Bootcamp..the return

My alarm went off at 5:30am and I automatically got up, got changed and had an espresso. I had a 7 mile run around Walney to do.

There are only 10 more days until my ultra so every run counts, every run finishes the job and completes the miles Id laid down on paper, seemingly so long ago. The end is near, at least for this chapter anyway. Ive got a little 100 miler to do next summer and Ive decided Im going to continue my blog for that too! The blogs really been helping me, its been a good tool to look back at my sessions, to offload any pressures and has made all this journey seem so much more real and added a validity to it. I cant wait for the race.

I completed my run, got home and had a gentle stretch. I made some scrambled eggs for my breakfast, made a pork casserole and shoved it in the slow cooker, sorted my lunch, tidied up and got my self ready for work. Not a bad mornings work if I dont say so myself. I was on a Project Management course at work today and I found the first day quite interesting as its something that applies to my job really well. I went home and got changed for Bootcamp! Yes it was back for a once a month special. After Bootcamp I showered, had some lovely Pork and Apple Casserole with rice, tidied up, put the boy to bed and wrote this blog.

Running: 7.14miles 8.45/mi 1 hour

I was stiff when I set out into the dark morning. The waxing super moon glowed silvery and bright in the morning haze as I made my way on my regular route around the island. I had a flashing arm band on as it was still pitch black, its red LEDs flashing, seemingly in time with my footsteps. I tried to clear my mind but it was, as usual, full of crap, so I just ran. The sun started its slow arc into the sky half way through my run, flooding the dark with pastel shades of purple and pink. Above me the sky was clear but a little fuzzy around the edges as the morning mist started to rise along the channel. It is a very peaceful time of day and fills me with so much energy for the coming day.

Soon I was on the shoreline and ran carefully over the stony trail. The visibility was still poor and I didnt want to go over on my ankle so I treaded lightly, keeping my cadence high and my footstrikes soft. The moon still hung over my shoulder, trying its best to light my way, to show me the contours of the path. I opened my eyes wide to take in more light and pushed onto Biggar Bank. From here I could see the beautiful Sunrise over to the East, rising slowly along the island. Ive been so lucky with my training runs, seeing so many amazing sights at all times of day.

I turned off the coast and ran the 2 miles back to home, soaking in the uplifting, bright and colourful sunrise. The clouds on the horizon had created what looked like a mountain range high above the land, the sun lit them from behind, giving them an edge and shape. My run came to a gentle end and I slowed to a jog, warming down. Im still quite low after the weekend and with so much going around in my head Ive decided to talk to someone about it.

It had been a lovely mornings run but my head was still full of feelings and thoughts I dont need or want so I will have to get that sorted and soon!

The Return of GB BOOTCAMPS!!

It seems like an eternity since I had my last bootcamp session. If you didnt know its what started me on this crazy ass journey and the main man, Gareth has become such a close friend, coach and mentor to me over the last 2 and a half years giving me amazing advice and pushing me hard whenever we train. It was so good to see many of the old faces there tonight and although a few regulars were missing we still had a good craic and a right laugh as we always do. Id not thought about how much I miss the camaraderie because of my recent training, but it all came flooding back tonight as we enjoyed catching up with each other.

 

The Bootcamp Posse

 

Gareth called us together to get started and we did some mobility exercises to get the blood flowing ready for a hard workout. As always happens at his point, before it gets hard work the double entendres start to flow and it soon degrades into laughter. Its more like “Carry on Bootcamp” at the start and its one of the many reasons we all come back, the laughter, mixed with the hard work and friendships makes an addictive cocktail.

Because of the once a month format, Gareth had decided to do a base line fitness test that we could use to compare our progress with next time we met. It was a lap of the block (about 500m) then straight into 20 press ups, 20 squats, 20 sit ups and finally 10 Burpees (If you've never met a Burpee, google it then try one - they aren't easy). I had already decided to push hard tonight, I needed the release for one, but I also wanted to see how my fitness was after all the hard work Id been putting in. We all gathered in a line and set off. I bolted from the off, letting my quick pace push me along. I was breathing hard but it was only a short distance, so I let myself push harder. I was first one back and launched straight into to the press up, pushing the floor away and quickly returning as I breathed deep, keeping my core tight and my back straight. Next were the squats and situps which I completed with no trouble.

My breathing was now slowing down from the run and I threw myself to the floor for the Burpees. The full body exercise used to be my nemesis. Because of the problems I had with my back, I could only ever do 1 or two, but with perseverance and the mentality to work on what your weaknesses are, Ive mastered them. I squatted down, my hands on the freshly cut grass and with arms straight, I kicked my legs out to land in a press up position. Then the powerful muscles in my hips thrust upwards and I pulled my legs under my torso landing on my feet. Continuing the move I extended quickly, jumping my weight from the floor in one movement. On my return to earth (after jumping 60 feet high!! ;) ) I bounced gently and bent straight into a squat again keeping the momentum high for the next rep. I finished the test and cooled down, Id pushed myself hard but my recovery was quick ready for the main workouts.

Thruster - Squat with a 20kg sandbag shoulder press

I felt strong, fast and totally in control of my body during the rest of the hard workout which involved more Burpees, tyre throwing, thrusters and shuttle sprints to name but a few of the tough exercises. After all three circuits of workouts we came together for a cool down and stretch. I had pushed myself really hard tonight and I loved every second of it, being outside with my great friends and totally enjoying myself. I cannot wait until the next one.

Food Diary:

Breakfast:

4 Scrambled eggs with 2 slices of GF Bread

Lunch:

Mackerel, avocado and rice salad.

Dinner:

Homemade Pork and Apple Casserole with vegetables and wholegrain rice.

Snacks:

Banana, Apple, nuts and seeds, flapjack, Seed 9bar, oatcakes with humus.

Running Biss

Finally a good nights sleep! The Doctor had given Jo some different pain relief and she slept like a babe, consequently so did I! Before bed last night I did my strength and core work, upping the reps by 10 and doing them all unbroken (no stopping when doing a exercise). I even knocked out a personal best 7min plank!! (No you filthy minded individual, plank is spelled correctly ;)  ). I hope this means my core strength is really good and it should support my frame and posture for the 50 miles.

I woke up at 7am and started to get my kit ready for todays run. Joanne was being taken to Asda by her friend and I had some free time. I took Oliver to school and came home, tidied up, made the beds hung the washing out and flew out of the door. I was in such a rush to go, I forgot my GPS watch..DOH. I made my way to Newby Bridge Parked the car and went for an amazing run. I retuned home, showered and picked Oliver up from school. It the best part of  day when I pick him up. He peered around the door and a smile beamed across is little face. "DADDY" he shouted as he bolted from school into my arms. It totally blows me away. Later Im going to do my strength and core work  before bed.

Running 6.5 miles out and back - 13 miles total Approx

 (and that's just the length of the essay below!!!)

I had parked my car in a lay-by by the Swan Hotel as it is right on the run route (and as a bonus its free parking). I loaded all my gear onto my back and set off over Newby Bridge, crossing the River Leven and over the A590 main road. The route led up the road to Canny Hill then off road into the fells above. The sun was blazing down today, just like a summers day but it was nearly October! I was hot already but had minimal layers on so it would have to do, they were moisture wicking and should cool me down as I ran. The gentle slope lead onto a gravel track public bridalway, the suns rays penetrated through the leafy canopies above and created a wonderful speckled effect on the path ahead. The air was calm and I felt light and strong as I made my way along the path.

 

Forest Track

The route then came out into a small valley, covered as far as the eye could see in a blanket of autumnal gold and red. A moist, peaty smell rose from all around, filling my head with the earthy tones as my feet crashed through the bracken. It was a wonderful feeling, pushing the bright and dry fronds aside as I made my way up the hill, each one brushing against me and moving aside easily. I stopped when the trail did and checked my map. My compass was going haywire and I couldn't get a true reading for north. What the hell was happening? As thorough as ever I went through the possibilities of why the needle would spin? Was it the Compass? I checked the plastic device, it wasn't that. Was it a bizarre natural phenomenon caused by the Super Moon? - Theoretical but improbable. Was I stood over a magnetised surface? No.....but there is a speaker in my phone....and speakers have magnets......and Ive just put the phone in the map pocket which is directly under the compass....”you knob head” I chastised myself in the middle of the bracken.

Golden Brown

What a stupid schoolboy error!! I held my phone between my knees (you get a better reception there!) and the compass, now away from the magnetic speaker, worked fine so I took a bearing and headed off in that direction. The path lead over the top of Old Backbarrow and down through some woods on a muddy and rocky trail. I enjoyed the change of pace and let the slope carry me down, shifting my weight over protruding roots and rocks, sidestepping the puddles and mud. It came out at the tiny hamlet  of Low Brow Edge and onto a B road. The route followed this road up to Bigland Hall then would join the Coastal Cumbrian Way. I trotted along the road, saying good morning to a couple of farmers who were stoking two roadside bonfires, burning the rotting vegetation. The smell as I passed was a smokey natural one and very earthy but not repulsive. Almost like barbecue smoking applewood chips that you burn to flavour the meat. I suddenly felt hungry so I had a flapjack bar and pushed up the gentle country lane.

Bigland Tarn

Bigland Hall estate came into view with all the stables fronting the property. I couldn't see the hall from where I was but the surrounding area looked very well kept and manicured. The Hall is now a special Equine centre specialising in Dressage or so the signs said. The track turned off to skirt around Bigland Tarn and I enjoyed the stunning reflections of the hills in the still water. As I ran around its circumference, a bouquet of pheasants (thats the proper collective noun for them don't you know...) jumped me and flew in every direction, croaking in that guttural squawk they are known for. I honestly shit myself and yelled like a girl as they escaped from the undergrowth that had been previously still and silent seconds earlier, haha! I recomposed myself, looked around and saw no-one around, so with my pride still intact I moved on looking for the Cumbrian Coastal Way.

Looking across the estuary

 

I found it easily and it took me over the hill onto Bigland Heights. The view was utterly breathtaking, stretching across the bay, taking in Barrow, Ulverston and Greenodd, before returning on the near coast to Cark. I bathed in the vista looking for familiar landmarks: Piel Castle and Hoad Hill Monument, tracing the outline of the Cumbrian hills with my eyes. You dont realise until your up on a hillside like this how beautiful our tiny corner of the planet is.

After a mini photo shoot and some gratuitous running selfies (its the law!) I took another map reference and headed down into the wooded area at Grassgarth. The trail crossed a small road and headed upwards over a fell. I was treated to more amazing views at the top before dropping onto a farm track. This was the last 2 miles of the race, I would remember that come race day. The track, tarmacked years ago, was warn in places and the grass grew in abundance, especially down the centre of the single track road. The surface felt hard after running in the fells but it meant I could put my foot down a bit and stretch my legs out. After a cheeky little undulation it was all down hill into Cartmel.

Cartmel Priory

I had never been into Cartmel before and didnt realise just how busy the tiny village would be. From the shops, pubs and Xtypes poured lots of very middle class elderly couples (cynical but true) all turning their gaze at me as I ran down the middle of the main street to the Priory. That was the end point of the race and I wanted to see it first hand. Nearly every person stopped dead in their tweed slacks and chequered jackets. Their glasses were pushed to the ends of noses so the posh eyes could see me. I was dressed in my race kit, compression gear and two bottle race vest and to be honest probably stunk! In an act of total defiance I continued to the Priory despite all the looks and said good morning to an elderly gate assistant (there was a festival on!) whilst I took a photo. The look on his face and that of others was a picture! I turned face and retraced my steps with what could only be described as a smirk on my face and nearly got run over by a Jag on the way out. Thats karma for you!!

I ran back along the route, committing it all to memory as it would be dark when I would be here next. The trail was much easier on the way back as I didnt have to stop for map references or bearings (or selfies!!). I did stop for lunch on an outcropping Id spotted earlier and it was thoroughly enjoyed along with some wild blackberries I picked en route. I ran the return leg much faster and the second half really felt downhill all the way. I reached the car back at Newby Bridge in plenty of time so I decided to try and find a path I couldnt find on my last recce.

Natures larder

It was from Finsthwaite to Newby Bridge through some woods. Its a good climb to the top and there is a lookout tower at the top. I decided to go at the path from reverse and backtrack so I could see where it lead. It was an arduous climb up a rocky path with some slate steps in the middle. I reached the summit but could not for the life of me find the tower or the trail. The path completely disappeared in the ferns and storm damaged trees. I tried to head on a compass bearing but the ground was too unpredictable and definitely not the right path. The race organisers have said they will way mark some of the latter sections as they are difficult to find in the dark. I hope this is one of them.

I turned tail and headed back down to the car, down that gnarly path. My favourite- technical downhill. I took off down the steps and the path, accelerating, pushing my body into tight turns, shifting my body around and over trees, through bushes and finally out to the road. It was another exhilarating descent, I love the freedom it gives me and the rush of adrenalin. Its bloody awesome and makes me feel so alive. I made my way back to the car and realised Id lost my sun glasses....DOH!

It was a beautiful sunny day, just what I needed for an amazing, uplifting run. Pure running bliss!!!

 

THIS is why I run!

Food Diary:

Breakfast:
Oatso Simple Porridge with nuts, Chia Seeds and honey

Run Nutrition:
2x Flapjacks, 1ltr water with 2 electrolyte tabs.

Lunch:

Falafel and Humus Wraps (from Tesco)

Dinner :

Gluten Free Lasagne with Avocado and Tomato Rocket Salad

Fat Free Yoghurt topped with Oat Granola and nuts

Snacks:

Apple, oatcakes with cheese, boiled ham, humus and olives

I hope thats mud on the stairs....

It wasn't, it was poo! Oliver had had a little accident in the bathroom and carried it onto the stairs. Hes at that age when he wont let us help and occasionally slips up  (quite literally today!!). He does so well considering he was in nappies only a few years ago and I really never thought he would be out of them at the time.

I did however manage to get him to do his spellings tonight for his weekly test in the morning, he got them all correct too!! The bribery was a piece of his favourite - Chorizo! Hes a Chorizo Monster and Ive found him munching on a full ring of it before today!!!

Its a rest day today but I missed some strength work last week due to tiredness, so Im going to do a set tonight and every day this week. Its also a return of Bootcamp WOOHOO (once a month special) so I can go for it and have a really hard workout this week. I have plenty of time to recover before my race. Im off tomorrow as I mixed my dates up for a course I was on so Im at a loose end. If I can wangle it I might head to Cartmel and recce the last few miles of the race. I had a great coffee date with my good friend Gareth and we both definitely needed the catch up. It had been too long.

Im still feeling a bit down after the weekend, but I will pull myself out of it with a run tomorrow and weve just had news Joanne has an appointment with a CF specialist (not until December) but its a start. After Ive done the pots, tidied up, done the ironing, do a strength workout and put Oliver to bed Ive got a date with a hot bath and a copy of *Playboy* (not really I just wanted to check you were paying attention!!) its a new copy of Runners world magazine! I find it  just as stimulating ;)

Ive still got to finalise my race this week, there are a few details to go over yet:

• Come up with a race plan A.
• Come up with a race plan B.
• Check my kit (there is a kit list that is mandatory, I will put more about this next week).
• Commit the route to memory as best as I can.
• Check the registration details, car parking etc.
• Buy my nutrition for the race.
• Sort out Joanne and Oliver for when I away

Food Diary:

Breakfast:

Nutribullet Veggie Smoothie: Spinach, Avocado, Pineapple, raspberries, blueberries and almonds

Lunch:

Smoked Mackerel Salad with Pearl Barley and Avocado

Dinner:

Homemade Gluten Free Lasagne with a Rocket and Beetroot Salad.

 

GF Beef Lasagne with Beetroot Rocket Salad

 

Fat free Greek yoghurt with Blueberries and seeds

Snacks:

Apple, banana, grapes, nuts and seeds, flapjack

Drinks:

Coffee, bottled water

13 days to go!!

Another night of no sleep has left me very tired again all day. Its getting to the point where Im going in the spare room even if there is no bed! I set my alarm for 5:30am to go for a run but didn't need it as I was already awake. I got up, had some breakfast and an espresso then headed out for a half marathon. Im so close to my race now, its only 13days to go. Im not giving in now, not after all the hard work Ive put in, sleep or no sleep. Its 2 weeks of taper now so the intensity and length of each run is getting less and less as I progress towards my final goal.
After my run I stretched out, had a shower, did the shopping, made lunch, sorted the house out, made dinner for tonight and tomorrow, played with Oliver and fought sleep back all day. I even had a couple of glasses of wine with my tea! Then blog then bed!

Running: 13.70 miles  9.21/mi  2:08 hrs

I was tired but wide awake in an overtired kind of way as I made my way out this morning. I only had a half marathon to do today (I say only but is still a far distance, just not as far as I've been doing!). I ran across Jubilee bridge and along the channel up to the top of the slag bank and watched the sun rise across the town.

Sunrise over Barrow

A quick descent and I was on Park road, heading out of town towards Dalton. I ran along the pathway which runs parallel to, but is obscured from the main road by trees and hedgerows. I suddenly picked up a strong perfumed scent. I half expected to come across a woman walking or a handbag dropped and smashed perfume leaking from it but nothing was there. I made my way through the trees and plants still smelling the strong perfume. It was everywhere and after a mile I came to the conclusion that either someone had sprayed expensive perfume on every tree or it was the occasional white flower I passed. Im not a botanist by any stretch of the imagination but I think it was the Ivy, which grows in abundance along the path. Id never noticed it before in all the runs Id had down there. Weird! Was it just the end of the season and the flowers last attempt at pollenating before it dies or some supernatural effect of the super moon. Spooky or what. My mind really does wander when I run!!

I continued up St Helens Hill into Dalton, dropped down to Abbey road and me my way towards home. On Abbey flats, two fellow runners flagged me down. It was Christine and Marie, whom I know from parkrun and local races. They both wanted to know about my run back pack as they had signed up for an ultra next year (the madness is spreading :)  ) and were thing of getting one. We chatted for several minutes and I was happy to give them information about my race kit. Its great to meet other people who are as committed ( or need to be committed!) and as passionate about running as I am.

I left them and ran back to Walney, purposely keeping my pace slow. I finished with a run along the beach path and made my way home. It had been a nice run and the distance didn't present me with any problems.

Food Diary

Breakfast:
Porridge with Chia Seeds and Honey

Lunch:
Ham and cheese omelette with wilted spinach.

Dinner:
Roast Chicken Dinner with roasted sweet potatoes, carrots, sprouts, broccoli and roasted parsnips.


Sunday Roast and a medicinal beverage ;)

Snacks:
2x flapjacks on my run, nuts and seeds, dark chocolate.

Drinks:
Espresso and a few coffees, bottled water and 2 glasses of red wine (hic!)

"Its been a bad day, please dont take a picture"

The title of the blog, if you don't know, is a line from an REM song "Bad Day" and it has been a bad day.

I apologise in advance for the length and content.

I set the alarm for 5:30am to get out for a run but  had another fitful night of sleep with Joanne, shes been in so much pain) and I just couldn't get out of bed when it went off which is so unlike me. I re set it for 7:30am and drifted off again before getting up for work. I took Oliver to my mums and went to work leaving Jo to rest. I phoned her about 12noon and shed just got up and still wasn't well, she seems to be getting worse day by day and Im getting extremely worried not just her physical health but her mental health too.

I returned form work and walked into a right mess. Now its no-ones fault its just the circumstances that Joanne is unable to do anything around the house, I mean even making a drink causes her immense pain in her chest. Oliver is Oliver and like any 8 year old, autistic or not, creates a whirlwind around him. As I had been working late last night as well I hadn't had time (or energy) to catch up from yesterday, so I had a double load to come home to. Add to that the pile of washing and ironing and nothing for tea, totally stressed me out.

I dove straight into it, not getting changed, I basically put my bag down and got stuck in. I felt angry, resentful and frustrated but buried these feelings as I always do, Joanne has enough to deal with without me blowing my top and its not her fault, she doesn't do it on purpose, as I said before that the circumstances of being a carer. I have to hold it in for Olivers sake too, he is so sensitive to emotion, especially negative and can melt down completely once voices or tempers are raised. So I store it all inside, in a vast dark well of stinking, pure negative emotion.

Tonight the surface was lapping over the top, overflowing into me, my emotions started to take hold. The anger (its not fair, Im always tidying, cooking) is fuelled by the frustration (we cant go out, we cant be normal, I cant do what I want) creates resentment (WHY ME! WHY US!) which makes me feel so selfish and hateful and self loathing and tears me apart that the guilt rides up and totally eats into my soul. Then I feel angry at being guilty which I shouldn't be and it gets fuelled by frustration and the cycle spins around again. I felt as if a giant hand literally screwed me into the ground, lower and lower. Deeper and deeper into the darkness. I felt so low and helpless, so lonely and isolated.

I cooked some chicken, vegetables and rice but when I cut into the cooked chicken breasts the unmistakable smell of rotten meat came through and I flipped. The chicken was off and it pushed me over the edge, I held it inside but the frustration tore through me as I threw the meat into the bin. The pressure was too much and I had to take a minute outside, get some air, calm down and rethink tea. The sink was still full of pots, the washing basket still spilled onto the floor. It was now 5pm and Oliver has to have his tea at 5 or we have problems. I hastily made him a starter (crackers and cheese) while his hastily, chucked in the oven, pizza cooked. Joanne came to see me but I couldn't look her in the eye, she asked if I was ok and I wanted to cry but held it back. The pressure built and built, I had to get out of there, I had to run. I told her I was really struggling but that's all I could tell her. I sorted Oliver and Jo out with some tea, tried my best not to upset and worry them both and shot out of the house.

Running : Distance: Didn't Fuc**ng care  Average Pace: couldn't give a Sh*t

I was out. The music blasted in my ears as I made my way up to the Queens at Biggar. The guilt of me leaving the house weighed me down but I couldn't have stayed, I would have exploded. My head was ready to blow, it needed to release the pressure, to vent! I pushed on, my pace quickened as the anger, frustration and resentment all spilled out. I let them soak me, wash over me like a deluge, powering my feet as I strode through the lanes. I was really down, the negative emotions drove me deeper, pressing on my psyche as I ran. They needed to be set free, like caged animals they needed to be outside in the wild. I was really hurting inside, I hated myself for feeling like this but what could I do? My life is so hard, so difficult at times and I feel as if no one notices it at all.

 I turned direction and ran up to Biggar Bank. On the beach trail I raised my head up and stopped dead in my tracks. The sun seemed to hang feet from the steely surface of the water. The tangerine rays of light bounced across the water, glinting and rippling off the polished, glassy surface.

Serene and tranquil.
Peaceful and soothing.
Calming.
Healing.

I ran along the trail, sideways on to the slowly setting sun. It seemed to pace me, step for step keeping time with me perfectly. Its gentle rays calmed my soul, healing the sores and banishing the darkness within me. I began to forget and clear my mind. I drank in the salty air as I jogged down the coast. I reached the golf course and an urge took over my actions. I found myself running over the pebbles between the path and the incoming sea. The pebbles, some slippy, some sharp with a crust of barnacles, glinted orange in the evening light as I easily dodged and stepped across them. The sea stretched out in front of me, the horizon seemed to bend and shimmer in the hazy sky. I stood there silent, my music turned off, my breathing still. I had never in my life seen the sea so calm, so still, yet with such a powerful feeling radiating from it, like a great swell or a tidal wave was rolling its way towards me from way out. I felt like I could feel the immense gravitational pull from the moon hanging silently in the sky behind me, toying with the planet, rolling the earths oceans at a whim.

The steely surface reflected the suns rays, inviting me to run across it surface, to keep going on an endless run (please don't mistake this for any suicidal thoughts or metaphors to that effect, Im down, but I wouldn't do that to my family. Life is for living, problems can be solved and nothing is ever as bad as it seems...especially after a run. Plus Ive got a race in two weeks and all this hard work is not for nothing!!!! :)  ). As I stood there I looked around, I thought as I breathed in the fresh but salty air. In the grand scheme of things, what are we? Why are we here? I became a grain of sand amongst the billions of others. Still, inanimate, basking in the warmth, at peace, calm.
I set off again, slowly across the sand, the wavelets splashed at my heels. The stress had lifted, the storm was over and I made my way toward home. I ran through the lanes and onto the prom. The super moon was perched high in the sky and I swear I could feel its effects (I used to be a werewolf but Im alright noooowwwwoooooo haha) almost like a strong pull from deep within, its hard to explain, hard to pinpoint, maybe its something primitive, deep set within us, I don't know but I definitely felt something.

I pushed on towards home feeling energised but at the same time relaxed, calm and peaceful. On  my return home the housework fairies and pixies hadn't been again (bastards) so I ploughed into the work , finished what I could and had some tea. After Oliver went to bed I slipped into an extremely hot bath with some relaxing mineral salts in and read a running magazine cover to cover. Then I grabbed a big mug of Ovaltine and shared this day with you. Sorry about the long post, I got a bit lost in the moment and lost in myself!

Food Diary:

Breakfast:
Cornflakes with hot milk

Lunch:
Leftover Vegetable curry and wholemeal rice.

Dinner:
Leftover Chicken and Chorizo Paella

Snacks:
Flapjack, nuts and seeds, lentil crisps, small bar of dark chocolate, 2x apples , banana

TGI Friday

I feel a better today, I'm still tired but my energy levels seem to be better.

I managed to get a half decent nights sleep and as I was at work this evening I rolled over for a sleep in. 20 minutes later I was beckoned away from my slumber by Joanne. She wasn't well and need me to get Oliver ready for school. I walked him to school and came back home, had breakfast and hung the washing out then headed for a run. When I got back I made lunch and dinner for Jo and Oliver, tidied up and had a bath. I collected Oliver from school and he showed me a sticker hed got for worker of the week. Ive said it before but Im so, so proud of him. He is amazing! I dropped him at home and headed to work. I was duty officer for Comedy Nights and it was a great night with an old favourite of mine, Archie Kelly (Phoenix nights fans will remember him as Kenny Dalgleish) and he was superbly funny.

Running:14.54 miles  8:37/mi   2:05hrs

Taking note from yesterdays drop in energy levels I made sure I ate a bit more today when I was out for a run. I decided to run for two hours (about 14 - 15 miles) and to fuel much sooner than normal. I set out off Walney and over Red Mans Way down the channel. It was quite blustery as I ran along and the sun felt warm on my face. After 30 minutes I ate an oat bar and chomped on an energy tablet. I wasn't taking chances today and wanted my energy levels to remain high throughout the run. It seemed to work. I ran a slightly different route today, running up Park Road, and down to the level crossing by St Helens hill and turning up to Askam Brickworks. From there I dropped into Dalton and all the way down Abbey Road, back onto Walney. I had fuel every 30 minutes and an extra energy tablet at the time. I didn't feel tried or out of energy once, its surprising what a good sleep and refuelling will do for you. I got home and d a protein shake and a lovely deep stretch in the Garden.

Food Diary:

Breakfast:
Porridge with Chia Seeds and Honey

Run Nutrition
3 x Oat bars, 3x Glucose energy tablets

Protein Shake:
Coconut Milk, pineapple, mango, hemp protein

Lunch:
Mackerel, goats cheese and avocado salad

Greek Fat free Yoghurt with blueberries and granola

Dinner:
Chicken and Chorizo Paella

Snacks:
2x  apples, banana, flapjack, boiled ham slices, dark chocolate bar

Note to self... I am not Superman!

Im absolutely knackered!

 My plan for today was a 7 mile run around Walney after work. Oliver goes to a special autism youth club on a Thursday T-time and normally I can get a sneaky run in while hes there. I returned home from a busy day at work already tired, but still up for a run and Oliver was sat on the chair. Youth club had been cancelled and Joanne was in a lot of pain. She went to bed and I made tea, helped Oliver with his maths homework, tidied up and sorted the washing out but all the time I was yawning. It would have been at least 8:45pm before I could get out for a run (when Oliver was in bed).

I forget sometimes (I don't mean this to sound complaining or anything else its just the facts ) that I work full time, walk 3.5 miles to work and back, care for Joanne and Oliver, cook, clean, wash, shop, iron, clean the car, gardening, diy, etc, etc, etc. Work is only 5 days a week but caring is 24/7 and I get tired sometimes. Add to that training up to 80 miles in a week and its no wonder Im exhausted. This week has been particularly busy with some early mornings at work too.

Ive also been very hungry the last few days. A quick mental tally of calories in and calories out left me with quite a deficit, meaning my fuel tank is running low. My glycogen levels are no doubt in need of a bloody good top up. Ive not been recording my weight but I have been checking it occasionally. Ive lost 3lb in 5 days! Good news if your on weight watchers, bad news if your the correct weight and training. I must eat more when Im working hard.

So...there was no run for me tonight. My internal board of governors met after dinner tonight and overwhelmingly voted to rest and refuel. Im tired, my muscles are aching, my heads not in it and it would not have been a good training session if I had gone out. I put my feet up, relaxed (not a word I use often)  and had some extra food. Overtraining is a real danger if Im not careful. I skirt the edges of it to get the maximum out of myself, but I forget to add my daily life activities to it sometimes. Overtraining can lead to serious injury , lack of drive, poor performances and illness if its not nipped in the bud. A rest day at this stage wont do me any harm and I will go for a slightly longer run in the morning to make the miles up as Im not at work until the evening.

Im seriously thinking of looking at the feasibility of only training 5 days instead of 6 for my 100 mile race next year but upping each session slightly and changing my work outs to accommodate the mileage. I need to run this past a running coach or my good friend Gareth to see if this will work ok.

Food Diary:

Breakfast:
Mini Shredded Wheat with Blueberries and Skimmed Milk

Lunch:
Vegetable Curry and Brown Rice (I made extra last night)

Fat Free Greek Yoghurt with Blueberries, pineapple and melon, nuts and sunflower seeds

Dinner:
Pan Fried Pork Steak with Cajun Sweet Potato Wedges, corn on the cob, garlic mushrooms in Crème Fraise, broccoli and crispy Kale.

Pan Fried Pork Steak with Cajun Wedges

Snacks:
2x apples, Banana, oat bar, a corn flake chocolate cake that Oliver and I made, feast chocolate ice block, cheese, humus and oatcakes and pesto Olives.

 

15 days and counting...

That's all it is, 15 days until my Ultra Marathon. Im really looking forward to it, Ive trained really well  and hit all my training targets so far. Ive got to keep the momentum up now and not let any negativity come into my head (eg: have I trained enough, am I fit enough, can I do it?). This is just a natural response to stress and nerves and I know not to listen to it, shut it out and focus.
Its been a hard two days to fit everything in and still be able to function as Ive been really busy at both ends of the candle.
I was at work again for 7am this morning and like always the walk to work, woke me up and freshened my mind ready for a busy day. The sunrise flooded the channel as I crossed the bridge, offering up another photo opportunity.

Sunrise across the Channel

I had a backstage tour with some children from a school today. The excellent school teaches children with learning difficulties and they were learning about Theatres. They were an extremely lively bunch and I loved every minute of showing them round the stage and letting them have a go on the sound and lighting desks. They were so exited and it gave me immense pleasure and warmed my heart seeing the smiles on their faces. One little boy was quite shy but he had a go on a microphone Id set up and he was off into his very own rendition of "Let it Go!", it was beautiful. I had a lovely time showing them round.

After a walk home from work, I made some Veg Curry, tidied up and sorted the boy out, ready for a run later.

Running: 8.6 miles  8:30/mi  1:10hrs

I could have easily stayed in tonight, I was knackered but not too much to train, so I laced up my shoes and headed out in to the cool night. I ran the same circuit as last night, slowing down the pace a bit from yesterdays run. I slipped into a bit of a trance tonight, probably from being tired. I was really thinking about my race, how to pace it, whether to attack it or go easy. I didn't any answers today, so I mentally retraced the parts of the run Id done before, remembering  each part , committing them to deeper memories. I returned home after a dark yet very warm run about 10pm.
I was totally wrecked and really hungry. I had a shower and listened to what my body was asking for so I sat with my feet raised and had a supper of oatcakes topped with cottage cheese and beetroot, humus and olives plus a few pieces of boiled ham. I was going to get up early and go for a run but I think a good 7 or 8 hours sleep will do me much more benefit than 7 or 8 miles. I will go for a run tomorrow evening instead.

Food Diary:

Breakfast:
Mini Shredded Wheat with Blueberries and skimmed milk

Lunch:
Turmeric seared chicken salad with Beetroot, wild rice and black Kale.

Turmeric Seared Chicken Salad

Dinner:
Homemade Vegetable and bean Curry with Brown Rice

Vegetable and bean Curry

Bowl of Greek Yoghurt with Blueberries.

Snacks:
2x Apples, Banana, nuts and seeds, flapjack bar, oatcakes with cottage cheese and beetroot

Back on Nights....

It was an early start for me this morning. I was in work for 7am for a conference that was starting first thing. It was dark when I set off but the morning sun rose up and poked its head out of the clouds as I came within view of the town hall. The Victorian building was perfectly silhouetted against the fiery sky so I stopped to capture the scene.

Early sunrise above Barrow Town Hall

 

 

I had a busy day at work with two kids shows of Dinosaur Zoo in today, (which was bloody brilliant) so I was kept going all day. I walked home and made dinner and lunches for tomorrow as Im on early again in the morning. Joanne wasn't well when I returned home and she spent the rest of the evening resting in bed. After Id sorted the house and meals out, Oliver went to bed and I settled down to watch some soaps. Only kidding I put my run gear on and went for a run, I returned and did my core strength exercises, had a quick shower and went to bed to write this blog.

Running: 8.6 miles  7:19 /mi   1:03hrs

It was good to get out for dark night run again. I hadn't run this circuit for a while, probably since the dark evenings left us in the spring. Its a good route in the dark as there are no unlit roads and plenty of visibility. Its also an excellent time to switch to a later run, the ultra will be finishing in the dark after 13 hours, so it makes sense to run after a long day when Im really tired.
I made my way off Walney and noticed my pace was quite quick so I stayed with it, relaxing into the quick turnover. I made my way onto Park Road and along to Ormsgill Lane. The lane climbs up from the pub on the corner up and over to the Hospital. Its an excellent climb that takes around 5 min to do. As I ran up it my pace didn't drop, it felt easy, light and I felt really strong. I pushed up the 3 sections of the hill, each one getting steeper and was at the top much sooner than I thought, breathing hard but not needing to stop. I continued at the top and down past the Hospital to Abbey Road.
The return 4 miles is a good run from there, its down hill for a bit and a good chance to stretch my legs and my pace. I thought a lot about my forthcoming race and how I would tackle it. I need to solidify my race plan in the next couple of weeks. I slowed down as I came onto Walney and my last mile. The drop of pace slowing my heart and cooling me down as I reached home. I really enjoyed the run.
When I downloaded my GPS watch data I found I had run a PB for the hill section on Ormsgill lane which, again is a good sign of my improvements. I went straight into my strength work and stretched out before getting a shower and my head down for the night.

Food Diary:

Breakfast:
Mini Shredded Wheat with Blueberries and Skimmed milk

Lunch:
Mackerel Salad with brown rice

Dinner:
Thai style Basa Fillets with Brown Rice, tender stem broccoli and chilli vegetable stir fry

Snacks:
Nuts and seeds, 2x apples, celery sticks, pineapple, oat bar

Proud as Punch

Today was a rest day and after yesterdays Recce run and 80 miles in a week I definitely needed it. I was knackered! It was also my day off work today as Im working next weekend. I got up with Oliver and took him to school on my way for a haircut and a big shop! After yesterdays run, my quads are smashed to pieces, my knee cut to ribbons, my right thigh grazed and bruised but I feel great! I learned those scars yesterday!

Oliver was happy this morning as he ran around in the rain in the playground, chatting to other kids, always staying on the periphery of their groups and games, watching intently but not quite joining in. The kids all rushed for the door when the time came and he ran to me to say goodbye and give me a kiss. He then totally amazed me.

He opened the door for the other kids and stood there until they were all in. He waved farewell and bounced into school. A massive smile came across my face and pride welled up within me. I wiped the tear away from my eye as I walked to the car, thinking of how proud I am of him. I love that little man so much.  I find it so heart warming to watch just how hard he tries and how well he copes (sometimes!) with the pressure of school. I hope it lasts!!! He is amazing and inspires me to push myself every day!

I then got my hair cut, bought a new compass, did the shopping, put it away, made lunch, tidied up, fell asleep in a hot bath, went for Oliver, made dinner (which I have to say was amazing!), finished my blog from yesterday and today, tidied up and went to bed totally wiped out!!

Food Diary:

Breakfast:
Oat So Simple porridge with nuts and seeds

Lunch:
Goats Cheese, Walnut and Beetroot Salad with Quinoa, sugar snap peas, salad leaves, tomato, cucumber and peppers

Goats Cheese, Walnut and Beetroot Salad

Dinner
Homemade Lamb Masala with wild rice and fine beans

Lamb Masala

 

Fat Free Greek Yoghurt, nuts seeds, pineapple and blueberries.

Snacks:
Oat Bar, 2x apples

Drinks:
Coffee, more coffee and a few cups of coffee, lots of bottled water and a mug of Horlicks before bed!

Sunday Recce Run

Today was the organised recce run of the first 10 miles of the Lakes in a Day Ultra run. I rose straight away when the alarm went off at 5:30am. I had to be at Threkald in the Northern Lake District for 8am. I had breakfast, grabbed my stuff and headed out about 6:15am. I had got everything ready the night before so I wasn't disturbing anyone. I also made sure Joanne and Oliver had some lunch made to make it easier for them. On my return Joanne had to go back to bed and although I was shattered I cracked on, made dinner, sorted the washing out and tidied up. I crashed into bed later that night totally wrecked!

Running:  10 miles approx

It was a lovely drive through the Lake District, early enough to get a good run on the roads without any "Sunday Drivers" although technically I was driving on a Sunday so that makes me one too! There was a low lying fog drifting across the lakes and fells and I hoped it would lift before we set off. I reached Threlkeld in plenty of time, parked the car and went to the meeting point at the village hall café. There were a few other runners waiting for the bus and we introduced ourselves as we chatted. A very Yorkshire accent called my name and a face Id not seen for a while greeted my. It was Andy, whom Id ran some of the K2B a couple of years ago and been facebook friends since. I knew he was doing the race but didn't know hed be there today and it was good to see a familiar face. We made our way to the bus and it transported us to the start point in Caldbeck.

Caldbeck to Threlkald

The recce route was from the race start at Caldbeck, across the fells, then up and over Blencathra to Threlkald below that would be the first checkpoint and feed station on the route. I got my things together, popped in the pub for a wee and when everyone was ready, set off down the road.

The fog and mist had lifted and we could see the top of the first fell we would climb. The run leader gave us some instructions as to the correct route choice and we headed up the sloping hills. As we ascended the leader explained some of the terminology used when describing and understanding the landscape contours such as a "re-entrant". I found this very interesting and was learning a lot of new skills whilst brushing up on some navigation. We made our way to the top of High Pike and stopped for a moment to examine our maps and take some references and bearings. The view from the top was simply breath-taking, looking back towards our start point the view opened up in every direction, the flat northern coast of England giving way across the Channel of Eden River to the Scottish hills far beyond. Id never seen this view before and was blown away as I gazed across the countries, so clear in the morning air.

The next section was the "open route choice" which meant on race day we could take whatever path we wanted to take between High Pike to Foule Crag up on Blencathra. Now you would think the easiest way would be direct, but the fellside was covered with thick, course heather, bogs and gulleys. So we looked at our maps and between us discussed all the possible route options. We decided on a trail that lead us onto a large hill covered with low lying heather. It felt course and rough as I ploughed through the undergrowth, careful not to step into a divot. The heather looked as if it was growing on a flat hillside that was smooth and even, but the ground underneath belied its real surface. It was extremely soft underfoot and took quite a bit of energy to get across the fell.

We stopped at the crest of the hill to discuss what we could do and look for if the "Clag" was in (heavy fog and mist) and visibility was poor. Our target was in front of us now - Foule Crag, up a very steep incline. After looking at the waypoint we pushed on down the fell to the river crossing. We were all bounding down the hill when my foot went down an unseen gulley. The weight shifted under me and I lurched forward, but I managed to drop my shoulder and land into a roll. How the hell I managed it I don't know but I forward rolled and leapt straight up continuing my run as if nothing had happened. I got a woah! off Andy and we laughed at how cool it looked and I said its from watching TJ Hooker as a kid (Will Shatner always used to drop and roll in it!). My knee took a good grazing form the tumble but otherwise I was ok. We dropped to the river crossing at the bottom of the valley and found a way across the cold waterway.

The high crag at the back of Blencathra was above us, looming in the clouds as we surveyed the best route to take. A straight shot through the boggy heather was the best option and we all trudged off towards the summit over Mungrisedale Common. It was a long, slow and arduous climb. I walked for a while with the run leader Oli and we talked about our Ultra Running. It was really good to talk to someone who understands my craziness of loving Ultras and I got loads of good tips from him as we made our way skywards. I didn't find the climb taxing, which was good, although we were taking it slow and waiting occasionally for the group to reform again. At the top of the fell, the terrain changed to a rocky path and quickly steepened. It was short lived and we soon reached the summit. On the top was a huge white cross, made of white rocks, placed there in memorial of a walker who died many moons ago. It was quite surprising and a little eerie seeing something like that in the middle of nowhere.


Me at the top of Foule Crag

A short jog across the top of the saddleback brought us to the top of Blencathra herself. The view from the top was amazing and as I looked over the valleys of the Lake district towards Derwantwater
the clouds parted for a moment and the scene was bathed in sunlight. It was beautiful. I took a quick picture then listened intently to the run leader as he described the instructions for the descent.
I looked over the edge of Halls Fell. It looked like a spine of a huge reptile, squirming into the valley below. I was excited at the prospect of a quick descent. I love running technical downhill trail, not thinking about anything except my next step, my mind clear as I subliminally work out a path through the rocks. We started our descent.

Threlkald far down below Halls Fell

I took the lead after a few meters and the pace quickened. Halls fell is a good 800m high with drop offs either side down into a scree covered shoulder of the mountain. Yes it was frightening but that's a really big part of it for me. The fear keeps me at bay, stops me pushing too far and uncontrollably too fast. It was extremely technical in parts and I had to climb, slide and shimmy across the slippery,  sharp rocks. It was totally exhilarating! I loved every second of it. Moving between a deep V of rock, I slammed into the side as I moved at speed through the gap, my thigh glanced heavily off the side. It was sore but didn't stop or hamper my progress. My heart was in my mouth several times but I never once felt out of control as I flew down the mountain side. My brain instantly working out where each foot should be, what angle to place my ankle, where to brake, where to twist and shift my centre of gravity and when to just stop and look at the stunning scenery.

The stunning view from Halls Fell

"This is running, this is my drug and this is why I love it!"

I safely made the ascent and stopped at the bottom to wait for the others. One other runner on the recce had passed me towards the bottom as I descended. She was supremely confident downhill and became one with the mountain as she shifted her weight with the twists and turns of the path. The others soon joined us and we made our way back to the start point.

The bottom of the ridge we'd just ran down

 I felt really good and  although the 10 mile recce had been tough in parts, it hadn't shocked me or altered my race plans. I still had loads left to give. The café in Threlkald came into view and I rewarded myself with an Americano and a slice of "Caramel Heaven" (A millionaires shortbread topped with nuts and seeds instead of chocolate) and it tasted every bit as good as it looked. I chatted with the other runners as we drank and ate before we all bid each other farewell.

I left the café and took a moment to look at the next part of the race route, across the A66 and up Clough Head to Great Dodd then off to Helvellyn. I took a picture so I could commit it into my memory, gouging the trail into my mind ready for three weeks time.

Clough Head awaits, see you in three weeks

 I now know what to expect, I know what I need to do and I know how hard its going to be.

Today had been a great experience, meeting some lovely people with an common if unusual interest and learned the first 5th of the race route. An exhilarating and informative day out. I loved it.

Food Diary:

Breakfast:
Oatso Simple Porridge with nuts and seeds

Run Nutrition:
9bar, flapjack and 1 SIS Gel, 1 Ltr water with 2x electrolyte tablets.

Snacks:
Caramel Heaven slice (naughty but thoroughly deserved), 2x apples, Oatcakes and humus

Lunch:
Gluten free Pasta with Chicken , tomato and Pesto

Dinner:
Pork Stir fry with Rice and Vegetables

Drinks:
Water, coffee and a glass of Red Wine with Dinner.

Fond memories....

Thankfully we all managed to get a good nights sleep for a change, I woke at 7 and got up with Oliver. After breakfast I took him to my Mums who looks after him on a Saturday morning until just after lunch. It gives me time to get jobs done, work or train and today was training day. Joanne was exhausted from going to her friends last night so I left her in bed and went for a run. I had a 15 mile run scheduled but because I missed yesterdays run I decided to up it to 20 miles. I had a route in mind and it was a beautiful day to get out. On my return Oliver came back and normal service resumed. That was it for the day, cooking and washing and playing with Oliver. After all that I got all my gear ready for an early start in the morning. Ive got to be at Threkald for 8am in the morning for my recce of Blencathra and Im so looking forward to it. When Im all done Im going to have an early night.

Running: 20.69 miles    9.11 / mi    3:09hrs

It was a hot one today so I slapped on some factor 50 before I left the house. I had my new trainers and calf guards on today, giving them a good break in. I made my way over Walney Bridge and turned into Channel side haven heading for Red Mans way. My feet were starting to ache and I realised my laces were a bit tight so I stopped and loosened them off, letting my feet spread into the shoes. It was so much better. I carried on along the channel taking in the great views of North Walney and Black Combe in  the distance. It was a steady climb up to the top of Red Mans way, but I was rewarded with more amazing views of the coast. I live in such a beautiful area, on the coast at the foot of the Lake District "where the lakes meet the sea" is the local slogan and its never been as true as today. The whole of the Western lake district was visible, the high peaks clear and sharp in the morning sunlight. I love running up here, its so uplifting and peaceful.

Red Mans Way. The path leads along Walney Channel

I  made my way down and onto the main road that comes into Barrow, a loud contrast from the tranquil view Id had just moments ago. Trucks, cars and motorbikes all flying past polluting the air with their noisy, hurried engines. I turned off on the route, up Bank Lane then over Park Road to take on St Helens Hill. The views on this part are as equally stunning with the fells and moorland of Kirby adding to the landscape. The sun was rising quickly in the sky and although its mid September it felt very hot as I ran along. The sweat began to bead and run down from under my cap, so I stopped for a moment and packed it away in my backpack.

St Helens hill was quickly before me. Its a bit of a local hot spot for runners as it takes a good 5 minutes of climbing and has its own Strava section. It also used to be a main road into Dalton and onto Askam, many moons ago. The hill was a hard struggle when I first started distance training but now only offers me a small challenge. As I reached the last corner a long lost memory rose from the depths of my mind.  My Dads Aunt used to live up here and we used to drive up this hill to her house. I remembered sitting in the back of the family car, a deep green Vauxhall Victor back in the 1970s, listening to the car struggling and coughing as it made its way slowly up the hill in first gear. Fond memories of a childhood that seems so far away now!

I reached the top and pushed on into Dalton dropping down to the main road then it was straight up again. Dalton Cemetery hill is a very steep hill, short and sharp. Its even got a handrail up the side wall its that bad (or good if, like me, you embrace hills). I didn't think twice about it and strode onwards and upwards. The climb only lasted about 40seconds but always gets my breath. I had a quick drink at the top and made my way across to Stank.

Stank hill is also a runners favourite, sweeping up and dropping straight back down the other side. From its crest you can see the southern tip of Walney and Barrow as it juts out into Morecambe Bay, another truly spectacular view. From there it was back down the hill and through the lanes all the way to Rampside. It was about 12 noon and I was due some fuel so I decided to wait until I reached Roa Island. Its connected to the mainland by a long causeway that can be horrendous to cross in bad weather but today it was a peaceful crossing, the sun shining and the sea air calm and fresh. I popped into the public toilets, refilled one of my bottles from the tap and went to sit at the head of the island which is home to the lifeboat station and the jetty that points to the Piel Island a few hundred yards off shore.

The Jetty at Roa Island pointing at Piel Island

Tourists and locals were making the crossing to Piel in the sunshine, the small ferry motoring them back and forth across the calm sea. A few people gave me a strange glance as I sat down and opened my backpack. The attire of an ultra runner kind of stands out in an urban setting, with all the compression shorts, calf guards and running vests on display. Its not something very common to see I suppose and I often get questioned about it, which always ends with "How Far! You must be mad". (No..Im not Mental...Im.. ).

I sat for a few minutes, basking in the sun and the vista before me, the views stirring my spirit on a primitive level, filling me with a desire to be free, to keep going, to explore and well, just run. I could have sat there for hours watching the ferry and the boats in the channel but I had work to do. Its about 5 miles home from there so I packed up and made my way back over the causeway onto the "old Line" greenway.

More fond memories came to me as I ran this familiar route. My Grandad on my Mums side, used to take me there on his long weekend walks with his dog, Kim (well it was my cousins dog but it was Grandads really!). I was the only boy in the family so we had a special bond and he had a real soft spot for me. We used to walk for hours and he would tell me all about Barrow and the area, its history and its legends. What I remember most though was his passion about nature. He loved to grab me and point out a hare or a white Heron as we ambled along and he knew the name of every bird and animal we came across. I learned so much from him in those walks and I really looked forward to our time together. Ha, I laughed as I recalled how the dog used to get shit up all the time in the muddy bogs that litter the docklands and my Nana used to tell Grandad off for it on our return. I used to love those walks with him and they will always have a special place in my heart. (Bloody hell, Im getting a bit tearful as Im writing this, its flooding me with emotion as I remember so long ago). I do miss him and I must admit, its been a while since Ive thought of him. He died when I was 15 so that was 27 years ago!!

Its a fantastic thing, running, it delivers every time I go out the door and has given me back this lovely memory today.

Running over the only hill on the Green way, my home town opened up before me and I could see why the town prospered because of its deep water channels leading in. The busy industrial landscape gave such a stark contrast to the serene and still Lake District behind it. I continued, through the dockland and back into Town. My pace had been good throughout the run and I was pushing a bit harder than normal. This was a good feeling and I was reaching some quick speeds (for long distance running) as I came into Morrisons Car Park. With only a mile and a half to go, my body sensed it and got its second wind, suddenly feeling lighter and speeding up as we reached Walney. I slowed down as I approached home, warming down at a gentle trot whilst my heart rate returned to normal.

I made myself a lovely cold protein drink and sipped it in the garden as I stretched and cooled down. It had been a fantastic run, almost effortless and thoroughly enjoyable. A beautiful autumnal run around our amazing area.

Food Diary:

Breakfast:
Mini Shredded wheat with chopped banana and chia seeds

Run Nutrition
1x 9Bar, 1x bag of nuts and seeds, 1x SIS apple Gel, 2x ltrs water with 3 electrolyte tables

Post run protein smoothie:
Iced Berry Smoothie: Frozen berries, coconut milk, Greek yoghurt, honey, hemp protein powder

Lunch:
Spanish omelette (3 eggs, mushrooms, peppers, spinach and new potatoes) with side salad

Dinner
Pesto Salmon with wholegrain rice, roasted vegetables and a homemade tomato ragu.

Pesto topped Salmon with roasted veg 

Snacks:
 apple, sourdough GF crackers with homemade humus, 100% orange juice iceblock

No test run for New Shoes

Woo Hoo, my new running shoes arrived today. As I don't really want to try anything new at this stage of training, so I decided to get the same model of shoes: New Balance Leadville 100 V2 - named after the famous American 100mile race their design was inspired by. They are a long distance shoe with lots of great features that I really liked. I find them amazingly versatile and have used them as equally well on the roads, trails, soft ground or rocky mountain paths. The tread on them is great for traction and they have a decent toe box on them to protect from kicking stones (which I always do on long fell runs).

Old shoes, see how the tread is worn on the forefoot

Same model, different colour shoes and Salomon Calf Guards

I also managed to find a pair of Solomon Calf Guards for about 1/4 of the retail price (Top tip - shop around for last years model / design, they are always virtually the same as the latest designs but nowhere near the cost!!). Ive been after these for a while but they've always been too expensive, so I couldn't believe the price they were and they accidentally fell into my online shopping cart...oops. If you don't know compression calf guards are worn to (supposedly) prevent muscle movement / damage and aid blood flow much like a flight sock does on a long haul. My current pair are torn to shreds and they seem to have been working for me on long outings.

Running: 0:00   0/mil   0 hrs

Major cock up today. Joanne had a bad night last night again and I had a really interrupted nights sleep so I was exhausted this morning, I said to myself I would go out tonight. However I totally forgot Joanne was going to her friends party tonight and it was just the boy and I, so I was stuck in! Im so happy that Joanne went tonight, she really made an effort and looked lovely. She wont stay out long but it will do her the world of good.

Anyway I decided to go with the flow and did some running in Minecraft with Oliver instead and we had a right laugh together. When Oliver went to bed I got my exercise mat and gear out and hit a bootcamp session instead of a run. After a gentle warm up and mobilization I went straight into front plank as I always do in my strength sets. Ive got up to a semi comfortable 4 mins plank lately so I decided to see how much I could take: 6:23min, not bad at all! Then I cracked into some well rehearsed exercises: push ups, sit ups, ST sit ups!, heel taps, flutter kicks, squats with a weighted shoulder press, weighted Russian twist, one leg balancing with eyes closed (very good for trail running balance) and a few more exercises I cant remember the names of. After a good 50min of reps, the sweat was pouring out of me. I just did a free form exercise set, mixing up muscle groups from upper, mid and core to lower. A gentle stretch followed and I felt like I had worked really hard and effectively. Judging by the times and amount of reps I got through, my fitness and strength are definitely on the increase.

Torture equipment

Im a bit disappointed about missing my run, but it was just circumstantial so Ive let it go. It wasn't a major session anyway just a gentle 7 miles. Im off until Tuesday now so I will make up for it over the weekend and there is also my organised race recce on Sunday too. Im really looking forward to it.

Food Diary

Breakfast:
Nutribullet Veggie Smoothie with Spinach, banana, apple, avocado, flaxseeds

Thick and creamy veggie smoothie

 Lunch
Tuna Niscoise Salad with Quinoa, boiled egg, avocado, peppers cucumber, celery, beetroot, salad leaves

Tuna and Egg salad with Quinoa

Dinner:
Glazed chicken breast with a homemade tomato salsa, new potatoes, sauteed mushrooms and courgette, steamed kale

Glazed Chicken and new potatoes

Snacks
Nuts and seeds mix, 9 bar, 2x apples, banana