Catching up with friends before they run away

I have had two awesome weekends with some stuff happening in between. And the awesomeness isn't even over yet.

So last weekend was my friends Simon's birthday. I had a day off work on the Friday so we headed to e Christmas market where we watched a guy playing with green goop outside the Lush shop and then we blew bubbles with him with our hands. I thought that was rather cool. Then it was the usual task of eating German sausages whilst indulging in alcoholic hot choc (or in Simons case - beer)

There is also a snow globe that you can play in but we didn't do that. Might indulge in that another day.

Saturday saw me attempting fairy cakes. Not my best batch ever but they did have comic book hero icons (batman, superman, captain America etc etc). I won't give my day job up just yet but they didn't look too bad. Once the cakes were safely delivered to the restaurant I headed to laser quest. Played two games. First game was everyone for themselves and I came 2nd. I was beatend by Jon who is the terminator I reckon. He was awesome. So to come second I was incredibly chuffed. The second game we wre in teams and there are some students mixed in as well. Some students had no clue what they were doing and were easy targets. Some students were very hot and I followed them. Most of the time I hid in a hides hole and got people as they went past. Came fourth in that game so again very pleased . Look out people I can use a gun lol. 

After shooting people with lasers we heading to a Greek restaurant where we ate copious amounts of food (some got taken home) and the whole restaurant sang happy birthday to simon. Well it see,did like they did. The evening ended with drinking. 

This weekend was a complete contrast. It was very chilled and I loved it. I visited friends in Birmingham. Whenever I visit them I try to go to my favourite shop in the whole wide world - The Oasis. A heavenly place of alternative wear. This weekends misson - to find the dress for my works xmas party. Now I was being sensible this time. I'm 35 in a couple of weeks and so I do feel my days of skin tight latex are numbered. So I was going for something tasteful. And I found it. It's beautiful. I need help getting in and out so logistics are required but I have fallen in love with it. I just need to accessorise and I'm wearing to the next event after the xmas party that I can. Maybe I could run in it... Unlikely.

I also managed to get some new running trainers which is good timing since I'm starting my marathin training again in January. They are very pretty and they felt so comfy. Hopefully they will stay comfy. 

I checked out the Birmingham xmas market which is a bigger version of Bristol xmas market. I'll be checking one out in Scotland next weekend as well. And I'm sure there is plenty of time to check others out before Christmas. 

The rest if time was chatting and drinking lots of tea whilst discussing Sian running a 10k which I sadly can't run with her (clashes with marathon) plus the next three mountains we are all climbing in 2015. Logistics are going to be interesting this time as we have extra peeps including sprogs (not mine!!) but I think it will be fantastic fun again. Looking at Isle of Man, and the two Irish ones. My marathn training may limit when I'm available. And I'll have to work any other races round them. But should be a fun packed year. 

Currently deciding if it's worth doing an adventure marathon in 2016 ( after saying that toronto would be my last). I really am tempted by the polar marathon although not sure how I would train for it. Maybe I could go to a warehouse with a freezer section and run laps in it. Plus I want to do my motorbike licence at some point.so much I want to do and not sure how I'm going to fit it all in. Good job I've kinda given up the idea of having kids. Don't have time ha ha ha.

Off up to Scotland to see other peeps next weekend. I've decided to do my blog weekly unless I have something amazingly fun to say. So probably be updating on Monday 1 December. 

Quiet week

It's been a week since I blogged. Very lax. Currently sitting trying not to think about the chocolate on the table. Which is my landladys birthday chocolate. 

Soooo what have I been up to since last time I blogged. Wellll I met up with my mate Liz at the Watershed. I haven't been to the Watershed in ages so it was really nice to meet up there. Had a nice meze and enjoyed a couple of glasses of wine. The wine was definately well received. Had had a busy day. I do love catching up with people over wine and meze. It's always fun.

Friday saw me watching the weston carnival. I haven't been to carnival for years. It was amazing, the clubs are definately getting better. The floats were fantastic. Went along with Dave and Hannah and it pissed down with the rain. We got soaked to the point I lost feelings in my hands. But it was worth it. 

The weekend that followed was a lovely and chilled. I went to the comic book store and oh my goodness there is so much I want to buy. Heading there after work on Thursday. Feeling like a kiddie in a candy store. Cannot wait.

This week I've been haven't been doing much because I've been working late at work. So tonight it will be the apprentice and tomorrow it is my Friday. Next week will be running

Tidy your room or you are grounded

Watching The Apprentice after a long day. I would love to interview propel by setting them tasks. The episode today was particularly cringeworthy. I won't go into detail as people may not have watched it yet. But it was dire. These are supposed to be intelligent people... Aren't they?!?

This week has been busy again. Monday was supposed to be an evening of sorting stuff out, mostly my room (I feel like such a teenager when I say that). As I have been rushing in and out, stuff has just been dumped and I have a corner where there is just piles of stuff. It needs to be sorted so my room can be a sanctuary of calm... Also I think my room has swallowed two packets of noodles, a tin of kidney beans and a packet of rice. Either that or the kitchen pixie has eaten them. I know I haven't!

Tuesday was off up to patchway to see my mate Babs. Apart from missing my bus and getting caught in traffic it was a lovely evening and it was great to see her. Next time I hope to arrive on time.

I have decided that after next Weds, that the following Weds will be me days. Days where I pamper myself, where I don't worry about my room or anyone else and focus on me. My skin is getting spotty and dry and my feet need a good pedicure. So weds will be a leave on time day and get home and it's all about me. So I need to get my room sorted for that to happen lol. Starting to formulate some ideas for sorting that corner out. But sorting will have to wait as I'm heading to the Watershed tomorrow to meet Liz and Friday I'm going to watch Westin Carnival. 

Well I don't think I can for a minute that my life is dull. 

Poppies and rock

Well the foot hasn't let up but it is getting easier to walk. Running still isn't an option. I tried running for the bus and still missed it, plus foot hurt so not a great idea. Spent the day at work with my foot up on a chair. And it difficult trying to type at an angle.

Spent Weds evening with my mate Dave. Bought him dinner which consisted of one of the take away meals in a box from tesco. I'm very classy me. Still it was nice to have a catch up, watch a movie and eat fake Chinese food. The great thing about Dave is he has known me for years and I can slob and there are no airs and graces cos he knows exactly what I am like.

Thursday I sat and watched other people run. If I'm not able to run next month (unlikely as I am getting better) then I must remember to take a book cos sitting waiting for people to run past you when you have no entertainment is a tad boring. It's fine when people are running past you cos you can shout out to them. Plus the food at the pub after is always nice. Opted for the gammon. Wetherspoons curry doesn't inspire me. The nice thing about Thursday night was knowing I had a lie in on Friday.

Friday was Halloween, Samhain, All Hallows' Eve etc etc. so obviously I was going to have a day off. I have finally eaten in Grillstock. It was yummy. I like pulled pork and I like cider so all in all I was happy girlie. The evening was a party and I got to dress up. Again I'm happy. Went for simple, devil costume thing. If I thought I could get away with bright red hair then I would have my hair in a bright red bob. Played drinking pass the parcel and almost had a glass of wine tipped over me (by accident, I wasn't starting any fights). Then in Saturday I headed to London with my friend Simon to see Black Stone Cherry. My first Wembley gig, and I'd never heard of the band before. London decided that shutting several bits of the underground would be a good idea and we eventually turned up at our hotel at 5 something, scoffed down some room service and headed over to the venue... Which was a one minute walk as we were on the doorstep. Epic, awesome. Theory of a DeadMan and Black Stone Cherry are now firm favourites. They were amazing to see live. The atmosphere was fantastic. Loved it.

Sunday was the obligatory sightseeing. Stood in a queue for a while to see the ceramic poppies which were fantastic, I didn't queue for the whole time cos it was raining and I managed to get a glimpse. Then went to see a exhibition of paintings and drawings on witches and wicked bodies at the British Museum. Well worth seeing, plus we got to see an ancient Chinese scroll which only goes on view a couple of weeks at a time as it is so fragile. 

Monday seems a bit dull now. 

Adventures and running

Ive done it again. I've managed to not update my blog for weeks (well days) on end.

however i am trying out a bluetooth keyboard and apart from some sticky keys every so often i am finding it abit easier to type on than the ipad screen. Definately easier to correct mistakes although it has just taken me about 5 mins to write the word definately.

So what have i been up to. Well the last two weekends have been race orientated. The  first was Amsterdam Marathon where i managed a respectable time of 4hrs 54 mins and 10 secs, wiping off 15mins off my London time. Considering I did less training for this one plus I started too fast (kept up with my friend Emily who runs faster than me and then second half i had to walk run) i was very happy. planning on putting a proper training plan together with cross training and making sure my nutirition is correct. Hoping to get my time under 4hrs 50. 

After the marathon Emily and I vegges and ate alot. We  did go round a lovwely museum the day before so it wasnt all running and eating.

How ever i did sustain a niggle in my foot which i hoped would go away by the following weekend. 

When I returned back to Bristol I spent alot of time sleeping (when not at work) and my friend Simon took me to Pieminster to celebrate my marathon. I probably ddiint enjoy it as much as I could have as I was faling asleep.

Saturay of the weekend just gone, i headed up to Leicester. To run a half marathon. I stayed at my friends Clare and Keiths and it was lovely to see them.Clare was getting ready to head to Morrocco in the early houra of the morning on a school trip so it was up to Keith to see me safely to the start of the race. Theniggle was still there but alot better so figured I would be ok running with it... big mistake.Mile 7th mile, the muscle on the underside of my left foot decided it had had enough and started to cause me a lot of grief. The only way to contimue was to hobble/run/walk. I went up onto my toes for a little while but that caused other muscles to protest. I eventually hobbled in but I waspleased i had finished. It  wasnt a wellorganised race. Not enough toilets and running along side traffic on busy roads. Still I got anice medal and bright orange t shirt.

My foot has been taped up and Keith didnt mind me lying around watching Tv on his sofa. Today at work my foot has been in constant acheyness and Ive alternated between having it up on a chair and not having it up on a chair. I wanted to get stuff done but I cant stand on it too much and i have to keep trying to rest it. Not running this week -prob not next week either but I have no races till February so its no biggy. just need to ease myself back in and then I can start booking the races in for 2015. My main race is the marathon I will be running in Toronto in May.

The other problem is that as I cant run, I really want to run. Tonight was really boring. Room needed tidying as I have been a whirlwind in and out of my room. As im busy every night now till next week this was my last chance to do it before next week. Ive unpacked from Leicester and started thinking about waht to pack for this weekend. The nxt two weekends after that I am in Bristol but already busy. Then off to Brum and Scotland for the end of November. December is starting to fill up and Im sure illstart  booking in visits to people for Jan. Feb-April I will have to be clever with my time, as t will be training, so prob wont be seeing people much and then I have my three weeks in Canada when I get to see my amazing family. Im sure ill have more adventures planned after May but for now Ill enjoy the next few months and live life to the full. The new year approcahes and it can only get more exciting.

Flying solo with no electricity

So I am here in Amsterdam with Emily. Ready to run a marathon in two days time. Well I'm kind of ready. I'm sure I'll make it round. 

We both headed from different airports.emily from Heathrow and myself from Bristol. For me it was my first time flying alone. I've flown before but usually with other people so this time was a tad exciting. I watched as people queued up for the bag drop that wasn't even opened yet (you've checked in, you'll get your seat) , got felt up in security (security lady touched up my ass) and watched people jousting for position to get on plane (again it's prebooked seats!). I decided to take Sals approach which was pretty laid back and moved only when I needed to. What was the rush people! Met Emily at the amsterdam airport and we use the metro to get to our apartment. We are staying in an apartment so we can cook pasta when we need to plus it's just easier to chill out in an apartment. We managed to navigate a supermarket to get a few supplies before settling in for the night. TV was amusing. Some guy cooking quiche (in Dutch) - he was no Jamie Oliver. And the bbc programme The Musketeers. Actually there are a lot of British programmes. One wonders why they can't make their own.

Friday morning had an interesting start to it when I plugged the kettle and tripped the flat. So no electricity. That meant no coffee for Emily. That was not good. So we got washed, headed out to the marathon expo to collect our numbers. The expo was alright but not as good as the London one. Plenty to see and buy but I didn't buy anything. We did get a free t shirt (decent one too) and wristband. We also took a photo of us by our numbers. As we had no electricity the mobile phones were for emergency use only. When we got back there still wasn't any electricity and we were deciding to go and ask the cafe up the rd if we could charge mobiles when the landladys friend turned up. We worked out it was the kettle that had cause the problem and we were swapped a new one. We have electricity. Operation charging stuff had begun. With that problem sorted we went out to the supermarket to get weekend supplies. After trying to work out what ingredients were in things we headed to the tills and one was card only. As we were paying with card that wasn't a problem. What was the problem was is that they only accepted maestro which neither Em or I have. Luckily there was an ATM in the shop which took Visa so I quickly got some cash but as that till only took card I asked em to take the new packed shopping to another queue and we would have to have rescanned. When I got back Em was in the queue for the card only till - I pointed out the error and she realised what she was doing and moved to a till that took cash. We had to move fast because the ice cream was already starting to melt so when we got back to the flat we threw it in the freezer. After that we decided a little walk would be a good idea and we went for a little jaunt. Amsterdam is very pretty. Now chilling before starting today's pasta fest. 

Catching up

So again I've forgotten the blog. Looking at the date if the last one I'm a little behind so I'll either have to write a massive long blog or just summarise... I'll summarise.

So two weekend ago I pass my motorbike theory test. The was almost violence as the guy next to me wouldn't stop humming. Luckily for him he stopped. Not that I would have done anything because I wanted to pass. How I passed I don't know. I was sure I failed but somehow I passed. I now have 2 years to do my test in. I'm thinking of doing a week intensive course, somehow I think it's easier. I'm hoping to look at doing spit next year but it is down to finances and what else I'm doing.

I also ran the Bristol half marathon in a time of 2hrs 10. Not an overall personal best but it was a pb for Bristol so please there. I'm running brighton half in feb and aiming for 2hrs at that one. But before that I have amsterdam marathon and Leicester half to run. Currently tapering in readiness for amsterdam. I'm currently fighting a cold off so today I'm doing nothing. I spent some time in the sunshine but sleeping seems to be on the agenda so I can run tomorrow. Aiming for about 12 miles. My problem at the moment seems to be eating enough. I'm just so tired all the time!

The last few weeks have been busy with seeing people in the evenings and chilling out. Been catching up with friends, running, watching great British bake off with my landlady. I saw my mate mo who I haven't seen in ages and I was finally able to give her my Yule present to her. Everyone is just so busy it's difficult to catch up.

I've also been doing my painting. Probably going to do a bit more later or tomorrow. I'm currently working on a sunset scene. Has oranges and yellows and reds. Needs some pink and then a silhouette of a tree against it. Well that's the plan. I've also got a few others in the pipeline which I need to jot down. Got a load of glass beads that I want to use and some crazy ideS for them. Hmmmm. Need to clear off my crafting table... Again lol

Oh and I have signed up for toronto marathon cos I didn't get into London marathon. Going to combine it with seeing family and having some adventures. So just need to get accomodation and flights sorted.wxcited about May 2015. 2015 I might also do a week in the sun, depending on my finances. It's all about how to juggle the finances. Lol

Run before the storm

Wow what a light show last night. Coming back from the first run of the Weston Prom series, the lightning (hope I've spelled it right) lit up the sky. It was an awesome sight and brought back some lovely memories of watching storms on the continent. The spread of the forks across the sky was spectacular. What wasn't awesome is the thunder did keep me awake so it took forever to fall asleep which was surprising as I was knackered.

First race of the Weston Prom Series. 9 races, 5 miles, up and down the sea front. Not the most interesting of races, once you have gone up and down and you have to realise you have to do it again it's a bit blergh. The very first time I attempted it a few years ago I didn't manage 5 miles, only managed 2.5. This time though it was 5 miles under 48 mins which I'm pleased with. Now just need to get that time down. Started too fast this time but running with friends kept me going and I kept going, without stopping with a sprint finish at the end. I saw the clock at 47 and though I'm getting in under 50 mins. Possibly pushing myself with a Half marathon on Sunday wasn't the greatest idea but I'm pleased anyway. The main reason is the social aspect. A number of us went for curry after at the pub. I didn't go large for a pound and I still didn't manage to eat it all. I did have a chocolate brownie and two  cookies at work yesterday maybe that filled me up lol. Bit I'm looking forward to the next run. Hopefully it'll be a bit cooler. 

Gotta revise for me motorbike theory test tomorrow. Wish me luck

Canada planning

Just back from spending a lovely evening with my friend Carole. Her little boy is 9 months old and it doesn't seem five mins that she was pregnant so time flies when you are having fun. And it does feel like time is flying in which case it won't be long till I'm back in Canada visiting my family so I thought it best I start thinking about what  I wanted to do when I was out there. Logistics will need to be looked at but for what I can see the Greyhound is an option and not too dear. Also something's I may have to book especially as I am heading over in spring when the marathon is on (as I'm hoping to run it).

So what things am I thnking of doing

-CN tower revolving restaurant - even if all I do Is have lunch or a slice of cake

-CN tower edge walk - this is still a maybe as last time I was at CN tower there was no way I was doing it but you know what, you only live once and I don't know when I'll get the chance again. Obviously it's dependent on weather.

- a wine tour - there are loads of them and some are done by bicycle or car or scooter. I think if I'm drinking wine someone else should be in charge

- Algonquin park - Ontario has lots of parks but this one has been suggested. You can hike, nature watch, canoe etc. It had adventure day tours so that will be something I'm checking out. You can stay nearby or camp. As I'm not taking my camping stuff I may stay in one if the lodges that has bunks and dorms so a cool way to meet people. 

- Niagara falls - just so I can say I have been three times lol

- Day trip to America. Niagara is right next to the border so could hop over for lunch

This is just a starter if ten. I have several months to really start thinking about it and want to cram as much as I can in, as well as seeing the family lol.

Back in the week...

Wow I haven't been posting on my blog for ages. Well luckily I can say it's cos I've been busy rather than I couldn't be bothered. Let me do a run down over the last week and then my blog will be back on track

Thursday 4th sept

Got picked up by Jenny and we headed over to the hotel for Lacey's wedding the following day. We took a bit of a detour as I lost my sense of direction and we missed a couple of the directions with the sat nav so we possibly didn't go the direct route but it was fun plus we got to go over a cute little bridge for 70p. When we arrive we chatted with friends before heading to bed. Thankfully our single room had become a family room so no need for a sleeping bag and an air bed.

Friday 5th sept

The big day. It was a sunny day and the venues were lovely. Everyone looked like they having a good time. I had managed to forget my shoes but luckily for me most of my girlfriends pack multiple shoes so I had others to choose from. I lasted about 4 hours before I hD to change into my flats. I drank copious amounts of alcohol but luckily for me no hangover :)

Sat 6th sept 

Very tired but as mentioned before no hangover. We all headed home after collecting cars from the venue and stopped on the way to check out the mulberry factory shop. Couldn't really afford anything but it was nice to wonder round and poke things. When I got home I slept some more and did some shopping before eating a large bowl of pasta.

Sun 7th sept

My marathon is getting closer so had to fit a long run in. Went and did 19 miles which I was pleased with. 

Tuesday 9 sept

I tried climbing and bouldering. Yes me I did it! I think I prefer bouldering but I am going to do a beginner course in climbing. If only to learn how to descend gracefully. As it was I would lean back (as instructed), put my hands on the harness (as instructed), place my feet on the wall and start walking down (as instructed), swing and bounce back into wall and then slide down with your back against the wall (not as instructed). The instructor couldn't work out how I was doing it. Every single time. Bouldering was very cool except sometimes I would jump down and forget to let go so pulled my shoulder muscle a bit.

The rest if the week was a jumble of running, catching up with friends and generally being busy (a bit like this week). Sunday was bliss just lying in bed doing nothing. Relaxing and having time to myself. 

I may do a retrospective blog to look back at the days I've missed but for now I'm signing off x

Showering in the dark

Sooo the lights have gone in the house. There is power to everything else (plug sockets etc) just not to the lights. Or the oven. For some reason the oven ain't working either. The breaker is refusing to stay up and stubbornly staying in the middle so an electricin is being called. It's probably something simple but we can't figure it out. I did message my dad and go through some basic stuff. It means that this morning I had breakfast and got dressed in the dark and this evening I had it have a shower before it got dark. There is currently a lamp in the hallway so I can get to the bathroom without walking into something and it's directed at the bathroom door so the light shines though so you can see what you are doing in there. All that time walking round my flat in the dark has really paid off. I knew it would come in useful one day. I must admit I prefer darkness however it is weird switching the light switch and nothing happening. 

I got my eyebrows threaded today. I was looking at my face and thinking urg blackheads when I realised my eyebrows needed doing. Luckily for me the salon could fit me in and now I have tidy eyebrows. I also have bought some face stuff that clears blackheads in one day. So see how that goes. Maybe my face will disappear. Sat doing my nails. Well I've finished now cos I wouldn't be able to write this blog if I had just done my nails, I totally understand why people pay other people to do their nails for them. I get bored so quickly. I keep thinking that mabe once a month I'll treat myself to a facial or having my nails done. There are some things I need to do regularly like getting my eyebrows tidyied etc. I should really have a better regime. Although saying that I do have a skin care regime and I am getting good at doing it morning and night. Not doing it tonight cos I used the blackhead stuff  -ahhh.

Waffling now about random stuff. Which may or may not be interesting. Depends who is reading it. Thinking I might go into work early again tomorrow, let's hope my PC behaves it self and doesn't need rebooting twice! The beauty of going in early is I get an hour to just get on with work and I can go home at four and I've still done a full day. 

Yep I'm definately rambling now so I'm going to say farewell for now. I'm off to wedding on Friday so my next blog entry probably won't be until Saturday when I hope to write up about a wonderful time:D

Emails and blenders

I have burnt my tongue on rice pudding. Ouch. Plus banged my arm into a table so  day for injuries it would seem. On a plus though I did work early. I went in early and left early. I like that idea because it allows me to go for a run in the evening.

Today was a sea of emails, the email box I was working on started with 100 in it. By the end of the day it had 101. So it looks like I've done nothing. I hasten to add I have had a very busy day answering emails and checking stuff and ringing people. I also manged to make the effort to ring round some local authorities asking for information only to find out that the message I was given was wrong and was the last thing they wanted me to do... Lesson learnt, next time get the information first hand. I like the variety if my job, and although the emails are frustrated in the fact they are breeding, I won't let it get me down. I have a cunning plan which is I'm going in uber early tomorrow to blitz the emails before new ones come in. Cunning indeed.

Managed to an 8 mile run today. Wore the wrong  trainers so my feet are a tad sore, hopefully they will have recovered enough for the wedding I'm going to on Friday. I'll soak them tomorrow. I was meant to be running marathon speed but went a little faster (not much more). Bit out of practice so sluggish and I've pulled a muscle in my shoulder so that was a tad painful. I found I kept zoning out which was quite useful. No focus on pain and made the hour and so go a lot quicker. I hope to get a long run in at the weekend. I also need to look at my nutrition. I'm finding it difficult to eat enough so seriously thinking about getting a Nutribullet. Blitz the food and drink it. Might work. I'm one of those runners that needs to eat properly or I have no energy which is a tad annoying.

Seen a half day course for abseiling.... Tempted. Think I'll try the climbing wall first and if the deal is still going then I'll give abseiling a go. 

Autumn days

September begins. Can't believe it's September already. Autumn has arrived. The leaves are turning glorious colours, the air is warm but the crispness of the evenings is in the air as the evenings draw in. I do like autumn. Bonfires, Halloween, dark evenings. Along with winter this is my favourite time of the year. I have a dark side to me that feels at home in the autumn. Need to start think autumn equinox and how to celebrate but also Samhain. Need to start thinking of my challenges ahead and how best to celebrate my new year.

Didn't get a chance to run tonight as I worked late (ok work/life got completely smacked down today) but I did go to the gym yesterday. 15 mins in the cross trainer, 30 mins on the treadmill and 15 mins on the bike. Was quite pleased with it. Gutted I didn't run and I do need to learn not to beat myself up if I don't run. I will get one in tomorrow. I'm planning 2 runs and a gym session this week, Friday I will be at a wedding so Sunday is a long run and this time I won't lock myself out so I can actually go for it. 16 or 18 miles. I have a seven min workout I plan to do each morning. Also I do dance round my room occasionally like a loon and I work a sweat up sp that must count as exercise.

Right to sleep, to dream. Or at least lie here with a full belly. Morgan (the other lodger) cooked tonight. Bloody nice spag Bol which I ate far too much of. The spaghetti was not gluten free so I envisage an upset stomach tomorrow. Hopefully I shall be proved wrong.

Love and light

Fascinating fascinata

I've finally managed to do it. I have left my keys at home. And I am not at home. Luckily I am round a friends house so I can take up space on their sofa whilst they potter. My landlady is out so can't even ring the bell and hope to be let back in. So I'm updating my blog. If the wii fii worked outside then I would be sat in the sunshine. Ouch just manged to cut my finger on my fingernail. They are lethal!

So yesterday I had a lie in, till about 9 in the morning and then I vegged. I had a geeky morning watching Justice League cartoons whilst thinking about if I can get a Harley Quinn costume sorted for Halloween. I did eventually venture out cos it was a gorgeous day and I can spend a whole morning watching TV which can be a tad watesful of a gorgeous day. That should be left for cold rainy days. 

I needed to go out because I needed a hat or fascinata for a wedding coming up. My friend Simon needs educating on what a hat for wedding looks like. Fell back on a reliable Debenhams where the shop assistant asked me what type of hat I was looking for (there are different hats for different things). Managed to find a fascinata and a new bag so win. Now just need to work out accessories and what make up. Do need some new foundation but it's not pressing. 

Finally been to see Guardians of the Galaxy and I highly recommend it. It was fantastic. Funny,emotional and lots of action.  Perfect combination in my book. 

Followed by meal at Coal. We had Yo Sushi before movie plus sweeties (pick n mix) so we stuck to starters for our meal as wee a tad full. Plus cocktails. Yummy cocktails. Love cocktails. 

Have now caught up with the new doctor who. Verdicts still out on that one. 

Need to plan my training and social life and fun stuff so signing out. I'm sure I'll write again tonight but right now I want to sit in sunshine

And relax...

I love coming home and dinner has been cooked for me. My land lady's daughter cooked dinner tonight. Chicken pie which was very welcome on a cold windy evening such as tonight. 

Today has been a busy one as I've been interviewing all day with my manager. I forgot how exhausting interviewing can bel you have to stay focused for everyone and try not to look bored or tired. Plus you have to write and listen (ooo multitasking). I did get caught out looking at the clock but I pretended I had something in my eye. No idea if I got away with it or if the guy we were interviewing thought I was a weirdo. Possibly the latter. 

I have caught up with an old friend as well so that was nice. Brief but was good to hear they were doing ok. Hopefully I'll hear from them again but probably won't be for another few months. This was all done by text message so I'm assuming it was them and that their phone wasn't high jacked by purple aliens. Or any other colour alien for that matter.

The chatter has been about GBBO. Who would have thought cakes could cause so much controversy. Baking at dawn. Count your paces and draw French baguettes. I'm sure it will die down eventually but considering so much going on it is amusing that people get so het up about baking and sabotage. Village shows will never be the same again.

This weekend I need to get my act together and run 16 miles at least. I've postponed it till Sunday because I really want a lie in tomorrow and I'm busy Saturday daytime. I know I'm a real bundle of fun having a lie in at the weekend. The rest of the week will involves running, core workout and gym this week I reckon. Not huge amounts if fantastic fun but needs doing, although is May get distracted and do other stuff. My training has taken a back seat though and I do need to step it up a notch. I keep telling myself that after the races I can do other things in the evening and weekend until training starts back up again in  January. :)

Slowly climbing

So I've walked up mountains so the next logical thing is to try climbing. I had the choice of bouldering or climbing in the deals but I went with climbing first. Harness included - sounds good. 90 minutes taster session. Maybe bouldering another time. The only thing for me is I worry about falling and that's what has stopped me in the past. But no more. Conquering fears now. No more excuses. If I haven't tried it at least once then I can't cry and say I didn't  like it. I'm hoping that not wanting to look like a wuss will mean ill man up and get on with. I still regret not getting in the trapeze harness when I did circus skills. I will go back and do it. But first things first - conquer my fear of falling. So In a week and a bit ill be probably holding onto the wall for dear life trying not to look like a wuss. Or having the time of my life and wondering when I can go again. I'm hoping it will be the later. 

Just desserts - and my brain hurts

I remember when I used to get stressed out watching Formula One. Screaming at the TV for Ferrari to stop being crap and win. Today I was shouting at the TV about desserts. The Great British Bake Off is flipping stressful. And was it sabotage? Who knows? I won't spoil it in case there are people reading this who haven't watched it yet but I swear my blood pressure has gone up. Who would have thought it would be so stressful watching people cook.

Shouting at the TV isnt all I have been doing. I made a nice stir fry from what I could find in the cupboards. Kidney beans, chicken and apple were all thrown into the mix. Apple in stirfry tastes quite nice and I think I'll try that again. I also unpacked from the weekend and the floor has appeared again. My room needs tidying again but that's something for Sunday if it's not nice enough to be outside.

I also was checking out stuff I can do in 2015. 2014 still has 2 half marathons and a marathon to go so have decided that November and December will be left free to to do non running, walking, cycling things. Well might go cycling if not too wet. January I start up training again for a half marathon and a marathon so looking forward to the end of this year. Planning on relaxing. But I do want to do a triathlon next year so I will need to do swimming lessons and at some point sort out a road bike. And I want to do a long distance ride like Bristol to London. Possibly an event so support is there or I could try an advenure and just get out there and do it. So plenty to think about toward the summer next year. Plus I'm hoping to do three weeks in Canada, learn to ride a motorbike and do my bike test. 

I've emailed the climbing wall people to book my taster slot and if I enjoy that then that is something else I might take up. Although that will be just for doing, not going to suddenly develop a taste for actual rock climbing and start climbing large scale cliffs any time soon. At least I don't think so.....

The Ben - the end of an epic adventure

Wow what an epic weekend. Sian, James and I walked up Ben Nevis. It was a fitting end of our three peaks challenge. It was hard going but worth it in the end. There was no view but there was snow.

Friday 

Sian and I travelled up on train to Glasgow where we were met by James and we drove onto Fort William. We arrived at a lovely little campsite and set the tent up and proceeded with our usual meal of couscous and grated cheese. It was a relaxed evening and not as cold as we first thought.

Saturday 

So today was the day. We were walking up Ben Nevis. We packed our food and drink, put our layers on (it was a little chilly) and started for the Tourist path. We decided to go the steeper first path. It was a nice walk up, hard on the knees and we did need to lose some layers cos it got a tad warm. The day was warm but windy and the view was gorgeous. Many waterfalls. Lots of people walking. I was very thankful for my walking poles cos some of the path was a bit rocky and the poles came in useful. In fact we did see the path being fixed. We stopped by a stunning waterfall and we filled a water bottle. The water tasted lush. The climb continued. The weather started to get a little colder and then we came across a patch of snow. Thee was no snow falling, just a patch of snow surrounded by rocks and grass. Thee was also a gully where a large ball of snow hung between two cliff points. For me it was an achievement to stand quite close to the edge and have a look at it. I'm not a huge fan of heights. When we got to the top I had put on my ski googles. It was bloody freezing. I lost the feeling in my fingers so the hot chocolate we had brought was gratefully received. As we sat eating our lunch watching the cloud hide the view, it started to snow. It was beautiful a real sense of calm but as it got harder we decided to descend. It was hard going down as some of the steps were long drops. However it did make me smile seeing the strange looks on peoples faces as we walked down - I still had my ski googles on even thoug it was sunny.

We got back and celebrated with sparkling wine and a very yummy chilli cooked by Jay.

Sunday

Legs sore and aching but still a sense of achievement running through our veins. We wandered to the Ben Nevis tourist shop to buy tat. I bought a t shirt and a medal. Sian tried Irn Bru. I also saw something about a race. 

http://www.bennevisrace.co.uk/about/. Maybe one for the future. I can put it on my bucket list. Along with all the other stuff. 

We also asked if there was anywhere we could go swimming outdoors and we were told of somewhere the locals go. We found a nice section of river. Sian just got in, James got in, got back out and then manned up and got back in. They swam. I got in up to my knees. And then got back out again. Wuss. But it was a good start. I did swim in the sea years ago but never really swam in a river yet. It's one for the bucket list and will be achieved. I'm facing my fears. 

Rest of Sunday was chilling. Sian fell asleep and James and I chatted round the BBQ that refused to light. That BBQ was a bugger. We put wax on it, a whole thing of firelighters and some cardboard. Eventually it played it ball and we were able to cook food on it. I say cook. I burnt the Quorn sausages. The kebabs fared better. 

Monday 

The end of the trip. The tent was down and the car packed up. We were still buzzing. It was awesome.

I have enjoyed this walk, this climb more than the other two. I felt a real sense of freedom. There was a lot on my mind and the walk allowed me to sort a few things out in my head. To realise what I want to do for myself and what I need to leave behind in order to move forward. A sense of calmness 

Climb every mountain ... And you'll be a tad tired

It's been a funny old week so far. The scooter is in the scooter hospital aka the garage and it's lucky I took it in. Tyre pressure a tad on the low side and perished tyre valves (which could have led to a blown tyre) so they are now being fixed plus my rear light was out so all in all not a bad thing. One bad thing was I have had real problems with my train tickets. I bought some online but when I went to pick them up I had no booking reference and when I rang customer services they had no record. That wouldn't be a problem but the credit card has been charged and I'm a bit miffed so I've emailed first great western and they are looking into it.

Currently I'm sat round my mate Sian's house as tomorrow we are heading up to sunny Scotland well it be rainy Scotland but that doesnt have the same ring to it. Cos we and our friend James are walking up Ben Nevis. Forecast is showing as cold but not snowing but I've brought my ski googles anyway. There may be snow at the top. Its going to be exciting cos it's the last of the peaks. We have done Snowdon, we have done Scarfell pike and now we are finishing with Ben Nevis. It's going to be awesome. Next year we might try the Irish peaks. We also might try swimming in a loch. I say try. I've brought a bikini but it might be a tad cold for swimming. But if not then I'm game and I'll give it a go. Be a good laugh. I do hope we do more camping and walking up mountains. I'm a bit gutted I haven't managed to go camping with the scooter. I've kinda run out of weekends now as the weekends I'm not busy I should be running. Unless I go camping and do a run then. Which is a possibility. If so there are one or two weekends which are possible but I'll need to buy a dry bag first. Or maybe catch a bus or train somewhere. It's a possibility. After my October runs my weekends free up for a little but. It might be a bit cold for camping but I may try some cycling if not too icy. Definitely don't want to gall into a mid winter slump. I'm sure there is plenty to keep me busy in the colder months :)

Next update will probably be next week. Hopefully have plenty of stories from the weekend.

Going somewhere and somewhere and somewhere

Well from going nowhere to going somewhere. I've booked my flights to Amsterdam :). Accomodation is all sorted so all I need to do is train and turn up. Getting excited. First European marathon and then maybe a international marathon in May. Now that might be fun. 

Amsterdam trip won't be loads of sightseeing as need to rest up but we might head over to Dusseldorf for a day trip. Saturday will be expo and sitting eating pasta and drinking coffee. Or tea in my case. It's my first trip flying on my own. Will be preparation for my first international flight alone next year. Canada will be fun. Need to look at what I want to do there - besides run a marathon and see my family.

Done Niagara Falls and Toronto already so need to find new stuff to do. Plenty of time to save up and sort out as it's not till May :). Before that I have leceister half marathon and Brighton Half marathon. Plus gonna fly up to Scotland to go see friends hopefully before the end of this year.

So plenty to keep me busy

Before all that I need to pack for Ben Nevis so that's what I'll be doing tomorrow night. Conflicting weather reports but I reckon it'll be a tad chilly so packing warm clothes for this one. Don't think there will be any sunbathing this time round.

Going nowhere

Well my plans for the weekend got a little bit jinxed. I wanted to go for a bike ride but needed to change my inner tube first. Should have been an easiesh task. My friend was coming to help as it was the back wheel and I haven't changed anything on the bike wheel without help before. The chain makes it. Little tricker so I thought it beat to ask for assistance. We didn't even get as far as getting the wheel off because the valve was the wrong one. My pump wouldn't fit it so I wouldn't have been able to pump it up. So back to the shop and doing a swap. I took my pump with me so I could double check (I'm not flipping going back again) . So hopefully the inner tube operation is booked for Tuesday. Weather permitting and as long as the valve gets through the hole in the wheel. At least the cover is on the bike now.

Saying that the chances of me actually going on a bike ride were pretty slim after I had run 14 miles. My marathin training has been pretty sporadic so it has been good to get out thee and the gym has help as well. Once the training is out of the way I can think about swimming lessons as well. Thoughts of doing a triathlon are still lingering.

Need to pack this week as off up Ben Nevis on the weekend. One forecast currently showing snow. Best take my goggles then! 

Sleeping beauty in the exercise bike

Only a short blog tonight as it's passed my bedtime and the last two days I've not woken up to my alarm which implies that I need sleep. 

Went to the gym and did 30 mins on the exercise bike. Would have done more but my landlady was cooking dinner for us all and I liked the idea of a meal I wasn't cooking so had to get back. I'm enjoying the gym. It's a nice way to get back into running and I get to watch TV at the same time. Watched Fake Britain tonight. Thought I'd stretched enough but I haven't so that's the last thing I'll be doing before bed. In the dark cos I can't be bothered to turn the light on. 

I didn't get any painting done so that's booked in for Friday. My landlady has a mate over so we've been sat drinking wine, discussing men and generally just being rude.  A very chilled evening which was nice. Dinner with a friend tomorrow and so Friday will be getting my inner tube sorted and doing some painting. Maybe going for a drink but as I've been a bit splash with the cash I best rein it in.

Till next time

I'm sure I wasn't this busy when I was younger

Well today I moved like a streak of wee when the alarm DIDNT go off. Checked the time and saw it was 6.50. Was washed, dressed, fed and out the door by 7.25. A flipping miracle. Hoping it doesn't do that again cos I do like a leisurely wake up in the morning.

My list of stuff to do keeps growing. Today I bought a voucher for a rock climbing taster session. Think it's 1 to 1 and it's 90 min so not too bad. Hopefully it means that when I meet up with my climbing friends I'll have a rough idea of what I'm doing. Hopefully. I've seen other stuff that I may consider but it is down to time and money cos I am trying to jam lots in.

- running (training for marathons and half marathons)

- walking up mountains

- painting 

- motorbike licence

- learning to swim (need to book this)

- triathlon or duathalon (depending on how the swimming lessons go)

- cycling

- potentially climbing

I'm exhausted just reading the list!

Got a tad wet going into work so I need to invest into some new motorbike gear. My stuff is 4 years old so it's a good innings but I really want stuff that keeps me dry or or least doesn't get me wet after 10 mins. So that's another thing to add to the list.

Went to the gym yesterday and my legs are a tad painful. Was great being on the cross trainer so going to do it again tomorrow. Although hip is seizing a little so may have to take a little care.

Had a lovely catch up with my dear friend Nakes. We chat a lot about running, other stuff and running. Hadn't seen her in a while so was awesome to see her. Hopefully she will feel better soon so we can go on a bike ride. 

Busy busy busy

And for some reason I cannot stop smiling :)

Live is like a giant closet - you can fit it all in, you just have to shove real hard, and shut the door quick

Just did a gym session. I haven't been to the gym in ages. Since London in fact which is bad cos I paid for a yearly subscription so I better go a lot of times so I make my money worth.

Today I did 20min on the cross trainer, 10 mins on the other trainer which name escapes me (like running on air) and then a fast run on the treadmill for 15 mins. Sweating loads, heart pumping, muscles aching - so a very good session. Wanted to do some thing different, mix it up a bit. I love running but it can get a bit samey so it is nice to do something different. I came back feeling very refreshed although I think my muscles might complain in the morning so might look up some yoga on YouTube tomorrow morning. I also have some core workout exercises I want to do as my core needs alots of work.

I tidied my room on Sunday. Was ruthless and chucked stuff out, moved stuff round and now it feels less cluttered (although I still have a lot of stuff) and I have zones. My chilling zone which is my bed/sofa, my creative zone which is my table with my easel and my paints near by, my dressing zone where all my shoes and clothes are, my beauty zone which is my dressing table and my altar which is my spiritual zone. I feel much more at ease in my room, less busy and I've burnt some incense and it feels like home. Need to get some canvasses because I have some ideas, plus a board as I want to try collage. Had inspiration at Glastonbury tor And I came across my sketches. I have a couple of small canvasses but I prefer to work on larger ones. Not sure why, I think I like using the space. Only problem is I have limited wall space. I need to start sketchingr again but I tend to be a 'straight to canvas' kind of gal.

So much I want to do, and buy. Still need new trainers and if it's not too cold or miserable I may be trying swimming in a Scottish lake. Which I think might be a first I can't remember. I also want to try making a pie or cake a week. I need to make cakes for next Monday for my clubs charity run. I want to go on a bike ride and I need to do a long run. My brain is bursting with stuff I want to do. Then I say I don't have enough time and then the other voice says - make time. You can always make time for stuff. I have always had an empty mind, in the sense I can never think of things to do or run oute of time. Maybe if I organise my mind a bit more I might fit it all in. 

Like motorbike training. Eek I can't believe I've booked my motorbike theory test and I've emailed to find out about practical test. I'm still not 100% sure but I think oh well. The worst that can happen is I end up having an automatic licence. But I'm not giving up just yet.

Oh and I might be booking swimming lessons in the next few weeks and I must remember to buy an inner tube on the way to meeting a friend for dinner.

Now that makes sense

Bus blogging again today. Not feeling great so letting the bus do the work. Haven't blogged for a bit, three days but that is too long. Another gorgeous day so a bit gutted I'm not on the scooter. But feeling sick and helmets are not a great combination. 

Tuesday I ran 7.6 miles. Was a good run but hard work which I found a bit worrying considering I'm supposed to be able to run marathon distance. I did interval sessions, so running hard for a couple of mins and jogging for recovery. Mixing up your speed is supposed to help. Staying on the running theme I finished work early on Thursday and decided to do my 16 mile long run needed as part of my training. Managed 5 miles. Was gutted but can put it down to these factors - running after full day at work and also body run down. Not a good combination at all so although I'm not happy about it at least there are fairly good reasons. Need to mix up my running with some cross training because that helps. 

Just thought I saw a gut wearing shorts over his motorbike trousers. Think I mis saw but interesting. And there are loads of balloons in the sky :)

Nailed it

Well today I retook my CBT which I do every two years so I can ride my lovely scooter. And today I nailed it. I have always been a bit nervous, bit wobbly. I worry that I don't hold my line, that I don't do my checks quickly enough but today i was told I was a good rider and that made me happy. The instructor thanked me and the other guy because we did everything right so it was a pleasure to ride with us. 

The morning was the manoeuvres. Normally when I do the slalom I go wide or I miss cones, I went a little wide once, but otherwise tight up and no cones missed. I did a nice figure of eight, again only wide once and didn't put my foot down. No foot down on the u turns at all (at one point I stuck my leg out to counterbalance but it didn't out it down! and my emergency stop wasn't bad (although I did catch my throttle once and so sped up at same time). When we went out on the road I made good use of my signals, did them in plenty of time, did my lifesavers. I had to lead through the city and I must admit I was a tad nervous. The only bricking it time was when I had to cross three lanes of traffic to get right and found it hard to find a safe time to do it. A van got very close but then my instructor basically cleared the way for us. Could do with someone doing that for me on a regular basis. I must admit joining busy traffic and getting across lanes I still find tricky but I still passed. The instructor reckoned we could start thinking about our test. I would need to trial a geared bike first to see if I could actually  get on with them but if I couldn't I can always look at doing an automatic test. The options are all there.

I really must change my driving licence address. Hadn't noticed I hadn't changed it! So I'll get that dine this week. 

 I also marshalled for our club event. I just stand there and clap people on and direct them. So doesn't take a lot but it's nice to give my time doing it. I ran it last year and I may try and run it next year. I got. a cheeky bottle of wine as there were one or two let over so I managed to get one. Bonus. Running tomorrow with my mate Carol to make up for the fact we were marshalling rather than running. 

Bedtime me thinks. Used all my petrol on the CBT so need to pop to the garage before I head to work

10k and cider

Yesterday was a jammed packed day.

Early start due to me running a 10k at Blaise castle estate. The weather forecast was supposed to be rain and although it did pour down in the morning, it was dry for the actual race. Due to the earlier rain, it was very muddy and very slippery so caution had to be taken for uphill and downhill so flats were when a burst of speed was required to make time up. I pretendend to be an airplane on one the downhill slopes  I almost twisted my knee or one of the downhills so walked for a bit to make sure I hadn't hurt it and then finished with a sprint and a leap over the finish. Was knackered but did it in 1:04:45 which beat last years time by  9 mins. Gives me hope that I can shave 9 mins off my marathin time and 6 mins off my half marathon time. I've decided not to do an ultra but to focus on getting faster which means looking at my nutrition and working on my interval training to help my body become more efficient. I have also decided to try a triathlon. I really need to get my swimming back in order to swimming lessons will need to be procured and I will need a new bicycle at some point. But for now it's just a new inner tube and a cover for it -which I must sort out. Gotta love online shopping :). I'll probably order some more gels as well.

After a lovely shower and dozing I awaited the imminent arrival of my mate Emily. Spent a couple of hours catching up before heading out for dinner at the lovely Tinto lounge where the cider drinking started. We then miss the bus, wandered down glos rd and then caught another bus. Em pointed out she always ends up doing long walks with me. Not that it was that long at all. We headed to the passenger shed at Temple Meads station where a cider fesitval was occurring. We drank plenty of cider, danced the Mangled Wurzels and were well posh with a cheese board in a takeaway box. Some guy did nick my sunglasses but he returned them eventually. We then headed to The Apple so Em could say hi to James (mutual friend) and drink more cider. Although I did throw mine on the floor. Accidentally I hasten to add. I don't like to waste cider. Even the Boxing Dog (cider at the festival) which I didn't like. Taxi home and then to bed. This morning - no hangover - well not much of one. 

Burn baby burn

Had a fire drill at work yesterday. Always interesting to see how people will react and usually people act like its a drill. They don't know it's a drill but they will go back for mobile phones, sit at the computers cos they have to finish something, dawdle etc. I'm a fire warden so I get to move people along. I knew it was a drill (well not the exact day but I knew one was coming) . I've suggested we burn something to give it authenticity next time but the idea wasnt taken up. Can't think why. You always get one or two or think they are more important and don't have to abide by what they are being told. For example as the congregation point is the car park, plus we need to keep the entrance free for fire engines, people are told they can't move their cars. But you always get someone who gets in their car and tried to move off and can't understand why the fire wardens won't let them out. My colleague got yelled at by someone once. 

Otherwise yesterday was just another day at work.

In the evening I made stir fry. Lots of veggies, cooked in sesame oil. Yummy. I rarely cook cook so it was nice to make something for a change. Tonight it will be pasta as I'm racing tomorrow. 10k, off road. Should be a laugh. Aiming to beat my personal best there of 1hr 13. Is doable. So tonight is resting and working out how to get there. Best get some money out so I can actually get the bus. 

Weds I went to a mates house. Ran 3.9 miles and boy did it hurt. Didn't warm up enough, plus the heat wasn't helping. Still she cooked a yummy dinner and then we made cupcakes. I say we, it was mostly me with her jokingly dissing my attempts to mix packet mix cupcakes. She made the icing. They were yummy but you did have to eat them with a spoon which I'm not sure you are supposed to do. 

There is more to life than running

Didn't go running today. Should have done but the hot nights have made sleep non existent and so I'm shattered. Decided to paint instead

This is the start of my painting. Not sure what the final piece will look like but it's a start. Might do another swirly one later this week. I like swirls, they are fairly easy and you can decorate them, I'm quite chuffed wi the last one I did. My favourite piece is still my flames picture which has pride of place on my wall over my altar.

Only problem with painting today is I didn't open my door and have inhaled acrylic paint fumes. Not many but enought to give me a headache. 

Running tomorrow but not Thursday and Friday as resting before my 10k on Saturday. Weather forecast is rainy which is typical. It's Blaise castle estate so gonna get a tad muddy me thinks. Oh well it will keep things interesting.im aiming to beat my personal best of 1hr 13 on this course. So as long as the mud isn't too nasty that is doable. Then after that I two my marathon training. Gotta stay on top of it to make sure I get round!

Annoyingly I saw something interesting on the way to work and I can't remember what it was. I'm going to have to write things down otherwise this blog will be a boring montage of the scraps of my life I can actually remember and I doubt people will find it interesting.

Canada hasn't moved forward mainly because i haven't done more than what I said last time. I have received a book on tours and it has given me an idea of costs and what I want to see. Now it's working out getting out there. 

I want a dragon

I just watched the new How to Train your Dragon Movie. So want a dragon now. I'd call it Firefly and I'd fly everywhere. It would be awesome. Not sure where I would keep it but it could roam the grounds at work and terrorise the deer. Wouldn't take it all the time cos the scooter might get jealous.

Seriously it is a good film so if you haven't see it yet then go see it (make sure you see the first one because it makes more sense if you have). Went to see it with Dave (for those that dont know that is my ex husband) and we ate a lot of popcorn, followed by dinner after. My belly has a food baby in it now. But it was a good evening. 

Been checking out a brochure for trips to Canada. Still in the planning stages at the moment but in getting an idea if what I want to do. Might give skiing another go, if I can get over being scared of falling over then I reckon I could be alright at it. I'll leave the black runs to the likes of my fearless friends but I reckon i might be able to make to a red run - if I put my mind to it.

Vancouver is another place I'd like to check out and the rail holidays look fun, although not sure I like the idea if just sitting at the train staring out of a window. I'd want to experience it, feel it, taste it, enjoy it. There is so much to do out there and so little time to do it. I just don't know where to start.

Need to get my Amsterdam marathon out of the way. An adventure itself as never done an European marathon before  and I'm glad Emily is doing it with me. The next step will be to do a international marathon and I have got my eye in Toronto marathon in May 2015. am in London ballot again so need to see how that turns out first. Not doing an autumn marathon again. Training in summer sucks so going to stick to spring marathons and train through the winter. Summer has far too much fun and fitting in runs when a) I'd rather be enjoying the sunshine and b) it's too hot to run till later, is hard work. 

Currently falling alseep. Did not sleep well. Was watching movies at 3am cos my insect bites kept me awake so gonna slope off and sleep now

Blogging on the bus

Meant to blog yesterday but didn't get in till gone 10pm after a 11 mile run so blogging went on hold. It was a nice run even if I did feel exhausted afterwards. Interesting sights included a man playing saxophone on the downs, boy racers making a hash of being boy racers and plenty of other runners. Must be the time of day cos there were loads.

Catching the bus in today which is good cos I got no sleep. At least I can sleep on the bus. Reasons for bus catching - I'm going to cinema and getting a lift. Watching people get on the airport flyer. Very jealous. I would rather be jumping on an adventure. 

Perfect picnic and strangers ice cream

I love picnics. They are never boring and you can mix and match foods. Today I mixed raspberries with peanut m and m's. Rather delicious. And you push the m and m into the raspberry. I know, very far out. 

Today has been interesting. I saw a woman running down the road with a frying pan, a guy with what looked like a table strapped to his back and I got to eat a complete strangers ice cream (that was my good deed for the day).

So bimbled down glocester rd to pick up supplies for the picnic (cider was included - very important supply) and then caught the bus down to city centre (don't worry the post isn't going to be a step by step of what I did today). This is when I saw the woman with the frying pan. Very shiny frying pan too, no idea why she was legging it down the road, she wasn't chasing anyone. Eventually we got to Ashton court (after couple of wrong turns) and had a rather enjoyable picnic. Entertainment was child face planting in the grass and her mother laughing hysterically, and a small toddler making a bid for freedom. Lunch was walked off as we ambled round, checking out the deer and playing hunt the shade as it was a tad warm today. Ice cream stop concluded the work and we headed back into centre. This was when my good deed happened. There was a woman offering her ice cream to people. She had bought it for her friend and they didn't want it so she was offering it to people. She already had one and was about to get into a car so couldn't eat two. So to help I eat I ate the ice crea. Mr whippy with raspberry sauce and a flake in a little tub. Very yummy although in hindsight maybe we should have got a picture of the car so if I was poisoned we could hunt her down. Not sure why someone would be handing out poisoned ice cream (rather rude to do that if you ask me) but you can't be sure! Currently I'm still fine.

The guy with what looked like a table strapped to his back was cycling up glocester rd. the bus never overtook him so I never got the chance to have a good look. Out bus driver was interesting to say the least. I mean most buses stop, open the doors and allow the passengers to get off. Not our bus driver - bus stops, doors open, I go to get off, bus moves forward!!!!!!! Wtf! I don't want the bus moving whilst a) doors are open and b) I'm about to get off. I would have been a tad unimpressed if I'd fallen cos of that. 

Currently chilling out, relaxing in the shade thinking about my running route tomorrow (12 miles) 

The heat is on

I'm no Bridget jones. She as least wrote every day whereas I haven't blogged for almost two weeks. Technology does not make it easier to blog/diarise events. I used to try and keep a journey but although it started neat and full of hope as the days went on my handwriting got messier and the subject matter was just full of angst. So I kept giving up. Plenty of half started journals littered in my life. The beauty of the blog is you don't waste paper because you can just pick it up where you left off. 

So that is what I am doing

Blimey it's hot. I'm not complaining cos I love the sun. But trying to train in the heat is really difficult and careful planning is required. I tend to run in the late evening but then I come home, eat, shower and then bed so life is just run, eat, sleep with the occasional work thrown in. So I'll be happier when it's a little cooler. I don't think I'll do an autumn marathon again. Stick to the spring ones cos it's easier to train when it's cooler. Might do a triathlon next year. I have a year to train. My mate is taking swimming lessons and is going to let me know how he gets on. My cycling is stuck at the moment as back tyre has a chronic puncture problem due to the inner tube being the wrong size so I need to sort that out before I can go on any long rides. Plus the brakes are sticking p, so some tinkering is required. Hoping to draft in some help from people who know about bicycles because I know nothing. Well I know a little bit but I'm all for getting the advice so next time I can at least try and do it myself.

The other news is I'm looking to go to canada. Not forever because I love this country and I have friends here who I would miss. I'm not great at making new friends. I'd have to hope my sister in law and brother could help me make friends. Not that I can't make friends. I've made new friends recently but as with most things I tend to find they made the first move. I'm not great at moving things forward and rely on other people to make things happen. Majority of the amazing things I do is because someone else is done the sorting out. I try and help. 

Well going to go for a walk and a picnic in the sunshine. Enjoy people

To Tri or not to Tri. That is the question

So I'm sat here after stuffing my trainers with newspaper in the hope that it will help them dry. Today I ran through streams, climbed over logs, scrambled up muddy banks and I walked along a log bridge (a bridge that was a log). Before I would have probably whimpered and said I didn't want to walk across a precarious bridge. Now I just threatened my mate with haunting if I fell off and died. It was quite liberating. Not much running occurred as we were checking out marshalling points for a race but I haven't been trail running much before and I think it's something I want to indulge in. Plenty of woods near Bristol but also it's not difficult to jump on a bus, train or scooter and head out somewhere if you know where to go.

My other new indulgence is cycling. I've decided that I might sign up for a long distance cycling event next year. I haven't done much cycling so I'll need to start small and build up to it but if I have something to aim for then it'll make sure I do it. That's why I sign up for so many races because it forces me out of the door. But I need to do more than just run, I need to cross train which is something that cycling is good for. It may be legs but it's different muscles. If I can get back into swimming, then who knows maybe I'll do a triathlon. I've been umming and aching over it because it's the swimming that is the problem. I'm not a strong swimmer. I'm a tad useless at it and would need lessons again. I'm not sure I'm one of these people that can swim. But I won't know until I try so at some point I'll sort myself out some lessons and take it from there. 

So this is my new sportier side. I'm running, hill walking and maybe cycling and swimming. I'm trying to keep myself busy and fit. Trying to fit it all in is certainly proving interesting.

Climbing mountains in more ways than one

So this weekend Scarfell Pike was scaled. The forecast was originally looking pretty miserable but thankfully, apart from one or two showers, it was pretty dry when we decided to tackle the highest mountain in England. 

Friday

Part of Friday has been mentioned in the earlier post about hot chocolate and castles. Once the castle tour was over it was a case of nipping to sainsburys to buy the weekends groceries and indulge in their cafe whilst waiting for the last member of our posse to join us. Once the trio was complete (and James had drank a double espresso) we set on our merry way to our campsite in Wasdale. I say merry, we did take the slightly unnerving route of the Hardknott pass which I doubt we would have managed to complete had we not been in a 4x4. The car did a sterling job and we managed to arrive in one piece, to put our tent up in the rain. The evening dinner had originally been planned to be veg chilli but seeing as we were all knackered we opted for cous cous as that only involved boiling a kettle on a stove.

Saturday

We meant to get up and be on the mountain about 9, we weren't far off that but then timing was never my strong point. We packed our bags and after a lovely egg sandwich from the campsite cafe we headed onwards and upward. Scarfell is a tad steep straight away although I did comment it wasn't as bad as I thought it would be (all those hill running sessions paid off), it did get steeper and it was hard work. One big obstacle was a stream which had been a raging river with waterfalls which we needed to cross. We eventually managed to get across although I did get bored of trying to keep my socks dry and just sloshed through. This resulted in wet feet and I'm still paying the price - no blisters but they are sore and itchy. I do love my walking poles and were very thankful for them many times. There is a lot of scree on the mountain so my feet did slip sometimes and one time caused my knee to twist and my muscle pulled half way up the mountain. Decided not to tell anyone till we were near the top when a gasp of pain gave the game away. I soldiered on though and we made it to the top. The views were spectacular. And well worth the effort. We munched our lunch and then started back down. My knee was really hurting at this point but I refused to be beaten. Some other walkers gave me painkillers and I substituted swear words for the word kittens, so spent a lot of time just saying kittens. I think next time I might take something to strap my knee up. Although I do think it was a once off. 

Returning to the campsite we sat and toasted our success with cider or beer and veg chilli.

Sunday

We slept a lot. Before the afternoon nap we all indulged in, we did go to the lake so sian could have a swim. Sian and I had done a reccy earlier that day, and then we returned. I didn't swim although I regretted it after as I reckon it could have been loads of fun but I managed to come up with some excuses as why I didn't and stuck to them. 

The afternoon was spent sleeping in the tent and dozing in the sunshine. I'm reading about Chrissie Wellington and she is an inspiration. I already have loads of ideas about how much more cycling I want to do although I doubt I'll be doing an ironman. 

The evening we finished with a BBQ and packed up as much as we could.

The weekend was fantastic and I have come away buzzing with the other adventures I want either in the weekends or in the evenings after work. I'm hoping my brain calms down so I can sleep!

Hot chocolate and castles

Two of my favourite things. We have 2 hours to kill before we get picked up so we needed somewhere to stash the heavy rucksacks and time consuming. Bing! Tour of the castle. Our bags can be stored and because sian gets disabled discount (and I'm her carer this weekend) we got ten quid off. Bargain. Chilling with a hot choc till the tour starts. 

So we sat next to a guy on brum to Lancaster train who is currently writing a book. Quite nice guy, book sounds interesting. No idea of his name although he does have a young person railcard (should have sneaked a look but I am the most unsubtle person ever)

Packing mayhem

So I've been packing for my adventure prancing up Scarfel pike. A weekend of sleeping in a tent whilst the wind and rain howls (I won't be sleeping the whole time cos that would be a tad boring). Luckily we are sleeping in a big tent. So we can sit and chat and tell ghost stories.. Or maybe not cos I'll wet myself. 

I've probably forgotten to pack something. But it's only a weekend and I know sian will make sure I eat. I do have snack bars. That'll do I'm sure lol. 

I am looking forward to it which is weird. Walking was never my thing. I'm a running person.  Although missed my toning programme today. I think I'll doing plenty this weekend. 

Starting a new blog

So here it is. This is me starting a new blog, trying something new and seeing if it actually works. It's very therapeutic to throw your thoughts down on paper or the screen in this case. I have so many random thoughts flowing through my head. I sometimes wonder if I should have a dictaphone strapped to my head so I can speak my thoughts out and remember them but then 1) that would look weird and 2) the thoughts are sometimes have shouldn't be said out loud in case the person they are about is stood next to me. Plus not very practical for getting a helmet on. So I'll stick with trying to remember them and typing them here so years later I can look back and think -yep I was weird back then and smile

Today I spent time with my bessie mate Loulabelle (not her actual name, I normally call her Lou but I felt like calling her Loulabelle here). It was a lovely few hours if catching up, eating cream teas and trying to eat ice cream before it melted. And it did melt and landed in our hands. Fortunately I was unusually prepared and had tissues to mop up the mess that couldn't be licked up. I hasten to add we only licked the ice cream on our hands and not anywhere else. This sentence is getting worse so I'll leave it for now.

I returned home and for some reason Weston must have been a tourist hot spot because it was standing room only.. Unusual for the x1 from Weston to Bristol on a Wednesday afternoon. I obviously missed something. When I did get home I decided that I needed to go for a 5 mile run (like the two days before) so that's three days in a row, tomorrow is not running it's cross training and then I'm climbing a mountain on Saturday. I'm not really an active person. It just looks like it.

So this is my new blog. I'm aiming to complete it every day a bit like Bridget jones but without saying how many cigarets I smoke (I don't smoke) and calories I consumed cos I try and count and get bored.

Ta at for now