Today is a day to reflect on the past year and look forward to the next one. In Yorkshire they call it Old Year's Night rather than New Year's Eve.
I did lots of things but the big one was the ride to Germany and back. Blooming hard work but very enjoyable. No weight loss, in fact a 2lb gain!
The downside of the year is the fact that Peter did his back in in February. At the close of the year it is very little improved. He can work but is soon in a lot of pain. Consequently we have been short of money this year so no 'real' holiday. However that is of little concern. The main thing is for him to get his back sorted.
Next year yet again I want to lose weight. It will be my 50th birthday in July and I need to lose as much as possible. The main thing though is to stay healthy.
H A P P Y N E W Y E A R 2 0 1 1
Friday 31 December 2010
Wednesday 3 November 2010
Octoberthon Results
Well as I said previously i felt my resolve was weakening a bit and I was right. I did well right up to 28th October when Isobel made a cake for Erin's birthday the next day. I didn't hav any of the cake but I did have some of the mixture before it was cooked and I did nick a few of the chocolate buttons that were being used to decorate it.
I forgot to say the previous week I had put a pound ON despite denying all the goodies at the Derby comp day and being good when we went out for a meal from work. Oh well!
Last Friday we went to a Halloween inspired event at Bolling Hall called Dark Gatherings. It's a fun evening that is free in an old haunted manor house not far from us. We have been for the last few years. It wasn't as good this year as Health and Safety seem to have killed the atmosphere. There were too many lights on around the place so you could see the scary bits before you got there. Isobel dressed up as a gorgeous Goth. All in black with a white face and she did her own makeup and hair and she looked really good.
Isobel as a Goth
Me and my Goth
Sunday was the day we put the clocks back but at 1.45am I got a phone call from my stepson Simon asking if I could pick him up from the next town. I agreed so was out about an hour then went to bed. I was up again at 6.30am and took the dogs for a walk even though it was dark when we set off.
Then about 9.30am we met up with members of the canoe club and we went and did the River Calder. The worst thing about this river is the rubbish. The water had obviously been much much higher at times and the rubbish and debris was hanging from the trees. There was literally, bed sheets, tents, clothes, toys and loads of plastic bags hanging like some macabre Halloween decorations from the trees.
At the start of the paddle
Other parts of the river didn't seem too bad and were quite pretty. It was the first time that I didn't feel nervous before we went down the weirs and I even did the slalom bit in Sowerby Bridge which previously I have got out and avoided.
One of the weirs
A pretty view of the Calder
Anyway the net result of the Octoberthon was that I gained another pound in the fourth week but altogether I had lost 6lbs in the month. Which, as you will aprreciate, is nearly half a stone. Result!
I forgot to say the previous week I had put a pound ON despite denying all the goodies at the Derby comp day and being good when we went out for a meal from work. Oh well!
Last Friday we went to a Halloween inspired event at Bolling Hall called Dark Gatherings. It's a fun evening that is free in an old haunted manor house not far from us. We have been for the last few years. It wasn't as good this year as Health and Safety seem to have killed the atmosphere. There were too many lights on around the place so you could see the scary bits before you got there. Isobel dressed up as a gorgeous Goth. All in black with a white face and she did her own makeup and hair and she looked really good.
Isobel as a Goth
Me and my Goth
Sunday was the day we put the clocks back but at 1.45am I got a phone call from my stepson Simon asking if I could pick him up from the next town. I agreed so was out about an hour then went to bed. I was up again at 6.30am and took the dogs for a walk even though it was dark when we set off.
Then about 9.30am we met up with members of the canoe club and we went and did the River Calder. The worst thing about this river is the rubbish. The water had obviously been much much higher at times and the rubbish and debris was hanging from the trees. There was literally, bed sheets, tents, clothes, toys and loads of plastic bags hanging like some macabre Halloween decorations from the trees.
At the start of the paddle
Other parts of the river didn't seem too bad and were quite pretty. It was the first time that I didn't feel nervous before we went down the weirs and I even did the slalom bit in Sowerby Bridge which previously I have got out and avoided.
One of the weirs
A pretty view of the Calder
Anyway the net result of the Octoberthon was that I gained another pound in the fourth week but altogether I had lost 6lbs in the month. Which, as you will aprreciate, is nearly half a stone. Result!
Friday 22 October 2010
Down a few more pounds
Time soon passes on and yet again I have been remiss with my blog.
I have been busy doing things. Walking, aquafit, swimming etc and despite being tempted umpteen times I have only been a tiny bit naughty once.
Last Thursday I made a chocolate cake for my friend Gemma's birthday. I managed to not lick the bowl. Isobel filled it with Jam and topped it with chocolate and hazelnut spread, then decorated it with chocolate buttons and glitter. All of which I didn't succumb to either while making it or after Gemma cut it. However the remainder of the chocolate spread was in the fridge, OPEN! Oh dear. Thank goodness there wasn't much in it.
Friday morning, the dogs and I had a really good walk up the Spen Valley Greenway. We went up the Greenway playing with the ball and walking at a fairly relaxed normal place. It took us 55 minutes in all. I decided the return journey was going to be different. We stepped up the pace and didn't mess about and it only took us 35 minutes.
Steps on the Greenway
A view from a tunnel on the Greenway
I lost another three pounds in the second week of the Octoberthon so 8lbs in total.
Sunday I was at Derby comping day so we decided to stop at the hotel in Mickleover overnight. When we got there we all decided to go use the swimming pool. Small but okay with a jacuzzi and steam and sauna rooms. Did a bit of swimming but I had developed a dodgy knee the night before so I didn't do too much. Went in the jacuzzi and steam room too and then rejoined Claire.
Later we went for a meal in the restaurant. It was a full three course job but once again I exercised restraint although I did have a small pudding of pear and rice pudding.
View from the hotel window on Sunday morning
Sunday was the first day that I didn't do any exercise as it was the comping day. A lot of sitting down done today. However my halo is intact despite there being two packs of biscuits on the table I didn't have any. At lunch there was cake on the table, Claire, my friend had mine. Then during the afternoon, chocolate cake, carrot cake and fruit cake all appeared but I firmly turned them down. Claire had mine again.
This week I haven't done much exercise and I am feeling like my resolve is weakening. I walked to and from the car on Monday and Tuesday. Had a good long walk with the dogs to Drighlington and back on Wednesday and a nice walk on Thursday with them.
Thursday night though we went out for a meal from work. We went to the Aakash in Cleckheaton where it is a buffet meal. I asked if I could have a straight meal instead and they agreed. I didn't have a starter, extras or pudding.
I have been busy doing things. Walking, aquafit, swimming etc and despite being tempted umpteen times I have only been a tiny bit naughty once.
Last Thursday I made a chocolate cake for my friend Gemma's birthday. I managed to not lick the bowl. Isobel filled it with Jam and topped it with chocolate and hazelnut spread, then decorated it with chocolate buttons and glitter. All of which I didn't succumb to either while making it or after Gemma cut it. However the remainder of the chocolate spread was in the fridge, OPEN! Oh dear. Thank goodness there wasn't much in it.
Friday morning, the dogs and I had a really good walk up the Spen Valley Greenway. We went up the Greenway playing with the ball and walking at a fairly relaxed normal place. It took us 55 minutes in all. I decided the return journey was going to be different. We stepped up the pace and didn't mess about and it only took us 35 minutes.
Steps on the Greenway
A view from a tunnel on the Greenway
I lost another three pounds in the second week of the Octoberthon so 8lbs in total.
Sunday I was at Derby comping day so we decided to stop at the hotel in Mickleover overnight. When we got there we all decided to go use the swimming pool. Small but okay with a jacuzzi and steam and sauna rooms. Did a bit of swimming but I had developed a dodgy knee the night before so I didn't do too much. Went in the jacuzzi and steam room too and then rejoined Claire.
Later we went for a meal in the restaurant. It was a full three course job but once again I exercised restraint although I did have a small pudding of pear and rice pudding.
View from the hotel window on Sunday morning
Sunday was the first day that I didn't do any exercise as it was the comping day. A lot of sitting down done today. However my halo is intact despite there being two packs of biscuits on the table I didn't have any. At lunch there was cake on the table, Claire, my friend had mine. Then during the afternoon, chocolate cake, carrot cake and fruit cake all appeared but I firmly turned them down. Claire had mine again.
This week I haven't done much exercise and I am feeling like my resolve is weakening. I walked to and from the car on Monday and Tuesday. Had a good long walk with the dogs to Drighlington and back on Wednesday and a nice walk on Thursday with them.
Thursday night though we went out for a meal from work. We went to the Aakash in Cleckheaton where it is a buffet meal. I asked if I could have a straight meal instead and they agreed. I didn't have a starter, extras or pudding.
Friday 8 October 2010
AN EARLY WALK
I was up at 6am this morning partly because I had forgotten to put the dustbin out to be emptied and partly because I was going out for the day so I wanted to get the dogs walked early.
Bear was a pain though as he gets so excited and starts barking and boy, can that dog bark loudly. Thought about going down the moor but it was pitch dark and I didn't fancy that straightaway. So we walked down our road and turned off up Moorlands Road which leads on to the second moor. There is a large parcel depot next to this which is lit up day and night so I could see enough to be able to throw the ball for the dogs for a bit. Despite that if the ball was more than 20 yards in front of me I couldn't see it.
We then walked round the streets in Birkenshaw, took a snicket, a few twists and turns and eventually came back up to another snicket which leads onto a small road between the two moors. By now it was getting light and I didn't feel afraid to go up the top moor.
Then all too soon we were home again. It had got very misty but it was surprisingly mild.
About 9.20am Carol, Janet and myself set off to go to near Mablethorpe in Lincolnshire to see Olga who was our supervisor many, many moons ago. She is 78 now and her hip has suddenly collapsed so she is walking with a zimmer frame. We went out for lunch across the road from where she lives and as usual we were the last people in the place. Lovely meal but I avoided the biscuit that came with the coffee and any desserts.
We went back to Olga's house and carried on chatting until she insisted on us having something to eat. So while they tucked into cheese and biscuits and cheesecake and choccy biscuits I was absolutely angelic and just had two pieces of toast.
Oh and i got weighed this morning......have lost 5lbs this week. 15st 11 to 15st 6. Woo hoo.
Bear was a pain though as he gets so excited and starts barking and boy, can that dog bark loudly. Thought about going down the moor but it was pitch dark and I didn't fancy that straightaway. So we walked down our road and turned off up Moorlands Road which leads on to the second moor. There is a large parcel depot next to this which is lit up day and night so I could see enough to be able to throw the ball for the dogs for a bit. Despite that if the ball was more than 20 yards in front of me I couldn't see it.
We then walked round the streets in Birkenshaw, took a snicket, a few twists and turns and eventually came back up to another snicket which leads onto a small road between the two moors. By now it was getting light and I didn't feel afraid to go up the top moor.
Then all too soon we were home again. It had got very misty but it was surprisingly mild.
About 9.20am Carol, Janet and myself set off to go to near Mablethorpe in Lincolnshire to see Olga who was our supervisor many, many moons ago. She is 78 now and her hip has suddenly collapsed so she is walking with a zimmer frame. We went out for lunch across the road from where she lives and as usual we were the last people in the place. Lovely meal but I avoided the biscuit that came with the coffee and any desserts.
We went back to Olga's house and carried on chatting until she insisted on us having something to eat. So while they tucked into cheese and biscuits and cheesecake and choccy biscuits I was absolutely angelic and just had two pieces of toast.
Oh and i got weighed this morning......have lost 5lbs this week. 15st 11 to 15st 6. Woo hoo.
Thursday 7 October 2010
Water, Walking and Circuits.
Tong Moor Side
Well Octoberthon isn't going to badly.
Monday and Tuesday 4th and 5th October, the exercise I took was walking to and from the car when it was parked up for work. It is about a ten minute walk each way and coming back to the car is a fair trek up hill. I know that's a bit of a cheat for the exercise bit but Monday we went to see Evita at the Alhambra so I didn't have any other chance to do anything else. Tuesday we went to do the weekly shopping so it included more walking. I also resisted temptation of an ice-cream or sweets at the theatre.
Wednesday 6th October. Not a work day so decided to go to aquarobics at lunchtime. That's about three quarters of an hour of exercise that is pretty energetic if you make it that way. My arms were aching after the session as I had been using the big 'weights' in the water.
After that session I went into the lanes part of the pool and completed 30 lengths in 20 minutes.
Thursday 7th October. This morning the weather was beautiful so I decided to go for a bit of a longer walk. We set off down the moors as usual and Bear was very excitable. We stopped at the top end of the moor for a ball throwing and fetching session. Then we wandered down the rest of the first moor and down to the second one. At the bottom of there we have another session of ball throwing. That seems to get some of the spring out of Bear's legs and settle him down a bit.
Red Clover in October
Evie
Bear
We then cross the road and go on down a track past a farm or two.
Initially this is a nice walk but as the track rounds the corner a bit and narrows we come across an absolute mound of tyres that have been dumped. This is not a nice thing to see at all. However round the next corner there is a long secluded track and there are mounds of rubbish starting with a very big mound.
Most of this is due to flytipping as they can't be seen from the road. It is a disgusting sight.
When we come to the end of this road we are actually at the side of a very busy bypass so Evie and Bear are back on their leads. We turn a corner and walk down a fairly busy road and back into Birkenshaw. Up Old Lane and then take a road of there and we eventually come into St Pauls church yard. The view from the back of the church and churchyard
They have recently tidied up the old part of the graveyard and cut back trees and overgrown bushes and put a footpath in. There are some interesting gravestones and sometimes you wish you knew the story behind the people buried there. My ex husband's Grandma and Grandad's ashes are buried in this churchyard so I always go and say hello when I walk through.
We then walk up Bradford Road for a while until we take a footpath off which leads across farmland and through the farmyard. There are some good views from this land as it is high up. Across another field and through a snicket and we come out back in our own village of East Bierley, right by the village pond. This is just behind the junior school that Isobel used to attend. A walk back on the road and we are home.
We were out about 1.5 hours in total.
This evening I went circuit training. I think that was a reasonable amount of exercise for the last two days.
Well Octoberthon isn't going to badly.
Monday and Tuesday 4th and 5th October, the exercise I took was walking to and from the car when it was parked up for work. It is about a ten minute walk each way and coming back to the car is a fair trek up hill. I know that's a bit of a cheat for the exercise bit but Monday we went to see Evita at the Alhambra so I didn't have any other chance to do anything else. Tuesday we went to do the weekly shopping so it included more walking. I also resisted temptation of an ice-cream or sweets at the theatre.
Wednesday 6th October. Not a work day so decided to go to aquarobics at lunchtime. That's about three quarters of an hour of exercise that is pretty energetic if you make it that way. My arms were aching after the session as I had been using the big 'weights' in the water.
After that session I went into the lanes part of the pool and completed 30 lengths in 20 minutes.
Thursday 7th October. This morning the weather was beautiful so I decided to go for a bit of a longer walk. We set off down the moors as usual and Bear was very excitable. We stopped at the top end of the moor for a ball throwing and fetching session. Then we wandered down the rest of the first moor and down to the second one. At the bottom of there we have another session of ball throwing. That seems to get some of the spring out of Bear's legs and settle him down a bit.
Red Clover in October
Evie
Bear
We then cross the road and go on down a track past a farm or two.
Initially this is a nice walk but as the track rounds the corner a bit and narrows we come across an absolute mound of tyres that have been dumped. This is not a nice thing to see at all. However round the next corner there is a long secluded track and there are mounds of rubbish starting with a very big mound.
Most of this is due to flytipping as they can't be seen from the road. It is a disgusting sight.
When we come to the end of this road we are actually at the side of a very busy bypass so Evie and Bear are back on their leads. We turn a corner and walk down a fairly busy road and back into Birkenshaw. Up Old Lane and then take a road of there and we eventually come into St Pauls church yard. The view from the back of the church and churchyard
They have recently tidied up the old part of the graveyard and cut back trees and overgrown bushes and put a footpath in. There are some interesting gravestones and sometimes you wish you knew the story behind the people buried there. My ex husband's Grandma and Grandad's ashes are buried in this churchyard so I always go and say hello when I walk through.
We then walk up Bradford Road for a while until we take a footpath off which leads across farmland and through the farmyard. There are some good views from this land as it is high up. Across another field and through a snicket and we come out back in our own village of East Bierley, right by the village pond. This is just behind the junior school that Isobel used to attend. A walk back on the road and we are home.
We were out about 1.5 hours in total.
This evening I went circuit training. I think that was a reasonable amount of exercise for the last two days.
Sunday 3 October 2010
A lazy day.
After two very late nights I had nothing planned for today so managed to turn over and go back to sleep when the alarm went off. Eventually got up around 10am which is almost unheard of for me. Didn't do anything of interest really as it was absolutely pouring down all morning and for most of the afternoon.
About 5pm I took the dogs out for their walkies. The sun was out but everything was very, very soggy. We did our usual playing with the ball, walking a bit, playing with the ball and then carried on with the walk. We went down Tong Moorside and out into Birkenshaw. Down Station Lane and up Bradford Road. We then crossed Light's farm and back into East Bierley and then home. I fulfilled my exercise quota and again didn't fall prey to temptation on the food front despite being tempted to a Cornetto by my dear daughter.
About 5pm I took the dogs out for their walkies. The sun was out but everything was very, very soggy. We did our usual playing with the ball, walking a bit, playing with the ball and then carried on with the walk. We went down Tong Moorside and out into Birkenshaw. Down Station Lane and up Bradford Road. We then crossed Light's farm and back into East Bierley and then home. I fulfilled my exercise quota and again didn't fall prey to temptation on the food front despite being tempted to a Cornetto by my dear daughter.
Blackpool Trip
Yesterday I was up early, too early really.
Got on the coach with Isobelto go to Blackpool and had a pretty uneventful journey. By the time we got off the coach I was desperate for the loo and McDonalds was the nearest place to go to. It was nearly lunchtime anyway so I got a Deli sandwich and Isobel got a McChicken Sandwich.
We then walked for a good 20 minutes or so down to the Pleasure Beach. Once we got through the entrance wearing our shiny new wristbands the sky was the limit for the rides. The main one I wanted to get on was The Big One, never quite managed it for one reason or another. They said it would open later on.
So first up we queued for the Ghost Train. Pathetic is not the word for it. There weren't even any dangly bits to give you the creeps. Next we headed for the Space Invader as that was my favourite ride. I noticed it wasn't mentioned on the leaflet but someone in the Ghost Train queue told me they had seen it. Unfortunately the building for it is still there but the ride was closed down for some reason.
Next we walked round to the Revolution. Been on this numerous times before but Isobel never had. There was quite a queue again but we eventually got there. All too soon it was over and we were back in the start position. Boy that made my head feel fuzzy.
We had a wander around and decided on the Steeplechase next. This is a ride where you sit on a mechanical horse and go round a race track. There was only a seat belt holding us on the horse and it took some severe swings at times. Good fun though.
Next up we went on the Gold Mine. Rather like the Ghost Train without the weird bits. In fact the actual ride was better than The Ghost Train but very tame.
I suggested we go and try Valhalla but Isobel wasn't keen as it meant getting wet. The signs outside it say you will get wet and you may get soaking wet. I had my waterproof jacket on but Isobel only had a hoodie and jeans. I noticed that they were selling plastic capes for £1.50 as we got further down the queue so I bought her one. When we got inside the building there were Viking Longships slowly making their way through but never stopping so you had to be quick to get on. I pulled my hood up and made sure my bag was well covered by my jacket. Then the fun began. We started by going through a wall of water and down a dark tunnel. There were several places where water was squirting at us. We went through a windy place, a very hot part and a freezing cold part. All the while the boat was sloshing through the water and it got everywhere. Even our underwear was damp!
We decided to have a break after this and have something to eat. After an expensive cheese and ham toastie and a coffee we set off again. We had a bit of a play on the 2p machines and then went to the Ice Blast. Another long queue and my feet were aching by now. We eventually got our turn on this high tower ride. It is one of those where it shoots you to the top of the tower very suddenly and very fast and then stops and drops you just as suddenly. There was a good view of the sea from the top. My one regret is the The Big One never did open so I missed out again.
We had both had enough by now so we started the walk back towards the coach park. Isobel wanted some rock or rather a rock dummy so I indulged her. Then we walked on.
A quick visit to Home Bargains for some bottled water for the return journey and then we went to MaccyD's again so that Isobel could get a bite to eat before we set off back again. As it turns out I'm glad we did that.
We got back on the coach and they headed for the North end of Blackpool so that we could ride through the lights. Goodness knows what happened but we were two hours waiting in a line of traffic before we even started on the lights. Both of us had fallen asleep before we got to them. I did wake briefly and saw some Alice in Wonderland lights.
They cut the lights short and we headed home. All was going well until nearly home when we hit four lanes of traffic. They had shut all but one lane further up to rebuild a bridge and it caused horrendous tailbacks. We eventually got home around midnight.
At least I had done my quota of exercise and I hadn't given in to temptation of any rubbishy food etc.
Got on the coach with Isobelto go to Blackpool and had a pretty uneventful journey. By the time we got off the coach I was desperate for the loo and McDonalds was the nearest place to go to. It was nearly lunchtime anyway so I got a Deli sandwich and Isobel got a McChicken Sandwich.
We then walked for a good 20 minutes or so down to the Pleasure Beach. Once we got through the entrance wearing our shiny new wristbands the sky was the limit for the rides. The main one I wanted to get on was The Big One, never quite managed it for one reason or another. They said it would open later on.
So first up we queued for the Ghost Train. Pathetic is not the word for it. There weren't even any dangly bits to give you the creeps. Next we headed for the Space Invader as that was my favourite ride. I noticed it wasn't mentioned on the leaflet but someone in the Ghost Train queue told me they had seen it. Unfortunately the building for it is still there but the ride was closed down for some reason.
Next we walked round to the Revolution. Been on this numerous times before but Isobel never had. There was quite a queue again but we eventually got there. All too soon it was over and we were back in the start position. Boy that made my head feel fuzzy.
We had a wander around and decided on the Steeplechase next. This is a ride where you sit on a mechanical horse and go round a race track. There was only a seat belt holding us on the horse and it took some severe swings at times. Good fun though.
Next up we went on the Gold Mine. Rather like the Ghost Train without the weird bits. In fact the actual ride was better than The Ghost Train but very tame.
I suggested we go and try Valhalla but Isobel wasn't keen as it meant getting wet. The signs outside it say you will get wet and you may get soaking wet. I had my waterproof jacket on but Isobel only had a hoodie and jeans. I noticed that they were selling plastic capes for £1.50 as we got further down the queue so I bought her one. When we got inside the building there were Viking Longships slowly making their way through but never stopping so you had to be quick to get on. I pulled my hood up and made sure my bag was well covered by my jacket. Then the fun began. We started by going through a wall of water and down a dark tunnel. There were several places where water was squirting at us. We went through a windy place, a very hot part and a freezing cold part. All the while the boat was sloshing through the water and it got everywhere. Even our underwear was damp!
We decided to have a break after this and have something to eat. After an expensive cheese and ham toastie and a coffee we set off again. We had a bit of a play on the 2p machines and then went to the Ice Blast. Another long queue and my feet were aching by now. We eventually got our turn on this high tower ride. It is one of those where it shoots you to the top of the tower very suddenly and very fast and then stops and drops you just as suddenly. There was a good view of the sea from the top. My one regret is the The Big One never did open so I missed out again.
We had both had enough by now so we started the walk back towards the coach park. Isobel wanted some rock or rather a rock dummy so I indulged her. Then we walked on.
A quick visit to Home Bargains for some bottled water for the return journey and then we went to MaccyD's again so that Isobel could get a bite to eat before we set off back again. As it turns out I'm glad we did that.
We got back on the coach and they headed for the North end of Blackpool so that we could ride through the lights. Goodness knows what happened but we were two hours waiting in a line of traffic before we even started on the lights. Both of us had fallen asleep before we got to them. I did wake briefly and saw some Alice in Wonderland lights.
They cut the lights short and we headed home. All was going well until nearly home when we hit four lanes of traffic. They had shut all but one lane further up to rebuild a bridge and it caused horrendous tailbacks. We eventually got home around midnight.
At least I had done my quota of exercise and I hadn't given in to temptation of any rubbishy food etc.
Saturday 2 October 2010
Octoberthon
I have challenged myself to get a kickstart on things again. Decided that for the month of October I am going to try not to eat sweet and rubbishy stuff. I am also going to do some kind of exercise each day.
Yesterday was DAY ONE. Even though it was bouncing down with rain so hard that it literally bounced of my eyeballs I was out walking with the dogs.
It was nothing exciting but it definitely was WET. We still played ball despite the rain coming down so hard that we could hardly see it at times. We were out walking for about 45 minutes in all.
When we got back the dogs were so wet I had to throw them straight in the utility room and run upstairs and get towels. Poor little Evie was happy for me to dry her off and then snuggled up in her bed. Bear wasn't as happy for me to dry him off but it was more necessary as he is big and long-haired. He did let me sort him out though thankfully. He was still damp in the evening and we had been out walking in the morning.
Anyway we are off to Blackpool today so there should be some walking involved there too will report back later.
Yesterday was DAY ONE. Even though it was bouncing down with rain so hard that it literally bounced of my eyeballs I was out walking with the dogs.
It was nothing exciting but it definitely was WET. We still played ball despite the rain coming down so hard that we could hardly see it at times. We were out walking for about 45 minutes in all.
When we got back the dogs were so wet I had to throw them straight in the utility room and run upstairs and get towels. Poor little Evie was happy for me to dry her off and then snuggled up in her bed. Bear wasn't as happy for me to dry him off but it was more necessary as he is big and long-haired. He did let me sort him out though thankfully. He was still damp in the evening and we had been out walking in the morning.
Anyway we are off to Blackpool today so there should be some walking involved there too will report back later.
Sunday 5 September 2010
Catch up!
I have been very sporadic where exercise is concerned for the last few weeks. Loads of things can be used as excuses but nothing serious so it's history.
A few weeks ago Peter, Isobel and myself decided to start walking the Calder and Hebble Navigation from it's beginning in Wakefield. Peter is still suffering with his back (slipped disc back in Feb) so we weren't going for a long walk.
We arrived at where we thought the start point was but couldn't find it. We found the river which the canal dips in and out of along the way but it took us a couple of miles of walking around Wakefield to actually find the canal. It was an inauspicious start as we had to walk down an industrial estate and climb over a bridge that spanned a wall. The path was very narrow and hardly looked like a path at all.
Fairly soon the path widened a bit and there were tons of big, beautiful blackberries just waiting to be picked. What a shame we hadn't taken anything with us that we could put them in.
We wandered on a bit further and came across a small pear tree. Again this was absolutely loaded with fruit but they were unripe. The branches were bending with the weight of them already though.
A little further along we came across a tree with yellow fruit on which we weren't sure about to begin with but them I realised they were yellow plums. We picked a few and ate them and they were sweet and juicy. Again there were loads of fruit on the tree. This was turning into a food trail.
The next thing we came across was a red plum tree. We tried them but they were quite sour but yet again there was a lot of fruit on the tree. There was another red plum tree further up.
We had walked about two miles along the canal and were surprised and delighted by the amount of free food that was available in such a short distance. We really enjoyed our little walk and the dogs did too. We will be following more of this canal when time permits.
Last Monday was a bank holiday so we went up to North Yorkshire with the canoes. There was a bit more water in the river this time but still not a lot. We just played in the water at the bottom mainly and did a bit of surfing on the small weirs. It's all good for exercise and practice.
Yesterday my friend rang me and asked if I fancied a short cycle ride on the Greenway today. I jumped at the chance.
When I got to her house I found there were going to be four of us in all and possible a fifth person too. Three of us had cycled to Hamm in Germany and back two years ago and the other lad was a mate of Graham's (there was Nin, Graham, Adam and myself). The other person didn't turn up. We cycled from Nin's house to the Greenway which isn't far away. Then we went the full length of the Greenway.
The Greenway has been closed for the best part of a year in parts due to a massive great new sewer pipe being put in. This is the first time I have been down it since it re-opened. A lot of the trees and shrubbery have been removed due to the scale of the work that has gone on.
Nin and Graham were quite speedy right from the start but Adam is an inexperienced cyclist and was lagging even behind me. The outward journey is gently downhill and very pleasant. It passes through urban, suburban and rural areas and is used by cyclists, walkers and horseriders (and the occasional skater and skier).
At the end of the Greenway is where the river joins with the canal and we had a short rest here before starting the return journey. This is when Nin and Graham seemed to take off and I felt sorry for Adam and used it as an excuse to ride more steadily with him. The other two waited for us further up the track and we carried on up the rest of the way. At the top we had a choice of routes via road. Whichever way we were to go it would be uphill. we eventually arrived back at Nin's house where her husband had laid on sandwiches, crisps, pork pie, iced water and coffee.
Adam's nether regions and legs were killing him, Graham's back was playing up and by the time I had cycled up another long hill to get home my quads were aching but at least I am back into the exercise and hopefully I will get back to losing a few pounds along the way.
Sunday 4 July 2010
Jane Tomlinson - Leeds 10k Run For All
Saturday 26th June
I've missed a week and can't remember everything I have done in that time.
Not really a testing time today except of nerves. There was an event in a local park called Cyclefest and I volunteered to help out with the Disabled Cycling Club. However three days before I got an email from Richard who did the German cycle ride with me. He was going in fancy dress as Daddy Bear and using one of the cycles from the cycling club to tow Mummy and Baby Bear (who were teddies by the way) but he wanted a Goldilocks. Yours truly stepped up to the mark.
Short white broderie anglaise dress bought and dyed bright yellow. Long blonde wig with an oversized yellow bow on top. White pumps and white ankle socks. Got some funny looks as I stepped out of the van in the park!
Francine and Malcolm dressed in their Christmas outfits and Richard and I dressed in our ensemble then left the park on our bikes and cycled into town. Two drunks sat on a wall wondered what was in their drink, thank goodness we weren't pink elephants!
We met up with lots of other cyclists in Centenary Square none of whom were in fancy dress but plenty of familiar faces. We then had a Police escort on bikes out of town and back up to the park.. There must have been 40 to 50 of us altogether.
We travelled slowly for the benefit of the less abled and children. So I was waving my wooden spoon at people on buses and shouting 'morning, have you had your porridge?' to anyone we passed. There were a lot of smiles around even in the traffic queues.
We cycled back into the park where lots of stalls were now in evidence and the Cyclefest began. What a great day!
When I left there I came home got myself sorted out, picked up the dogs and went up to Sleningford to join Peter and Isobel (and Isobel's friend , Leah) for the family weekend with the canoe club.
Sunday 27th June
Got up and had a fairly easy morning. The girls were up and in the water pretty early and out again before we got in. We hadn't taken a canoe up as there wasn't much water in the river and Peter's back has been really off again. We did take an inflatable dinghy though so we messed about in that. Some of the club did come down from The Hole to the bottom of the campsite but it wasn't easy as there was more rocks than water.
We went up to the hole with the dinghy but both of us in it made it too heavy and every rock could be felt through the bottom of the boat. Peter did The Hole and I walked down the side of the river which is harder than you think. Further down I took the boat over the last couple of little weirs but bruised my shins on the rocks.
We stayed on the campsite until about 3ish as we knew England was playing in the World Cup so the roads would be quiet! (They lost to Germany 4-1, silly buggers).
Thursday 1st July
Was up early and took the dogs out for a walk at about 6.30am. It's nice at that time as there aren't many people and, more importantly, very few dogs about.
At lunchtime I went swimming and managed 72 lengths (1.5 miles) in 61 minutes. Not bad for a person who does breast stroke and not crawl. I am thinking of doing some lessons to learn to crawl poroperly though.
Evening I went circuit training and took Liz a cycle helmet, drinks bottle and puncture repair outfit that I had blagged from the Cyclefest. She was chuffed to bits.
Friday 2nd July
This morning I had arranged to go cycling with Liz. Went over to her house as she is close to the Leeds Liverpool canal. We joined the canal at Crossflatts, Bingley and set off gently. She complained her backside was aching. I thought the seat was way too low but my allen keys didn't fit. We stopped off at Ellis Briggs cycle shop which is right alongside the canal. He raised it for her and then I he said the seat wasn't suitable for her as it was a man's seat. I suggested she looked at what was on offer and she found one she liked and bought it and got it fitted.
We carried on down the canalside spotting ducks with ducklings, a family of swans and some geese and their goslings. There was also a cheeky squirrel on the towpath.
We got to just under the 7 mile mark and to another set of locks so we decided to use that as a marker and a turnaround point. Liz seemed to be enjoying herself although she did tend to go really slow or speed up and brag that she was ahead of me!
We got back to Liz's house a tad under 14 miles after having to negotiate our way around a family of swans whose dad was a little aggressive and protective. So we cycled round the block to make it 14.1 miles in total.
Saturday 3rd July
Was up early again and out with the dogs. After the usual playing on the moor to get rid of some of their excess energy we carried on for a proper walk. Across fields they both raced after the bunnies. They would come back to check I was still about then chase more bunnies. Thankfully neither of them are fast enough to catch them but it does give them some good exercise. We were out about 1.5 hours in all. The dogs were shattered for the rest of the day.
Isobel is away at Guide camo so Peter and I weren't sure what we were going to do today but he suggested we look at an event called Cliffhanger that was advertised on the radio. We decided to go to Sheffield to this.
First thing we saw as we arrived was Robin Hood Water Sports and someone we knew from the canoe club. After a short chat we set off round the events. There was a bouldering competition (climbing without ropes) going on and various cycling exhibitions. Lots of stalls and some fun stuff like having a go at learning to ride a unicycle and zip wires. We enjoyed the event.
Then we had a wander around Decathlon (a very big and comprehensive sports shop) and I bought a very bright yellow cycling type top in the biggest size possible. Good day.
Sunday 4th July
Up early again (this is getting to be a habit) and out for a walk with the dogs by 6.30am. Cooler and more overcast today thankfully as I am doing the Jane Tomlinson 10k run today in Leeds.
Got there on time and we were soon herded round to the start. Grabbed a bottle of Gatorade to help me along the way. Couldn't hear what was being said on the tannoys and stage so had a chat to a lady who was also on her own. Then things started moving and we were off.
Set off steadily and ran for the first 15 minutes. Then moved to doing what I had planned r3/w1. This seemed to work well and although it was warm I didn't feel too bad. Just before the halfway point I saw a girl holding her arm and bending forward, she went straight to the first aider. Hope she was okay.
Just after the turnaround point there was another Gatorade station but I don't know why they give it to you in cups here. How can you carry on running and drink the darned stuff. I poured mine into my empty bottle and carried on. The r/w was working well for me until the last 2k. Then it started getting a bit muddled so I tried r2/w1, r2/w2 and r1/w1 until i knew I was on the downward home straight. I still didn't feel too bad. Right in front of me nearly at the finish was a blind runner roped to a sighted runner. Unfortunately he tripped on the finish mat and fell quite heavily right in front of me. If I'd been any closer I would have gone over them.
Anyway my finish was 1.14.05 which is about six minutes faster than last year.
I've missed a week and can't remember everything I have done in that time.
Not really a testing time today except of nerves. There was an event in a local park called Cyclefest and I volunteered to help out with the Disabled Cycling Club. However three days before I got an email from Richard who did the German cycle ride with me. He was going in fancy dress as Daddy Bear and using one of the cycles from the cycling club to tow Mummy and Baby Bear (who were teddies by the way) but he wanted a Goldilocks. Yours truly stepped up to the mark.
Short white broderie anglaise dress bought and dyed bright yellow. Long blonde wig with an oversized yellow bow on top. White pumps and white ankle socks. Got some funny looks as I stepped out of the van in the park!
Francine and Malcolm dressed in their Christmas outfits and Richard and I dressed in our ensemble then left the park on our bikes and cycled into town. Two drunks sat on a wall wondered what was in their drink, thank goodness we weren't pink elephants!
We met up with lots of other cyclists in Centenary Square none of whom were in fancy dress but plenty of familiar faces. We then had a Police escort on bikes out of town and back up to the park.. There must have been 40 to 50 of us altogether.
We travelled slowly for the benefit of the less abled and children. So I was waving my wooden spoon at people on buses and shouting 'morning, have you had your porridge?' to anyone we passed. There were a lot of smiles around even in the traffic queues.
We cycled back into the park where lots of stalls were now in evidence and the Cyclefest began. What a great day!
When I left there I came home got myself sorted out, picked up the dogs and went up to Sleningford to join Peter and Isobel (and Isobel's friend , Leah) for the family weekend with the canoe club.
Sunday 27th June
Got up and had a fairly easy morning. The girls were up and in the water pretty early and out again before we got in. We hadn't taken a canoe up as there wasn't much water in the river and Peter's back has been really off again. We did take an inflatable dinghy though so we messed about in that. Some of the club did come down from The Hole to the bottom of the campsite but it wasn't easy as there was more rocks than water.
We went up to the hole with the dinghy but both of us in it made it too heavy and every rock could be felt through the bottom of the boat. Peter did The Hole and I walked down the side of the river which is harder than you think. Further down I took the boat over the last couple of little weirs but bruised my shins on the rocks.
We stayed on the campsite until about 3ish as we knew England was playing in the World Cup so the roads would be quiet! (They lost to Germany 4-1, silly buggers).
Thursday 1st July
Was up early and took the dogs out for a walk at about 6.30am. It's nice at that time as there aren't many people and, more importantly, very few dogs about.
At lunchtime I went swimming and managed 72 lengths (1.5 miles) in 61 minutes. Not bad for a person who does breast stroke and not crawl. I am thinking of doing some lessons to learn to crawl poroperly though.
Evening I went circuit training and took Liz a cycle helmet, drinks bottle and puncture repair outfit that I had blagged from the Cyclefest. She was chuffed to bits.
Friday 2nd July
This morning I had arranged to go cycling with Liz. Went over to her house as she is close to the Leeds Liverpool canal. We joined the canal at Crossflatts, Bingley and set off gently. She complained her backside was aching. I thought the seat was way too low but my allen keys didn't fit. We stopped off at Ellis Briggs cycle shop which is right alongside the canal. He raised it for her and then I he said the seat wasn't suitable for her as it was a man's seat. I suggested she looked at what was on offer and she found one she liked and bought it and got it fitted.
We carried on down the canalside spotting ducks with ducklings, a family of swans and some geese and their goslings. There was also a cheeky squirrel on the towpath.
We got to just under the 7 mile mark and to another set of locks so we decided to use that as a marker and a turnaround point. Liz seemed to be enjoying herself although she did tend to go really slow or speed up and brag that she was ahead of me!
We got back to Liz's house a tad under 14 miles after having to negotiate our way around a family of swans whose dad was a little aggressive and protective. So we cycled round the block to make it 14.1 miles in total.
Saturday 3rd July
Was up early again and out with the dogs. After the usual playing on the moor to get rid of some of their excess energy we carried on for a proper walk. Across fields they both raced after the bunnies. They would come back to check I was still about then chase more bunnies. Thankfully neither of them are fast enough to catch them but it does give them some good exercise. We were out about 1.5 hours in all. The dogs were shattered for the rest of the day.
Isobel is away at Guide camo so Peter and I weren't sure what we were going to do today but he suggested we look at an event called Cliffhanger that was advertised on the radio. We decided to go to Sheffield to this.
First thing we saw as we arrived was Robin Hood Water Sports and someone we knew from the canoe club. After a short chat we set off round the events. There was a bouldering competition (climbing without ropes) going on and various cycling exhibitions. Lots of stalls and some fun stuff like having a go at learning to ride a unicycle and zip wires. We enjoyed the event.
Then we had a wander around Decathlon (a very big and comprehensive sports shop) and I bought a very bright yellow cycling type top in the biggest size possible. Good day.
Sunday 4th July
Up early again (this is getting to be a habit) and out for a walk with the dogs by 6.30am. Cooler and more overcast today thankfully as I am doing the Jane Tomlinson 10k run today in Leeds.
Got there on time and we were soon herded round to the start. Grabbed a bottle of Gatorade to help me along the way. Couldn't hear what was being said on the tannoys and stage so had a chat to a lady who was also on her own. Then things started moving and we were off.
Set off steadily and ran for the first 15 minutes. Then moved to doing what I had planned r3/w1. This seemed to work well and although it was warm I didn't feel too bad. Just before the halfway point I saw a girl holding her arm and bending forward, she went straight to the first aider. Hope she was okay.
Just after the turnaround point there was another Gatorade station but I don't know why they give it to you in cups here. How can you carry on running and drink the darned stuff. I poured mine into my empty bottle and carried on. The r/w was working well for me until the last 2k. Then it started getting a bit muddled so I tried r2/w1, r2/w2 and r1/w1 until i knew I was on the downward home straight. I still didn't feel too bad. Right in front of me nearly at the finish was a blind runner roped to a sighted runner. Unfortunately he tripped on the finish mat and fell quite heavily right in front of me. If I'd been any closer I would have gone over them.
Anyway my finish was 1.14.05 which is about six minutes faster than last year.
Saturday 19 June 2010
The good , the bad and the ugly (well not the ugly bit)
I've been a bit remiss at posting again!
Saturday June 12th
Isobel and I got up early and went to a car boot sale at Bramhope. It wasn't as big as we had expected so we didn'tbuy much. Isobel got a denim printed sleeping bag in really good condition for £2 and some pink hair spray for 20p. I got some pinking shears for £1.
On the way back we went into Otley and had a tootle round the charity shops there. We were talking about a friend called Gemma when not 10 minutes had passed and we bumped into her. She doesn't live anywhere near there so this was totally unexpected. Only things we bought there were for Isobel, a pair of denim shorts and a pair of board shorts.
We got home, got changed and sorted out our gear and went canoeing at Pugney's lake with the club. It was a lovely sunny day so there was a big turnout. Isobel played the game where you get out of the canoe and walk along a raft of other canoes, yes, she fell in! We really enjoyed ourselves today and it must have done the arms and core muscles good as we did plenty of actual paddling.
Sunday 13th June
Got up early and went for a run on Tong St. Did 49 minutes of r2.5/w1 minute. Didn't feel too bad either.
Monday 14th and Tuesday 15th June
Both work days so the only exercise I did was walking 10 minutes to and from the car.
Wednesday 16th June
Lovely sunny day so after getting up at some unearthly hour by accident (I thought it was an hour later than it really was) I took the dogs out for a walk. You can't sneak out with Bear as he barks very loudly as soon as he knows and even out on the street. We were out for 6.25am and had a lovely walk and it was so warm.
Decided that I was going for a bike ride today. Took the mountain bike on the back of the car down to Apperley Bridge and joined the Leeds Liverpool canal there. It was such a lovely morning that I felt really happy. Most other people seemed in a good mood too.
I felt good physically as well. I wasn't struggling at all and it was lovely to see the swans with their cygnets and the geese with their goslings. Disn't see many ducklings though.
I went as far as what I call Kildwick (not sure if it is or not but it is 12.1 miles from Apperley Bridge. Stopped at my usual spot by a bridge and found two ladies sat there. They were walkers and we had a rather nice chat.
We said our goodbyes and I set off back again. This time I stopped at the Five Rise Locks cafe and had a coffee and a piece of strawberry shortcake (well I needed to fuel up!) before completing my journey back at Apperley Bridge. What a fabulous day.
Thursday 17th June
After taking Isobel to school I took Evie to the Spen Valley Greenway for a run. Decided to move it up a notch and do R3/W1. It was a hot day and Evie struggled a bit poor little dog, she is about 11 years old and a bit rotund although she is losing it a bit now.
Despite the heat we managed 50 minutes of this so I was really pleased with that. When I got back Peter had already walked Bear.
Usually a busy day exercise wise for me but today Peter wanted me to go to the property auctions with him. We had put in an offer on a house in Birkenshaw but they told us to go to the auction. We did all the necessary registration etc and then bumped into someone I know. Her dad was selling a commercial property but as he isn't well she had come instead of him.
It was interesting seeing the prices that some properties were (or weren't) making. Eventually it got to the one we were after. Two other people were bidding but we got it for £2k less than we had offered originally so that was okay. It is a one bed mid terrace with a sitting tenant so nothing to do with this one as yet.
Peter and I went for a carvery to celebrate and we phoned Chris (our partner) who is on holiday in Greece to let him know we now have another property in the portfolio.
The planned circuit training didn't happen this evening as I found out that it was induction evening for parents at Isobel's new school. She hadn't told me so it was a good job I bumped into Tania at the auctions as it was her that told me.
Friday 18th June.
Well the Juneathon went well and truly down the drain. Today I had to go and get Peter's Father's Day presents so it was a wander around Aldi and then I went across the road to the retail park. Bumped into Monika who I used to know years ago and we had a chat about Carol who used to be my best mate until she got into Spiritualism and became very odd. She is even odder still apparently.
We didn't go canoeing tonight as Peter's back isn't too good again and I was being lazy.
Must try harder as it used to say on my school report!
Saturday June 12th
Isobel and I got up early and went to a car boot sale at Bramhope. It wasn't as big as we had expected so we didn'tbuy much. Isobel got a denim printed sleeping bag in really good condition for £2 and some pink hair spray for 20p. I got some pinking shears for £1.
On the way back we went into Otley and had a tootle round the charity shops there. We were talking about a friend called Gemma when not 10 minutes had passed and we bumped into her. She doesn't live anywhere near there so this was totally unexpected. Only things we bought there were for Isobel, a pair of denim shorts and a pair of board shorts.
We got home, got changed and sorted out our gear and went canoeing at Pugney's lake with the club. It was a lovely sunny day so there was a big turnout. Isobel played the game where you get out of the canoe and walk along a raft of other canoes, yes, she fell in! We really enjoyed ourselves today and it must have done the arms and core muscles good as we did plenty of actual paddling.
Sunday 13th June
Got up early and went for a run on Tong St. Did 49 minutes of r2.5/w1 minute. Didn't feel too bad either.
Monday 14th and Tuesday 15th June
Both work days so the only exercise I did was walking 10 minutes to and from the car.
Wednesday 16th June
Lovely sunny day so after getting up at some unearthly hour by accident (I thought it was an hour later than it really was) I took the dogs out for a walk. You can't sneak out with Bear as he barks very loudly as soon as he knows and even out on the street. We were out for 6.25am and had a lovely walk and it was so warm.
Decided that I was going for a bike ride today. Took the mountain bike on the back of the car down to Apperley Bridge and joined the Leeds Liverpool canal there. It was such a lovely morning that I felt really happy. Most other people seemed in a good mood too.
I felt good physically as well. I wasn't struggling at all and it was lovely to see the swans with their cygnets and the geese with their goslings. Disn't see many ducklings though.
I went as far as what I call Kildwick (not sure if it is or not but it is 12.1 miles from Apperley Bridge. Stopped at my usual spot by a bridge and found two ladies sat there. They were walkers and we had a rather nice chat.
We said our goodbyes and I set off back again. This time I stopped at the Five Rise Locks cafe and had a coffee and a piece of strawberry shortcake (well I needed to fuel up!) before completing my journey back at Apperley Bridge. What a fabulous day.
Thursday 17th June
After taking Isobel to school I took Evie to the Spen Valley Greenway for a run. Decided to move it up a notch and do R3/W1. It was a hot day and Evie struggled a bit poor little dog, she is about 11 years old and a bit rotund although she is losing it a bit now.
Despite the heat we managed 50 minutes of this so I was really pleased with that. When I got back Peter had already walked Bear.
Usually a busy day exercise wise for me but today Peter wanted me to go to the property auctions with him. We had put in an offer on a house in Birkenshaw but they told us to go to the auction. We did all the necessary registration etc and then bumped into someone I know. Her dad was selling a commercial property but as he isn't well she had come instead of him.
It was interesting seeing the prices that some properties were (or weren't) making. Eventually it got to the one we were after. Two other people were bidding but we got it for £2k less than we had offered originally so that was okay. It is a one bed mid terrace with a sitting tenant so nothing to do with this one as yet.
Peter and I went for a carvery to celebrate and we phoned Chris (our partner) who is on holiday in Greece to let him know we now have another property in the portfolio.
The planned circuit training didn't happen this evening as I found out that it was induction evening for parents at Isobel's new school. She hadn't told me so it was a good job I bumped into Tania at the auctions as it was her that told me.
Friday 18th June.
Well the Juneathon went well and truly down the drain. Today I had to go and get Peter's Father's Day presents so it was a wander around Aldi and then I went across the road to the retail park. Bumped into Monika who I used to know years ago and we had a chat about Carol who used to be my best mate until she got into Spiritualism and became very odd. She is even odder still apparently.
We didn't go canoeing tonight as Peter's back isn't too good again and I was being lazy.
Must try harder as it used to say on my school report!
Friday 11 June 2010
Cheating on the Juneathon!
Monday I was going to go swimming after work but I stayed at work a bit too long so missed out on the swimming. So my entries for Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday consist of a 10 minute walk to and from the car each day. I do park out of the city centre and leaving work it is all uphill back to the car. In my defence i also work on the second floor and climb 52 steps twice a day.
Thursday, I went swimming at Spenborough. Did 68 lengths in 59 minutes. That is four lengths short of a mile and a half. I would have done the other four but the attendants were chucking us out on time today. In the evening I went circuit training and enjoyed it.
Friday, I got up at a reasonable time and went running on the Greenway. Evie came with me and we did 49 minutes of r2.5/w1 minute. Can't say it was easy but I did it and enjoyed it.
Then I took Bear for a nice walk and he actually behaved himself. We only passed one dog and although he pulled he didn't bark at it. He did try chasing a squirrel that was up a tree though.
This evening we went canoeing at Batley Baths. Had a good evening but it was very busy in the pool tonight. Think I made up for the start of the week!
Thursday, I went swimming at Spenborough. Did 68 lengths in 59 minutes. That is four lengths short of a mile and a half. I would have done the other four but the attendants were chucking us out on time today. In the evening I went circuit training and enjoyed it.
Friday, I got up at a reasonable time and went running on the Greenway. Evie came with me and we did 49 minutes of r2.5/w1 minute. Can't say it was easy but I did it and enjoyed it.
Then I took Bear for a nice walk and he actually behaved himself. We only passed one dog and although he pulled he didn't bark at it. He did try chasing a squirrel that was up a tree though.
This evening we went canoeing at Batley Baths. Had a good evening but it was very busy in the pool tonight. Think I made up for the start of the week!
Sunday 6 June 2010
White water rafting
I've sort of spoiled my Juneathon as I didn't do anything yesterday. However I have done two things today so hopefully that kind of keeps me on track.
This morning I did 42 minutes of run 2/walk 1 minute. I got up early and was out of the door for 7.20 am. Found it a little more difficult than last time I went out but hopefully that is just a blip. The weather was cooler than of late but not raining. The streets were pretty quiet thankfully.
When I got back I got my canoeing gear ready as we were off up to the Washburn Valley to go whitewater rafting.
This is the reservoir that feeds the white water area. The bottom of the dam wall is where this starts.
Our canoe club, West Yorkshire Canoe Club, pay for the water to be released from a reservoir so we have guaranteed whitewater no matter what the weather has been doing.
We arrived and got ready fairly quickly and soon found we were in the next raft to go down. Steve Thorley-Lawson was guiding this one and after the briefing we were on the water. It was a fairly sedate journey down but we still got wet. Right at the last minute we went down a small weir and the passenger in front of me lost her balalnce and went overboard. In getting her back in we miss the disembarkation area so had to go a bit further downstream to where we used to get out. Luckily the van had seen it happen so came down to the car park to pick us up.
Second time down we went with George Harrap who is fairly new to guiding on his own but is due to take an assessment for it in October so wanted as much practice as possible. This time there was Chris, Paul, Peter and myself in so we had a right laugh. The ride was fairly tame though. When we got to the exit area, Peter jumped out to pull the boat in and didn't realise it was going to be so deep at the edge so went for a complete ducking.
There was a bit of a wait for the next go so we had some lunch and coffee and then wandered back up to the starting point. We got George again! This time he wanted to do a classic run, so no bumping or trying to get us out of the boat. He did some surfing in one of the bigger weirs though as he wanted to perfect the technique. We all survived this journey intact.
Fourth time around we managed to get Heath who is a complete headcase. He knew we were up for a bit of fun. He purposely hit every rock and tree possible and when it came to the weirs he tried his hardest to get us to tip someone out. Luckily I mostly spotted which way he was leaning and leaned the opposite way to counterbalalnce the raft. Having said that Peter did go overboard and hung on by a toe loop in the boat and I managed to pull him back in.
Heath then got Peter to jump into the front of the boat and we went over the big weir. He then turned the boat around and we paddled upstream and into the bottom of the weir and Peter got absolutely soaked by the freezing water. He then tried tipping the raft up in an eddy but again I counterbalanced this and he failed. We reached the bottom intact again.
We waited for the van to pick us up but this time there was all three rafts and a load of canoeists. I managed to jump into the front of the van thankfully and so did Sandra. Ken was driving but we had no idea how many people were in the back of the van with the canoes (the rafts and paddles were on a trailer). We counted people out, including us in the front, there were 22 of us in a Mercedes Sprinter van!!!! Health and Safety would have a field day with us.
After that I called it a day. It was raining hard and I was quite damp by then so starting to feel a bit cold.
This morning I did 42 minutes of run 2/walk 1 minute. I got up early and was out of the door for 7.20 am. Found it a little more difficult than last time I went out but hopefully that is just a blip. The weather was cooler than of late but not raining. The streets were pretty quiet thankfully.
When I got back I got my canoeing gear ready as we were off up to the Washburn Valley to go whitewater rafting.
This is the reservoir that feeds the white water area. The bottom of the dam wall is where this starts.
Our canoe club, West Yorkshire Canoe Club, pay for the water to be released from a reservoir so we have guaranteed whitewater no matter what the weather has been doing.
We arrived and got ready fairly quickly and soon found we were in the next raft to go down. Steve Thorley-Lawson was guiding this one and after the briefing we were on the water. It was a fairly sedate journey down but we still got wet. Right at the last minute we went down a small weir and the passenger in front of me lost her balalnce and went overboard. In getting her back in we miss the disembarkation area so had to go a bit further downstream to where we used to get out. Luckily the van had seen it happen so came down to the car park to pick us up.
Second time down we went with George Harrap who is fairly new to guiding on his own but is due to take an assessment for it in October so wanted as much practice as possible. This time there was Chris, Paul, Peter and myself in so we had a right laugh. The ride was fairly tame though. When we got to the exit area, Peter jumped out to pull the boat in and didn't realise it was going to be so deep at the edge so went for a complete ducking.
There was a bit of a wait for the next go so we had some lunch and coffee and then wandered back up to the starting point. We got George again! This time he wanted to do a classic run, so no bumping or trying to get us out of the boat. He did some surfing in one of the bigger weirs though as he wanted to perfect the technique. We all survived this journey intact.
Fourth time around we managed to get Heath who is a complete headcase. He knew we were up for a bit of fun. He purposely hit every rock and tree possible and when it came to the weirs he tried his hardest to get us to tip someone out. Luckily I mostly spotted which way he was leaning and leaned the opposite way to counterbalalnce the raft. Having said that Peter did go overboard and hung on by a toe loop in the boat and I managed to pull him back in.
Heath then got Peter to jump into the front of the boat and we went over the big weir. He then turned the boat around and we paddled upstream and into the bottom of the weir and Peter got absolutely soaked by the freezing water. He then tried tipping the raft up in an eddy but again I counterbalanced this and he failed. We reached the bottom intact again.
We waited for the van to pick us up but this time there was all three rafts and a load of canoeists. I managed to jump into the front of the van thankfully and so did Sandra. Ken was driving but we had no idea how many people were in the back of the van with the canoes (the rafts and paddles were on a trailer). We counted people out, including us in the front, there were 22 of us in a Mercedes Sprinter van!!!! Health and Safety would have a field day with us.
After that I called it a day. It was raining hard and I was quite damp by then so starting to feel a bit cold.
Friday 4 June 2010
A bit of canoeing
What a glorious da it has been today. The sun has been shining and I have been making scarcrows. It is our village's annual scarecrow festival starting tomorrow. Well our village and the next village do it.
Our scarecrows this year are going to be a Morris Dancer and Little Miss Muffet along with a spider.
Morris Dancer
Not the best picture but this is Little Miss Muffet and the spider is hanging from the tree above
Anyway this evening we had to go canoeing as we had to take the club's boat back with us. It was fairly quiet at the pool so we had a good paddle really. Nothing exciting happened except the staff wouldn't let us raft up and play the game where one of the younger kids walks along the whole raft of boats. Health and safety!
Our scarecrows this year are going to be a Morris Dancer and Little Miss Muffet along with a spider.
Morris Dancer
Not the best picture but this is Little Miss Muffet and the spider is hanging from the tree above
Anyway this evening we had to go canoeing as we had to take the club's boat back with us. It was fairly quiet at the pool so we had a good paddle really. Nothing exciting happened except the staff wouldn't let us raft up and play the game where one of the younger kids walks along the whole raft of boats. Health and safety!
Thursday 3 June 2010
Bowling, walking and circuits.
My daughter Isobel had a friend over to stay last night so I organised for us to go ten pin bowling. We had two games and I won both! It was good fun though I was a bit annoyed by them both accessing Facebook on her friends phone all the time.
We then went home and picked up the dogs and then drove to The Cow and Calf Rocks in Ilkley. It was fairly busy up there but we managed to find a parking space.
THE COW AND CALF ROCKS
Bear was pulling like a traction engine going up 'the Cow' but came unstuck when he came to a large rock. We had to 'hoik' him up it. We crossed the moorland and then went down a fairly steep ravine to a stream and up the other side. Leah had never done anything like this so was a bit surprised and a bit scared.
We carried on across more moorland until we came to a small wooded area. Isobel discovered a rope swimg in a tree but it wasn't very good so we carried on again. Leah thought our destination looked a long way off but was surprised how quickly we got there.
When we got to White Wells I was disappointed to find it was closed. I was hoping to get a drink there or at least show the girls the 'spa bath' ie a wide well of spring water. In Victorian times it was a spa that was supposed to have healing properties. These days people are challenged to plunge into the icy water on New Years Day...brrr!
We sat and rested a short while and then set off back again. We dropped down to the tarn which was full of tadpoles. It was also full of Evie very shortly as she adores water. After throwing a stone in for her she firstly came up with a much bigger stone and the second time she brought out a tree branch.
Anyway the rest of the return journey was pretty uneventful and we got back to the car park. The cafe there was closed but there was an ice-cream van so I treated the girls to ices and a can of pop each and I had a cider lolly. What a rip off £1.20 for a can. Total was £8.50 for two small ice lollies, an ice cream and two cans of pop. I'll take my own next time.
This evening I went circuit training. Eight of us there tonight. The weather has been very warm all day and this evening it was very warm in the hall. A good session though and a nice chat with Liz afterwards.
We then went home and picked up the dogs and then drove to The Cow and Calf Rocks in Ilkley. It was fairly busy up there but we managed to find a parking space.
THE COW AND CALF ROCKS
Bear was pulling like a traction engine going up 'the Cow' but came unstuck when he came to a large rock. We had to 'hoik' him up it. We crossed the moorland and then went down a fairly steep ravine to a stream and up the other side. Leah had never done anything like this so was a bit surprised and a bit scared.
We carried on across more moorland until we came to a small wooded area. Isobel discovered a rope swimg in a tree but it wasn't very good so we carried on again. Leah thought our destination looked a long way off but was surprised how quickly we got there.
When we got to White Wells I was disappointed to find it was closed. I was hoping to get a drink there or at least show the girls the 'spa bath' ie a wide well of spring water. In Victorian times it was a spa that was supposed to have healing properties. These days people are challenged to plunge into the icy water on New Years Day...brrr!
We sat and rested a short while and then set off back again. We dropped down to the tarn which was full of tadpoles. It was also full of Evie very shortly as she adores water. After throwing a stone in for her she firstly came up with a much bigger stone and the second time she brought out a tree branch.
Anyway the rest of the return journey was pretty uneventful and we got back to the car park. The cafe there was closed but there was an ice-cream van so I treated the girls to ices and a can of pop each and I had a cider lolly. What a rip off £1.20 for a can. Total was £8.50 for two small ice lollies, an ice cream and two cans of pop. I'll take my own next time.
This evening I went circuit training. Eight of us there tonight. The weather has been very warm all day and this evening it was very warm in the hall. A good session though and a nice chat with Liz afterwards.
Wednesday 2 June 2010
Juneathon
Monday 31st May - Bank Holiday
We got up reasonably early to go canoeing up at Sleningford in North Yorkshire. There hadn't been much rain and the water levels were never going to be high.
Isobel's friend, Leah, came with us. We kitted her out in all the gear but we only took two boats with us, Peters and the one I have borrowed from the club.
When we got up to Sleningford it was fairly busy but as anticipated the water levels were low. We burbled around at the bottom end to begin with and then dragged the boats further up and came through the 'rapids' back to the bottom part. Isobel and Leah were mainly playing in the water or sitting on the rocks and sliding down with the tide.
We got out and let the girls get in out boats. Leah was a little bit apprehensive but did really well and soon lost her fear. They both took the boats further up and came down the last bit of the rapids and the only problem they had was getting stuck on the rocks due to the shallow water.
The girls were getting cold so decided to call it a day and went to get dressed. However Peter and I dragged our boats up to the hole. Looking at it for a while I decided not to do it because the water was too low and, being heavy, I was more likely to get stuck on the rocks. Peter managed it after getting stuck. I re-launched at the bottom of the hole and we both travelled back down to the bottom, flat part of the river and we then decided we were hungry and thirsty and we got out as well.
Tuesday 1st June
I had intended atarting the Juneathon but went into a downward spiral quite early on in the day. I had an argument with Isobel about money. It was her 13th birthday recently and she had £85 in total after buying a memory card for her camera. She has bought a few items but I was shocked to find that she only had £20 left as most of it has been frittered away.
Unusually for me I couldn't shake the negative feelings off all day and even a nice little wander around the charity shops in Cleckheaton didn't help. Consequently I ate some rubbish today and then slept on the sofa which annoys Peter intensely.
Wednesday 2nd June
Ok so today is the real start of my Juneathon. The Juneathon is meant as doing some form of activity everyday all month. It doesn't have to be major as long as you do something.
I woke up at 5.30am and wasn't sure whether to run or take the dogs for a walk first. I decided to run. Instead of going elsewhere I set off from home and ran to the top of our road and along Tong St to Dudley Hill. I am amazed at how many people are out and about at 6am. There was a steady flow of traffic and plenty of pedestrians about. I did 39 minutes of run 2, walk 1 and then walked for about 4 minutes home.
A quick change of clothes and I then took the dogs out for a walk. We walked down the moors, where they had a short run about after a stone but someone else came on the moor with a dog so I had to put Bear back on the lead. He is a bad boy where other dogs are concerned. We came out onto Station Lane and past Birkenshaw first school. Up the snicket and round an estate and we eventually come back up to the moors. Back up the moors and we were back home again.
All this before 7.30am! Therefore I am back on track for the Juneathon.
We got up reasonably early to go canoeing up at Sleningford in North Yorkshire. There hadn't been much rain and the water levels were never going to be high.
Isobel's friend, Leah, came with us. We kitted her out in all the gear but we only took two boats with us, Peters and the one I have borrowed from the club.
When we got up to Sleningford it was fairly busy but as anticipated the water levels were low. We burbled around at the bottom end to begin with and then dragged the boats further up and came through the 'rapids' back to the bottom part. Isobel and Leah were mainly playing in the water or sitting on the rocks and sliding down with the tide.
We got out and let the girls get in out boats. Leah was a little bit apprehensive but did really well and soon lost her fear. They both took the boats further up and came down the last bit of the rapids and the only problem they had was getting stuck on the rocks due to the shallow water.
The girls were getting cold so decided to call it a day and went to get dressed. However Peter and I dragged our boats up to the hole. Looking at it for a while I decided not to do it because the water was too low and, being heavy, I was more likely to get stuck on the rocks. Peter managed it after getting stuck. I re-launched at the bottom of the hole and we both travelled back down to the bottom, flat part of the river and we then decided we were hungry and thirsty and we got out as well.
Tuesday 1st June
I had intended atarting the Juneathon but went into a downward spiral quite early on in the day. I had an argument with Isobel about money. It was her 13th birthday recently and she had £85 in total after buying a memory card for her camera. She has bought a few items but I was shocked to find that she only had £20 left as most of it has been frittered away.
Unusually for me I couldn't shake the negative feelings off all day and even a nice little wander around the charity shops in Cleckheaton didn't help. Consequently I ate some rubbish today and then slept on the sofa which annoys Peter intensely.
Wednesday 2nd June
Ok so today is the real start of my Juneathon. The Juneathon is meant as doing some form of activity everyday all month. It doesn't have to be major as long as you do something.
I woke up at 5.30am and wasn't sure whether to run or take the dogs for a walk first. I decided to run. Instead of going elsewhere I set off from home and ran to the top of our road and along Tong St to Dudley Hill. I am amazed at how many people are out and about at 6am. There was a steady flow of traffic and plenty of pedestrians about. I did 39 minutes of run 2, walk 1 and then walked for about 4 minutes home.
A quick change of clothes and I then took the dogs out for a walk. We walked down the moors, where they had a short run about after a stone but someone else came on the moor with a dog so I had to put Bear back on the lead. He is a bad boy where other dogs are concerned. We came out onto Station Lane and past Birkenshaw first school. Up the snicket and round an estate and we eventually come back up to the moors. Back up the moors and we were back home again.
All this before 7.30am! Therefore I am back on track for the Juneathon.
Friday 28 May 2010
Starting again
Sunday 16th May
Didn't feel too bad on the day I came back from the cycle ride. So we were up early next day, with canoes firmly attached to the roof of the car, we headed towards York, Nether Poppleton actually.
We were actually a little bit late but met up with the rest of them as they were taking the cars to the other end. Once they returned we all launched onto the river.
It was a nice morning with a slight breeze and a threat of rain eventually. We had a nice steady paddle down the river. There were about 20 of us all told.
When we got into the town centre we pulled out of the river for a lunch break and a drink.
With everyone satiated we then put back onto the river and continued down stream. We had a slight shower but nothing much.
Eventually we got out at the boat club landing. It was warm thankfully so we didn't freeze while we waited for Pater to go and get our car from where we started. In fact we sat and had a nice chat with a few girls from the club.
Thursday 20th May
Had to go into work today for a training session so missed my swimming. However I went to circuit training this evening.
Monday 24th May
At long last I went back to Tong Baths to do my swimming intervals. Got there a bit late as I was waiting for Peter to sort himself out. However I did manage 64 lengths (a mile)in 40 minutes so quite chuffed with that.
Thursday 27th May
Got up in good time and took Isobel to school. Evie came with us in the car as we were going running this morning. Haven't been for ages but was ready for it this morning and it's not many weeks now until the Jane Tomlinson run in Leeds. We went straight down to the Spen Valley Greenway and I did 39 minutes of run 2/walk 1 and I honestly didn't find it too hard at all. Finished it off with 6 minutes cool down walk. Evie was shatterd as she had already had a walk with Peter and Bear.
Lunchtime and I went swimming at Spenborough pool. It's been a few weeks since I came here as well. I was late getting there today and then I saw my friend Claire filling her sweetie machines so I had to have a quick chat.
I did 36 lengths in 29 minutes so pretty pleased with that as it is three quarters of a mile. Claire was still there when I came out so we had another chat.
Evening came and off I went to circuit training. Jeanette was there tonight. I haven't seen her for a few weeks. Im fact there were eight of us there tonight. Felt like I did a good workout.
So that was a busy day.
Didn't feel too bad on the day I came back from the cycle ride. So we were up early next day, with canoes firmly attached to the roof of the car, we headed towards York, Nether Poppleton actually.
We were actually a little bit late but met up with the rest of them as they were taking the cars to the other end. Once they returned we all launched onto the river.
It was a nice morning with a slight breeze and a threat of rain eventually. We had a nice steady paddle down the river. There were about 20 of us all told.
When we got into the town centre we pulled out of the river for a lunch break and a drink.
With everyone satiated we then put back onto the river and continued down stream. We had a slight shower but nothing much.
Eventually we got out at the boat club landing. It was warm thankfully so we didn't freeze while we waited for Pater to go and get our car from where we started. In fact we sat and had a nice chat with a few girls from the club.
Thursday 20th May
Had to go into work today for a training session so missed my swimming. However I went to circuit training this evening.
Monday 24th May
At long last I went back to Tong Baths to do my swimming intervals. Got there a bit late as I was waiting for Peter to sort himself out. However I did manage 64 lengths (a mile)in 40 minutes so quite chuffed with that.
Thursday 27th May
Got up in good time and took Isobel to school. Evie came with us in the car as we were going running this morning. Haven't been for ages but was ready for it this morning and it's not many weeks now until the Jane Tomlinson run in Leeds. We went straight down to the Spen Valley Greenway and I did 39 minutes of run 2/walk 1 and I honestly didn't find it too hard at all. Finished it off with 6 minutes cool down walk. Evie was shatterd as she had already had a walk with Peter and Bear.
Lunchtime and I went swimming at Spenborough pool. It's been a few weeks since I came here as well. I was late getting there today and then I saw my friend Claire filling her sweetie machines so I had to have a quick chat.
I did 36 lengths in 29 minutes so pretty pleased with that as it is three quarters of a mile. Claire was still there when I came out so we had another chat.
Evening came and off I went to circuit training. Jeanette was there tonight. I haven't seen her for a few weeks. Im fact there were eight of us there tonight. Felt like I did a good workout.
So that was a busy day.
Wednesday 19 May 2010
IT'S ALL OVER!
Sunday 9th May:
Set off for the Sports Centre where the whole trip is starting from. Had to be there for 8am. There were loads of photoshoots with us all wearing our sparkling new t-shirts. Lots of hugs and kisses all round and then at 9am we were set off on our way by my daughter with a klaxon. Just before set off I realised I had left my waterproof at home so Peter agreed to get it and catch up with us.
We were just getting into our 'stride' when Hailey had a problem with her bike. As it happened it was almost at the top of our road but I didn't have keys to get in. Peter, meanwhile, had problems with the car and was stuck at the Sports Centre.
Off we went again and we had gone a fair few miles when I changed gear incorrectly and lost my chain. Thankfully I had watched how someone else had put it back on previously so was able to do it in a jiffy and we were back on the road again in no time.
Eventually Peter rang me to see how far we had got. When I told him we were about 9 miles from Snaith (half way point) he nearly choked. He caught up with us about three miles after that and I was re-united with my waterproof.
We carried on to the pub at Snaith and had our sandwiches and a coffee then set off again. This is when I first started feeling tired. I took an energy gel but did wonder if I would make it to Hull.
Then things started to get a bit silly. Peter (not my Peter) zoomed off in front of our group and Hailey was having problems with her hamstrings (and thong I believe). Peter lost us. Richard stayed back with Hailey until the van picked her up. We stopped, Mike fell off his bike. Mark's wheel bearings went so he elected to go on Hailey's bike to finish the ride. The Sports group passed us and left James with us (17 year old who had done no training as he thought the whole thing would be a doddle) as he couldn't keep up with them.
All these little stops were quite good by now as it meant you could get blood circulating in parts that aren't talked about too much!!!
Eventually we were nearing Hull but coming through Hessle we were shouted and sworn at by a car passenger who didn't seem to think bikes should be allowed on the road as we don't pay tax!!! Dean, by this time, was seriously flagging but he didn't give up and completed the ride into the docks area.
A bit of confusion reigned over rooms but we got sorted. Showered, changed and socialised during the evening. 77.2 miles done today. Was sharing a cabin with Carla and Hailey and we were chatting for ages after we went to bed.
Monday 10th May:
It was Richard, our support rider's birthday today. We had to be down for breakfast at 6.30am and the time is one hour ahead of England so in effect we were up at 5am our time.
We got off the boat, sorted ourselves out and set off out of Europoort. Within a mile Hailey had knee problems and pulled out of that day's ride. Richard held back with her until the van came back to pick her up.
It was cold but not wet thankfully although it was overcast. Richard tried to catch up with us but didn't so got on the van to meet us further along. The van and ourselves were supposed to meet at a certain place but they couldn't find us so the break at 28 miles became a lunch break at 35 miles. Mike started stressing and complained we were going to slowly. He started his threats of making us go on the van if we didn't speed up.
At one point were were cycling along a country lane when Mike, our esteemed leader suddenly jumped off his bike, threw it down and ran off shouting something indistinct. Mark who was behind him repeated the process and I was next but didn't now what was happening so just stopped to find out.
Mike had spotted three half grown lambs who had got their head stuck through plastic mesh fencing and had fallen into a dyke. One was upside down and drowning. He jumped straight into the dyke and retrieved the upside down lamb before shouting for a knife to get the mesh off of it.
Mike our hero
By this time the farmer had come running across the field wondering why all these lunatic cyclists were peering into his dyke while one was splashing around in there.
Mike freed the three and passed them up to the farmer before being pulled free of the mud himself. The farmer offered him a shower but Mike declined saying we were already late. He jumped back on his bike and pedalled off again, we gave him a head start!!!
I started feeling tired and slogged on for a while but was getting further behind and knew that Dean and I were slowing the group down. I decided to get on the van at 62.5 miles and so did Dean. My quads were aching but not screaming.
The Sports group got lost and ended up doing 112 miles into Arnhem but our group also got lost and the vans were despatched to pick them up eventually. Peter and Phil had both joined the Sports group today and enjoyed themselves.
We stayed in a Best Western Hotel this evening, very nice. I know there was some hard negotiating went on to get a good price here. I was sharing with Hailey and Carla had a room of her own.
The Leisure group all went down the road to The Robin Hood bar for a meal and a few drinks. No idea what time we went to bed but it was late.
Tuesday 11th May:
Up at 6am, we got our breakfast in the hotel and then got our bikes prepped and ready to go. We set off at 9am, got lost getting out of Arnhem. We had to find the war memorial so that a couple of the ex-service guys could lay a poppy corsage there. I rang my daughter, Isobel, while we were stopped and we sang Happy Birthday to her.
Laying the poppy corsage in Arnhem
It was cool and overcast again and James pulled out of the ride at 16 miles. For a young lad he complains a lot. We were going uphill, but not steeply, for most of the day but we had a head wind. We spotted the Sports groups bikes outside a posh bakery/cafe place and ploughed on. This was quite a hard day because of the wind but we eventually got to a point where we had a break and during this time the Sports group caught up with us and were amazed that we were in front.
We had lunch at 44.5 miles and Dean decided he couldn't battle on any further. I felt okay to carry on but it started raining to add to the uphill and head wind problems. Thankfully it didn't rain for long. We went up a dual carriageway, that was quite scary as vehicles were papping their horns at us. It was legal for us to be on there though but we pedalled fast to get it over with asap.
Mike and Mark got their heads down and disappeared into the distance literally, while John, John, Richard and I were miles behind. At the next stop I decided enough was enough for today as the speed had increased again and having got quite lost the end wasn't in sight again. I had done 60 miles by then.
CARLA, one of our support drivers, having a bit of a stretch.
However the van then got horribly lost despite (or because of) the Sat Nav. We kept seeing the Sports Group who were also lost. We all re-grouped and James, Dean and myself got back on the ride again and we rode into Hamm together. We found the Youth Hostel in a woodland with lakes, wonderful. I had done 69.75 miles today.
The Youth Hostel in Hamm
The Germans laid on a small buffet and some beer and we had a good laugh, swapped stories etc. Got to bed at 1.50am.
At the Youth Hostel
A little bit of magic
John Snr, Not dead, just resting
Wednesday 12th May: A Day Off!
Despite it being a day off we were up at 7.30am for breakfast. We were picked up by minibus and taken to the Rathaus (Town Hall) to the Bradford City Fire Memorial (yesterday was the 25th anniversary of the Fire Disaster). Photos, speeches and a laying of flowers. We were then shown around some voluntary work offices and then taken to a Steakhouse for lunch. The Germans did us proud that's for sure, free lunch, free booze.
The Bradford City Fire Memorial in Hamm
The Oberbergermeister of Hamm
Carla, Mark, James and myself took a taxi to the swimming pool. The guys went off back to the hostel to get their swimming gear and Carla and I went swimming. It was a lovely pool, salt water but not unpleasantly salty. It was outdoor but heated. After that we tried the slides and the hot and cold plunge pools. Then back to the hostel.
We were picked up again by our hosts in minibuses. This time we went to the zoo. The trip ended with a barbecue, once again, eat as much as we wanted and free booze.
A little pussycat at the zoo
Our German hosts gave us all a blue hand towel embroidered with a white elephant and the words Stadt Hamm on them.
Back to the hostel and half went out again while the other half played card games, drank and laughed an awful lot.
Carla, Hailey, Jan and myself were altogether in one room this time. We were talking late into the night when there was a knock at the door. John boy, wrapped in his quilt asked if there was anywhere nearby that he could sleep as the phenomenal snoring from his room was keeping him awake. He ended up sleeping in our shower room.
Thursday 13th May:
An early start again but today we were getting our bikes prepped and then they were going on a trailer at the back of a coach. We were taken all but 30 or so miles from Utrecht, 6km from Oosterbeke. Everyone, except Mike and myself, fell asleep on the coach. I have the photos to prove it!
Dean looking like a condemned man (maybe he was)
We were dropped off and the Sports group disappeared very quickly. We stopped to look at a war-time drop zone (again, for the ex servicemen more than anything). Then off we went again. Peter is a keen photographer so he cycled off ahead and perched himself so that he could take photos of us. However this proved to be his undoing eventually as he got behind us took the route that we were supposed to do and we missed it so lost him. He was picked up by the van who met up with the Sports group and he carried on with them.
We eventually slid into Utrecht in the evening having done 37.43 miles. There was rubbish everywhere and we were surprised by this as Holland, generally, is a delight. Then we discovered the bin men had been on strike for three weeks!
This time we were in a backpackers type hostel. Us four females were sharing again. Someone nipped out, did a recce and found a place that could cope with all 21of us at the same time. It was a Greek/Italian place and boy, did we manage to confuse him. The owner gave me a bottle of wine to take home with me. No idea why as I am probably the lightest drinker of the bunch.
Then some of us went back to the Strowis and coffees and chat ensued. I do know that one or two people went to a 'funny' coffee shop that didn't sell coffee! When the rest turned up there was some guitar strumming and singing going on but nothing too raucous. To bed again about 12.30am where Jan and I chatted on for some time.
Peter strumming away
Friday 14th May:
Fairly basic but sufficient breakfast was downed by us all after we had all checked and cleaned our bikes. We set off after the Sports group at about 9.15am. We had to negotiate our way out of Utrecht town centre at rush hour. Rush hour, of course, meant bikes going in all directions at all speeds and we were confused as to which way we were going.
After a few false moves we managed to get out of the urban area and we crossed a bridge that spanned the river. This is where the first puncture of the day happened. James tried to change it quickly while Mike worked out which way we were going next.
James mending a puncture
Off we went again and a bit later there was another puncture or rather two. While we were waiting for them to be repaired the lads were eyeing up the pretty girls on bikes until one gave Dean a 'loser' sign. He was gutted but of course we rubbed it in for the rest of the day.
We were on a fast flat route today and we were going at a good pace as we had a ferry to catch. That is until we came to another bridge but it was closing as we arrived to lift up and let water traffic through. That was interesting to watch. Then we carried on again until we got to a cafe where the support team were waiting. A delightful coffee was consumed and some sandwiches etc and then we went on a little ferry that took about two minutes to get to the other side.
The Little Ferry
The views today were stunning. Just as you imagine Holland to be, beautiful waterside houses, windmills etc. The sun was shining too, making it a perfect day really. We were all in good spirits and there was a lot of banter going on.
Typical view for me!
We got to another bridge that was closing this time the middle section raised vertically to let the boats through. Then we were off again.
We came across the sports group who were just recovering from a pile up. Someone had gone over their handlebars but wasn't badly hurt just shook up. We carried on again and came through parkland and alongside the river. This is where the next surprising thing happened.
We had a short stop for a breather when Mike announced that if we could raise £30 there and then, then he would jump in the river.
Like father....
....Like son!
Mike isn't known for his frivolity so money was hastily agreed upon and Mike stripped to his undershorts. He walked along a jetty and jumped in!!!
Mike about to jump in the River
We were only about 5 miles from the port by then but he got dressed and once again carried on his way. What a guy! We also decided to ride in box formation partly for a laugh and partly to help us weaker riders.
The last few miles were quite hard going really. We'd had a head wind again for quite some time but we were now starting to flag. Dean was seriously flagging but I kept telling him and myself that we could do it. Our muscles were aching after the best part of a week of cycling.
We pulled into the port to find the Sports group at the nearest bar consuming copious amounts of falling down liquid. After lots of jokes, photos and ribbing we loaded our bikes and went and checked in for the return journey. 79.07 miles done today.
After a wonderful meal onboard the ferry we all met up again in the Irish bar for a few speeches. The girls on the support van had been doing a survey of the shapeliest bottoms in each group. So they announced the runners up and winners and a small prize was awarded. In our group Dean came third, I came second and Richard, the support rider was the winner. I was chuffed to bits as I didn't think I had a chance. Lots of chatting until late again before Carla and I went to our room to find Hailey virtually comatose.
Strange to think that after tonight we probably won't be together as a group again apart from an odd socialising event. We are a group of people that come from different backgrounds, ages etc but apart from James annoying several people we all got on very well. There was no sniping or backbiting or moaning (apart from a few curses at the snorers).
Saturday 15th May:
Got a bit of a lie in this morning as the clocks went back to BST. Down for breakfast at 7am and there was a lovely view from where we were sat. The sea was flat and the sun was shining.
We all got sorted and packed and off the ferry asap. Re-united once again with our trusty steeds we set off for the last day of cycling back to Bradford. Dean and I agreed we weren't looking forward to it as every muscle seemed to ache before we even started and we knew there were a lot of hills today. Sod's law meant we once again had a head wind sometimes quite a strong one too. John boy, John snr and Peter all tried helping by shielding me from the wind.
We ploughed on until we got to Snaith which is about halfway. Mike gave me 'the stare' and asked if I was alright. I admitted I was tired but not ready to give up yet. Dean however gave in and got on the van. He was nearly sick with tiredness by this time. I am so proud of him as despit doing little in the way of training he ploughed on a lot longer than I expected him to on the journey. James had already got on the van at the first morning break.
We set off again, the hills were hard and after a long climb I was way behind the rest. They waited at the top and Mike surprisingly said we'd only got 22 miles left and no more long hills. I disagreed as I knew the route from here and knew there was a lot of climbing. A little further on we met up with the van for a refreshment break and that's when I decided to get on the van. I was really tired and knew I would hold the others up.
As I went to get on the van, Dean was going to get off and re-join the group but I warned him that this was the worst part. We got a lift for about 7 miles and then waited for the group to get to the top of the hill. We re-joined at this point.
On we ploughed with an occasional idiot throwing abuse at us. We had just crossed a really nasty roundabout when 'off the back' was heard. Richard had a puncture. We carried on up the bypass and met up with the Sports group at a pub on the outskirts of Bradford. We all changed into our team t-shirts. High spirits abounded but we all re-mounted and carried on.
As we got to the top of Westgate Hill, near where I live, I saw our Land Rover parked on the grass with a 'congratulations' banner held aloft by Isobel. Lots of waves and on we went.
We had a van at the front, a van at the back and we all rode into the Sports centre grounds together. James and I were at the front as we did a lap of honour. Lots more hugs and kisses and meeting up with family and friends. Then we had photos taken and a buffet and lots of tale telling went on. 67.35 miles done today. My personal total therefore was 393.30 miles.
That was hard work but what a fantastic time we had. Roll on 2012 when hopefully I will do it all again. Must train even harder next time especially on them there hills.
A really BIG, BIG thank you to all who sponsored me. It's what makes it all worthwhile after all.
A tired but happy team
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