Christmas with Mum

Well, I'm back and feeling a little flat, and FAT!

Christmas for me usually comprises of lots of Champagne and flu! This year, however has been a little different. This year I actually ate food, had company and got away with just a cold!

Whilst discussing Christmas with my Mum, she said that she may go away to Belgium on a coach tour, she asked what I was doing. I said that I would love to go away, somewhere hot, but being broke, having pets and having to keep working it was never going to happen.

Mum went away with her decision, to come and stay in Devon and have her first Christmas with me here, or go to Belgium.
She decided that her daughter was going to be honoured with her company. Epic! I was so excited! And also slightly worried, as I know what my Christmases have been like down here, but knew she could cope.

Time passed, Mum brought varying exciting packages on different trips down over the last few months. And then, we were just a few days away from Mum arriving.
Quick dust, put a few decorations that Mum had bought me (I didn't bother about that either) and we were ready.

I met Mum off the coach, took her stuff to the bed and breakfast and we went back to watch the Strictly final! Great start to our Christmas Holiday together. Lots of shouting at the tv, a few tears, lots of text voting, and eventually and epic roar and cheer of delight from us as we rose to our feet, clapping at the tv as Louis won! What an end to the start of our time together.

When I was little I was most definitely a 'Daddy's Girl' used to run with him, he taught me how to press-up, sit-up and do chins! At about the age of 7! Mum and Andrew always got on, although when Mum went off to 'cool down' after a barny with Dad (she's gonna hate me for that) it was me who ran off after her up the road, I had to run at the pace she walked at up that hill! So you see, there is always something in common, I guess from a very early age I empathised with their argument, but also myself needed the air and the fresh thought. I still hate arguments to this day and will walk out, rather than argue. It upsets me.

So, as time has passed, since Dad passed, Mum and I have bonded, been on various funny coach trips, she's followed me around citites whilst I've done marathons and supported me like no mother should ever be asked to, mentally, financially and in hilarity! My Mum is the best!

Recently, I got together with an actual man that I called 'boyfriend' for a brief spell. It was 3 1/2 years since Matthew and I met him on a Fitness Singles dating site.
On 'paper' the relationship was perfect, he was perfect man, had enough money to probably support both of us, good job, respectful, enjoyed exercise, ex military, charming, gentleman, need I go on?
And..... for the first time ever, Mum liked him! Amazing!
They got on so well it was awesome, unfortunately, my Mum also should have really predicted the end earlier in the year when she called me 'fickle' and she was right of course, and had forgotten that!
So perfect 'on paper' boyfriend had to go and I had to face a very disappointed Mummy :*(

I think she has forgiven me now though.................

So, I had to work the next day, Mum had a key, I made it back, and again the next day I had to work, but mum doesn't mind, she would rather I work and earn money.

We had a great time, and then..... Christmas Eve! I had warned Mum about it. She had to sit through a band rehearsal the previous day, a little odd, both of us with stinking colds, having band practise in a bedroom above the Bay Horse! Bob, Dave, Mum and me! Yep, le't not go on about that, safe to say though, other than me having to blow my nose halfway through a verse we were ready to play.

Mum went and changed, I got into my little Santa Dress and we met at the pub.

What a night, music, singing, more music, I played my flute for what seemed like hours, it was awesome, so awesome we missed Midnight Mass! It was brilliant and I walked Mum back to the B and B and took some strange dark photos of the river on the way back! Don't you just love mixing champagne and cider eh?! haha

Christmas Day, funnily enough was a Bay Horse experience again. And the lovely Fran is staying in Totnes over the festive period, I love it when people as insane as me come to stay! Looking forward to New Years Eve now.
A few cheeky vinos and back to make dinner. Roast Beef for 2!
A sherry trifle that could have been drunk through a straw, lots of wine and Amaretto and we passed out! Me on the sofa with Finnegan, then Murphy, then Paddy! And Mum all safe upstairs.
Perfick!

Boxing Day, comprised of walking in the rain with little Jo and the dogs, to go and see non-existent Morris Dancers! And then, champagne, Darcy Bussell, old musicals and a walk back later to Bridgetown, in the rain, again!

27th (yesterday) I had to work in the morning, Tania, awesome dedicated client of mine came out for a run, a hilly one, then I picked up Mum and her case (I was still in my hi-viz lycra) and we went back to mine so I could shower, clean and pack!
We left 12.30 and set off up the A38 (Devon for Motorway) towards the A303.

And, as soon as we got near Newton Abbot, we stopped, and listened to Radio Devon, funnily enough, John Govier was on, saying he was travelling South on the 38 and there was a 5 car pile up at Kennford!
Bugger!
Bugger!
Bugger!
We moved, very slowly, it was like when I supported Rob Starbuck in his 132 mile run this year, yep, it was about that speed, the speed you run Ultra's at! Thankfully, I had the dogs in the back and they came with me as support crew for the 132 so were happy :)

So, from our getting on the A 38 to the A30 was an hour and 30 mins, something that should have taken only about 30 mins! Eeeek!

And then onto the A303, the pretty route!
All good, nope, Blackdown Hills, 10 miles an hour, keep going.......
More jams
More queues....
Not far from Stonehenge, oops! Stopped.

Nothing for at least 30 mins.
I mentioned the toilet to Mum and she agreed.
Not moving
Nowt!

It was dark, Mum got out of the van and had a wander up the road.
People were getting out of cars and smoking to right, running out to the hedges and trees for a wee to the left!
Mum came back, she had spoke to a lady up the road, another accident, they had also been caught up in the A38 accident, her relative was one of the 6 cars, yep 6 now, not 5!
Mum got in, eventually we got to the Countess Services and a wee stop for Mum and the dogs!
Funny, I took the dogs up over a grass bank, and as we walked, we encountered many men walking back doing up their flies! haha
Mum came back after an epic queue and off we went again.

I shall bore you no more, needless to say, there was a third accident on the M3
We made it back ok
Watched a little tv, ate party food
I went to sleep on a blow up mattress, covered in dogs yet again!
Finnegan, in fact had made his way into my sleeping bag upside down so his head was down the end.

Saw brother, he only came to see Finnegan I swear, and then back homewards, passing Reigate Heath to see where I had scattered Blue's ashes, and Woking to see my partner in Funk, Rob for a quick coffee.

And I'm home, with a Team Funkanova hoodie all ready for 2013 action and epic fundraising!

BRING IT ON!!!!!!!!!!

Loves ya, thanks for reading :) x

Weeeeeeny update.....

Hi! *waves*

Well, stuff has happened, nothing exciting, nothing mind-blowingly awesome but life has happened to me. But at the same time, that stuff has been insightful!

The next challenge for me was a Team Funkanova Ultra marathon on the SW Coast path, but it appears that I may well be running the Gloucester Marathon on my birthday! haha, funny eh? You know me!
When I was at school I got a certificate for 'Outstanding Helpfulness' created just for me, cos I just couldn't stop putting my hand up to help! What has changed? F all haha ;)

So, I sort of had a boyfriend for a bit, but as great as it looked on paper, you cant take the Debbie out of Deborah! Yep, fickle DFMW did her usual and it all ended by me making stupid excuses that weren't really the real reason to save his feelings, my Mum hates me cos he was the first boyfriend she liked, but sadly, I didnt.

So, I'm kicking about, currently with a cold, couldn't work or train today, but resting for tomorrow and all will be good again.

Some people think that you need to be with someone to be happy, I believe that you need to be happy, to be happy, and I am, so no one need worry, and if I meet someone and stay happy, then that's cool, but if they don't quite tick all the boxes then I'm afraid I'm back on my own again, it has to be right, perfect and I will accept nothing less.

I had a long relationship once, it was ok, but it was ok, hence why it didn't last, I am serious and all my friends who worry about  me being on my own, dont. I am better off that way. 

So there tis, I have a wonderful Mum, great friends, new and old, awesome dogs, gerbil and ferret and a new kitten arriving soon, who could want for more?

And the best news, representing a charity I adore in Devon, 2013 better watch out, I'm onits heels as I type!

Talking of typing......... the book....... halfway.......

Tribute to Friar

It's taken me a couple of days to get to writing this. I started a couple of times and burst into tears, which inevitably went all over the laptop, so I had to stop!

For those of you that knew Friar know that he was an awesome Cat. I shall tell you his story.....

In 1995 in a house in Earlswood where I used to live, a whole bunch of kittens were born, their Mum was my Cat's sister, Purdie. My Cat funnily enough was called 'Cat' and lived with me in Meadvale.
Shortly after they were born they sadly contracted Cat Flu, Sue and I rushed them to the vets in 2 different cars. My bunch of kittens were on my lap and at the time I had a massive hole in the footwell of my little brown mini. If one of them had fallen off my lap they would have gone into the road and been roadkill! Dangerous times!
We got glucose for them, antibiotics and sat up all night taking them in turns on hot water bottles feeding them the glucose mixture.

They all made the night and grew up to be healthy kitties. I took one from Sue, a little Silvery coloured kitten who I called Gomez. He was so pretty and had the most amazing personality. You couldn't fail to fall in love with the little chap.
Eventually Sue moved house and had to get rid of some of her pets. I took on Purdie who was re-homed at Rosemar and kept Friar.
he was called Friar, because as a small kitten he had a little black Monk spot on his head. It soon spread over his ears as he got older but still looked cute as ever.

Friar, Gomez and Cat lived with Blue and General and our other pets (I was with Shane at the time and we had a small Zoo in our house) and we all lived happily ever after for a bit!
And then I moved out, with the cats and dogs. More cats were added, Hubert and Logan came to join in the fun and we moved into a caravan in the grounds of a boarding and rescue kennels and cattery in Leigh.
Gomez was run over, not long after moving there. It was awful. He had gone missing for a day or so and then our neighbours found him by their house. He joined the other animals in the little woody pet cemetary we had created there. Not that long after Hubert sadly joined him after being hit on the road. Sad times.

Then, other sad times happened in my life, my Grandad died before Christmas in 2000, Friar was there at the end of my bed every night, eventually crawling up into a foetal position with me and walking me every morning with his noisy siamese vocals. He got me through those tough nights and even more to come, because January 2001, my Dad sadly passed away too.
Friar, every night without fail would be there, right on the end of the bed, giving me comfort and a very much needed friend. (I' am crying typing this! Soppy bugger)

Friar always seemed to know when to be there, when I needed his comforting purrs and little noises.

We moved to Devon in 2004, 2 days of moving stuff and animals! Friar, Logan and Cat settled in well and we eventually moved to the farm, and then to Totnes.
At the farm, Friar developed a kidney infection, resulting in him backing up his whole system and shutting down his kidneys.
I took him to the vets, just in the nick of time and they kept him there for a week and he recovered fully from it. Amazing really! £350 later he came home to me.

Shortly after moving to Totnes Cat died of Kidney failure, rather too young. R.I.P. Cat, you funny bugger.

I have to tell you quickly about this little chap, the ginger thing above!
This was Logan.
Logan had already had several rescue homes before me and was very old when he came to me. I was told he only had a few years left. Logan was half Persian and had no ears!
He eventually lived to 32, the last year of his life he had moved out of the house and into my neighbours garden. I think you could say he had cat dimentia, but he seemed happy enough. R.I.P. Logie.

So then there was 1! Friar.
He was a very intelligent cat, I should have trusted him a lot more on reflection, but when I started to go out with Matthew, he hated him! When Matthew was in the house, Friar would go out.
Matthew wasn't a cat person, he hated cats, Friar knew this.
The decision was made though, him or Friar, the cat wins!
The night I finally got rid of Matthew, Friar trotted up the stairs, let out a few cute little mews and jumped on the end of the bed, as if to say, 'You're my wife now!' haha but he really was more comfortable without Matthew there! As was I!

Friar became more and more ill, he was getting old, but he was being sick an awful lot and I knew I had to make a decision.

Friar eventually was put to sleep on Monday 19th November 2012, keeping his dignity and purring right through to the end.
Rest in Peace now my beautiful little boy.

Friar, Cat and Logan at the farm.

a little coastal investigation

Well, good afternoon!

What an absolutely stunningly beautiful day in Devon today. It just makes all that crappy rain fade away, and we can smile again.

This morning, 2 of my clients, a husband and wife, did their first 10k race in Henley. We have trained hard for this, Simon even called me at about 6k to let me know how he was doing! They both achieved great results and I feel very very proud of them!

So, I always set my clients a goal or a challenge, and now that their 10k is over a new goal is needed fast. I suggested the Beesands 10k in February. Rob and I are contemplating the Beesands Ultra, and Simon may want to up it to the half if he can, so today I thought I would head off out in the winter sunshine and check out the route.

This is Beesands, looking back from the top of the hill.

Those of you who know me, know I'm not great with directions! That's one reason why I love the coast path, as long as the sea remains on your left on the way there, and on your right on the way back, all is well!
But today, I had a little chat with Steve, who has run the Ultra before and told me the sort of route. I then looked at the map of the route! It may as well have been written in Japanese!

So I set out, I knew the first bit at least to Start Point, Steve said something about a hut. I knew the hut. Timmy and I stopped there so I could take some Pro Plus on the 103 and it was dark! I just had to work it out from there!

This is the view towards Start Point from the hill after Beesands.

I cracked on, lots of water, tiny little narrow paths, rocks, all the usual Coast Path obstacles! I love it! I've missed this type of running, just getting out there and enjoying the moment.

I met a few Rambles, had a few chats, took a few photos, because at the end of the day, I want to show Tania and Simon how awesome coast path running is. The one thing I can't show is how hard and erratic it is. That shall come with training, then they can decide!

Little wooded section! (great place for a pee stop if required!)
I think that the section of coast from Torcross to Lannacombe is one of my favourite, and on a beautiful sunny day like today I can think of nothing better to do.

Talking of pee stops, as I approached the Start Point car park a lady shouted over to me and asked if I was local, I said yes, because I know that area so well! She asked where the nearest toilets were, I said, 'You see that bush over there?' she laughed, luckily!

So, I approach Start Point down the little lane towards the hut!

Around the corner I go, Steve said something about a footpath on the right, and I never found one! So I kept running, and I thought, that maybe he meant I was just to follow round to the right and not down towards the lighthouse.

I kept running, there are some pretty dangerous rocky patches, I remember trying to keep Tim and I safe along here on the 103! The views are epic, the sun was glinting off the sea, all was well in the world, beautiful views and exercise.

I passed a few more groups of Ramblers out enjoying the good weather and ran round almost to Lannacombe, where there was a footpath up to the Start Point Car Park. I decided, that this must be the path I should take, yep random decision but actually I was right, about this bit anyway!

I ran up the path, having no idea where I was going! But hey, the view looking back at the coast was beautiful!

Up the path I went, nice gradual muddy incline, and eventually found myself back at the lady who asked where the toilet was!
I kept running, and stupidly went back onto the normal coast path I had come from, after Beesands, guessing there is another path that I missed, I have no idea where it is!
When Dusty comes back from work away I will ask him to help me map read, or just take him everywhere with me from then on!

So, I made my way back to Beesands, via Hallsands and ran back to the van. Checked on cyclemeter and I'd only done 8.7k! Oh well, it was fun, but I hadn't done enough exercise!

So I hopped down to the beach, did loads of burpees, press-ups, ab work, squat thrusts and sprints! Not easy on those pebbles!
Cup of tea in the Britannia cafe and I was away.

Now to convince Tania and Simon how lovely it is! I'm sure you'll agree, the scenery is stunning, and that detracts away from the dodgy rocky inclines, a little!

Dawlish

Here's me, getting ready in the car park in Dawlish! That's Harry's bike there, he got a lift with me from Totnes, he only did it cos I spoke to him in the gym about it! And yes, I am wearing my swimming goggles, I thought it was funny!

I got up at 5.30am, I also woke up at 3.30 am and 4.30am, sleeping, as you can imagine was a hard task for me last night. I had all those worry dreams too, the ones where you are late, or the bike had gone and I had no wetsuit! It doesn't help the positivity a dream like that.

For the last 2 months + as you know I have been preparing for this moment. This was the reason I learnt to swim, to properly challenge myself and take me out of my comfort zone. I felt sick, my stomach was doing somersaults, but I managed some breakfast and there was no vomit! Which is nice!

So, this is us getting a little talking to about the route etc, yep, stomach doing some pretty cool acrobatics about that time, but I have to be thankful for immodium instants, they worked a treat! And I get to save on toilet paper for the next few days until the figs kick in! (too much information)

I have been trying to find words to describe how I felt this morning at this point, fear I guess is a keen one, I had little Jo Gendall come along from Totnes as support and to be honest her cheery little supportive, 'I know you can do it' smile was what got me down to the beach and into the sea. As a part time Instructor of Jo's I know I had to keep her respect for me, I had to be really good!

The pack descended to the beach, a beautiful mass of rubber, lycra and neoprene, it was like an epic perve convention and I felt at home!
At this point I noted that we didn't have to dive in to anything, just get in the sea, walk out and then swim to the starting markers.
I floated about there ok, knowing damn well I couldn't put my feet down, I'll be honest, I'm feeling a tad panicky just writing this, going over the morning.

I had never been his far out to sea, without a boat underneath me and I was petrified. Then bang, we were off! When I say that, I mean 199 impressive swimmers took off at an epic pace doing front crawl, whilst I splashed around in a panic looking like a dying seal. I was officially scared!
I made it out towards the first marker but I had a sudden panic attack, proper shakes, nausea, ridiculous thoughts came over me, I wanted to get out of the sea and stop right there, I had tried right?
I waved over one of the guys on a kayak and he asked if I wanted the safety boat, I said yes and over they came.
They pulled me out of the water and had a little chat with me, they were good looking, charming witty guys and me, being fickle started to feel better within a couple of minutes. They had names like, Dirk and Fish Finger or something probably a little cooler than that. Anyway, still shaking I had calmed down a little.
They told me that I had about 500m to go and that if I wanted to carry on, the lovely Louis on the kayak would stay next to me.
They also said, that if I stopped there and then, I would have no bragging rights in the pub later! That was enough for me, I had to do this, I said I would so I had to get back in the water.
Still trembling, Louis helped me out of the boat and off I went.
The straight to the next marker was long, but the tide was with me and washed me a long a little, but from the last marker to the finish was awful. I felt like I was going no where, I had to hang on to Louis' kayak a couple of times and another guy kayak guy came and marked me on the other side.
They were brilliant, cheering me on, then the rescue boat came up with Fishcake and Burt on board, all smiles and cheekiness, they told me I was there very favourite person that day, so now I looked like a blushing half dead seal and only 20 metres to go. That was hard, finally made it to standing and hobbled up the steps to where Jo and another friend John were cheering me on!

I was pretty knackered and emotional at this point, Jo ran down with me to the transition area where I stripped off my wetsuit, fell over in front of one of my new Kickboxers and her family who were watching and put on my cycle helmet the wrong way! It stayed on the wrong way too as I didn't want to waste anymore time.

There were just 4 people left in the sea when I got out, I had to make up some time and my borrowed bike from Lesley was the key!
I was off, comfortable flat fast riding and I had studied the route too! I past 3 girls, 2 men, another man, another couple of girls, I was flying, comfortable to be on dry land and I had the biggest smile on my face as the swim was over and I had done it. The rest was easy!

I enjoyed every second of the ride, it was awesome and the scenery around the coast there brought back memories of me training for the 103, I was near comfort zone again. I have to admit now, I need to get a road bike as I am loving it!

Back I went, overtook another man at the end and into transition again.

Bike up, running shoes on, quick slurp of powerade and I was away!

The route for the run started with the hill that leads out of Dawlish Warren, had to be some hills though after the speedy flat cycle. I love hills thankfully and took every one of them in my stride. I was slightly fatigued and didn't do my best running, but a hilly 5.7k in 30 minutes is not too bad I guess?
I passed another few people that I had seen swim off at the start and smiled to myself, oh, and the photographers, and the passing strangers who wished us luck as we ran. I was in the best mood and no one was going to stop me being happy!

Along the sea front and the finish was in site, I had guessed that there would be a little bit of 'round the paths' and there was the finish, off I went for an epic sprint finish, looking up at my time 1 hour 52 minutes. Happy days!

Harry was already in looking like he'd been there for ages, but he is super hardcore! Then Jo and John were there to congratulate me! I hugged them both, in my sweaty salty suit and picked Jo up off the floor!

Never have I felt such relief to get something under my belt and get on with my life!

Thanks for reading, I know I was a bit of a pansy in the sea, but I got on with it eventually and properly faced one of my fears that I have had since about age 7.

Will I do one again? Who knows! Now here is the reason why I wanted to challenge myself so  much!
The Veterans Charity - and you can donate by texting FUNK50£3 and send to 70070 and make my effort all the more worthwhile. Thanks guys.

Next.......................

Final preparations

Hi all again!

It's now Saturday evening, around 18.15 and I have just got off the phone from my Mum. Those of you who know my Mum know that she is amazing! She has supported me through some crazy times and challenges and is always there for me, even if it's just at the end of the phone.
She just fills me with encouragement and never doubts my ability to accomplish my dreams.

The road bike is tucked up in the van all ready to go and I have a very very long list of things that I need to prepare and lay out before tomorrow. I have this OCD thing before an event I need to know I have everything laid out and ready to pack or I wont sleep! I may not sleep well anyway as I am an absolute bundle of nerves! I've been stressed all afternoon, grumpy with the dogs, grumpy with myself!

Luckily I live alone!

I'm going to have a baked potato, chicken and broccoli, was going to have fish and chips but saving the pennies! Then I shall have a massive glass of red wine and go to bed with Miss Marple!

This challenge means so much to me. I reckon it's the first time I have actually been properly challenged, I've run all my life, so even my first ever marathon was something in my comfort zone, of course I never realised that at the time, but now I know it!

This time tomorrow it will be all over, and I shall sigh the biggest sigh of my life, and have a little nap!

I'm looking forward to getting back out onto the coastpath and running epic loads of miles and getting back on my mountain bike and riding just for fun!

You never know, I may even go for a little swim this week for pure pleasure!

You know I'm gonna blog it, so keep watching, and be warned, it may involve extreme details about vomit! haha ;)

See you soon

:)

absolutely scared shitless!!

Hiya! *waves*

Been a while, well, I've been busy, back to classes, back to reality!

I have also been very busy and lots to be excited about with Fighting Fit Devon. I shall post more about this another time, today's little posting is about my triathlon training.

You see, I've posted my swimming fears, but they are nothing now really, I'm learning to deal with them. I am, however thinking that the whole thing is a bloody stupid idea.

Ben, who originally challenged me, as he was going to do it too has pulled out due to reasons of being busy :( I am being busy but hey, let's say no more!

I have always said that exercise is free, and to an extent it is, but there will always be need for some kind of kit/clothing etc.. this all costs extreme amounts of money that I do not have.

Although I think sometimes people can be dependant on 'good, expensive' gear and if stripped down to basics like I am, I'm not sure how well they would do. That whole phrase about a bad workman always blames his tools is correct to an extent, but today, out riding my £50 mountain bike with borrowed road tyres my legs beat the bike. They were whizzing round like a cartoon characters, at some point I thought the pedals and wheels would come off and I'd be left with just the handlebars!

So here are the facts for kit for Triathlon

Sea Swim

Need - Tri wetsuit
Have - Bodyboarding winter wetsuit, bulky full suit no good for swimming

Cycle

Need - Road Bike, good road bike, tri-suit, cycle shoe thingys
Have - £50 mountain bike with borrowed road tyres and not enough gears, ebay tri-suit (although was gonna go for running leggins and an epic winged sanitary towel for seat comfort!)trainers that I will be running in

Run

Need - Decent trainers, trisuit
Have - Decent trainers, average tri-suit, good legs! Oh, and a good left hook!

Today I went out training, 24k on the bike, I could have gone faster had I a better bike, I got frustrated! I also saw a bike group out and I had to hide my head in shame as what I ride is now nothing but an embarrassment!
I did, however do the same loop as them in reverse and was about level with them in distance which pleased me a lot.

I also did a cheeky 5k run after, my legs were like lead! Until, I saw a girl, quite tall and leggy running down Longmarsh, she turned ahead of the very end and passed me. I went right to the end and decided to take her on! My legs suddenly worked! Off I went, flew past her and back on route. Got my best 5k time for quite a while, not bad from straight off the bike.

No swimming today but I did go on Wednesday and got some great tips from a new friend, Briony an epic swimmer and triathlete. How much it will help me in 2 weeks time I guess is up to me.

I can say this though, hand on heart, that this is the most scary thing I have entertained in my whole life, thinking of getting into that sea scares me like nothing else!

2 weeks to go!

If you are reading this and feeling sorry for me, or nervous, or anything please know that I am doing this for charity, The Veterans Charity and you can donate to this cause by texting FUNK50£3 to 70070
This is the main reason I am doing this. A week after The Forces March 2012 I went back to Maiden Bradley and met up with Rob and Danny at Summerfest. Along with the drinking and Danny taking the piss out of me, oh, and the Barn Dancing, we had a chat about why I wasn't raising money anymore. I thought it is because I am always doing running challenges, everyone knows I run, so maybe that's why they do not donate anymore.
We thought of a challenge that was actually a challenge, I couldn't swim, so when Ben came up with the tri I thought, yep, that's it!

So, maybe another update, have my lovely Mum visiting next weekend and also have the ladies Dornafield 10k! Thought I'd get into race mode!

See you all soon!
FUNK50£3 to 70070
www.virginmoneygiving.com/team/funkanova

Rob's epic!

Hiya peeps!

Only me, I know, it's been ages but to be fair, nothing has really happened that's exciting to tell you about!

However, the moment I have been waiting months for finally arrived - Rob Starbuck runs the Forces March route solo, 132 miles continuous! Mad mad man! I can, however understand it.

I volunteered as support driver for Rob back in May at The Forces March, we make such a good team, I understand Rob's stubbornness and occasionally he listens to me!

Janine and Graham from the March also helped out as Janine was worried about me driving so many hours on my own, and to be fair I am very glad of that decision!

Rob arrived Tuesday afternoon in Devon, I abandoned him to go and teach and left him to it.

We chilled out that evening, carbed up, danced and listened to some great music and finally got some sleep.

I abandoned him again to go and take out 2 clients before we set off.

Packed up, van dog-ready and all set to drive to Ilfracombe.

I am honest, you all know that so I am not going to deny the fact that I drove accidentally to Western Super Mare or however you spell it! We were chatting and listening to some Funky music and I thought it was further up. Finally we managed to turn around at a sign for Bristol!
There was some epic cloud there though, which we wouldn't have seen if I hadn't have gone wrong!
Oh how we laughed!!! ;)

We got to Ilfracombe, parked up and went for a seaside stroll with the dogs!

Rob took the puppy, how much attention did he get?! haha

We walked up a massive hill and took in the view, had an epic hot chocolate drink and then fish and chips!

Killed some time, odd stuff going on in the car park by the swimming pool, think it's a local dogging spot! Prepared the van signage, Rob got changed and then midnight! We were off!

Those of you who know my driving will know my 2 speeds, fast and stop! So driving at a steady 5mph was extra hard work for me. It was raining, dark and cold, but my only concern was to make sure my funky team mate was safe and all was good for him to do this challenge.
I think having a support driver who has actually done a night time ultra, who knows what you go through, physically and emotionally helps!

The first marathon seemed to go on forever, but actually Rob did a super speedy 5 hours! We got to Simonsbath and the landscape becomes so boring, there is no variation, those last 5 miles are tedious, really brain taxing!
We hit Exford, I had a wee behind the van and off we went again, soon to be met by Graham who took over from me.

I shot off to Crowcombe to the Steam Railway and waited!

The Station staff turned up at about 8.30-9am, I got a cuppa straight away, offers of cake and the most friendly welcome you could ever wish for. I love that place, not only because of the steam trains, but because of how genuinely lovely they all are.
They let me be Station staff for a bit and I got to see 3 Steam trains come in!

Finally Rob and Graham arrived, I ran a little of the way down the road with my team buddy and friend, and we prepared for the next section, the hardest in my opinion, starting with Crowcombe hill!

The weather had turned slightly, no more rain, but it was starting to get hot, which also caused me concern, but we had enough water on board so all was well.

I remember running this section, it's not great, it appears to just go on forever.
We finally made it to Bridgwater, made a plan to meet up at a particular road, and I waited, and waited, and panicked, and called Graham and Janine and got myself into a right state!
After doing 3 circuits of Bridgwater following where I had left him, running up and down several roads in my flip flops I decided to continue on to where he should be going, and low and behold, there he was trotting along as though nothing had happened!
He got a massive hug, I sighed with relief, we waved at Graham as he passed the other way on a search mission and off we went on what I think is the most dangerous stretch of road I have ever come across! I feared for Rob's life I'll be honest.

I went far ahead, flashed my lights like a nutter and stuck my arm out the window, waving up and down to slow them down, massive insight into drivers!
The men I waved down to slow thanked me for warning them of whatever it was and slowed down, the idiotic women, approx age 20-40 most of them on the phone, ignored my flashing and waving, gave me an evil and speeded up! No wonder women drivers get a bad name, I actually couldn't believe it!
Since this Rob and I have discussed missing this section of next years Forces March, I nearly got hit by a car there this year, I think a re-route is in order before there is a fatality!

We finally got to Somerton and had hugs with Janine and Graham, then I left Ron in their capable hands and I shot off to Maiden Bradley (via McDonalds) where I found the pub shut and the village shut up for the night!
I walked the dogs around the field where we camped (and I streaked) and sat in the van waiting!

I must have dozed for a while, soon to be woken by a frantic Duck who had lost Rob and Graham. Easily done, I lost Rob that same day, but Rob had Graham with him.

I decided to go and look for them as I couldn't sleep so us chicks set off back along the original route into the darkness.
We must have missed them at some point and eventually met up with them back at Maiden Bradley where there was a little re-fuelling, napping and preparing for the last section!

I think I was over-tired, slightly insane and wired all at the same time by this point, but off we went along the last of the Wiltshire roads.
Rob had a mission at Larkhill to sit on the bench he sat on last time, where they first noticed his damaged calf muscle. Rob is stubborn, I like that, I understand that, but not to the detriment of your body!
Anyway, sleepy Rob, sleepy drivers got to Larkhill, re-fuelled again and Rob set off for the very last section!

Funny though, it seemed shorter than when I ran it in May, and soon we were cheering Rob in at Bulford.

I don't think I can express in words just how proud of Rob I am, he is one of the best friends I have ever had, is always there for me, understands me and I know we are going to be friends forever!
Experiences like this make the best friendships, Janine and Graham, honest, brilliant, kind, and you know they will always be there for you.

I thank Danny and Veterans Charity for giving me The Forces March experience and with it, some of the best friends in the world!

I'm still tired now, I'll catch up though, ready for the next Team Adventure - The Dawlish Triathlon!

Sports Centre triathlon training

Alright peeps!

Last night, or should I say, yesterday afternoon, I drank an awful lot of Cider and Wine, in the name of friendship!
Couple of pints with the lovely Keils at lunchtime and then a BBQ with good friends Mark and Beth celebrating the new location for their business, and that of others.

It was a lovely evening, hopefully arranged to do some more life modelling for some classes and had a right old giggle! Come 10pm I was done in and bed beckoned.

This morning, awoken by a howling puppy! Managed to get him out of the front door in time for an onslaught of pee! Good work! (his, not mine)

Came back from the dog walk and a had another tiny napette before thinking of training.

Biggest mistake today - lack of food so lack of energy. Will I ever practice what I preach?!

Anyway today I thought I'd have a little triathlon practice at Totnes Pavilions. It's never going to be as good as outside but it was pissing it down and I thought a nice controlled session could give me an idea of timing?

The biggest problem is that the bikes are not the best, increase level and you get a slower time, it's not like changing gear so I found myself peddling like crazy to get anywhere!
The swim was easy as the pool wasn't busy and of course is never going to be the same as a sea swim, ever!
I struggled by the time I got to the running due to a lack of energy from my lack of food. Next time I will do better!

But I did it, hangover and everything else, I managed it!

Here are the controlled sports centre, hungover times!

Swim - 750m - 19 minutes

Bike - 21k - 36.13 minutes

Run - 5k - 23 minutes

I have 6 weeks to go now and I have to say I am bricking it to be honest!

More training required! So that's what I shall do!

Remember, you get nowhere by sitting on your arse doing nothing!

a bit of a pants week

Sat down, pink-faced after a 5k run.

I don't like short distances now, they are too sprinty! I'm much more of a plodder now. But the Dawlish Triathlon has a 5k run to finish so I am training that distance now to get used to it.
I am making no progress on increasing my time though.

Last week did 5.03k in 26.54 mins
Same route, turned cyclemeter off .1 short so 5.02k today in 26.43 mins
I know in one week there wouldn't be much improvement, but I felt like I really went for it today and nothing :(
I've lost a couple of lb in the week too in a bid to be lighter so I can go faster. If it's not more improved next week I'm going to start worrying.

Part of the problem I think is that I don't know how fast I run anymore, I know how fast to pace everyone else, I know a Beth pace, A Tania pace etc but I'm not sure what mine is anymore.
I'm relying on my running, my strongest part of the triathlon so I don't come in last!

I've had a bit of a rough week as it is, poor litle Skitz my 8 year old ferret died. He was a little sweetie, he died peacefully in his sleep in my old fleece with his daughter Nancy sleeping next to him. She's a little depressed about it, as much as a ferret can get depressed!

Had a weird blip too, I think I am destined to be single, as I have absolutely no luck with men anymore! It's as though I want to be on my own forever. Maybe that's why?! Anyway, seemingly my ideas of a joyful time with a good friend are now under the carpet swept up with all the other joyful times I've missed because of my insecurity.
Can someone inject me with a dose of self-confidence please?
I know I give it all bravado but it's only a front, I'm actually a fragile little Deborah underneath it all.

I have, however, on a more positive note, earnt some money this week! So I can eat at the weekend! haha things seem to be building with Fighting Fit Devon and I am slowly growing more confident in my ability to make it work. So it's not all bad!

The turning point in my week is coming today just after 2pm, I go and pick up the newest addition to the Miller-Wright family - Finnegan the Springer Spaniel! I shall no doubt have a little blog about the fella once he arrives! It's going to be great.

Sorry for the negative, feel better though for getting it out there! Now I can smile.

Take care :)

The Olympics

I'm sat again, as I have been for the past week, frequently, on my sofa with the tv on.

This is a recent new thing for me as I haven't really watched any tv properly since I got back from The Forces March.
This is vital viewing - The Olympic Games 2012 in our very own London!

I can honestly say I have never been so inspired by an event in my life. I have also never cried so much at the tv in my life, right from Muhammad Ali at the opening ceremony to now and our new Gold medal in rowing.

Last week I started to watch the Judo. I could not tear myself away from watching it. There was something magical in their movements.
For me and my very childish view on things, it looked like play fighting, play fighting that ended in rolling about on the floor. It made me giggle, and watch even more.

I started to see how they were working, in the heavyweight section, the massive difference in size, but how they used the bigger persons size against them.

I watched the fencing, looks like fun! On the plus side the gear you have to wear for it looks awesome and ever so slightly kinky! Love it.

So I decided that I wanted to try them, at least Judo.

Low and behold in the very Sports Centre that I work and train in, is a Judo club at a time that I can actually do!

I contacted Ray via the wonderful Facebook and he said to come along and 'play' which I did!

I sat downstairs in the reception at The Pavilions, listening to the class upstairs being carried out. Some of the adults came in and passed me, I was nervously excited. Trying something new on your own is always very daunting, but the exciting thrill and nervousness just makes you feel human, it's a very good feeling.
That was it, up I went and nervously entered the room.

Ray came over and welcomed me, then realised that although I'm 5ft 5in I have long legs, so I sported the 3/4 length look! I got changed, put on my white belt! Yep! A white belt! And sat and watched the Juniors finish their class. They were brilliant, and their parents were there supporting and watching.

The whole atmosphere was friendly, yet competitive. My kind of atmosphere!

We went through the basics of how to fall down safely, for my benefit which was nice and then straight into take down techniques, it was brilliant.

I was working with Charlie and Talila who were very lovely and patient and it was relaxed and friendly at all times.

I got to 'play' with the Instructor and a few other people there, I actually found it ok.
It's not all special hand holds and technical difficulty, it's grab, get them off balance and make the most of it to take them down.
I'm sure there is more to it, but to get it into my head, that's what I was doing.

I loved it, felt great, and although it was only my first time doing it, I wasn't that crap. I think that made me enjoy it more.
It's completely different to Kickboxing in all but two respects, competition and inner balance. Those were the 2 things that helped me get the most out of it.

I suffered only one injury, when we were putting the mats away I got jabbed in the gut by the corner of a mat being passed to me and it winded me! Funny really!

I left with a massive smile on my face and an emotional full feeling in my heart. This was the thing to fulfill my need to know that actually, I'm not that bad at Sports and Martial Arts after all.

This morning I woke up with some aches and a few bruises and decided the only way to get rid of the ache was to go for a swim!
I got my new goggles this week and I had to try them out. Yep, I was excited about going swimming! What a turn around from 5 weeks ago. Makes me laugh how you can adapt if you put your mind to it.

I've mastered Breast Stroke now, it's easy, fast and natural for me to do. If all else fails at the triathlon I will do breast stroke and be confident and competent in it, I have that ease of mind now.
It doesn't mean that I will stop trying crawl, as I did lots of work on the breathing today in the pool. Apparently I'm lifting my head up too far when I breathe in and it's making my legs drop, so I practiced with a float.

These Olympians train for hours a day at their sport, massive respect to them, dedication to it. If I had hours a day to train, then I would be better, much better.
I just have to take the time I have and use it wisely, and the sad fact is, although I'm enjoying watching the Olympics, I'm going to have time out for training.

Off out on my bike now, Totnes 10k possibly tomorrow, not got a place yet but think I may do it, lots of mud round there so will be like old time Cross Country when I was at school!
Will keep you posted.

Remember, if you get inspired by something, don't think about doing it, find out where you can do it, and go and try it, you never know you may actually love it!

Dreams

Morning all!

Had to do a little blog today on this subject as last night I had the most hilarious dream ever!

Recently, if you read my blog you will know that I dreamed up a cake recipe and had to try it out.
I've always had very vivid dreams and I think that you can read a lot into a personality by what they dream about.
I have a dream dictionary but I personally like to have a deep think into why I've dreamt a certain thing. And sometimes I try not to think about it too! haha

So, interesting dream, I think inspired by Keiley going on holiday, as I was on holiday.

We (I was people who I knew in my dream but dont actually know who they were) anyway, we were in this kind of natural rock amphitheatre kind of place, well, more like a proper theatre but in rock. Not like the Minac, anyway, there were crowds of people gathering, muttering, giving shifty gazes at other groups of people.
The atmosphere was awful, I then was told that the groups were all rival gangs out to intimidate each other, and very shortly it was gonna kick off if nothing was done about it.

I didn't fancy a massive kick-off as usual, was worried about fighting and losing my Kickboxing licence! Funny how these things come into your dreams!

There was so much tension, some people had weapons on them, more and more were gathering, yet there was a very unusual silence.
I had had enough!
I winked at the people directly next to me, ran to the bottom of the theatre stairs and started singing....
"It's time to play the music.."
a few people joined in, I took a few dancing steps up and raised my arms in the air and turned round to see a smiling crowd all looking up at me!
"It's time to light the lights"
By this time everyone had joined in, they were all singing and dancing, somehow an Orchestra and band were accompanying us!
The song went on, it was epic, a massive sing song and dance and started by me!
We finished The Muppet Theme song, everyone cheered and hugged and went on their way!

So, what the hell does that say about me?! I have to say though that is possibly one of my most favourite dreams of all time!  Woke up super happy and smiley!

Happy Monday, keep smiling......

her second sea swim

Well, happy weekend!

Today I woke up to the most beautiful sunshiney day in Devon.

And today was sea swim day!

I was going to go to Bigbury with some friends, but knew it would be busy and actually when I spoke to my hero and triathlon Queen Lesley during the week she said that they swam at South Milton Sands.

I moved to Devon 8 years ago, well, it will be 8 years ago on 20th August.
When I moved to Devon I moved to a small village near Kingsbridge, called Malborough.
I lived in a lovely house called Darkham Cottage, right next to the pub, The New Inn.

The dogs and I used to go to South Milton Sands for our nightly walk, it was just down the road. I fact, when I brought the lovely Paddy back from the rescue kennels, South Milton Sands was where we all went, Blue, General, Paddy and I.

So, I thought, a perfect place,a place of comfort and happy memories for me. A little out of the way for grockles and no kite surfers or other such getting in my way in the sea. So off I went.

I pulled into the lower Thurlestone car park, made friends with the 2 older guys working there (as I do) got a great parking spot and made my way down to the beach.

Wetsuit was on, and off I went, walked straight in and suddenly felt my legs raise form under me.

I had been told that the joy of a wetsuit is that you can float, and I started to find out how true this was.
The water was a beautiful cool blue, you could see the pebbles beneath, the sun was shining on the water making special patterns.

No one could be in this situation and not feel a certain amount of happiness.

I was at the place I found calm and peace when I moved to Devon (and after James had gone) it was my special place and I suddenly relaxed.

I floated there in the sea, gazing up at the sun, a massive smile across my face.
No one else was in the sea, they were all there on the sand, massive pasty white fat arses laying there doing nothing whilst I suddenly found my confidence to go for it!

Off I went, along the shoreline, water just over shoulder high, front crawl arms, relaxed legs and floating body!

And back the other way, and again, and again, calm, relaxed, happy in the sunshine, feeling nicely confident in the sea looking at the most spectacular surroundings.

I had to get my head in the water though, I know I haven't properly managed my front crawl breathing yet, but I had to at least stick my head under,
I did it, goggles on, deep breath and exhaled and swam, I looked at the pebbles beneath and the ripples of the tide, the water was icy cold, breathtakingly awesome.
I came up for air and went down again.

I knew this was going to take hard work and a lot of it, I had to practice that breath control in the pool. Tomorrow is Paignton swimming day so it's something to be worked on.

I swam for an hour, a whole hour in the sea at South Milton sands, and at one point a beautiful Golden Retriever was taking her first steps into sea swimming too, I encouraged her from my point in the sea and she went for it, all wagging and calm.
Better than me by far, but it gave me encouragement to see her 'no fear' approach.

I loved today, I enjoyed today, I made today count, I made massive mental progress and I shall be going back there ASAP to continue with my progress.

I am going to do this triathlon, I dont care how long it takes but I will do it and I know now after today that I can!

If you want something that badly then it will happen. Make it happen!

her longest cycle ever and other stuff!

Evenin all!

Wow! I'm bloody shattered, just sat in my garden enjoying this bootiful late summer eve, watching the fluffy little white nice clouds drift ahead.

I have a small glass of wine and the chicken is in the oven, went for the healthy option even though today is eat what I like Saturday, I liked chicken.

So today consisted of, my last Saturday Boxercise session for the summer, a new lady turned up and she was great, sad to see the Saturday session go for a little while but glad of the training time for the triathlon, and flaming hell do I need it?!

I came back from Boxercise, downed another prot shake, put on my running gear and did a cheeky 3 and a little bit miles as fast as I could. The problem is I am now a plodder of the highest order! I do long and slow (heehee) so I am having to get my sprint legs on if I'm gonna do 5k in the tri!
I did it in about 26 mins, route round Dartington Hall, ok and said Hi to some cows on the way round too!

Came back, quick shower and change into the only stuff I have to cycle in, running gear! haha

I currently dont have a road bike so I had to make do with my cheap second hand mountain bike!
And off to Diptford to the Village Fair where South Hams Martial Arts had a stand.

7.75 miles in 43 mins, hard work, flipping eck it was hard and that silly hill before you get into the village, I got off the bike and ran up with it, it was faster!

Got to the fair, bought a burger and a drink as I was starving! And did some kicking and stuff, got chatted up by some really old guys, which was nice!

And then off on my way again back to Totnes, 7.45 miles in 32 mins on a mountain bike on the roads!

I have to say, that is the furthest I have ever cycled! You see, a triathlon was never in my plans not just because of the swimming but also because of the cycling! One out of 3 aint bad I guess? haha

Back, showered, napped for 5 mins, back on the bike to the Steam Packet to see Amy, who I haven't seen for flipping way too long and back home!

Which is where my blog started!

Now waiting to speak to one of my favourite people on the phone after way too long! (28th May)

Have a great evening all, I'm sea swimming tomorrow! Eeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeek!

xx

positive conversation

Hi all,

Thought I'd update you, since the spider bite and leg pain! Antihistamines working and I'm feeling a lot better. Phew!

This morning I cycled back from Aerobics *whoop whoop* to the leisure centre to get swim times for today.
As I was about to leave Lesley (my ex's old school teacher and fitness hero of mine) walked out and got onto her bike.

We got chatting about triathlons, she is awesome, she's been doing tri's for 18 years and is nearly 60 and has got better and better at them. best in her age in Bristol last week!

I've always looked up to her as she trains so so hard and so fit for her age, she is what I want to be like at her age - Legend!

We talked about the swimming element and she gave me so so many words of confidence and advice I've come away beaming! She also said she had every confidence in me, which was what I really needed.

She did her first few tri swims doing breaststroke and said that there is nothing wrong with doing that if I'm comfortable, but eventually the best way is to do crawl.

Her wisdom and encouragement have given me that extra little bit that I needed to get me on track fully with my training, I am becoming more confident in the water and the more I do the more I will get better.

Last night I did 2 lengths on my back (no jokes please) I would never have dreamt of that a month ago.

Anyway, wanted to share my ever so positive special moment with you, when your fitness hero gives you encouragement, then you go for it and make them and yourself proud!

Thanks Lesley, you are ace!

her next stroke!

Now now! It's nothing rude you saucy lot!
And 2 blogs in one day eh? Madame, with this bloggage you are really spoiling us! (french accent)

Well, you know me when I get excited or just when anything happens I have to tell you all and get it off my tiny little chest.

So, Triathlon only weeks away and I still haven't learnt front crawl, it had to happen at some point and today, Tits Out Tuesday I thought I would celebrate by being Tits Out Tuesday Triathlon Training Day. #TOTTD or something like that haha

Took my LBT (legs bums tums) class in Dartington, legs still burning from the Zumbadrinkathon and Monday nights Kickboxing and knee sparring extravaganza, but it was all good.
Then a protein shake and a bowl of porridge later I donned my running gear and set off up Kingsbridge Hill.

One of my normal runs, heavy legs, hard run, didn't enjoy the first 3rd then I seemed to get into my stride, enjoyed the sunny (yep, I know, weird eh) countryside and knocked out a 5 miler. Nice.

Tiny Bike ride, went to take a Kickboxing class, tiny bike ride, and then it was swim time!

I have to overly thank Shaun at the pool for his cool, hilarious approach to making me feel better about being crap and he encouraged me all the way.

I ended up doing widths with a float between my thighs! That was quite a funny moment, well, for me anyway as Shaun described where I had to put it. I really must contemplate growing up one day!
But float firmly inserted between ones thighs, tips on breathing, head movement and streamlining and I was off!
The  women in the pool were very lovely about me cutting across instead of along and asked me lots of questions about the triathlon, some have seen me in the paper for running challenges and were quite excited about my progress over the last few weeks.
That was nice, that they had actually taken an interest and were looking forward to what I can do next week. That also gives me added pressure (good pressure) to perform to the best of my ability.

I did loads of widths, well, a lot anyway and I started to get it.
Tomorrow I will go again so that I can keep up the progress.

I will do it, I really will, I've done the front crawl head in the water thing and I will beat this sea swim!
Rrrrrrrrroooooooarrrrrrrr!

Night lovelies

busy!

Just sat, having a cuppa after taking my Legs, Bums and Tums class, sorting through emails, updating work on facebook and twitter and communicating via text at the same time.
We all do it I guess, but a text conversation this morning has made me giggle a little and I reckon we all live very very different lives.

My own life in the last 12 months has changed more than I could ever believe after being made redundant and starting my own business.
I knew having my own business would be hard work, tiring, degrading at times, but I never really realised just how much focus has to be on that, and not much else.

The usual 'life of Debbie' in my past has consisted of the following elements
Pets
Boyfriend
Job
Training

Here is the updated 2012 list of elements
Pets
Constant work on building my business
Traning others
Training for challenges
Supporting other challenges

My life has turned into a massive whirlpool of brain mush and exercise!

Trying to fit into others ideals and reality is becoming more and more difficult and my normal is being completely incomprehendable to some people!
Unfortunately my 'normal' life went, last June, or some time previous to that at around the time of the 103 Ultra. My mind changed.

Some say I'm selfish, I say, if I don't put my every waking moment into building my business, it will fail, maybe taking part in challenges is selfish? But when so much good from fundraising can come from it how can it be?

I spent years wasted on people who didn't deserve my attention, they brought nothing positive into my world, now it's time for me to redeem my time here, and with that, I may not be there as much as I was, I may not be able to afford to go out at the weekend and catch up with people, I may be too tired to be sociable all the time, but the above is my current life.

The people who understand are the other 'Ultra' people, the ones that go out of their way to raise money and do silly challenges, the ones that have their own business, the ones that have had and the people who live a less 'normal' existence than most.
These people know who they are, they will now be smiling at this point, because you guys are the ones that are always there for me.
I'm guessing there will also be a couple of frowns though from others.

This is me, this is busy me, this is me and my focus, the things that have to be important for the sake of my existence.

Sorry, had to get it off my chest, but I guess everything is relative?

Happy Tuesday everyone!

Fear!

Tucked away, just up the road, behind those trees you can just about see the footings for one of Brunel's finest structures, a structure that carries the beautiful Steam trains from Paignton to Kingswear.
The design around Viaducts is extraordinary, power and strength, yet beautiful to look at in the landscape.

Yesterday I went for a sunny coast run. Parked up at Goodrington and started on my way, past all the scantily clad beach-goers, most of which should really have put clothes on!

My foot was still hurting after the sparring competition and I just couldn't stand a long run. I made it to Broadsands in agony and limped along past the brightly coloured beach huts.
I love Broadsands as it's never as busy as Goodrington, the landscape is far more pretty and one day I would love a beach hut there!
Annoyed at myself for even trying to run on a bad foot I decided that today was about a challenge, I couldn't do the one I wanted so I decided, enough was enough.

I've recently been facing one of my fears, water and swimming, so why not go for it, face my biggest fear by far.
Fear - odd thing really I guess.
My 2 fears are very different and fear can come from various reasons.

Take my Fear #1 Water/swimming
This came from an incident that happened when I was younger, and also my lack of ability to do it leads to a lack of confidence in myself. Once you've understood that, you can plan around it, and eventually beat it.
Swimming a few times a week, getting good, getting confident can turn it all around because I know that the better I get, the less fear I will have. It's controllable and can be understood.

Now to Fear#2 Viaducts
I have absolutely no idea why they terrify me so so much!
I have never had any incident whereby I have been scared at one, nothings fell off one at me, nothing. No reasonable explanation for it whatsoever.
I first realised my fear when I was small. We used to go on holiday to Cornwall, there was a viaduct not far from the rear car park at Trago Mills. I remember looking at it, sinister dark and looming.

Then as I got older I was out in the car one day with my boyfriend at the time, I was only about 16/17 and we were near where he lived, all of a sudden we approached this viaduct and went under it.
Of course my reaction was to start crying, shaking with fear and poor Phil not having any idea what was going on.
I had no idea either but I knew I was terrified.

You see, the swimming thing, easily explained and sort of easily resolved.
The viaduct thing - hmmmm, an interesting proposition!

So, there am I stood by the beach at Broadsands, hot beautiful sunny day, a few fluffy clouds, lovely scenery, and my challenge.
I was going to go and see if I could get near to the Viaduct, see what happens, I would have to under it to get back up the road to Churston and back along the main road to complete my run. That was what I had to do, and you know me and challenges, I was not going to be beaten.

I trotted out of the car park at Broadsands and up the road, I could almost feel it's looming presence, I was starting to feel emotional, the silly kind of emotional women get when they have PMT that kind of weirdness.
I caught sight of it again, hiding behind the trees, waiting for me, breathing out of it's dark stony towers, I slowed to a walk, I didn't want to approach too fast as I wanted to know what I was really feeling about it, what was the problem?

The photos in this blog are what I actually took yesterday, I haven't stolen them from anywhere I had to get this close to take them!
So I move closer, my heart racing like I've just run up 10 hills in a row, goosebumps on my arms and tears in my eyes.
This reaction of crying near them is the most bizarre, I could be feeling on top of the world, pass under a viaduct and cry like a baby.

The reason I chose this particular bad boy is because I was out one day with Matthew (ex!) we were taking the dogs to Broadsands, I'd never been before, we thought it would be fun for the guys to run on the beach a bit and we were in good moods (made a change) and the dogs were up for it!
We were driving along, I didn't know the way but was taking directions from Matthew.
We turned a corner and all of a sudden it was there, right there looming away like an evil presence.
I screamed and burst into tears as I drove right underneath it.
Matthew had no idea what was going on and smacked me on the arm as an odd reaction to my fear. I travelled further down the road away from it, pulled over and sat and cried.
Matthew has never forgotten that! I scared the life out of him with my screaming!!

So I had to go back and face it properly.

I was getting this close now, I leant on a tree and let my feelings tell me what was happening. I had tears running down my face, it was sadness I was feeling, proper sadness, from deep within myself.
I also had a feeling almost like the one at Hexworthy, as though someone is resting a hand on the back of my neck and gently pressing down.
It was an odd oppressive feeling, and the more I looked up, the worse the feeling got.

I can feel goosebumps on my head as I am writing this, just thinking of what happened yesterday.

At this point I mentally gave myself a shake, told myself not to be so stupid and get it over with!

There was a blue plaque on the inside of the wall to the left of the road, I wanted to take a photo of it to prove that I have been there, to prove I'm not too much of a big girl to walk under it.
My fear has never been about them falling down or anything, as I said, it's a completely irrational fear, based on nothing!
A little treat came my way that gave me the confidence to move forward. A steam train came over from Kingswear direction heading back to the Station. It gave me enough of a mental happy boost to go for it!
I approached, walked right underneath it and made several attempts to take the photo due to my insanely shakey hands!

 I was now right underneath on of the arches! Right under it looking up! I was ok, it was almost as though the approach to it was worse than actually being under it.
Either that or I was starting to finally man-up about it.

And here's the evidence, beautiful summer sky and a most impressive piece of engineering!
The view from under the arch.

I think some of you who read my blogs know me well enough by now. I like to challenge myself, I also don't like the negative stuff that happens to me and I always try to change it about.

So, I'm standing right underneath something I previously shivered at the thought of going anywhere near, and I'm thinking, wow, this is beautiful, how impressive, what a beautiful piece of engineering, wasn't Brunel a genious, and the Steam train goes over this, brilliant!

I start walking around it some more, touching the damp surface, getting to grips with how it was built, I had a goosebump moment after that, as lots of people died building viaducts. Makes you wonder about past life stuff a little? Maybe? I guess no one will ever know.
But I was now starting to turn my fear, turn the negative into a positive. Just as learning to swim and gaining confidence in the water would eventually rid me of my swimming fear, this was now becoming a reasonable way forward for me.

I'm an Agatha Christie geek and a Steam Train geek, let's add a third, let's get some photos of viaducts in other places. Lot's of steam railways have this opportunity, I can combine the both and double up the geek anti!

I guess, fear really, or should I say, fear management is about reasoning, find the cause, I guess I will never know the cause of my fear, but reason as to why you shouldn't have it, deal with it and move on.
I'm not saying I'm all better and I won't have any wobbly moments again, but I would like to think that I wont, after all, I have now reasoned that they are well-built, strong, safe, beautiful to look at and they carry steam trains! There is no reason as to why I should ever cry near one again!

It's easy for me to say that everyone's fears can be changed, not everyone is as stubborn about stuff as me, but if people were guided through the right positive route around that fear, and slowly knock down those barriers, then one day things could be better.

 Debbie did fear, and it was good!

dancing, river, sparring and laughing!

Art'noon all (unless you're reading this at a different time of day, then *insert your own*)

So, last night I fancied a little dance, bit of fat burning, socialising and drinking for a change!

I have promised myself a dance at The Bull on a friday night so it had to be done!

Little Jo Kickboxer came with me as she usually frequents the bottom of town so a change is as good as a holiday they say!

Jo normally goes out at about 10pm (bedtime) so going out with me at 7pm was surely going to end in disaster! Plus, never try and match my drinking, it's one of my specialities! I'm well practised!

So, lots of dancing later, I hadn't drunk much as I was dancing too much, Jo however was hilarious. Not going into detail but she had to be walked home!
I took off my shoes, removed my socks and put them on Jo's feet as she couldn't walk home in the heels she had with her, popped back on my shoes, braced myself and we set off home!

She got in ok, happy that she was safe I thought (like an idiot) that I would walk back along the river path rather than the street light paved safe option home. The river route to be fair is quicker on a light dry day!

I had no torch and it was absolutely plodding it down, I was soaked already but set off with a spring in my step.
The spring soon went, as the water I was walking through slowly got higher, over my feet. I sploshed through, the water rose, now shin high, at this point I started to giggle!
I couldn't see a thing, it was pitch black, I kept to the right hedgeline, rain pouring down, water getting higher and higher up my legs!

I was now talking to myself, and still giggling about the whole insanity of it, the water was now above my knees slowly approaching thigh.

I could hear the Weir, the water was so loud as it rushed down the steep bank, at least I knew exactly where I was, but it was still pitch black.
The water was now over mid thigh approaching groin level, I could feel it washing up over my bum!

The giggles were now manic, I was now worried and saw the first exit up to the Kevicc Sports field and off I went, out of the water onto the grass and back home!

The expression 'Drowned Rat' was totally applicable to me now, I got in, shook off my hair as a dog would, dried off, wacked on the Tiger onesie and ate some rice cakes before bed!

So, dancing, river and one lot of laughing already covered, now on to today's Sparring competition.

I decided to enter all the categories, shadow sparring, Bo staff and Sparring.

I've never done Bo Staff before, head guards, foam rods and a flipping lot of fun, problem was, I was laughing too much to concentrate on what I was doing. I didn't win but I had a hell of a funny time doing it! If you ever get a chance it's fantasic fun.

The next round, shadow sparring!
I'm a tiny bit of an exhibitionist so this for me was just a show, a little performance, but also when I shadow spar I get to hit my old invisible adversary (ex boyfriend) it's the only time I actually get to beat the crap out of him and leave him dying on the floor!
Long story short, I won! Of course I did - there was only ever me and him in the competition! haha

At the same time 2 of my Junior Kickboxers were competing. Tiny little Olivia held her own even though she's been on antibiotics for an infection, she was ace and did our club proud.
Thomas, her brother won a shadow sparring medal too, he looked like a mini me out there kicking 7 tonnes out of his invisible opponent. Great work guys today!

The sparring was not good for me, the only Kickboxer with TKD sparrers, they are so leggy and distanced and they run around in circles a lot! Not good close contact grappling that I like now, but I did ok, and it was good fun.

I'm off out tonight now to see Colin's band, he's a TKD'er so we shall see what this evening brings! I am however staying on dry land tonight!

Have a great weekend :)

the cake that she dreams of!

Hi all,

Been posting tonight on twitter and facebook about this damned cake so thought I'd tell you all about it!
I have vivid dreams, not the mental ideals of waking moments, but the stuff that happens at night, when you're all tucked up and cosy and listening to the rain beat down on the windows!

One night last week I must have been hungry, it may have been that facebook food-posting night that Jo, Lauren and I had.
But I dreamt of the best cake for a fitness trainer/client!

I wanted low fat, high protein, low carb taste great cake.....

The ingredients and the memory of the dream were vague

No flour = ground almonds (protein)
Low fat = coconut oil (more protein)
Low sugar = bananas and a little honey (natural and immune boosting good training food)
Interesting = poppy and linseed and vanilla added

So I set about it! Randomly guessing everything!

4 brown bananas mashed
250g ground almonds
4 tsp honey (local)
2 tsp vanilla
dash of linseed
dash of poppy seed
4 tsp coconut oil
3 eggs
baking powder dramatically strewn
Mix up in some sort of fashion, wack in the oven on a low heat cos of the almonds, cover with tin foil and take out when you think it's sort of ok!

Result = bit crumbly at first when hot but actually a bloody good training food and tasty afternoon snack!
Give it a go!

Dream cake = done!

Sleep well :)

a little joglet

Morning all!

I know, it's been less than 24 hours since my last post, but I'm keen and ready for anything at the moment so thought I would share a few thoughts with you.
As you know, I'm a fitness Instructor and constantly trying to find ways to improve and motivate people. So now I turn to myself and improve and motivate little me for a change.

No big run planned, sometimes it's good to go back to one of your more run routes, a favourite one of old, not too long but not too easy. But still, the kind of old familiar run you used to love so much when you were not so good and it was a struggle.

I picked such route today to work on my stride, style and breathing, I wanted to push myself a little more up the inclines to see just what I'm made of. I guess all in all I am not too disappointed with how I did, although my shoulders were high today. Not because of my running style, but because of the epic amounts of punching I've put myself through this week already! haha

So, old faithful route, old faithful running leggins and a hi-viz! Won't leave home without one after the recent 'being hit by cars' incidents!
Off along the river Dart along the river path, muddy and flat.
Up Dartington Drive, a nice long incline, chatted to some ponies, waved to the cows and nodded at a passer by who looked a little grumpy.

Passed a really fat girl who took up the whole pavement at the top of the drive, had to run in the road to get past, I need advertising on the back of my hi-viz - 'Want an arse like this? Check out www.fightingfitdevon.co.uk' haha, is that allowed?!

Chucked myself into the last bit of incline, ran on my tippy toes to do this as light as a fairy. That's one of my running tips, think of yourself as a light little fairy and tiptoe up the inclines. It makes it so much easier. That, and the horse-riding one but you do look silly running up hill pretending to whip yourself!

And then 'don't waste the downs' although the paths were slippy with moss so I ran out into the road.
Lovely run down to the church, lengthened my stride, ran from the hip and relaxed my sore shoulders.
Got held up by an old lady in a car! I actually nearly overtook her!

Then up through Dartington, up Cott Hill, to the top of Barracks Hill, all very lovely and incliney!

And then I did another 'Rita' and shot down Baracks hill, arms waving all over the place like I didn't have a care in the world. Big smile, happy thoughts.

Running shouldn't be a chore, if I dont feel like it, I dont do it, if I'm on one, like today, I make the very best of it and enjoy every second.

The Old Faithful joglet was a success and I'm now feeling ready for anything! next stop - Ballet :)