Sian's Challenge

I'm up and running

2011-09-13T06:08:00.001-07:00

literally, going out tonight, have increased my mileage over the last 3 weeks from 3k to 5k and I'm loving it!

So disappointing....but onwards and upwards!!

2011-08-23T03:38:00.000-07:00

Well the boot sale didn't go aswell as planned, not many people turned out as I would have hoped, but we still raised over £100 so very happy with that and it gets my fundraising off to a start.

Now those that know me, know that I'm not a runner but I have decided to enrol in the Blacks North Face Single Trail 5km run in October on the Dnstable Downs.

Hey I'm back!!

2011-08-18T05:34:00.000-07:00

My goodness so much has happened since this blog was last up and running - have had 2 babies and now it's all systems go.

Since May have lost 20 1/2 lbs in total and knowing no more children have decided to finally undertake the Three Peaks Challenge in May 2012.

Raising money for Joss Parkes Searchlight which is a new charity set up for helping children with Cancer, after Joss was diagnosed with a brain tumour in 2005, he kept fighting until January 2011 where sadly he lost his fight.

Having met his mum Dianne she amazed me with her strength and passion and I am so proud to choose this as my Nurseries Charity.

So to kick it all off we are having a Car Boot Sale at Overstone School on Sunday 21st August.
And I better get on with my training seeing as we are off to Ben Nevis in September for a little training session......

No news is good news so they say....

2007-08-13T12:19:00.000-07:00

Well I did say recently that I would have some news for you all (well me as I'm the only reader of this blog - I'm sure)

I did and I don't. I have had another miscarriage - two in 3 months!! how do I feel about it all - ok really about the whole thing. These things happen for a reason and nothing you can say or do will change that - but really just want the pain to stop - it's surprising how painful the whole thing is.

So I have lots of things happening otherwise to keep me occupied - may or may not be a good thing but hey it works for me

Well hellooo

2007-07-30T14:35:00.000-07:00

Just a little note - still up doing my invoices for August so thought that I would drop in and say hello.

Again still fairly quiet on the academy front - Sarah has recently done a post - but no sight of anyone else.

I'm still very busy, in between everything else going on myself plus a friend are setting up a business network (can't say anymore - as it is pretty unique).

have finished the new Harry Potter book and well slightly surprised by the ending.

Went to legoland on Saturday with the family and my mum had come down to visit. How can you expect 2 1/2 year olds to queue for 1 hour plus. We went on just 3 rides all day - not brilliant - but the monsters are still worn out - so actually worth it for the lie ins!!!

6 weeks to go until Corfu to scatter my dad's ashes - going to be a strange start to a holiday thats for sure

All quiet on the academy front

2007-07-13T12:23:00.000-07:00

Well, don't quite know what has happened to everyone - but it seems to have gone very quiet.

I am incredibly busy at the moment - I am setting up and extended school hours club at a school for use by 3 primary schools, plus come October will be catering school lunches for 2 of those. Plus I am also setting up a business network.

To top the busyiness off, I will also have some news in a few weeks that will make people think I am completly crazy - see if anyone can guess!!

1st time....

2007-06-22T02:10:00.000-07:00

1st time at the gym last night in many a year - feel really good now. Taking the monsters swimming tomorrow and my walk on Sunday - action packed weekend it is!

new lease of life

2007-06-20T13:22:00.000-07:00

Well I have started to work from home twice a week to get my important stuff sorted and also I can arrange all my meetings.

Gym induction was excellent and tonight I did Aqua Aerobics and I feel fab!!!

Booked it again for next week and a box it out class too - all going in the diary.

Also off on a 10 mile walk on sunday around dunstable downs with MK20-30 RA

Clouds

2007-06-15T12:40:00.000-07:00

this is a really stupid post, but as I was driving home from work tonight I was looking at some clouds and I thought that they are really rather beautiful! No idea where that come from but hay!!

Alas finally have my gym induction tomorrow thank goodness for that!

Well what next???

2007-06-12T10:55:00.000-07:00

To be honest have absolutely no idea!!

I want to keep this blog going, but I'm sure that no one is really that interested. I want to keep the walking up but fear that time and distance will just get the evil over me.

By time and distance I mean to any mountains. I fear that with everything thats happening at the moment with the business that I am really going to struggle and just have to decide what my priorities are. Albeit the business expansion is just going to be a short term huge push of my resources but still...

I'm hoping that the gym will help alot.

I really need some inspiration to keep me going - prehaps I'll get my boots and put them on the fireplace!!

well hellooooo

2007-06-10T13:16:00.000-07:00

Ok so the last few weeks have been crazy, having to come straight off holidays travel to wales for a funeral - straight back and then thrown into work again. Then the last two weeks have been manic.

To start at the beginning two weeks ago I was pregnant (5 tests by two different brands said so!!) and then to cut a long story short 5 days later with a trip to A&E and a negative pregnancy test. So who knows what went on there!! Slightly disappointed but still these things happen.

My fitness levels and completly plummeted so as a company the Nursery has purchased gym memberships for 4 of us - so our induction is tuesday. can't wait - I also cancelled my climbing course due to the pregnancy escapade!!

France was fab did so much walking some up in the hills mostly flat though. If only I had known exactly what was over there. We are looking into a leaseback property over there so we could relocate in 10 years.

Work is really busy at the moment we are expanding!! So the gym is a good thing because I can't see me getting out in the hills for a while yet. The closest trip with the ramblers is end of june.

you need to check out emma's blog from the trail academy - lots of congrats to her!!

Now the trail academy is over - i am hoping for a bit more of us in the next issue as a finale prehaps so that it just gets across what we have all done.

I'm back

2007-05-24T00:00:00.000-07:00

Well weare back off holidays and a day early to... Paul's grandfather passed away on Sunday, he had cancer (the same one as my Dad) so the funeral is tomorrow and if we had travelledback as planned - wewould have struggled to get there.

On a goodnote though france was fantastic and we did somuch there. We will b going back when the children are older becauseof that - unless of course we go and live there first which is apossibilty!

Anyway gotloadsto do now so will be back in touchsoon

bleugh....

2007-04-27T04:23:00.000-07:00

I hate feeling ill...

Yesterday I started to feel sick and I'm hardly ever sick - I'm just hoping that I will be ok for holidays next week.
Off to Wales tomorrow for a surprise 50th Birthday lunch too..

Had to cancel my climbing course till I come back of holidays seemed a bit pointless starting and then having to wait 4 weeks till I could go again. So all will be sorted when I come backs.

Have found some cracking walks in the Andorra region for holidays.How could I go all that way and not take in some of the views!! Would have to be mad. So my boots and the MacPac are 1st in the car. Camera will be on charge ready.

The Trail Forum are organising a get together in July and it's looking like it's going to be a busy one!! It's nice that something so simple can turn into an adventure.

2007-04-21T23:41:00.001-07:00

Elli my gorgeous 2 and 1/2 year old keeps asking to go walking - a moment that all mothers wait for. Lately whenever we go to Blacks she is off around the store with their brightly flowered walking poles again it makes my heart swell with lurve...

So I was wondering obviously want to get her involved - thinking of taking her to the Visitors Centre on Dunstable Downs today - its 243m which I think would be a nice starting point for her.
I've put a post on the Trail Forum asking for some help with how to tackle it though. She will obviously want to walk some of it and then she'll more than likely want to be carried. So do I take the other rucksack incase of that.
I suppose it's all to do with planning and I'll need to get better at it.

On another good note - someone else is going my september team for the 3 peaks and I got the 1st form back the other day!

Also only 9 days to hols. Still researching walks in the pyrenees - woohoo!!

Lots of thinking and stuff...

2007-04-19T11:34:00.000-07:00

So anyway I can't go on the final trail trip and I'm in two minds about it. Part of me is so exhausted that I can't even feel sadness about not going, but then I'll get a moment where I feel abit sad that I am not. But on the same note I am so excited about going to france and being really close to Mountains that I can't wait and I think that is what is keeping me going.

I think that what I have really been thinking about is just life in general and how you really shouldn't worry about things that you can't change and that you do have to live life as each day is your last. Always tell the people you love that you do love them! (prehaps more often then you already do) and don't be afraid to try new things as one day you'll think I won't be able to do that now.

I keep having these pondering moment - they scare me!!

What life is all about!!

2007-04-15T12:17:00.000-07:00

Today you can stuff mountains because I have had the best news in a very long time!!

My best friend who I done the 18 mile walk for is currently in theatre having a kidney. I am so happy and yet so scared for her - it really has been a long and hard journey for her. So I am keeping my fingers crossed!

This is what makes life worth living

The end or just the beginning...

2007-04-14T11:37:00.000-07:00

With alot of hard thought I have had to decide not to go on the trip next week.
There are lots of reasons for this,
having to work a 12 hour day and then travel at least 5-6 hours is not my idea of a start to a good weekend. I will be knackered when I arrive and won't get a good nights sleep plus I'll have to disrupt everyone else to get into the YHA.
I've got the tax returns to be done before I go away on hols (a fine or a trip to the lakes??)
And then I've misplaced mine and pauls passports - not the best start to a holiday.

So I've decided that I've probably got too much other stuff on. Am I dissapointed - yes.but at the same time I've learnt so much and had so many opportunities over the last 6 months that I would never have had if I hadn't applied for the academy. I will always be thankful for that.

Its opened up a whole new world for me and really this is just the start for me. I will be contuining with the blog, not I imagine many people read this - but its therapeutic!!

10 days to go!!

2007-04-11T10:38:00.000-07:00

Woohoo - another trail trip, but the last (boohoo!!) although I do keep asking if we can have a reunion. The only problem is that I have to work until 6pm and then drive through friday rush hour to get to the lake district.

So lots to start getting ready with holidays too.

And now I have to go to our NHS walk in centre because I ahve sliced my hand open with a knife - so waiting for it to get quiet.

On another note - my climbing course next week has to be changed becuase my manager is having some well deserved days off.

Holidays!!

2007-04-09T02:00:00.000-07:00

Yippee, 3 weeks to go - so I am planning our trip now there is so much to do there - wth some cracking walks. One thing that paul hates is sedetary holidays - so now he'll have no excuse but to get out there. There is even a mountain on the doorstep plus the Pyreenes!!

Took the children out on a bike ride which was good fun have to get used to change of gravity with having a seat on the back. Planning on taking the bikes with us. So even with all that lovely french bread and cakes the plans I've got for over there I should come back lighter.

PS has anyone seen the Via Ferrata in the Lake District - wonder what thats going to be like?

Finally taken the plunge....

2007-04-06T14:16:00.000-07:00

Or should that be the climb!! After 5 months of wanting to do it - today I booked my introduction to climbing course. My first lesson will be the 19th of this month. Wanted to get it all sorted before I go on holidays. SO here we go - was watching some children have ago at it today and they made it look so easy. At least the children will be be back in school and wont be laughing at me when I give it a try.

Tried our jetboil today and boy is it fast - my cup of tea and dinner will now be quicker than a flask and sandwiches out on the mountain!

Bought myself a lovely pink life venture thermal mug and elli a 500ml camelbak. Over the last few years we have bought her so many cups and they have all leaked - I know this one doesn't - so well worth the money. Off on a bike ride tomorrow seeing as the weather is gorgeous!!

Bargains and good weather to boot!!

2007-04-05T12:36:00.000-07:00

So the sun is shining and the bargains have arrived. If you are new to this walking lark and don't want to spend lots of money then you need to get yourself down to Aldi's. I got a soft shell, a fleece, some shorts and gaiters and it cost less than £30... Absolute bargain and if it only lasts a few months but does it's job - can't fault it!!

So with the sun in mind, a bbq, a trip to ellis brigham (it's being booked tomorrow) and blacks, a bit of camping in the garden and a bike ride - a perfect easter weekend!

Highs and Lows

2007-04-02T12:16:00.000-07:00

Well I'll start with the lows - public apology time!

Sarah, I just read your blog and I never meant to insult or upset you. I know that you would have hated Friday because the walk was not expected in that way. You should know by now that I never intentionally mean to cause harm - so I'm sorry.

On another low note - its coming to the end of the tax year - yuck so means that my 50 hours in actual work and then another 30 hours at home have just got longer - bleugh!!!

But the highs

according to trail this month I have won a Jack Wolfskin Grow Up ( its a childrens sleeping bag - woohoo!!!) so me and elli are camping in the garden this weekend so I can test my new tent ready for some wild camping.

I now have 5 people wanting to join me for the 3 peaks cahllenge in September - everytime I seem to log into a forum - they are waiting - so really happy, plus its a big kick up the a$@e that I have to do more training!!!

Plus once I get my climbing course booked this week I can start planning next years charity event.
I persuaded Paul that it was cheaper to do a climbing course than get my boobs done!! so he is more than happy!!! ;)

ohhhh

2007-03-31T01:34:00.000-07:00

I have just had the best nights sleep ever! I was so tired yesterday (think it was the driving) that I even fell asleep on the sofa last night and now this morning I feel great and the sleep was fantastic - but so glad not up in the lakes - means I can finish unpacking my house - yippee!!

Need to go and pick my copy of Trail up today, but will probably leave it till Monday in anticipation.

A hill with no view!!

2007-03-30T12:38:00.000-07:00

Another hill off the top 100!! Kinder Scout was summited today. The landscape looked beautiful through all the mist.

Had no idea what to expect as Claire had told us it was a rolling walk in the Pennines - what!! No mention of the slight scramble??

No seriously I am one of these people that may whinge a bit whilst going up and sets my own pace and may not necessarily enjoy it at the time - but when we've finished I loved it!! I always drive home on a high (but very tired today).
Claire and Tom are fantastic and such lovely, genuine people. they make you feel so comfortable. It's such a shame that Tom won't be joining us on our next trip. My lips are sealed until we have confirmation!

On another note - one thing this trip taught me was - I need to get some more training in. I am secretly pleased that I don't have to do the Lakes 3000'ers this weekend ( I overestimated my fitness) so what I have to do now is abuse the help that Trail will give us from Darren and everyone else and try to priortise my hours and get some proper training in - Can I get another 2 hours in the day please??

So it's off to Ellis this week to book my climbing course (only 4 months late) and Milton Keynes have lots of outdoor climbing walls. Dig the bike out and take it to work so I can go out in my lunch hour and time to dust off the LTT from the move.

I have to remember why I applied for the academy and reassess my priorities (will be easier after 5th April)

On a good note though have lost 2 dress sizes!!!!

Near Miss

2007-03-29T12:56:00.000-07:00

Well I awoke this morning and off to work I went to find that 2 of the staff were sick and another coming down with a cold - arrgghh!! So for a few hours today the trip tomorrow was out of the question, but alas I am going to the Peak District. Which is just aswell because I need a break - I am completly exhausted and some fresh air (albeit after a very long drive) will do me the world of good. So I will be taking lots of photos and can't wait!!

The joys of parenthood!

2007-03-27T14:00:00.000-07:00

Well, all best laid plans go mad. My two are so unwell no-one wants them this weekend. So my charity event is out of the window. I am still going to the Peak District on Friday with Trail on my own (with no company in the car) but alas the lakes are out.

Am I gutted? A little bit - yes, but my monsters come first and no mountain in the world can compete with them! But on a good note - the weight is continuing to fall off me and had to buy some new clothes!

more lost!!

2007-03-25T12:02:00.000-07:00

woohoo another 2lb off the weight. Paul keeps telling me that I have lost weight and am getting trimmer. Even managed to get into some jeans today that have not seen the light of day for quite some time (probably wore them before I was pregnant with Ioan - so nearly two years) not a bad achievement.

Am finally getting my haircut on tuesday for the 1st time in 10 months - so will look completely different in our next photo shoot.

Read the book on the 3 peaks challenge and I think the enormity of what we are doing has finally hit me - but has also made me more determined to do it. Will get lots of walking and exercise in when we go away in May. Just far too busy with work at the moment and getting the house sorted.

Am now going to use my Tesco Clubcard points to buy our ramblers and YHA membership

7 days to go!!

2007-03-23T12:57:00.000-07:00

Well it's 7 days to the next trail installement - quite excited but abit worried as we have had no details about it yet!

Anyway its full steam ahead for the challenge next weekend. Went on the live chat on wednesday and got some great advice and it was a good old chat in there. Even got sent a book about the 3 peaks challenge so DaveA many thanks!!

Been really busy with work at the moment and my little boy has been so unwell - so all the best laid plans have gone haywire!! Nevermind tomorrow is another day. Still going to be there next week.

The snow is coming!!!

2007-03-19T12:16:00.000-07:00

Well we've had a splattering if you could call it that. Very cold though!!!

Anyway I have forgotten to tell you all how great the Blacks Sale was - our 3 in 1 fusion jacket by Technicals was reduced to £36.99 what a bargain that was. But the bestest one for me (my hubby treated me) was a rucksack containing a tent, sleeping bag and a self-inflating mat. All for the grand old price of £46.99

So now I am trying to twist his arm into a bit of wild camping in the lakes - not sure if it's working yet.

Have decided to book myself on that climbing course that I have been rabbiting on about since the beggining of Trail Academy. So am going to Ellis Brigham this week and treating myself.

Need to also look into some low level walking in the pyrennes as we are off to the south of france in may and I can't wait - really need a holiday this year

more trips - wayhay!!

2007-03-13T12:50:00.000-07:00

Just over 2 weeks to go and another trail trip to look forward to. We are off to the Pennines - have never been so quite excited plus the icing on the cake is a few hours drive afterwards and I'll be in the lakes for my first big challenge - the 3000's!!

Am I nervous - oh yes. Will be doing a bike ride and a walk this weekend. But I know I can walk distance now after the last weekend. Would like to start more cardio - but darren recommended anything but running (have big calves - they would get bigger) so thats just the excuse I needed to knock that torture on the head - but there is plently of other things that I can be doing. Running around with 30 children every day seems to be working. Have to go and buy some new jeans this week as mine are now too big - or prehaps I should just try a belt but then they don't fit so well.

By the end of the week should have some news on next years big charity event - should be spectacular!!

Also my gorgeous boy Ioan is now sleeping through the night - what a difference that has made!

36661

2007-03-12T12:46:00.000-07:00

36661 is the number of steps that I did yesterday. Had a fantastic day out raising money for charity. Was a great walk and the weather was great and only a slight ache this morning that soon disappeared.

Saw some beautiful sights and the most annoying thing about the whole walk was that I had to keep pulling my trousers up.
Found some great spots for eating (well we were taken there by our guide) and my boots were fab!! No blisters, no sore toes, so will be ready for the lakes.

Will probably be putting the trip back by one week to tie in with the Trail Peak District trip. Just have to confirm with hubby when he get days off.

here are some photos of the trip yesterday - was going to do a blog but was having far too much fun! Plus don't think that people really want to listen to me drone on and on when I'm much better at writing instead!!

it just keeps getting better....

2007-03-07T12:17:00.000-08:00

Well where to start,

life is on the up, definetly losing weight clothes are feeling alot looser, generally feeling really good too.

Looking forward to sunday, have found out that we are going through the waterfalls too - haven't been there since I was little so will be doing a blog!

Have been wearing in my new boots ready - and they are so comfy (except when I'm sat down on my knees) such a difference and very happy that I got them. They came in handy today when Elli decided to waddle into a puddle with no wellies and it was knee-deep to her, my toes were still warm and dry.

Been on the memory map looking at routes for the Lake District - still haven't decided on the best routes yet - posted a question on the Trail Forum and only got one reply with routes - please help I'm a novice here!!

ohh its good to be back out there!

2007-03-05T11:36:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I went on an8 mile walk for a local hospice in the beautiful buckinghamshire countryside. And it felt good there was a lot of mud, some rain and some hills, but it has got me in the mood for next week with 17miles in the brecon beacons. Really excited about that and have confirmed baby sitters for my 1st big one at the end of the month.

Also found a great shop in Stony Stratford called the Outdoor Shop, went and tried on about 15 pairs of boots and eventually bought the 2.0 Air Revolutions and boy are they lovely and comfy - so am currently breaking them in ready for sunday as my old ones are slightly too small (4 1/2) and my new ones are 5 3/4!!

Good Morning to you all!!!

2007-03-03T00:16:00.000-08:00

It is rather early in the morning here and having had about 5 hours sleep due to some very little monsters (namely my daughter who has decided that she wants to sleep in our bed)

So I am up watching teletubbies and surfing the net looking for some new boots. Which was what I dreamed about last night.
Today I ma going to try Meindhl's Air revolution GTX which have been ordered in for me. But just looking around to see what other shops are around here. I've decided against buying any on the internet and seeing as my business is on the up - I need a treat for working so hard.

Plus I really don't want to have to cut my toes off next week. I am confident that when I get the right boots that it will open up another world for me. No more tears on the hills. They really hurt when we were in Wales - infact they bruised again - not very pleasant.

So seeing as I am starving now - I am going to have soem lovely porridge with bananas and raisins and maybe soem organic wholemeal toast too.

Hope you all have a lovely day and I am so looking forward to my walk tomorrow!!!

Not going to bore you!!

2007-03-01T12:07:00.001-08:00

Finally have internet access!!

Well just a brief update - move went somewhat have been working 80+ hours each week at the moment with the business so haven't had much chance to do alot.
The weekend in Wales was abit of an upset for me and on the way home seriously considered coming off the academy - I totally lost the plot and had far too much on really for the weekend. There was tears up Moel Siabhod and then trousers rip on Tryfan.
I felt like a failure - and a little bit alon - except for George my mountain leader who really helped me.

Normally I am enthusiastic and up for anything - but if someone had said to me "would you like to go back to the YHA" then I probably would have jumped off the mountain to get there quicker.
It did teach me though that even thought the outdoors is a good place to clear your head - sometimes there may be just to much to deal with.

But on some good notes - I have lost 6 pounds since that weekend - I am far more active as consitently running around and on my feet.
I have an 8 mile walk in Buckinghamshire on Sunday for Charity and then the week after I am walking from Brecon to Glyneath (through the beacons - 17 miles). This is training for the big one in the next few weeks, Scafell pike, Scafell, Helvyllen and Skiddaw all in 12 hours (arrrghhh)

Have some new boots on order to try this weekend as my lovely merrells may be abit too small and my toes really hurt in Wales (so have admitted defeat - need them for the weekend after)

Haven't fallen off the face of a mountain!!

2007-02-08T11:39:00.000-08:00

Just to let you all know - well those of you that may actually be worried about me. I am alive and well.
Quick update, I am moving tomorrow so chaos rules here and I won't have any internet until next thursday. I will do a full update of the wekkend in Wales - it includes tears, ripped trousers and abit of an achievement.

Never underestimate the effect of pressure in your life can have on your mental attitude on the mountain - as I found out last week!!

mini crisis

2007-01-31T03:27:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was the sad loss of a dear friend - my pedometer. I was getting out of the car and looked down and there was my pedometer on the seat broken - have no idea whats happened to it. But I feel lost!

Talking about lost - I'm putting posters around the area about my daughters bunny.

Friday is now only 2 nights away and I am planning an early get away friday morning about 5am (my excuse is need to get out before the monsters awake so they don't get upset) and on my drive will go past snowdon for a gander and then onto somewhere else for a walk. I'm looking at Hebog at the moment from the Trail Routes website. Have just installed memory map on the computer so will have alook what routes are on there.
I have to take full advantage of any time that I can grab to myself to get out there. And strangely Hubby is quite happy to let me go up a mountain on my own (maybe he is trying to get rid of me - or just that I won't listen to him if he say's no?)

One of my neighbours who i haven't seen for a while told me yesterday that I look like I've lost weight and hubby told me the same over the weekend.
Prehaps binning the scales was the best thing that I've done!

Panic Over!!

2007-01-29T01:39:00.000-08:00

have spoken to Claire and we are ok

WALES IS STILL ON!!!!

keeping Fingers crossed

2007-01-28T13:08:00.000-08:00

I have just been on the Bremex website, they are the group that is taking us out on the weekend and it says that all courses are cancelled.

So in dismay I have sent an email to Claire and am hoping that it doesn't mean us - but I will keep you all updated.

been out today for a wander with Elli in the Macpac and also took my eTrex. So we had great fun. Only did 2 miles but with 2 stone on your back I'm sure that it's really 10 miles or something like that. But as I didn't do as many steps as I would have liked - I came home and did my LTT and clocked up over 10000 steps again today.

The exercise, water and good diet are the only way I am coping with very little sleep at the moment.
My daughter has had a bunny from Tesco since she was born (2 1/2 years ago) and yesterday it was lost from the Macpac whilst going up the shop.

URGENT REQUEST FOR HELP: IF ANYONE HAS A PINK BUNNY OR KNOWS OF SOMEONE THAT DOES PLEASE CONTACT ME - MONEY PAID!!

It is a serious request she has been waking up at 2am crying out for bunny!! Breaks my heart.

Had a play with the eTrex today and it was great fun set waypoints and gotos. Will put the software on ready for the weekend and hopefully if all goes well will get to try in the hills!!

managed to get into my new craghopper trousers today - they have an awful cut but are a size 14 short - result. By the end of this I will be a 12 (if not less) but I am feeling fitter and it's not about losing all the weight (although that is a bonus)

have found a 40 mile walk around the bedfordshire area which I am going to do at the end of feb over a few days - getting ready for the 4 peaks.
have now over 10 people joining me for the 3 peaks challenge.

Will now await Claire's email - will probably have rung her by 9.15 tomorrow morning.
Worse case scenario - the trail academy still go and meet up and have a laugh on the hills!
Watch this space

So jealous!!

2007-01-26T12:03:00.000-08:00

Emma, Take some photos for me please!!

I have to admit I am jealous of Emma, the ability to just take off and go to North Wales (I remember those days).

But I wouldn't swap my two little ones for anything - I would prefer though to live closer to some mountains and my family. But needs must, and they dictate that we live in the South East for a few more years yet.

But my goals are keeping me going - although still waiting for an email from MK2-30 RA.

Anyway going out tomorrow to try out the rucksacks and the GPS, plus just refresh my map reading skills.

Only 7 days to Wales !!!

And I just got a new case for the etrex - i love goodies

No offence!

2007-01-25T11:16:00.000-08:00

having a blonde moment
Forgot the link

www.bbc.co.uk/wales/info/charities

More white stuff please!!

2007-01-25T11:10:00.000-08:00

Snow - what a lovely wake up call that was.
I was meant to be on a seminar yesterday but was going to call off it and go on that hill scramble in Aylesbury - by the time I got up the Nursery to frop the kids off, the snow had melted and I had a ton of paperwork to get through - boohoo!! But only 2 weeks to go and that hill will be mine!

I am also going to see if I can get into my new walking trousers for next week in wales. 8 days to go and I will be there!
Both my little monsters have colds at the moment so I am averaging about 4 hours of solid sleep and the rest is broken and I feel bleugh at the moment - thank god for water!

My GPS is coming for its first trip to Wales for a play next week - it is very excited and wants a case to keep it nice and warm. Ebay here we come!

If anyone wants a good laugh click on to www.bbc.co.uk/wales/info/charities and I am there with my chubby cheeks!!

Only 15 days to my move :)

happiness arrives again!

2007-01-22T11:36:00.000-08:00

Ok, so having a good week so far - steps haven't been brilliant (apart from shopping expedition that is!)
But I have had lots of new and shiny things arrive over the last week:
1 MacPac Vamoose
2 A Shewee
3 A OL17 Map
4 A spork
5 Whistle
6 Orange Bivy bag
7 Thermal blanket
8 A pair of Bloc Sunglasses

If thats not enough to keep me motivated Paul bought me a Garmin Etrex!!

Now we all now I am moving and having been sat in the car for 5 hours today travelling to the Nursery and back I can't wait to get up there - so I have made myself some goals (apart from continuing with my stepper)

1 join the MK 20-30's Ramblers Association
2 sign up for the climbing course
3 swim twice a week
4 cycle twice a week
5 volunteer for a local charity
6 promote my business and set the other 2 up

so just a few things to keep me going with

I have also signed up for a seminar with business link which follows Steve Redgraves principles or something about happy life / happy work / happy everything

So all in all I feel very happy knowing all this can start in 2 weeks time.
meanwhile really looking forward to Wales - bring it on!!

Scales may not have been broken!

2007-01-19T11:24:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I weighed myself in Boots and was most disappointed they tallied up with the scaled that I binned!!

So now I have no idea of what I weighed when I started the academy and how much I've lost or put on.
So I'm starting from yesterday not sure if I am brave enough to admit my weight yet live on the web.
I've been devising my own eating plan as I know that I am going to struggle to get out regularly over the next 3 weeks with moving and Paul being away.

So this weekend we'll be taking the Macpac out for a test run (lots of thanks to Macpac and Claire for organising it for me). Claire also sent me a copy of Matt (the editor) taking his son up Snowdon at 7 months - I am not quite brave enough for that yet, maybe a nice 300m hill instead to start off with (especially as we'll be taking 2!!)

So please can everyone keep an eye on me and make sure I don't stray from my healthy eating. I realy don't know what went wrong because I did lose weight over christmas - so sad really :(

2007-01-17T06:48:00.000-08:00

it arrived!!!

2007-01-16T13:06:00.000-08:00

My Macpac came yesterday and what a fantastic bit of gear it is.
It puts my mothercare one to shame (no surprises there) So Elli (my eldest) gets a shiny new one (all 2stone of her) and Ioan is more than happy in his one.
Will be telling Paul later that we are going out on the weekend and trying it out. Am currently looking out for some waterproof gear for the kids. There is quiet a few bits on ebay that I am watching.

Had the kit list for Wales - really looking forward to that now. It'll be great to get some fresh air and meet up with everyone again. Seeing as the next 3 weeks I am going to be stuck in the house packing boxes.

So I treated myself today to an OL17 Map and a Shewee (don't want to get caught out on the mountains)
Also it's only 10 weeks to my 1st charity challenge, the 4 peaks in the Lake District, so carrying on with the training and will notch it up a few gears when we move - yippee

tip of the day
give yourself a goal, whether it be a charity event or just going higher - goals give you something to work towards

PS I also need names for 2 businesses so if anyone has any ideas please (training and web design)

Throw the scales away....

2007-01-13T13:12:00.000-08:00

Well according to my scales I have put on 1 stone in 3 days!!!!!!! In the bin they are going.

My clothes are looser, I feel better - my scales are lying I know they are. I will go and get myself weighed properly over the next few days and I know they will be less than last week - but never mind.

I have finally found a house , so will be moving to Leighton Buzzard in the next 4 weeks - bleugh - I hate moving,

On another good note Paul is taking me for a little bit of shopping next week in Cotswolds (sorry Blacks - but the trail offer is 20% discount)

Have not done marvelously on the steps this week - I'm keeping active in lots of other ways with the packing and stuff. Will get out and about tomorrow and this week as my mum is coming down to stay for the week.

It's really hit me this week that my Dad only passed away 7 weeks ago, that with alot of other things means that I have been rather tearful!

The good thing about moving to Leighton Buzzard means that I will have babysitters! So I can finally book myself that climbing course I've been on about for ages and prehaps join a walking club (if there isn't one - I'll make one)

On the 4th March Iam doing a sponsored 7 mile walk for a local hospice in Milton Keynes (Willen Hospice) with children on back!

No sign of my Macpac yet.

I must admit that I hadn't read the article in Trail about us properly til a few days ago and well I'm torn. There was alot of stuff I was expecting in it - that wasn't there. And far too many it's only Loughrigg Fell (and not just in our article), but mainly was it necessary to mention all that about Sarah. I hope she stays on as and comes to Wales with us. I feel that I've made a friend in Sarah and would be gutted if she left.

Trail did send me some great photos that Tom did, they have gone to the BBC but I'm going to put them on here. In one I look like a chipmunk (the chubby cheeks will shrink) and the other one is really cool

Oohhhh - I'm famous!!!

2007-01-10T11:05:00.000-08:00

Wow!!

Trail was out today, so off to Tesco's at 9am it was. Couldn't believe it we were on the front cover and the mag is full of amazing stuff this month. Really want to get out in the snow, but not sure if I will get the chance until the winter this year, but one thing I do know is that with the stuff that I'll learn from Trail - I won't be apprehensive!

Slightly frustrated with lots of personal stuff today and my business - everything kinda getting on top of me - so my trusty stepper will be getting a pounding later as I take my frustration out on that instead. Been really hectic today so hopefully will sit down later with a glass of wine and relax abit.

Much say that drinking all the water is really helping with keeping me perky and also my skin has never been so good.
Also after I have done my exercises at night - I feel fab!!!

So anyway - no matter how bad things are - exercise it does make you feel better!

Exhausted!!

2007-01-09T11:43:00.000-08:00

Where do I start??

Yesterday spent all day house hunting and did we find anything - nope, by the time I got home, it was time to get ready to go to see Celebrity Big Brother Big Brain Live. What a pants show but the experience was good - got home at 1am (I've not been out so late in years and if you think I'm joking - I'm not!)
So only clocked up 6000 steps, will make it up over the week.

Then today was interviewed by BBC Wales which was fantastic, Trail are even letting them use some of the photo's from the Lake District and they are great - so not so worried about the mag coming out tomorrow now!!

Am going to do my exercises now, even though I am exhausted, but if I don't do them tonight there will some reason why I can't do them tomorrow and thursday etc etc.....

On a good note my average stepcount last week was 10552 - woohoo!!!!

By the way photos to follow but practised my climbing skills at a soft play area today with Elli - who needs fancy mountains?? (ME!!!!) :)

Lost Marbles??

2007-01-07T09:53:00.000-08:00

I have found a way to do 10000 steps before breakfast.

Yup get up at 6.30am and go on a 5 mile walk. The weather wasn't great and it was dark, only a few hills involved, but it cleared the cobwebs away.
Felt like I need to do something abit more than normal today as will spend most of tomorrow in a car house hunting.

I wanted to catch the train the Betws-Y-Coed in feb, but would believe there are no trains on a sunday. I was looking forward to chilling out, reading a book and listening to some newly downloaded tunes on my i-pod. Now looks like going to be stuck in the car - bleugh!!

Sorry Blacks, but have had to buy some new gloves as the ones we had are too big and bulky for me. Didn't fancy doing any scrambling when I can't feel what I'm grabbing (prehaps not such a bad thing then).

I've just been reading Sarah's blog and I really admire her, she gets out there and does walks in beautiful cornwall over the winter and although she'll probably hit me for saying this - she may moan about doing it - but she stills does it and doesn't give herself enough credit for her achievements. Sarah I think you're a STAR!!!

another 1lb off!!

2007-01-06T02:31:00.000-08:00

Woohoo!!!! lost another lb, bringing the grand total up to 10lbs since we started the fitness academy. So how am I feeling - pretty motivated, i am drinking my 2lts of water a day, but may have to up it as i drink it all during the day so it stops me snacking but not at night. Been hitting 10000+ steps most of the week, apart from yesterday, children not going to bed till 10pm (i'm not a bad mummy honestly - but all parents will know that you get some days like that) and to be honest I just didn't want to do any more exercise that time of night. But Paul is off for 4 days now, so we are going out for a walk tomorrow, or if it's raining it'll just be me!

I am being interviewed by BBC Wales on Tuesday for all the fundraising that I am doing this year for the Hopsice - how exciting is that - I will be mentioning Trail and the Fitness Academy.

I've just read Emma's blog and saw her videos - I am so envious that she gets to go to these places regularly! Prehaps I should be moving closer to my family rather than further away.

Going house hunting in Milton Keynes on Monday - I wonder how close I will be to some mountains then?

We are obviously off to North Wales in the beginning of Feb - to say that I am excited is an understatement!
We are going to be doing some scrambling - I really enjoyed that last time and also some map reading and navigation. Plus they say we'll be going to new heights!!
I'm going to go and have a look at Snowdon whilst I am there as we'll be doing that for the 3 Peaks.

So Tip of the Day
Are you struggling to drink all that water - invest in a groovy water bottle (i have a pink camelbac it holds 750ml) and if like me you live in the south and the tap water is disgusting, buy Tesco Still Water for about 19p - it tastes great. Fill up your water bottle and you'll be suprised by how quickly 2lts will go during the day, plus you can take it out with you.

Charity Website

2007-01-05T02:21:00.001-08:00

www.charitywalkers.co.uk

This is the website I have made for the fundraising this year, it's a work in progress!

All good things come in 3!!

2007-01-04T13:02:00.000-08:00

Well I have no idea where to start today, firstly we are off on a weekend of mountain skills with Trail, I can't wait!!
Secondly I've also got a new baby rucksack coming a Macpac Vamoose, can't wait to get out with that - means both Elli and Ioan can come on longer trips now.
Thirdly, whilst trying to get audience tickets for Top Gear I applied for some celebrity big brother big brain thing. Never expected to get in, but low and behold guess who is going to the live show on Monday!! I have to say that when I got the tickets I thought never mind, then I remembered that my sister-in-law loves Dermot, so much so that she has got the time off work!

So far today have drunk my 2lts of water and made a beautiful stew packed full of veg. Now when Elli goes to bed in the next 5 mins, I will be able to do my stepper to get me over my 10000 steps and then I can watch Green Wing - Yipppeee

So watch this space, the way my luck is going, I may just win the lottery

keeping those good intentions up!

2007-01-03T13:59:00.000-08:00

well it's day 3 of the new year and since monday I have managed to do 10000+ steps daily, done the exercises that Darren gave us and drank at least 2lts of water - I'm feeling pretty proud of myself so far.
was going to go out for a walk today but had to start packing things away so will be going out on the weekend with paul and the kids. So I have been getting my steps up by using my LTT. I must say that I am definetly feeling all the better for it.
Got to do a video and send some photos to trail by tomorrow. tried 3 times to do the video earlier but the little ones were screaming all the way through it, so will try again tomorrow.
feeling abit down at the mo, having to move in 6 weeks time, and dad only dying 5 weeks ago I can't help but think I really have too much on at the mo. It means that i have to take a step back from the running of the nursery as i can't travel all the way up there but that will get easier when I move.
Take care all :)

talk about opening your eyes!

2007-01-01T12:02:00.000-08:00

http://www.livingto100.com/

I just watched "change the day I die" on Sky 3 and well I did the calculator and was pleased to get 84, so click on the link above if you want to give it ago.
This man was 51, morbidly obese and was given just another 7 years to live. He was drinking over 120 units a week.
what surprised me the most was that his diet took 11 years off his life and exercise just 2 years.

Nothing like a good way to start the new year.

I have done 10000 steps plus today so far, drank over 2lts of water, did 20 mins on my stepper and the exercises that Darren gave us.

Am planning mine and Sarah's next jolly, there are a few walks in Wiltshire so maybe one of those.
Also planning something for me and paul, just got to sort the kids out the day and night - any volunteers?

Happy New Year!

2007-01-01T04:31:00.000-08:00

Cor, 2007 already, is it just me or do the years go faster as you get older.
Well yesterday my step count was appalling - although I did manage a 20 minute bike ride with the monsters and Paul. Initially I dropped my bike with Elli on it (she is nearly 2 stone) but I did ok with Ioan,but the heavens were opening up - so it was back home to cook the Roast Chicken dinner that Paul wanted after our trek up Pen-Y-Fan.

Well I have 7 weeks to pack up my house and move up towards Milton Keynes way. I am dreading it, Paul is back in work and the kids are demanding to say the least.
Well my average step count this week was 8164 so very happy with that as I planned only 7500, think alot of it was to do with the mountain.

Was going to take the kids out on a 9 1/2 mile walk today, but discovered that there was lots of stiles. Seeing as I was going on my own with an all-terrain buggy and one in the rucksack - I had to abandon all hope. may take Paul on Wednesday before he starts nights.
Note to Trail; how do I combat the stiles on my own with the kids and also can you get childrens (i mean the really small ones) walking boots? and if so where from? I think Elli may appreciate them.

As it's the 1st January it's only fitting to start my resolutions - not to have one because you only give up!!

But my goals are to hit 8000 steps average
start darren's exercises
keep drinking 2lts of water
do at least 30mins on my LTT (lateral thigh trainer)
all this daily!

But today I will do some more packing and finish off my website for the charity events this year. (yes I have recently done a web design course - so am putting it to good use) so hopefully it should be live by tomorrow or wednesday.

hopefully we will all get what we want this year - for me one of the things is going to be a healthy, fitter me!

Did I forget to mention?

2006-12-29T11:41:00.001-08:00

I've also lost 1lb over christmas!!!

Me and my bright ideas!!

2006-12-29T11:24:00.000-08:00

Does anyone recognise here?

If you guessed the reservoir in the valley below Pen -Y-Fan - then you will be right!

Wednesday was the day (yup the 27th) and the weather was meant to be foggy with some slight rain.

So off we went, got to the reservoir about 11am and I couldn't believe how busy it was. I put on my fleece from Blacks and we started the walk.

Now I have to say that the highest I have been before this was Loughrigg and I couldn't even see the top of this "mountain". It was dry and not too cold, but still no peak to see.

After about 30mins we could see ice on the grass - but we carried on. We were going along the old roman road towards Cribyn. We climbed through the gate at the top and thought we should prehaps put our waterproof jackets on (thank god for these) and then we started the steep climb. We then passed a group that was about 15 mins in front of us (I was feeling pretty pleased at this point)Now I have to say I am not sure whether it is a good or bad thing if you can't see the top, but after a fairly steep climb we were there and I could see nothing!!

Still no time for stopping, so it was a slight (!??!) descent down at which point we passed someone in trainers (barking mad)

note to Trail - I seem to have some problems mentally in descending I am convinced that I am going to fall - please help!

We passed over frozen boggy patches and water and I was feeling great. Then it was the steep climb to the summit of Pen-Y-Fan - not impressed!! Only joking I found it hard and Paul realised the importance of breakfast, but what an achievement when I got there! I saw a pile of rocks and realised that there was no way I could do a video blog up there. It was freezing, blowing a gale, ice whipping around and no viz! So after a quick cup of tea (i had also forgotten to wash the flask out properly so it tasted of washing up liquid) it was back down the way we had come because of the bad weather.

So down we started - i was slightly better this time and we met a group of people who were slightly disoriented so we brought them down with us and we took another path which took us around Cribyn and back down to the roman road.

Now because of my leg length and size I can't seem to get walking trousers so I had cotton combats on (Please note - they are no good for wet weather - my legs actually hurt at one point they were so cold)

Well we all got down safely and it took only 3 1/2 hours and how did I feel?

ABSOLUTELY FANTASTIC!!!! I HAVE THE BUG OFFICIALLY NOW

I was running to have my photo taken by the reservoir.

But enough of that we took the people backto their car and ensured that they were all safe and well before we wen back to pick the monsters up.

I clocked up over 22000 steps and did I ache? NO, i think I was more shocked by that then anything else - not a single grumble - prehaps things are changing for me!

Photos I promised

2006-12-29T10:56:00.000-08:00

Who needs fancy balancing equipment?

Practising my climbing skills!!

Me and Ioan enjoying a little ramble!

Merry Christmas

2006-12-25T07:54:00.000-08:00

Hello all,

just a quick note to wish all a merry christmas. I have enjoyed a lovely dinner today (in my nice dress wearing my pedometer) did really well and did not have a huge plate as normal. But then I donned my baby rucksack and took the kids to the park, where I even managed to practise my climbing skills (photos to follow)
Last week I also planned to beat 7000 steps per day average and I hit 7109 - lots of yippees now please!!
This week I want to hit 7500 - I work well with little goals.
Off to do the Brecon horseshoe on wednesday with all my shiny new gear
I had
a blacks roc 35+ rucksack
a pink camelbac bottle
a silva compass, headlight and binoculars set
and a trekking pole!
So just checking the weather and we have an alternative planned (honestly just not sure what yet)
Will be off for another walk tomorrow as we did yesterday too (scattered some of dad's ashes yesterday so we had to go on a walk for that)

So keep eating and drinking well (lots of veg & water anyway)

And watching lots of fab telly while standing on 1 leg!
Sian :)

Did I manage it?

2006-12-23T13:36:00.000-08:00

Nope, my good intentions of a bike ride or walk today were all in vain!
I woke up at 7am and was really unwell again - so that was it for today. I was relegated back to bed for a few hours and then had to get everything ready for the trip back to Wales.
It was then off to a shaky start with the steps and didn't want this to be my lowest day so managed to have clocked up 3500+ (still a few hours left yet).
So very disapponted in myself but have packed my new shiny ruckscak ready for a walk on wednesday and Yes I am definetly going on one!

Well would you believe it?

2006-12-22T11:44:00.000-08:00

Today and it isn't over yet I have done over 10000 steps - Yippeeee!!!

I know you're all thinking "well what hill did you climb today then Sian?"
And the answer is None!
All I have done is taken a 30 minute walk to the shop and back (all inclusive) and dancing to the Ipod with the monsters.

I am very chuffed and will doing this again - I found it no effort at all today and the plan is to keep it up. Wanted to average 7000 steps per day this week and I think I shall be doing it.

Off on a bike ride or walk tomorrow - it's still on and need to check the weather for the Brecon Beacons next week.

Some more good news - my jeans are getting to big for me!

Food for Thought...

2006-12-21T05:40:00.000-08:00

Just thought that I have a craving for lots of veggies, so decided to make a sausage stew for tea with lots of them in (and a big yorkshire pudding to put it all in) when I had a ponder and realised that I have some advice for people and some friends of mine (you know who you are)
So here it is

11 months ago I bought my own business - I own a day nursery. It has been hard, with lots of tears and swearing, lots of tantrums, but mainly I have felt good about it. I know that it will pay off and become more successful. I only have to look at what I have achieved over the months.
But back to the point I'm trying to make, don't worry about things you have no control over. Life is really too short and any opportunities that you get given TAKE. If you don't do or try something when you are presented with it - then in the future you may never get the chance again.
Don't be scared and take the plunge whether, don't wait hoping the right moment will come along - it never will. There will always be a reason why you can't do something,but there will also be a reason why you should do it!
Don't wait for opportunities go and grab them.
Ring that man you fancy, go for that job you have always wanted - send that email to the magazine.
Don't wait as life could pass you by sooner than you expect.

Plodding on

2006-12-21T04:48:00.000-08:00

Well yesterday I was really unwell but still managed to clock up over 7000 steps, but now today my eldest Elli is unwell. So I am in proper Mummy mode and looking after her. So far have nearly 4000 steps done, and I'm cleaning the house ready for christmas so keeping very active. The pedometer is amazing I'm wearing it all the time and it really spurs me on. As of next week I am going to start the other exercises in the pack that Darren gave us.

Tip of the Day
If you still have christmas wrapping to do, place the presents in one part of the house as far away from the room that you are actually going to be doing the wrapping in. Then only take one item at a time and wrap them. So you'll keep going back and fore. It'll really help get those steps up! Especially if you have to keep going up and down the stairs.

I'm back

2006-12-20T12:28:00.000-08:00

Lets bring it up todate. Over the 2 weeks of my dad dying I put on 8lb, since the 11/12 I've now lost that! Good News no 1
Been on a walk with Sarah - about 6 miles and over 14000 steps - Good News No2
Healthy eating is really on par - not drinking as much as I should be but that is in hand.
Breakdown of daily steps
I figure if I do an average over the week it gives me more to work towards
3000
5623
8080
3094
5300
6543
14892
Daily average 6647
Plan to hit 7000 this week.
Went to Ellis Brigham last week to have a look at the climbing wall - my god it is so high - so still thinking about booking a course with my birthday money - but I have my eye on a pair of boots - so tough decision!

Good news no 3 - bargain pair of brand new merrell boots on ebay £31.00 - was gutted they got muddy on sunday!!

was quite upset that no-one took my photo in Starbucks the other day - I was practising my standing on one leg - I think someone may have actually called security!

Taking the monsters out on a bike ride on saturday as it should be quiet - with everyone christmas shopping hopefully. Its the 1st time Ioan will have been out - so fingers crossed the littlemad one should enjoy it.

Off to Wales on Sunday over the christmas period, so we can't decide what walk to go on - Paul is under orders that we are going out.

Tip of the Day
If you are struggling to afford all the gear - go to the shops try on different brands and know your sizes and what you want - wait till the sales, you can just go in and grab what you want. And it also means after christmas lots of things on ebay due to unwanted presents and clearing out of old gear. Having things come through the post will keep ou motivated as you'll just want to get out there and try them
Tip of the day

Retail Therapy!

2006-12-20T12:22:00.000-08:00

No idea what happened with the photos on the last post.

Anyway Friday morning woke up and all my muscles ached so some ibuprofen later and a cup of tea I realised that my trousers for the funeral hadn't washed properly - thank god for 24hr supermarkets. So at 7.45 I was speeding through the streets of Newport as we were being picked up at 9am - phew managed it and actually looked presentable for a change.
I wouldn't go into the details too much as I'm still in denial of it all - but it was standing room only at the crem and it was a service unlike any other I have been too. I didn't cry and I stayed all the way through.
I am finding it more dificult now then I did at the time.
So whats a girl to do when she is feeling down?

It was off to Blacks in Cardiff where I really needed a new rucksack as the one I had used the day before was "pants". So for christmas off my kids I have a shiny new bag - yippee!
But enough of all of this now I spent another week not doing anything that I was shown to do or wearing my pedometer - but I hope you'll all agree that I had good reason not to. But Monday the 11th december it was full steam ahead.

The lakes finally

2006-12-20T12:02:00.000-08:00

thursday morning arrived and I looked out my window and saw Loughrigg and thought Wow!

So off to breakfast it was and there was a beautiful pinky colour to the sky which made it all seem so surreal. I was sat there eating breakfast about to embark on the biggest challenge of my life.

All those times I started a fitness kick and a diet and now I have all these people to keep me on track and the readers to make sure that I do it!

Me and Sarah then remembered that we had sacks of stuff of Santa Clause at Blacks to open!!

So a sneaky word directed at Claire and off we were. Well kid in a Candy Shop I am!!

We had so much stuff - it was fantastic and a real incentive - I now have to keep Blacks happy too!!

So off to get dressed and then meet downstairs ready to start, where Darren introduced us to the best flapjacks in the world - if anyone knows of any better ones please point me in the right direction.

Now it was time - all kitted out and ready to go, after a warm up of a walk which felt like miles and a quick detour in Ambelside we were at the bottom.

we all took our pulses and the pedometers were going abit haywire!! The steep first bit was horrible, we even meet an 80year old man that was in better shape than me (big reality check!)

But I got second wind and off we went with Tom deciding to take some unflattering photos of us (no doubt you'll be able to have a laff in the next few weeks)

It was then that we saw a pile of rocks - didn't look to bad and that's what we were going to scramble. So Tom run(yes really ran) up the pile of rocks and thats when we saw how big they were!!

I'm ever the optomist and knew if I didn't have a go I probably would never do it. So with my little short legs off we went and even though hard work what a sense of achivement. The day was just full of them!

At one point I thought my heart was going to explode, but Darren got me to slow down and it made all the difference. The views were fantastic and what a great day, I meet really nice people and most of all it really helped my head. I was absolutely knackered but I couldn't stop feeling so excited!

I was really disappointed and was hoping to get lost as the next day was Dad's funeral.

So we travelled back to wales to get ready for the next day, here are some photos of loughrigg fell!!

one day and counting

2006-12-19T13:29:00.000-08:00

Wednesday arrived and after a quick trip to the dry cleaners we were on our way!
After an uneventful journey when we arrived it was too dark to see any mountains - I was gutted!! But the youth hostel looked lovely and we arrived nice and earlier so a rest was in need.
Didn't have clue what to expect so about 7.30ish (i think) ventured down stairs to see if anyone had arrived and was waiting like me. Low and behold there was 2 ladies sat on the seats. i think we all looked abit lost and there I met Sarah and Jess.
So a quick chat and husbands meet to go off on a manly pint later every one arrived. So it was off to a lovely little pub in Ambleside for a nice dinner.
I think everyone was nervous and scared to eat as we were sat opposite Darren the fitness guru!
So we meet Claire and Ruth, the lovely ladies from Trail who send us lots of nice emails. We also met Tom the photographer and Graham the gear tester. I also got to meet the other 3 fitness academy victims (sorry not sure how else to put it) Emma, Stephen and Richard.
So after a very tasty supper and a good chat it was time for the walk back and a good nights sleep ready for the next day. Also antcipation of a very steep initial climb - Arrrrgghhhh

I will post some photos of the good day later so it's goodnight for now as not having a very good day emotionally today -but still it's going to happen some days. not worry still keeping the steps up!!

Felt like the longest week...

2006-12-19T13:24:00.000-08:00

It was a good job that I had packed my bag for the Lakes already as now we would be staying in Wales. Monday involved making the funeral arrangements and a phone call to Claire asking if Hubby could stay with me. In the circumstances I really wasn't sure if I could face sleeping with people I didn't know.
As sad as I was, I realised that I needed to do this and was looking forward to it. It actually kept me focused. So Tuesday was the day that I decided that I didn't want to the funeral. I was adamant and got quite panicky about the whole thing. So it was decided that I would go in the car and then make my decision when I got there. I have a fear of the curtains closing at a crematorium as I know it's the last time that I'll see Dad.
But I had to get ready for the Lake. So i did.

Devasting

2006-12-18T12:58:00.000-08:00

Saturday we went out so I could look for some stuff to take with me to the Lake District as we had received a further email to say that the lovely early christmas present wouldn't be arriving in time.
I had a phone call off my brother to say that prehaps I should be thinking about getting home.
Well I had to sort out staff wages and invoices so I got on with making sure that that was all done. I spoke to the Hospice and was told that Dad had taken abit of a dip, but no need to rush home yet.
So I rang Sunday morning and spoke to my Mum who said that I needed to come home as we only had days left.
We got in the car at about 10am and drove home.
Arrived at the hospice about midday and i saw my Aunties outside. They had come to see Dad but was told that they couldn't go in.
I knew what had happened deep down and went in to the Hospice and saw the Nurse and just said "It's happened hasn't it?" and she just nodded. My dad died at 11.15 aged just 50 years old.
I went in and saw him and the first thing my Mum said to me "Promise me you'll go on Thursday" - the only reason I applied was because I wanted help to get me in a position, fitness and knowledge wise in order to raise money for the Hospices that do so much hard work.

I will carry on tomorrow and bring the blog up to date over the next few days.

In anticipation

2006-12-18T12:46:00.000-08:00

So we were told there was six of us and we were off to Loughrigg Fell in the Lake District.
We should have been in France on hols that week, but we had already cancelled due to Dad being so unwell. So the in-laws were having the kids and it was all systems go.
Had a look on the net saw the place we were going thought that looks lovely, and then we had the kit list - Arrgghh - so much stuff - so expensive. Being a newbie I had very little of the list but most importantly no waterproof jacket!
So it was off to Blacks when the 20% offer was on. I had my eye on a lovely North Face 3in1. So monday morning - dropped the kids off at Nursery and then realised I had forgotten my wallet! But crisis averted was able to get some money and off I went. I even bought a hat and a bag to match - all for under £150. (including trousers from Next as no walking trousers fit me at the moment - too short and too fat!!)

Went back to Wales for a few days and then had an email from Claire from the Mag, Blacks are sponsoring us - yet more screaming and jumping up and down. Very excited phone call to Hubby - who just laughed at me.

So dropped the kids off at the in-laws on the friday and came home to Reading to have a romantic week.

And in the Beginning....

2006-12-18T12:27:00.000-08:00

I think that I should explain how this all begin.
Well back in September my family got told that my Dad's cancer and recurred and was not curable. So one night my brother and I was talking and we thought about doing something for the Hospice that was currently helping my Dad.
I then came up with the idea of the Three Peaks Challenge and even booked a date. I then posted a Help Wanted on a forum (sometimes I don't think things through this will become apparent lots of times). But then I picked up Trail Magazine in Tesco (I had originally bought Country Walking) and thought Wow - I forgot what walking up mountains looked like.

So anyway there was an article asking for Walking Newbies to volunteer to help prove that you could lose weight by walking. I kept saying to hubby I'm going to email them about this. But I kept forgetting and not getting around to it and then I went home to see my Dad. I came back, got upset, drunk a few glasses of wine and then wrote the initial email.

Well then on the following monday at about 5.55pm I had a phone call from Ruth off the mag and was asked if I could send a video in. Hubby was away on a course and my 2 year can't operate a video yet, but I was allowed to answer the questions by email and send a photo. All by the Tuesday.

I then sat up for many hours trying to get right and being honest about what I wanted. So the send button was pressed and the next day was spent waiting in anticipation. On the Tuesday evening I got an email to say that I was selected.

I really really did scream the place down and after some jumping around and kissing my little ones - I thought "What have I done?"

Sorry Sarah - I had to have one too!!

2006-12-16T01:21:00.000-08:00

I apologise now to Sarah, I think your Blog is great and really like the idea of being able to write down my thoughts and feelings as a 60-90 second video means you can't really get all you want to say out there!
So on the spur of the moment (I have far too many of these!) I created this one. Later today I will explain the whole Trail Academy Fitness thing and how I came to be choosen as a Victim!