap that I have fallen into very easily without realising.
On a lighter note, this morning's post brought Jack and I our race day information and our numbers etc. It has made the whole thing very real. I have had a look at the course which is basically 3 laps of the Silverstone race circuit with each lap varying slightly. The information also states that they start to put things away after 3 and a half hours so I need to make sure that I'm done before then. My target is 3 and a quarter hours so I should just about do it. I really hope I don't finish last.
Well, it's now Saturday and the lethargy continues. I feel flat and tired and generally knackered. I was supposed to get so much done during this half term break but I really haven't achieved very much at all.
I've just come back from a 2 and a bit mile walk with the dog which was a bit of a chore even though the weather was glorious.
I have a feeling I may have peaked too soon. Either that or the new medication I am on has left me feeling
this way. But, whatever happens, next Sunday will see me alongside Charlotte and Jack, wearing our White Lodge red vests and preparing to do those wonderful boys proud.
Sunday, blog posting day. I have been having serious problems with my just giving page. I can't add Jack to my team, one of my team members has disappeared completely and the link I have been posting no longer works. Grrrrrr.......frustration! I have made several phone calls to justgiving and I have almost sorted out the issues but I'm not quite there yet.
The upshot of all this is that if you want to sponsor me my online sponsorship page is:
www.justgiving.com/nannyfish
Hopefully this will take you to the right place and you can go from there.
Thank you to my sister for ringing me so quickly to let me know that the original link wasn't working. I had just printed off 10 x 2 page flyers to deliver to the neighbours and if I had done that with the wrong info on it I would have felt very stupid indeed!
I would also like to remind everyone that Charlotte, Jack, Charlotte's cousin Charles and I are all raising money for the same cause even though we may all have different sponsorship pages. Our target between the four of us is £500. I have tried to set up a team page but, as previously mentioned, it's been problematic so please, if you want to sponsor any of us, rest assured that all the money raised will be going to the same place....White Lodge.
Finally, as I think this will be the last blog before the big day, may I remind you of the reasons that we have taken on this challenge....reason 1: Jonathan
reason 2: Nick
.....2 brothers who loved each other, who lost their fight for life due to Marinesco Sjogren syndrome. 2 brothers who were loved and cared for by their family, supported by White lodge and other similar agencies. 2 brothers who were uncles, brothers and sons. I never met Nick but I knew Jonathan very well. I know how much I miss him so I cannot begin to comprehend the loss to the family.
Thank you so very much to everyone who has supported me thus far either by donating or listening to me whinge about my aches and pains or by just being there and I apologise if these updates have been driving you mad every week!
This time next week we will be at Silverstone and about to set off (it's a noon start) and I, for one, will be walking my walk for Jonathan and for Nick.
Thanks for reading this and putting up with me!
A xxxx
Sunday 16 February 2014
Valentines, babies and birthdays
Tuesday February 11th
Effort! That's what it took for me to walk 4 miles today. The weather was lousy. Wind and rain were forecast for most of the day so I decided to just get on with it. I layered up with extra clothing for the walk as there is no pleasure for me in walking in cold wet clothes. I put lycra running shorts under my trousers and a t- shirt and a hoody under my waterproof jacket, zipped up the jacket and set off.
The wind was blowing fiercely and the rain splattered my face and my glasses so it was difficult to see where I was walking. I put my head down and just kept walking.
Once again, I had no route planned and I ended up walking around Stoughton, past our old house in Gloucester Road, scene of many a barbecue and party back in the day. The miles seemed to take ages to achieve. I kept checking my phone to make sure that I hadn't paused or switched off the app by mistake.The first mile went by and the voice from my iPhone told me it had taken me 17.02 minutes. 17.02 minutes!! I haven't walked that slowly in a long time so I was spurred on to quicken my pace and step it out. By the time I had completed the 4 miles I was back to 15 minute miles....just about.
I think that the wind and rain definitely hampered my pace as I was walking into the wind for a good part of the walk. I should also take into account that I walked 12 miles 2 days ago and that my muscles are probably a bit weary. Having said that, my legs and hips were no problem today which is good news.
I have to say that I have been really fortunate thus far with my sessions weatherwise. Considering the amount of rain that we have had, I have rarely walked in the rain or got soaked to the skin. Long may that continue.
Thursday February 13th
Another 5 miles under my belt this afternoon. This was achieved after I had been down to our beach hut in the morning where I unceremoniously slid in the mud and ended up on my backside - new coat covered in mud and relieved that there was nobody but Russ and the dog to see my fall from grace.
5 miles ought to be a breeze after the miles I have been walking but today was another slog and it was a case of stepping out of the front door and putting one foot in front of the other until I was told that I had reached my goal. The weather was glorious, especially compared to the dreadful weather we have been experiencing over the last few weeks. The sun was shining and the sky was blue. The afternoon was too good to be wasted by sitting indoors.
This evening will see me working another night shift and then it's half term. Yippee! Tomorrow is Valentine's Day and my daughter's 29th birthday. I wonder if I will get a card? Flowers? We'll soon see!
On Saturday I am going to a local spa for a morning of pampering and relaxation with said daughter for her birthday. I am really looking forward to a back and shoulder massage!
Friday February 14th
Happy Valentine's Day and happy birthday to my daughter. What a day! Floods all over the place, rain all day long in Guildford and this evening yet more gale force winds. The idea of going for any kind of walk was not very appealing. However, my husband had the marvelous idea of going to the gym and doing my 6 miles on the treadmill. Obvious really when you think about it but the thought never crossed my mind. I thought that I would just put off the session until tomorrow.
Now, I haven't set foot in the gym since the end of November so I was a little anxious about going back. The equipment has been updated since my last visit and when you enter the gym you have to go into what looks like a transporter from Star Trek. All very impressive. Russ helped me to set up the treadmill and off I went.
I have no idea why but walking on the treadmill seemed much harder than road-walking. I felt that I had really stepped it out at a good pace but the 15 minute miles were hard to achieve. I did them but it was hard work.
Another session where my face was puce by the end. I posted a 'before' picture on Facebook that got a few comments....imagine what comments I would have got if had posted an 'after' shot!
6 miles done and I'm on track. My weight loss continues steadily despite eating Cadbury's mini eggs like they're going out of fashion. For the first time in about a year I am under 13 stone. I know 13 stone is a lot and I know I'm overweight but to be under that is good for me. I have no doubt that I'll put it on again once
Silverstone has been and gone but for now I'm very happy.
I'm off to have a gin and tonic and pack my bag for our spa visit tomorrow. Night night.
Sunday February 16th
Yesterday was spa day and it was heavenly. 4 hours of sauna, steam room, jacuzzi (sp?!) and pool finished off with a back, neck and shoulder massage and a healthy lunch. I also got to spend a little time with my gorgeous grandchildren which was an added bonus. They are a constant delight to me and I love them.
Following on from the spa I received a phone call to say that my precious beach hut had been affected by the storm of the previous night. The hut was still in once piece but had been moved by the wind and the sea and it had another hut leaning against it. This hut owner lark isn't all it's cracked up to be...a break in last month and Mother Nature doing her bit this month. Anyway, the hut is OK and I hope to go down to see it this week.
The evening saw an unexpected visit to Godalming and a lovely couple of hours with various daughters and a son in law eating pizza and drinking Prosecco. I then received a a message from my bestest friend.... my godson's wife was in labour and it was all systems go. A little while later came the message that Emilie Rose Cox had arrived safe and sound. Mum and daughter doing great. What a delightful end to the day. She also arrived on my brother's birthday!
Today has seen me shopping for a dress to wear to a wedding....not for me I hasten to add.....and then an evening trip to the gym where I was supposed to do an 8 mile walk but I only did 4 miles. 4 miles in 57 minutes though so I was delighted with that.
I feel as if I have got the mileage under my belt now and I just want the half marathon to get here. I am so determined to do it, and myself, justice and do it for Jonathan.
2 weeks to go..........bring it on!!!
A xx
www.justgiving.com/teams/runjojo
Effort! That's what it took for me to walk 4 miles today. The weather was lousy. Wind and rain were forecast for most of the day so I decided to just get on with it. I layered up with extra clothing for the walk as there is no pleasure for me in walking in cold wet clothes. I put lycra running shorts under my trousers and a t- shirt and a hoody under my waterproof jacket, zipped up the jacket and set off.
The wind was blowing fiercely and the rain splattered my face and my glasses so it was difficult to see where I was walking. I put my head down and just kept walking.
Once again, I had no route planned and I ended up walking around Stoughton, past our old house in Gloucester Road, scene of many a barbecue and party back in the day. The miles seemed to take ages to achieve. I kept checking my phone to make sure that I hadn't paused or switched off the app by mistake.The first mile went by and the voice from my iPhone told me it had taken me 17.02 minutes. 17.02 minutes!! I haven't walked that slowly in a long time so I was spurred on to quicken my pace and step it out. By the time I had completed the 4 miles I was back to 15 minute miles....just about.
I think that the wind and rain definitely hampered my pace as I was walking into the wind for a good part of the walk. I should also take into account that I walked 12 miles 2 days ago and that my muscles are probably a bit weary. Having said that, my legs and hips were no problem today which is good news.
I have to say that I have been really fortunate thus far with my sessions weatherwise. Considering the amount of rain that we have had, I have rarely walked in the rain or got soaked to the skin. Long may that continue.
Thursday February 13th
Another 5 miles under my belt this afternoon. This was achieved after I had been down to our beach hut in the morning where I unceremoniously slid in the mud and ended up on my backside - new coat covered in mud and relieved that there was nobody but Russ and the dog to see my fall from grace.
5 miles ought to be a breeze after the miles I have been walking but today was another slog and it was a case of stepping out of the front door and putting one foot in front of the other until I was told that I had reached my goal. The weather was glorious, especially compared to the dreadful weather we have been experiencing over the last few weeks. The sun was shining and the sky was blue. The afternoon was too good to be wasted by sitting indoors.
This evening will see me working another night shift and then it's half term. Yippee! Tomorrow is Valentine's Day and my daughter's 29th birthday. I wonder if I will get a card? Flowers? We'll soon see!
On Saturday I am going to a local spa for a morning of pampering and relaxation with said daughter for her birthday. I am really looking forward to a back and shoulder massage!
Friday February 14th
Happy Valentine's Day and happy birthday to my daughter. What a day! Floods all over the place, rain all day long in Guildford and this evening yet more gale force winds. The idea of going for any kind of walk was not very appealing. However, my husband had the marvelous idea of going to the gym and doing my 6 miles on the treadmill. Obvious really when you think about it but the thought never crossed my mind. I thought that I would just put off the session until tomorrow.
Now, I haven't set foot in the gym since the end of November so I was a little anxious about going back. The equipment has been updated since my last visit and when you enter the gym you have to go into what looks like a transporter from Star Trek. All very impressive. Russ helped me to set up the treadmill and off I went.
I have no idea why but walking on the treadmill seemed much harder than road-walking. I felt that I had really stepped it out at a good pace but the 15 minute miles were hard to achieve. I did them but it was hard work.
Another session where my face was puce by the end. I posted a 'before' picture on Facebook that got a few comments....imagine what comments I would have got if had posted an 'after' shot!
6 miles done and I'm on track. My weight loss continues steadily despite eating Cadbury's mini eggs like they're going out of fashion. For the first time in about a year I am under 13 stone. I know 13 stone is a lot and I know I'm overweight but to be under that is good for me. I have no doubt that I'll put it on again once
Silverstone has been and gone but for now I'm very happy.
I'm off to have a gin and tonic and pack my bag for our spa visit tomorrow. Night night.
Sunday February 16th
Yesterday was spa day and it was heavenly. 4 hours of sauna, steam room, jacuzzi (sp?!) and pool finished off with a back, neck and shoulder massage and a healthy lunch. I also got to spend a little time with my gorgeous grandchildren which was an added bonus. They are a constant delight to me and I love them.
Following on from the spa I received a phone call to say that my precious beach hut had been affected by the storm of the previous night. The hut was still in once piece but had been moved by the wind and the sea and it had another hut leaning against it. This hut owner lark isn't all it's cracked up to be...a break in last month and Mother Nature doing her bit this month. Anyway, the hut is OK and I hope to go down to see it this week.
The evening saw an unexpected visit to Godalming and a lovely couple of hours with various daughters and a son in law eating pizza and drinking Prosecco. I then received a a message from my bestest friend.... my godson's wife was in labour and it was all systems go. A little while later came the message that Emilie Rose Cox had arrived safe and sound. Mum and daughter doing great. What a delightful end to the day. She also arrived on my brother's birthday!
Today has seen me shopping for a dress to wear to a wedding....not for me I hasten to add.....and then an evening trip to the gym where I was supposed to do an 8 mile walk but I only did 4 miles. 4 miles in 57 minutes though so I was delighted with that.
I feel as if I have got the mileage under my belt now and I just want the half marathon to get here. I am so determined to do it, and myself, justice and do it for Jonathan.
2 weeks to go..........bring it on!!!
A xx
www.justgiving.com/teams/runjojo
Sunday 9 February 2014
The Walk of Life
Monday February 3rd
I woke this morning with yet another headache/migraine which was triggered by the 2 glasses of rose wine that I had had the night before. 2 glasses of wine....what the heck is going on with my body?! Anyway, I took some painkillers with my breakfast and set about getting ready for the longest walking session on this training plan so far.....9 miles. The idea of walking that distance was not very appealing, especially with a nagging pain, but I knew it had to be done because I had already put it off from yesterday.
Fortunately, the weather conditions were favorable. It wasn't raining and it wasn't cold so I didn't have to wear loads of layers. Once again, I primed my iPhone with my music and distance to walk and set off.
I have to say that it was a bit of a boring walk. I didn't want to go too far away from home in case my head got too bad and I had to get back to the house....you see, the 'what if' worrying mindset that I currently have affects everything.
2 miles in and I felt as if I was going really slowly or that the app on my phone wasn't working properly. Each mile seemed to take ages but I was actually walking my usual 15 minute mile pace. It just felt slower for some reason.
After my 'need a wee' experience the other day, I had factored in being able to walk past a local toilet facility just in case the need arose. 4 miles in and the need was there! I popped to the loos that are in Onslow Village rec. The female loos were closed due to vandalism but the mens toilet was open so I used those. Luckily there was no-one else around. Mind you, even if there was I'd have used them anyway. Needs must!
I completed my 9 mile walk in 2 hours 19 mins which is pretty good going. I kept my 15 min mile pace up throughout the whole walk without even trying. It all bodes well for Silverstone as long as I stay fit. My training schedule shows that I should do 3 miles tomorrow, 6 miles on Thursday and 12 miles on Sunday. That sounds quite a challenge to me. Let's see how I do.
Wednesday February 5th
I'm back from a 3 mile walk that was hampered by gale force winds. The wind wasn't constant but it was very gusty. After the storms that were predicted to hit us last night, I felt very fortunate to be able to get out at all. The news reports this morning are full of yet more storm damage in the south west. The south east seem to have escaped the brunt of it this time..... for now at least.
I'll very briefly mention my anxiety, a condition that has plagued me since childhood and which affects every part of my life from time to time. My anxiety levels are high at the moment. I think it's a combination of work, hubby not having a job and the pressure that I put myself under when I attempt these challenges. Anyway, I decided to go to the doctor before things got too bad and I have been prescribed antidepressants which I am happy to take if they help me to stop panicking. The gp is also going to arrange some CBT which I have had before but which I'm happy to try again.
I'm not sure where my anxiety stemmed from originally but I know that I can't go on with it affecting my life like it has done. Every social occasion is fraught with anxiety and fear for me. It could be meeting with family,going to a concert, catching up with friends, going to work.....the list is endless and the higher my anxiety, the more scared I get and I have been known to be too scared to leave the house, to leave shopping in a trolley in Tesco and run home and be on the verge of getting out of my car at the traffic lights because I have been so panicked. When I type this it does seem absurd but the brain is a powerful thing and mine gets overrun with too many catastrophic thoughts.
I have to work, I can't change that fact, but I don't have to keep setting myself these physical challenges. I was asked the other day why I have the need to keep proving myself to people. That is a very good question that I don't have the answer to at the moment. I will work it out...I just need time.
Charlotte is also struggling at the moment. She has a nasty cold and says that she has sciatica too. She is getting anxious about Silverstone. I know she will be OK on the day and that she will complete the challenge. I have much more free time than she has and I don't have such a stressful job or 2 young children to look after but I am 13 years older than her! Between us we will get the job done.
Friday February 7th
Well, something had to give. I was supposed to walk 6 miles today according to the walking plan. I worked a night duty last night and I am back in again from 2-8 pm today. With the best will in the world, there was no way that it would have been sensible to try to squeeze a longish walk in during the 5 hours or so that I have at home so today's walk is cancelled and I'm not sure that I will be able to make up the miles but, to be honest, I don't think it's a problem. I have lots of miles under my belt already. In fact, missing a session might actually do me some good.
I'm also working tomorrow morning and then a night duty on Sunday so I hope to do the long walk on Sunday.....12 miles! It will be the longest walk that I have do before the main event. No pressure!
Sunday February 9th
Yes!!! 12 miles done and dusted. This morning I walked from our house in Guildford, down into town and out to Godalming where I popped into my daughter's house for a comfort break (very aware that I keep mentioning the toilet!), a drink of water and then I walked back home again. The whole thing took me 3 hours and 3 minutes and I managed to walk at 15 minute miles throughout which I am very happy with.
I had no lower leg muscle pain at all today but I did have nasty hip pain from about 6 miles. It didn't stop me walking but I did have to stretch the hip out every so often. Once I was home and rested for a few minutes it was fine. I seem to recall that I experienced similar pain a week or so ago. My right hip has been dodgy for a long time (I blame Mum and genes to be honest!) so it's no surprise that it's playing up a bit.
Talking of Mum, I have been thinking a lot about her just lately. Today I walked past the place she was born and the place that her ashes are scattered. It makes me sad when I think of her and how much she has missed out on. So much has happened since she left us.
At the moment, I am wearing a ring that belonged to my Nan and then Mum had it when Nan died. I remember them both wearing it. It is a gold ring with an opal stone. It fits me perfectly and when I wear it I feel closer to both of them. I know that sounds loopy but it's the truth! I always loved the ring and when Mum died and I was given it I felt so grateful that I had it, I don't think it has much monetary value but the sentimental value to me is priceless. I do hope that it stays in the family for many generations to come. I think that Nan and Mum would approve of that.
Moving on....my plan for walks the coming week is 3 miles on Monday, 6 miles on Wednesday, 5 miles on Thursday and 8 miles on Sunday. I hope I manage to do all of the sessions and not miss one out like I did this week. Last week was a silly week for working hours and this week coming is much more 'normal' and then a week off (from the school job at least) for half term. No excuses then Mrs. Fish. Get to it!!
I woke this morning with yet another headache/migraine which was triggered by the 2 glasses of rose wine that I had had the night before. 2 glasses of wine....what the heck is going on with my body?! Anyway, I took some painkillers with my breakfast and set about getting ready for the longest walking session on this training plan so far.....9 miles. The idea of walking that distance was not very appealing, especially with a nagging pain, but I knew it had to be done because I had already put it off from yesterday.
Fortunately, the weather conditions were favorable. It wasn't raining and it wasn't cold so I didn't have to wear loads of layers. Once again, I primed my iPhone with my music and distance to walk and set off.
I have to say that it was a bit of a boring walk. I didn't want to go too far away from home in case my head got too bad and I had to get back to the house....you see, the 'what if' worrying mindset that I currently have affects everything.
2 miles in and I felt as if I was going really slowly or that the app on my phone wasn't working properly. Each mile seemed to take ages but I was actually walking my usual 15 minute mile pace. It just felt slower for some reason.
After my 'need a wee' experience the other day, I had factored in being able to walk past a local toilet facility just in case the need arose. 4 miles in and the need was there! I popped to the loos that are in Onslow Village rec. The female loos were closed due to vandalism but the mens toilet was open so I used those. Luckily there was no-one else around. Mind you, even if there was I'd have used them anyway. Needs must!
I completed my 9 mile walk in 2 hours 19 mins which is pretty good going. I kept my 15 min mile pace up throughout the whole walk without even trying. It all bodes well for Silverstone as long as I stay fit. My training schedule shows that I should do 3 miles tomorrow, 6 miles on Thursday and 12 miles on Sunday. That sounds quite a challenge to me. Let's see how I do.
Wednesday February 5th
I'm back from a 3 mile walk that was hampered by gale force winds. The wind wasn't constant but it was very gusty. After the storms that were predicted to hit us last night, I felt very fortunate to be able to get out at all. The news reports this morning are full of yet more storm damage in the south west. The south east seem to have escaped the brunt of it this time..... for now at least.
I'll very briefly mention my anxiety, a condition that has plagued me since childhood and which affects every part of my life from time to time. My anxiety levels are high at the moment. I think it's a combination of work, hubby not having a job and the pressure that I put myself under when I attempt these challenges. Anyway, I decided to go to the doctor before things got too bad and I have been prescribed antidepressants which I am happy to take if they help me to stop panicking. The gp is also going to arrange some CBT which I have had before but which I'm happy to try again.
I'm not sure where my anxiety stemmed from originally but I know that I can't go on with it affecting my life like it has done. Every social occasion is fraught with anxiety and fear for me. It could be meeting with family,going to a concert, catching up with friends, going to work.....the list is endless and the higher my anxiety, the more scared I get and I have been known to be too scared to leave the house, to leave shopping in a trolley in Tesco and run home and be on the verge of getting out of my car at the traffic lights because I have been so panicked. When I type this it does seem absurd but the brain is a powerful thing and mine gets overrun with too many catastrophic thoughts.
I have to work, I can't change that fact, but I don't have to keep setting myself these physical challenges. I was asked the other day why I have the need to keep proving myself to people. That is a very good question that I don't have the answer to at the moment. I will work it out...I just need time.
Charlotte is also struggling at the moment. She has a nasty cold and says that she has sciatica too. She is getting anxious about Silverstone. I know she will be OK on the day and that she will complete the challenge. I have much more free time than she has and I don't have such a stressful job or 2 young children to look after but I am 13 years older than her! Between us we will get the job done.
Friday February 7th
Well, something had to give. I was supposed to walk 6 miles today according to the walking plan. I worked a night duty last night and I am back in again from 2-8 pm today. With the best will in the world, there was no way that it would have been sensible to try to squeeze a longish walk in during the 5 hours or so that I have at home so today's walk is cancelled and I'm not sure that I will be able to make up the miles but, to be honest, I don't think it's a problem. I have lots of miles under my belt already. In fact, missing a session might actually do me some good.
I'm also working tomorrow morning and then a night duty on Sunday so I hope to do the long walk on Sunday.....12 miles! It will be the longest walk that I have do before the main event. No pressure!
Sunday February 9th
Yes!!! 12 miles done and dusted. This morning I walked from our house in Guildford, down into town and out to Godalming where I popped into my daughter's house for a comfort break (very aware that I keep mentioning the toilet!), a drink of water and then I walked back home again. The whole thing took me 3 hours and 3 minutes and I managed to walk at 15 minute miles throughout which I am very happy with.
I had no lower leg muscle pain at all today but I did have nasty hip pain from about 6 miles. It didn't stop me walking but I did have to stretch the hip out every so often. Once I was home and rested for a few minutes it was fine. I seem to recall that I experienced similar pain a week or so ago. My right hip has been dodgy for a long time (I blame Mum and genes to be honest!) so it's no surprise that it's playing up a bit.
Talking of Mum, I have been thinking a lot about her just lately. Today I walked past the place she was born and the place that her ashes are scattered. It makes me sad when I think of her and how much she has missed out on. So much has happened since she left us.
At the moment, I am wearing a ring that belonged to my Nan and then Mum had it when Nan died. I remember them both wearing it. It is a gold ring with an opal stone. It fits me perfectly and when I wear it I feel closer to both of them. I know that sounds loopy but it's the truth! I always loved the ring and when Mum died and I was given it I felt so grateful that I had it, I don't think it has much monetary value but the sentimental value to me is priceless. I do hope that it stays in the family for many generations to come. I think that Nan and Mum would approve of that.
Moving on....my plan for walks the coming week is 3 miles on Monday, 6 miles on Wednesday, 5 miles on Thursday and 8 miles on Sunday. I hope I manage to do all of the sessions and not miss one out like I did this week. Last week was a silly week for working hours and this week coming is much more 'normal' and then a week off (from the school job at least) for half term. No excuses then Mrs. Fish. Get to it!!
Today's route and info
Proof if proof were needed. I am doing the miles.
Have a great week everyone and please feel free to spread the word. Only 3 weeks to go!
A xx
Sunday 2 February 2014
Dear Diary......
I'm going to try something a bit different with this update. As my training increases, I have more to write about and if I sit down once a week and try to remember everything from the previous seven days it becomes more and more difficult. So I have decided that , for this week, I am going to write a bit for the blog after each exercise/training session and see how it goes. It may make for more interesting reading or it may just be the same old drivel but it's worth a go I think!
Today is Monday January 27th. Yesterday I was supposed to do my 7 mile session, the furthest I have walked on this challenge to date, but, due to having a rotten migraine for over 24 hours, I decided that I would postpone it until today. I worked a night shift last night. It was a quiet night but I never sleep well when I am there so the usual 4-5 hours sleep was grabbed where possible and I came home ready to take on the day.
I prevaricated a bit before I left....sweeping the floor, putting on a load of washing, that sort of thing.....but then there was nothing for it but to hit the road. I set up my iPhone, cleaned my shoes from Saturday nights shenanigans and away I went. I set off at a good pace and had no planned route. I just wanted to 'do the miles'.
About 2.5 miles in I was really struggling. I felt weak and shaky and I wasn't sure that I would be able reach my goal for the day. I decided to carry on....stubborn Taurean that I am.....and I gradually began to feel better. By the end of the 7 miles I was doing pretty well for an old girl!
The battery on my phone was on its last legs, unlike it's owner, and I was concerned that my walk wouldn't be recorded but I got in through the back door at home before the screen finally went blank as I sat down.
So, 7 miles done and on we go to the next session. Lots of thoughts crossed my mind as I was walking today. Questions looking for answers that will probably never come. Maybe the further I walk the more things I will get resolved in my head. This walking lark could sort out all of my problems!!!
Wednesday January 29th
I have just returned from a nice easy 3 mile walk. It was raining but not cold or windy so it was a straightforward affair. Today's ramblings took me around Westborough, another childhood haunt. I walked along Roundhill Way where my Nanny Gittings used to live. Her house is long gone and has been replaced by council flats but I remember her house very well and I remember her too. Dad used to take us there on a Sunday morning and Nan would delighted to see us. She would always be wearing an apron and be preparing Sunday lunch. She was often doing the laundry by hand and we used to help her put the washing through the mangle before she hung it on the line to dry. Dad used to make himself comfortable in an armchair and would proceed to read the News of the World. Nan would make him a cup of tea and generally make a fuss of him. He was the youngest of 7 children and he was her baby!
Anyway, after my long walk on Monday, Tuesday brought a few aches and niggles. My 'bad' knee felt slightly puffy (which I know elevation and ice will help) but no pain. My bottom, on the other hand, ached like mad. I assume it's what they refer to as 'the glutes' and so I think it's a good ache and that I'm working muscles that haven't been worked for a very long time. Certainly, today the aches have subsided which is great.
Due to fact that my training schedule is running a day behind, tomorrow I am due to walk 5 miles so I shall make another entry then.
Thursday January 30th
There we are, another 5 miles completed. No problems this morning. It's a gloomy morning but dry so no need for a waterproof jacket. I kept my pace steady and when I got home I saw that I was walking 14 minute miles for the first time. I'm delighted with that. I knew that I was walking briskly but I didn't feel as if I was walking faster than normal. I have a 3 mile walk to do on Saturday which should involve lots of hills so I need to plan that walk a bit and then on Sunday I'm due to do a 9 mile walk for the first time. Now that will be a challenge. I have to be at work by 2pm so I will have to be very organised and get it done first thing in the morning.
During the first part of my walk this morning I had a little bit of muscle tightness on my right outer shin. I know it's not shinsplints because I suffered with them when I was training for the London marathon all those years ago. As my walk progressed, the discomfort went so I think it's just my muscles shouting at me for working them so hard. My knee feels fine today. My hip is a bit niggly and my bottom is still aching!
I was hopeful that all of this extra exercise would help my sleep issues but that doesn't seem to be the case at the moment. I haven't slept well for years. I can't remember the last time that I slept through the night. I know a lot of that will be an age thing. I go to bed, fall asleep and then wake continually throughout the night. I don't wake up and stay awake like I used to but it's still disturbed sleep. I'm sure working nights doesn't help. By the end of this challenge I will probably be sleeping like a baby!
Saturday February 1st
Today has been a difficult day. Over the past week or so my stress and anxiety levels which are always pretty high have reached a new level which has come as a bit of a shock. As usual, it has taken me a long time to realise how stressed I have become again. As usual, instead of listening to by body, I have carried on regardless and assumed that I will overcome whatever gets in my way both physically and mentally. Well, the last few days have made me realise that that is not the case. Even my body needs rest and recuperation and a bit of pampering. Just because my body CAN keep going doesn't mean that it WANTS to or that it should.
I have found every day routines challenging and found work very traumatic for no reason other than I feel I can't cope. This is not a new experience for me but I had hoped that I wouldn't be returning to this place but, what do you know, here I am again. I know that I will be fine and I am almost sure that all of my aches and pains are nothing but a reaction to lack of sleep and much more exercise but in the back of my mind is that little 'what if' voice that makes me fear everything and makes me imagine the worst case scenario. Oh, I can't tell you how I hate feeling like this and I know that I am not the only person to have these feelings. I long to be carefree and happy and enjoy an occasion without worrying about every little thing.
This evening we were invited out for supper for the 2nd week running, this time to celebrate a special birthday for a lovely lady. I was at work today but was home in plenty of time to get ready, knowing that I had a 3 mile walk to fit in before the night was out. We had a really pleasant evening, no stress, nice food and even a g and t! When we got home I got changed straight away and prepared for my walk because I knew if I sat down I wouldn't want to get up again!
I feel that 3 mile walks are no problem for me now but this one had to include hills so I found myself walking up the cathedral hill and down the other side, around Guildford Park, back up around the cathedral again and generally included as many slopes as I could. Yet again my pace was a steady 15 minutes per mile without really trying which was reassuring.
When I was walking, I decided that tomorrows walk of 9 miles is going to be put off until Monday because I have work again tomorrow 2 pm-8 pm and trying to fit in a 9 mile walk without putting myself under pressure is going to be impossible so, in the morning, I will do another 3 miles which I should be doing on Monday and do the 9 miles on Monday.
Today is Monday January 27th. Yesterday I was supposed to do my 7 mile session, the furthest I have walked on this challenge to date, but, due to having a rotten migraine for over 24 hours, I decided that I would postpone it until today. I worked a night shift last night. It was a quiet night but I never sleep well when I am there so the usual 4-5 hours sleep was grabbed where possible and I came home ready to take on the day.
I prevaricated a bit before I left....sweeping the floor, putting on a load of washing, that sort of thing.....but then there was nothing for it but to hit the road. I set up my iPhone, cleaned my shoes from Saturday nights shenanigans and away I went. I set off at a good pace and had no planned route. I just wanted to 'do the miles'.
About 2.5 miles in I was really struggling. I felt weak and shaky and I wasn't sure that I would be able reach my goal for the day. I decided to carry on....stubborn Taurean that I am.....and I gradually began to feel better. By the end of the 7 miles I was doing pretty well for an old girl!
The battery on my phone was on its last legs, unlike it's owner, and I was concerned that my walk wouldn't be recorded but I got in through the back door at home before the screen finally went blank as I sat down.
So, 7 miles done and on we go to the next session. Lots of thoughts crossed my mind as I was walking today. Questions looking for answers that will probably never come. Maybe the further I walk the more things I will get resolved in my head. This walking lark could sort out all of my problems!!!
Wednesday January 29th
I have just returned from a nice easy 3 mile walk. It was raining but not cold or windy so it was a straightforward affair. Today's ramblings took me around Westborough, another childhood haunt. I walked along Roundhill Way where my Nanny Gittings used to live. Her house is long gone and has been replaced by council flats but I remember her house very well and I remember her too. Dad used to take us there on a Sunday morning and Nan would delighted to see us. She would always be wearing an apron and be preparing Sunday lunch. She was often doing the laundry by hand and we used to help her put the washing through the mangle before she hung it on the line to dry. Dad used to make himself comfortable in an armchair and would proceed to read the News of the World. Nan would make him a cup of tea and generally make a fuss of him. He was the youngest of 7 children and he was her baby!
Anyway, after my long walk on Monday, Tuesday brought a few aches and niggles. My 'bad' knee felt slightly puffy (which I know elevation and ice will help) but no pain. My bottom, on the other hand, ached like mad. I assume it's what they refer to as 'the glutes' and so I think it's a good ache and that I'm working muscles that haven't been worked for a very long time. Certainly, today the aches have subsided which is great.
Due to fact that my training schedule is running a day behind, tomorrow I am due to walk 5 miles so I shall make another entry then.
Thursday January 30th
There we are, another 5 miles completed. No problems this morning. It's a gloomy morning but dry so no need for a waterproof jacket. I kept my pace steady and when I got home I saw that I was walking 14 minute miles for the first time. I'm delighted with that. I knew that I was walking briskly but I didn't feel as if I was walking faster than normal. I have a 3 mile walk to do on Saturday which should involve lots of hills so I need to plan that walk a bit and then on Sunday I'm due to do a 9 mile walk for the first time. Now that will be a challenge. I have to be at work by 2pm so I will have to be very organised and get it done first thing in the morning.
During the first part of my walk this morning I had a little bit of muscle tightness on my right outer shin. I know it's not shinsplints because I suffered with them when I was training for the London marathon all those years ago. As my walk progressed, the discomfort went so I think it's just my muscles shouting at me for working them so hard. My knee feels fine today. My hip is a bit niggly and my bottom is still aching!
I was hopeful that all of this extra exercise would help my sleep issues but that doesn't seem to be the case at the moment. I haven't slept well for years. I can't remember the last time that I slept through the night. I know a lot of that will be an age thing. I go to bed, fall asleep and then wake continually throughout the night. I don't wake up and stay awake like I used to but it's still disturbed sleep. I'm sure working nights doesn't help. By the end of this challenge I will probably be sleeping like a baby!
Saturday February 1st
Today has been a difficult day. Over the past week or so my stress and anxiety levels which are always pretty high have reached a new level which has come as a bit of a shock. As usual, it has taken me a long time to realise how stressed I have become again. As usual, instead of listening to by body, I have carried on regardless and assumed that I will overcome whatever gets in my way both physically and mentally. Well, the last few days have made me realise that that is not the case. Even my body needs rest and recuperation and a bit of pampering. Just because my body CAN keep going doesn't mean that it WANTS to or that it should.
I have found every day routines challenging and found work very traumatic for no reason other than I feel I can't cope. This is not a new experience for me but I had hoped that I wouldn't be returning to this place but, what do you know, here I am again. I know that I will be fine and I am almost sure that all of my aches and pains are nothing but a reaction to lack of sleep and much more exercise but in the back of my mind is that little 'what if' voice that makes me fear everything and makes me imagine the worst case scenario. Oh, I can't tell you how I hate feeling like this and I know that I am not the only person to have these feelings. I long to be carefree and happy and enjoy an occasion without worrying about every little thing.
This evening we were invited out for supper for the 2nd week running, this time to celebrate a special birthday for a lovely lady. I was at work today but was home in plenty of time to get ready, knowing that I had a 3 mile walk to fit in before the night was out. We had a really pleasant evening, no stress, nice food and even a g and t! When we got home I got changed straight away and prepared for my walk because I knew if I sat down I wouldn't want to get up again!
I feel that 3 mile walks are no problem for me now but this one had to include hills so I found myself walking up the cathedral hill and down the other side, around Guildford Park, back up around the cathedral again and generally included as many slopes as I could. Yet again my pace was a steady 15 minutes per mile without really trying which was reassuring.
When I was walking, I decided that tomorrows walk of 9 miles is going to be put off until Monday because I have work again tomorrow 2 pm-8 pm and trying to fit in a 9 mile walk without putting myself under pressure is going to be impossible so, in the morning, I will do another 3 miles which I should be doing on Monday and do the 9 miles on Monday.
Part of my Saturday evening 3 mile session.
Sunday February 2nd - That was an interesting experience...out for a quick 3 mile walk when I became overwhelmed with the urge to have a wee! 2.5 miles from home and I'm almost walking with my legs crossed. Quite how I got home without wetting myself shall remain a mystery but poor hubby was most concerned as I flew through the door, dashed past him and ran to the bathroom. Still, I made it which was the main thing.
This morning's walk was completed in beautiful conditions. Blue sky, fresh breeze, the kind of morning that makes you glad to be alive. It really was lovely to be out and about. I felt a little fuzzy headed to begin with which I am putting down to the herbal sleeping pill I took before going to bed last night. I certainly slept better but I'm not sure I'm a fan of the muzzy head. However, the walk has cleared my head and I feel refreshed and ready to face another afternoon shift.
I'm not sure whether I shall still to this format for the next update. I actually prefer it but I am aware that I am going off track and blogging about much more than training. It's more like a diary and I have found it therapeutic but we'll see. It's certainly easier for me to write up each training session after I've done it.
Hope you all have a lovely week. 4 weeks today and we will be at Silverstone.
Broken the 200 mile barrier. Woohoo!
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