A Morning in the Park

 

Last Sunday, I spent a morning in the park. The sky was blue, and it was lovely and sunny, but it was a fresh start to the day, and I felt cold. I was wearing several layers and an old beanie hat, but it wasn't enough to keep out the chill.  I wasn't alone. Everyone else was dressed in a similar way. In fact, thousands were. This was Greenwich Park, and I was waiting for my start wave for the London Marathon.

For years, I had hoped for this day, as it is notoriously difficult to be offered a ballot entry for The London Marathon. And just when I was getting ready to train for the event last year, I had my accident on the ice rink and needed to defer. It was a huge disappointment at the time, and since then, I've had some issues with my feet, which had me thinking that I might not even be able to run much farther than a few miles. So earlier in the year, my friend suggested we should run a half-marathon. Which was when I decided, if I could complete that without too much discomfort, then running the marathon could still be a possibility.

And that was how I found myself on a sunny April morning in London, stood in a park, surrounded by thousands of runners, all set to complete a distance of 26.2 miles around the streets of London. I dropped off my kit bag at the allocated truck and joined the ridiculously long line for the loo. I was incredibly nervous, as I'd never ran so far before, but I soon began chatting with some other runners who were feeling exactly the same. We were all anxious, but excited about what lay ahead. 

As soon as I heard my start wave being announced over the tannoy, I went to the numbered 'pen', and waited patiently for the approaching start time. Once the previous wave of runners had set off, we were herded, a little bit like cattle, towards the starting line. Then, before I knew it, we were off. 

To begin with, it didn't feel quite as I'd expected it would. The road ahead looked fairly quiet, but I had forgotten that there are, in fact, three starting lines for the marathon, blue, green and red, all of which merge together at approximately mile 3. That was when it all started to resemble the marathon I'd seen on the T.V. over the years. Thousands of supporters lined the streets, and the one thing I hadn't prepared myself for was the noise! It was quite overwhelming at times. The enthusiasm and support for those on the course was incredible. Thankfully, the miles passed surprisingly quickly, and I settled into a steady rhythm. However,  I did stop briefly to take a quick photograph at the iconic approach to Tower Bridge. I was still feeling quite strong at the halfway mark, but as I passed mile 20, I began to struggle, as the effort of running such a long distance began to take its toll. Spurred on by the crowds, somehow I managed to keep going, and it wasn't long before I found myself beside the  Palace of Westminster, then heading down Birdcage Walk towards Buckingham Palace. Then came the final straight stretch along the Mall and through the finishing line. It was here that I was greeted with a big, and most welcome hug from one of the amazing volunteers, then presented with my medal and, of course,  a foil blanket. Exhilarated, but exhausted, I had completed my first ever marathon.

J. X

Putting One Foot in Front of the Other

I'm still here!

Once again, I have been absent from this space for longer than I would have liked. I have still enjoyed keeping up with everyone else's news, but I haven't had much opportunity to post anything myself.  You see, most of my spare time has been spent putting one foot in front of the other. Quite literally. I've been running. 

Many (many) years ago, when I was a child, I used to listen to a friend's dad talk about having completed the Great North Run. I had no idea what it was, but what I did know is that he spoke so passionately about it. Then, as I grew older, quite randomly one day, I thought that I might just like to 'give it a try'. One application form later, I still wasn't entirely sure what it involved, but as I began training towards my goal of simply completing the course, it all became perfectly clear. 13 miles is a long way to run. 

I remember the first time I went out running. It was only half a mile, and all downhill, but even then I was struggling to breathe :) Not the best start, but I persevered, gradually increasing the distance each time I went out. I even entered some local races too, just to get an idea as to what I should expect. When the actual race day arrived, I loved it. Yes, I was slow, yes, I was exhausted, but the atmosphere was fantastic and the sense of achievement was huge. Running across the Tyne Bridge as the Red Arrows flew overhead will always be a special memory. So much so, that I went  on to run it four more times. 

After running regularly for quite some time, life, as it often does, got in the way. My running became sporadic and then almost non existent. With good intentions, I would set off again, but it simply wasn't a priority any more. I entered a marathon in the hope it would give me something to aim for, but then I injured my back, which meant that any training was impossible. So I deferred my entry and put it to the back of my mind. With an additional (and rather painful) problem with my feet, I wasn't even sure that running was an option for me, especially as walking is also uncomfortable from time to time.

Then a few months ago a friend suggested running a local half-marathon, and in a moment of madness I agreed. So I picked up where I left off and made this my target. If I could just manage to complete this, I might then be able to achieve my goal. On the day itself, I was incredibly nervous, but very excited, and taking things VERY slowly and steadily, I did it! After struggling for such a long time, it felt amazing and I was still able to walk the next day. I'm sure the stunning scenery helped as a distraction - snow capped fells with a backdrop of blue sky. The conditions were perfect. And did I mention the mug of tea and flapjack at the finish line :)

Since then, I have treated myself to a fancy new pair of running shoes, as over the coming weeks I will need to increase my training. So far, my body hasn't complained too much, but I'm very aware that I am not getting any younger, so I'm still taking things very, very slowly.  

With running taking up most of my free time just now, I haven't really been up to much else. Although we did go for a walk through the woods on Sunday. The weather was damp and misty, but we managed to enjoy a wander beneath the trees without getting too wet. There was even a glimpse of a deer running off up the hill, but we could barely see the lake down below.

In the next few weeks I am also hoping to get out into the garden. I've already given the grass it's first cut, but I could do with tidying things up a little more, before I get some potatoes and beetroot planted in the raised bed. The spring flowers are adding a much needed touch of colour, while I wait for the remaining plants to awaken from their winter sleep. 

Back soon.

J. X

January

Since the beginning of 2019 turned into a rather worrying and stressful time, I feel like, so far, this month I've been a little on edge and expecting a potential problem to present itself.  Foolish, I know, as no amount of worrying can prevent anything bad from happening and only serves to leave me feeling tense and wrung out, and I'm also relieved to say that, so far, the year is ticking along very nicely indeed.

Following a lovely festive break, I've settled into my stride once again with work and running the home. The Christmas cake is all gone now and I baked some shortbread using up a half jar of mincemeat I discovered hiding at the back of the fridge - it was delicious!

Most importantly, I've spent lots of time outdoors. I've been taking part in RED January, which is an initiative to get active every day throughout the month, and so far it's going well. I might have thought otherwise when I found myself soaked through to the skin while running in the pouring rain last Saturday evening, but I'm feeling much better for it and it's so good to be doing something just for me.

On Sunday we went for a gentle walk up Sale Fell, which overlooks the top end of Bassenthwaite Lake. It's a walk I've been meaning to do for some time now - one of many! - and with the weather on our side, for a short time at least, it was just the right distance and height to enjoy this short stroll, while still being able to enjoy some beautiful views. It was rather windy at the summit, however, we didn't hang around up there for very long.

I have noticed the afternoons drawing out ever so slightly and I'm looking forward to ever increasing hours of daylight. My houseplants, which were beginning to look rather sad, have all been moved to the kitchen windowsill in order to get as much light as possible and it's beginning to get a little crowded there, especially with the recent addition of some hyacinths which are just starting to open up.

On these cold dark evenings I've been keeping busy with a new crochet project. A small blanket for my friend who's baby is due in March. I hope to share the finished results very soon.

Later, I'm going to enjoy some time catching up with some blog reading but, as we're forecast a bright and frosty day here, I'm off out to enjoy a walk in the woods first.

Happy Saturday!

J. X

Kicking Through the Leaves

It doesn't feel like it's been a whole week since I last posted. As usual, time escapes me and with Hallowe'en, family visitors and Bonfire Night all within the last seven days, I've been scurrying around trying to keep on top of it all.

Our Hallowe'en was quiet. We didn't receive as many visitors as we thought we might, so there was a substantial amount of chocolates and sweets left over. Although, having been stored in an easily accessible position on the kitchen worktop, there are not many remaining now :) 

Last Saturday was very wet and windy and we did something we haven't done for a while, we stayed home......all day! It was unusual for us, but if we had ventured out, we would have ended up cold, wet and miserable. It was a good excuse to spend some time in the kitchen, however, and it resulted in some delicious butternut squash and sweet potato soup, garnished with  toasted pumpkin seeds and the obligatory ginger cake was made in time for Bonfire Night. The soup was hearty and delicious and really warmed us through. The ginger cake was tasty, light and just the right amount of sticky that is necessary at this time of year. It  just has to stick to your fingers. The recipe can be found here.

The following day, we went for a short walk through the fields and into the woods. I'm enjoying the colour of the leaves just now, as in no time at all the trees will be bare, and until the festive decorations appear, we will be left with the sudden greyness of days which is November. The woodland floor is a carpet of golden leaves and I'd defy anyone to walk along without kicking them. I don't think I will ever tire of it. In the afternoon I went for a short run and on leaving the village, the sides of the lane held  drifts of leaves at least two feet deep. Very tempting, but at the time I was concentrating hard on just being able to run. It has been far too long since I did any kind of exercise and it is telling on me.

This tree overlooks the back of our house and is the most gorgeous shade of burnt orange. It's not the best photograph but you get the idea.

Monday was Bonfire Night and we went to a bonfire and firework display a short walk away, up the hill from our house. The pathway was really dark and at times it was almost impossible  to see where we were walking, not helped by the amount of leaves beneath our feet. And yes, there was some more leaf kicking going on. It was a great evening and very well supported by the local community. Back home we lit our sparklers and our last remaining pumpkin in the garden.

J. X

Life Lately

Isn't it always the way,  the longer you leave between posting, the more difficult it can be to get back into it? I can't deny the last few weeks have been difficult for me. Work concerns, financial worries and other issues have all taken their toll, which hopefully explains my lack of posts. Day to day life seems transient and I'm left feeling not quite myself at the moment.  That said, everything remains the same, for now at least, and it is nothing that is insurmountable, I just need to convince myself of that fact. 😊

Last weekend we enjoyed a lovely afternoon in Skipton. We arrived just in time for lunch so we treated ourselves to fish and chips by the canal.  It was unusually quiet, I think we arrived just before it began to get busy. It was lovely and relaxing to sit by the water and watch the canal boats go by and we were joined by a friendly duck who was desperate to get a taste of our chips. We took a stroll around the town and watched the gala day parade (Lily thought it great fun to get sprayed by a water pistol!) then indulged ourselves with a large slice of Bakewell tart and a mug of tea before returning home again.

On Friday I surprised myself. I got up with the intention of going out for a run but once I'd taken Lily to school I really wasn't feeling it. I could have easily returned home and got changed back out of my running gear, but knowing how much better it would make me feel, I thought I would at least try to go a short way, then if I was still feeling rubbish I could just head for home. It was a beautiful morning and once I was on my way I began to feel much brighter. The hedgerows were lined with foxgloves and honeysuckle, and the scent was quite intoxicating. It wasn't long before I found myself settled into a steady pace, my dark cloud began to lift and I just kept going. Once I got back home I calculated I'd run 9 miles, the most I've done in a very long time.

Yesterday I took myself off for a walk in the hope I would be able to find some fresh elderflowers for cordial making. I knew I had left it a bit late this year but it tastes so delicious I hoped I hadn't  missed my opportunity. It was another beautiful morning and fortunately I managed to gather just the amount I needed for my favourite recipe, which is on the sidebar if anyone would like it. The flowers are steeping in the syrup right now and it smells amazing. I'm hoping to get it bottled up this evening. A sure sign that Summer is on it's way.

J. X

I did it!

Last weekend I finally accomplished the challenge I set for myself a few months ago, and it felt so good.

For what seems like a long time now (probably because it is!) I have been trying to improve my fitness, but for one reason or another I've encountered various set backs.

I enjoy running, I really do. It's simple, uncomplicated, like walking but a little faster.  It's accessible whenever I have a bit of spare time.  It doesn't need special equipment or expensive clothing, just some reasonable trainers and a bit of enthusiasm and effort. It enables me to switch off and let my mind wander. In truth, my mind usually wanders to weekly meal planning, daily activities  and chores that need doing, but it at least enables some uninterrupted thinking time. And on top of all that it makes me feel good.

I am incredibly fortunate in that I have some beautiful countryside on my doorstep, and nothing quite beats putting on my trainers and being able to head out in the fresh air early in the morning (not too early, I'm not completely mad!), tractors working the fields, rabbits running across the lanes and the occasional horse leaning over the hedge to say hello. However, running an actual race alongside hordes of 'real' runners would be another matter entirely. It had been more years than I care to remember since I last had a number attached to my front and a timer at the finish line, so to say that I was nervous would be an understatement. I was literally putting myself out there to be counted. It could go one of two ways and either put me off completely or give me the push I needed to encourage me to do more.

Way back in February I made the decision to enter the Morecambe 10K. A flat course along the sea front and as the run didn't start until 11am it meant I didn't have to get up at a ridiculously early hour. Four months meant I had plenty of time to put in some extra miles and slowly build my way up to a longer distance. Of course, things never quite go to plan and I didn't manage as much training as I would have liked, especially during the last week with Lily being on half term - a gentle three miles on the Friday morning was all that I managed. For a few weeks now, I haven't had the chance to make it to the weekly running group either.

Sunday morning arrived and once I'd collected my number and made my way to the start line I found myself surrounded by a lovely, friendly bunch of people. Feeling a bit more relaxed, I tried not to think too much about their t-shirts having the words 'harriers', 'athletics', or 'running club' on them. I double checked my laces and made sure my crazy hair was firmly in place. There was a bit of a panic just before the race began, in that some of us who thought we were stood towards the back of the group were actually stood at the front. The run was starting in the opposite direction to what we thought! We quickly shuffled further back and following some announcements, which no one could really hear, we were off!

It was a beautiful day but sooo hot. The route set off south from the jetty then looped around to head north up the promenade before returning to the jetty once more, and the finish line. Running in amongst so many people took a bit of getting used to and it took me a while to get into a steady pace. Even though it was a 10K, the route was measured out in miles which was a little confusing, especially as I missed seeing the 2 mile marker and I didn't know my bearings, so it was difficult to tell how I was getting on. There was plenty of friendly banter between the runners though, and a really supportive atmosphere. 

Before I knew it I could see the finish line. I don't wear a watch and so far I  haven't timed any of my training runs, but I was pleased with what I achieved and it has given my confidence a much needed boost. Having said that,  I'm sure I could have gone faster had I known they were handing out Wagon Wheels at the finish! If anything can get me to run, then it's the lure of chocolate. But I did it! And for me, that in itself is so much more than my race time.

Will I enter another? Well, there's a ten mile run in August which is currently tempting me. 

J. X

Cycling by the Sea

Last weekend, with the promise of a 🌞 sunny 🌞 day ahead of us, we planned another bike ride. The main idea being to head somewhere a little quieter this time so there was more chance of me being able to enjoy a slightly more relaxing ride.

It was very chilly early in the morning, I'd hoped it would have been warmer so we didn't have to set off wearing our jackets. I needn't have worried however, as by the time I'd packed up our lunch and  the bikes were loaded into the van, it had soon warmed up and a light fleece top was all that we required.

We set off on our way and the track was quiet, just dog walkers and other cyclists greeted us so I wasn't as worried about  Lily's occasional  lapses in concentration. It was lovely and peaceful and the local wildlife appeared in abundance. We saw so many butterflies, a heron, a squirrel, and even a weasel crossed our path, which was exciting for me as I'd never seen one before.

Approximately four miles into our route we stopped at a bench for our lunch. Is it me or do sandwiches always taste better when they are part of a picnic, even when they are a little squashed? Tummies satisfied, we  briefly enjoyed the sea views and warm salty air before Lily urged us to push on further. I think she enjoys riding her bike. That, and the promise of an ice cream at our destination probably helped.

Two miles further down the track and with the chocolate ice cream having been given a few licks (she likes the idea of them rather than the reality) Lily decided she was getting a bit tired and asked to be attached to the back of my bike for the return journey, which considering she had already ridden six miles all by herself was probably a good idea - those little legs had worked hard, although the faster ride back was a lot of fun for her too and the warmth of the sun on our backs felt lovely. Of course, the moment we arrived home, what did she do? She went out on her bike! I was exhausted, so sat down with a mug of tea.

This past week has been busy. Good busy. I have managed to complete some more tidying and my wardrobe has had a good clear out, but there is still a long way to go until I feel on top of things in the house. It is still very much a work in progress, but I am finally seeing a difference which feels very satisfying.

For various reasons this week, time for myself has been limited but I have tried to grab a moment here and there given the opportunity - time to complete a little bit more of my crochet, read another chapter of my book, a treat of some fresh flowers, chance to get out for a run.  I am relieved to be feeling 100% better now and with my 10K run in five weeks time (eek!) I really need to get some more training in and hopefully begin to feel stronger.

J. X

Wintering

Just as Mother Nature is beginning to hint at all things 'Spring', Winter is reminding us we are still firmly within its grasp. During this last week we've had wind, rain, hail, snow, ice and sunshine. The one constant is that is has been bitterly cold. We are now  approaching the end of the first month of the year and so far it's been all good. Quiet and uneventful, but I like that. No plans or commitments, it's quite liberating. We've settled back into the Monday-Friday routine again and at the weekend, when Lily isn't attending yet another birthday party (seriously, how many invitations!?) we've been out walking. It has been really quite lovely, a little bit like an extended New Year break.

You see, this whole weekend business is quite new to us. Previous employment in retail and healthcare have meant weekends weren't really a thing, just the same with Bank Holidays. But since the end of last year it has all changed and we're making the most of it. Initially, strange as it may seem, it actually took a bit of getting used to but I think we've found our feet and settled into this new work/life balance pretty well.

Usually in January I have found myself wishing my time away, longing for Spring and some warmer weather. The lull after Christmas and the often dark, dreary days can lend themselves to me feeling low and inactive. More recently, however, I'm trying much harder to enjoy these chilly days and making a positive effort to look after my wellbeing. Thankfully, it seems to be working, although unfortunately, due to the weather conditions the running group hasn't been on for the last two weeks, but I've managed to get out on my own when it has been safe to do so. I've been for a gentle run along the lanes this morning which felt good.  It is my mission to finally get fit this year and some health problems within my family have reinforced my need to be more proactive about this.

Last weekend we went to Keswick. The snowy landscape was beautiful and the still air meant that we didn't feel too cold. We walked up Walla Crag on the eastern shores of Derwent Water and following a gentle climb to the top, the sun came out and we were met with some gorgeous views. After a picnic lunch at the summit (along with a hopeful crow), we carefully made our descent down at the steep  southern end of the Crag and meandered our way along the lake shore back towards the town, stopping briefly to take in the views and throw a few stones into the lake (as you do).

I'm finding that as long as I am wrapped up nice and warm, there is so much joy to be had in these cold Winter days. A joy, which previously in my yearning for some warm Spring air, I have been too stubborn to appreciate until now.

J. X

Easing into January

All of a sudden the celebrations have become a distant memory, the decorations are packed away once again, the house has had a thorough clean and we find ourselves looking towards a brand spanking New Year ahead. I really hope it holds good things for us all.

We slipped quietly into the New Year watching some TV and enjoying  a drink (or two) on the sofa. In fact, I only realised it had arrived once I heard the fireworks outside. New Year's day itself was a very relaxed affair. We went for  a gentle morning walk, then spent the rest of the day at home. 

I took down our decorations a couple of days later, and although it was so good to see the house clean and in (some sort of) order once more, it did look decidedly bare and I still miss them.  Fortunately they all survived intact - child and cat behaved themselves! - and are packed safely away ready for next time.  I have since consoled myself with some fresh flowers for the mantel. An impulse purchase while in was in town during the week. I'm so pleased I did, they really brighten it up and I've decided I should treat myself more often.

The following day Lily started back at school for the Spring term and everything was back to normal. It feels good to be back in routine again, but those wonderfully lazy mornings and much loved family time are sorely missed.

Since the recent days have been sunny and bright, it has become noticeable that they are ever so slowly increasing in length, which is always so pleasing to see during what can be a long drawn out month. The  cold and frosty weather has been a beautiful backdrop to some gentle walks. This is definitely a good thing as I really need to start increasing my activity levels. The horrible cold which put me out of action for weeks at the end of last year has left me feeling lethargic and sluggish. Not good!

With this in mind I have signed myself up for a running group which meets once a week for a social run and chat in the hope it will give me that nudge in the right direction. My first run was last Thursday and I really enjoyed it. The ladies are all supportive and seem good fun.

So what lies ahead for me in 2018? I really have no idea. So far I haven't made any plans. I haven't even booked any holidays or trips away. Being healthy and happy with my lot will do for now. And I suspect there will be a lot more walking.
J. X