I'm a right cycle path...

Nearly 2 weeks into this year and so far I've managed to accomplish quite a lot; or well, it feels like a lot.

I know it's only 2 weeks... but so far ive stuck to my resolutions. Last weekend I joined the gym with my bestest bud, Jeremy, with every intention of working hard and so far it's seemed to have worked. There's a big reason for this change in my habits as I managed to get myself into a little bit of a sticky situation, but now trying to make the most of it...

Back last Summer I was invited to The Lord Mayor's Ladies Day at Kent County Cricket club. I was ridiculously excited to attend and had to dress up in my glad rags in the sunshine. (me + cricket = happiness at the best of times). It's a rare occasion I properly dress up, so I made the most of it.

Suffice to say, as the day went on we all had a few shandies whilst networking and enjoying the company of the Council's guests. In the latter part of the afternoon I ended up sitting next to the Chief Executive of the Council, Colin Carmichael and also the deputy, Velia Coffey. I'd had a few conversations with them in the past about cycling, as both have done tons for charity by doing crazy bike rides. I'd informed them that over the Summer I'd developed a taste for cycling.... although my craziness was limited to Minnis Bay or Whitstable with normally a pint stop in between. I then of course, with a little stupid Dutch courage told them how I love challenges. Which to be fair is the truth, but perhaps not what I had in mind when they then invited me to do the Lady Mayoress's charity bike ride the following Summer. "Of course!!" I responded. Thinking yes, this would be awesome. That, and well, how could I refuse the Chief and Deputy execs?!

Following on from that day, I received an email back in November to officially sign up. I couldn't really say no after having the cajonies to say yes beforehand. I then realise its a bike ride to Reims in France.. Over 3 days. Eek! Anyone who's reading this now, and thinking to themselves that the distance is simple.. Pease leave!! ;) For a person like me and my medical history, it's asking a lot. But who doesn't love a good challenge?

So this week at the gym, as well as completing other cardio, heart attack causing exercises; I've cycled about 70k. I've also bought a pretty road bike, which should arrive just in time for the snow fall. I've also had the dawning realisation that I desperately need to invest in some decent cycling shorts (ouch!). I'm not going to even try and describe the saddle sore at this exact moment in time, otherwise this blog would become R rated.

I'm facing the challenge at hand straight on. Half the reason I've written this blog is because it means I then cannot back out. It's now on record and in the public domain. Wish me luck!

Oh and PS, Jeremy dared me to write about how awesome he is. So there, Jeremy. You're mentioned and it's done.

Posted with Blogsy

2013? Bring it on!

Where to start? I normally don't bother with resolutions; they get bent and broken so easily.Instead I'm going for hopes and aspirations, after last year being a bit of a big cock up, it'll be interesting to see how these pan out. A new, fresh start:

1. I'm going to support my Mum and watch her kick the big "C"'s arse. We're half way there but she has still got a long time to go. I know I cannot cure it, but a positive attitude and help when I can is a must. As with most people, we're close to our parents. Mum and I created a strong bond over the time I was ill. Fighting all the way, and I'll be there with her.

2. Learn new things and have different experiences. (Without being alcoholically challenged!) Perhaps finally learn an instrument, or go back to playing the piano and develop my skills. Go back to learning another language. It's been too long since I've done something practical, I enjoy learning and I should utilise this further. I now have the time, rather than watching films, or sitting in the pub I will make sure that I will be proactive with expanding my horizons. (Admittedly signing up to a 200 mile bike ride was a little bit of a crazy moment, but that will be.... Interesting, a challenge??)

3. Keep my head down and work hard. I have a new job starting soon, it's a chance for a whole new career and life. So many options from it.. Thou shalt not cock it up. I want my own place and to prove things can be accomplished on my own.

4. Support Herne Bay in any way, shape or form that I can do and not just on a Council level. So many events to plan that are all just going to get bigger and better as the year goes on. I'm looking forward to my 2nd year in the BayPromoTeam. They've become a second family, They are all crazy in their own ways but what we've managed to accomplish is totally amazing, long may that continue (and Gerald's amazing costumes!)

5. Dive the US Thistlegorm. I've been to Egypt god knows how many times, I miss out. This isn't a hope, this is happening.  My idol Jacques Cousteau discovered it, I need to do this wreck. I'm back to Egypt on my own this time. I'm quite excited about this. The Thistlegorm is a war grave, a very sad wreck from 1941, but it's probably one of the most interesting wrecks ever. Full cargo.

6. Last and final one, to learn to be happy for myself and myself alone. This is going to be the hardest one, but against 6 months ago, there's no comparison as to what I feel about my life. I just must look to the next 6 months and see what I can accomplish. As Mr Shakespeare once said, "All the world's a stage, and all the men and women are merely players". Time for me to take a main role.

To the family, friends and crazies who seem to like hanging about with me, thank you for everything. XX

Life, 2013, bring it on. I'm ready and waiting! Just let me get out of bed and over this damn hangover first...