tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79723522901450342582024-03-13T11:03:49.189+00:00after the rain...To get something you never had, you have to do something you never did.Fihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07379848535463709994noreply@blogger.comBlogger17125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7972352290145034258.post-86782749659670899432020-11-16T23:25:00.009+00:002020-11-16T23:33:15.534+00:00Challenge update...finally!<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e_iolLj3dnE/X7KteSM9cGI/AAAAAAAAcvw/t0aKdIGARDYBUz9WaCe2sjhnk5-9z3v1ACLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/20201107_162729.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="180" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e_iolLj3dnE/X7KteSM9cGI/AAAAAAAAcvw/t0aKdIGARDYBUz9WaCe2sjhnk5-9z3v1ACLcBGAsYHQ/w481-h180/20201107_162729.jpg" width="481" /></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-size: large;">Push-ups completed: 2135</span></p><p><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-size: large;">Sober days: 149</span></p><p><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-size: large;">Sit-ups completed: 2000</span></p><p><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-size: large;">Chocolate free days: 16</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">I've been trying to write this update for over a month now! One thing or another always seems to take priority (like sunsets!) or, like today, my computer is ridiculously slow and instead of throwing the laptop out the window, I walk away until tomorrow! I have persevered and hopefully, I'll get it uploaded by midnight!</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Since I last posted the challenge has evolved somewhat. My shoulder remains out of action depsite intervention. The doctor visited at the beginning of October and gave me a cortisone injection. The injection itself was fine, but shortly afterward I experienced a 'cortisone flare' and my whole shoulder, upper arm, neck and back felt like it was on fire. After 2 days it went back to how it was pre-injection, and doc thinks it is an impingement, so I am now waiting for a referral to the orthopeadic dept. at Raigmore hospital in Inverness for further investigation. There is always a long wait at the best of times, so I'm not anticipating an appointment this year. I am meant to be resting it as much as possible, but I'm not the most patient when it comes to injury, and working on my own doesn't allow for much rest. A combination of painkillers, ice, and hot-water bottles will have to suffice for now!</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Zdt8bMWiUEE/X7KtepqWRYI/AAAAAAAAcv4/6p4e-9xRI6EvcONgTieYJMV5BPdQu3fpgCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/20201015_111946.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1154" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Zdt8bMWiUEE/X7KtepqWRYI/AAAAAAAAcv4/6p4e-9xRI6EvcONgTieYJMV5BPdQu3fpgCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/20201015_111946.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br /><span style="font-size: large;">To make up for not being able to do the push-ups, I have continued staying sober, even for my 40th birthday (there are witnesses!). I have decided to carry this on until New Year, when I will have hopefully reached my fundraising target. </span><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">As it looks like the push-ups won't be an option again, I decided to do some sit-ups instead. I managed to do 2000 in 20 days in September, although I left the last 340 until the last evening! My mum was adujicator so all were done and the pain was real!</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dz3t2eObYUZkBpdE7KBxjyXqyAjIjilHf4uXpNu80b5Wp1T_x8-lebWEeTG0EYL-evGNwp4PDk9q4yYyvAMnQ' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><br /><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">November needed a challenge so I have decided to give up chocolate for the month. Now, anyone that knows me well knows just what a challenge that is! I don't mind admitting that I have an unhealthy addiction to chocolate and although I mostly limit myself to a few squares of dark chocolate these days, I can't remember a day in my life without some ๐ฌ The first 2 days were pretty awful. I had severe cravings and a constant headache, but I managed to resist and the next week was ok. I had guests staying so I had plenty of distractions. The last few days have been tough again, knowing it's there, in the chocolate tin (yes I have a tin full of chocolate)! So I'm in desperate need of motivation to get me through the next 14 days! You can help by making a wee donation to the challenge (if you haven't already!)</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Donate via GoFundMe here:</span></p><p><a href="http://gf.me/u/yxvq5p" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;">Fi's challenges</span></a></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">All funds are gratefully received and will go to these two great charities:</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://hwdt.org/" target="_blank">Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust</a><br /></span></p><p><a href="https://www.ewensroom.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;">Ewen's Room</span></a><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Thanks again to all those who have donated already. We're now at ยฃ400 with just ยฃ100 to go to hit my target, but I'd love to smash that, so please share with anyone you think might be able to make a wee donation.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">I hope you're all well and stay kind ๐</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Fi x</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p>Fihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07379848535463709994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7972352290145034258.post-46299977384593481552020-09-10T20:26:00.001+01:002020-09-10T20:26:20.310+01:00Push-up challenge update and World Suicide Prevention Day<p><span style="font-size: medium;"> Push-ups completed: 2135</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Dry days: 82</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EzVdzyYyX5s/X1p9jr_ObjI/AAAAAAAASzw/G_P5NkPdgu4xmJU2bWpg-2BjnetnNk7eQCLcBGAsYHQ/s747/candle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="747" data-original-width="500" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EzVdzyYyX5s/X1p9jr_ObjI/AAAAAAAASzw/G_P5NkPdgu4xmJU2bWpg-2BjnetnNk7eQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/candle.jpg" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">It's been over a month since I last did an update and there is no excuse, just a lack of motivation! Not being able to do the push-ups has put the blog to the bottom of the priority list. Must do better!</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">My shoulder injury continues to be problematic. It would appear I have an AC joint injury and although I'm getting physio, it's going to take some time yet to heal ๐</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">So, it looks like the push-ups are out the window. I might pick up the challenge again next year, but for now, I am going to start sit-ups instead! I'm aiming for 2000 by the end of September ๐</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">I've continued with Dry 'July' and am currently on day 82 of no booze. I even managed to stay sober on a girls night in Edinburgh with two of my very best friends for our 40th birthdays! We started with a boozy brunch and I had a mocktail. I even impressed myself with the self-control! </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Today is World Suicide Prevention Day. I've lost 3 friends by suicide and I know I'm not alone in being affected by it. I have also suffered with depression so it's a cause close to my heart. I am desperate for depression and suicide to become topics that can be talked about openly, without judgment or stigma. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="http://www.ewensroom.com/" target="_blank">Ewen's Room</a>, who are one of the two charities I am raising money for, are running workshops to build community resilience and reduce suicide. They are free and you can sign up <a href="http://www.ewensroom.com/workshops/?fbclid=IwAR23vddVQcuwyBrLLBI6DVxRBOznml8mvyoGxHAYFJjdcNwVuFUdpK2t5W8" target="_blank">here</a>. Becky, who runs their blog, spoke on Nevis radio today, discussing mental health in the Highlands and Islands, and you can listen to it <a href="https://www.mixcloud.com/Nevisradioofficial/hisa-and-the-uhi-discuss-mental-health-with-local-organisations/?fbclid=IwAR23vddVQcuwyBrLLBI6DVxRBOznml8mvyoGxHAYFJjdcNwVuFUdpK2t5W8" target="_blank">here</a>.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">There was also a heartfelt programme on BBC Radio Scotland by Gary Innes called 'Six men', talking about why 6 of his shinty teammates took their own lives and what we can do about it. You can listen <a href="https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m000mq36" target="_blank">here</a>.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">I want everyone to know that there is help out there and there are plenty of people who want to help. I am always here for anyone who needs an ear. There will never be any judgment here and talking is so cathartic. Check in with those you love and be kind to those you don't know. Everyone is fighting a battle we know nothing about ๐</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">If you want to help Ewen's room, you can donate to my challenge or to Ewen's Room direct. Every donation, no matter how small is so very gratefully received.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Challenge donation link:</span></p><p><a href="http://gf.me/u/yxvq5p" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;">GoFundMe</span></a></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Take care of each other.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Fi x</span></p>Fihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07379848535463709994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7972352290145034258.post-3593789876022948732020-08-04T17:55:00.007+01:002020-08-04T17:55:59.184+01:0030 day Push-up challenge update<font size="5">Push-ups completed - 2135</font><div><font size="5">Push-ups to go: 865</font></div><div><font size="5">Dry days: 45</font></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YFJDG-CRIgk/XymR1OpieWI/AAAAAAAASvw/dKiCuSGlnV4GZ4-_5INY4E2MUIsIke8iwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2542/117302187_750842499022845_7378614637774467967_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2542" data-original-width="1237" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YFJDG-CRIgk/XymR1OpieWI/AAAAAAAASvw/dKiCuSGlnV4GZ4-_5INY4E2MUIsIke8iwCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/117302187_750842499022845_7378614637774467967_n.jpg" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><font size="5">I have been so busy the last couple of days preparing the guest house for re-opening, that I forgot what date it was. At midnight last night, I should have completed the 3000th push-up. However, I've had to take a push-up hiatus for the last week. My shoulder injury is much more serious than I thought and even lifting a cup of tea has been very painful, so before I do permanent damage, the push-ups will have to wait while it heals.</font></div><div><font size="5">It's only a short pause though and I fully intend to complete the challenge as soon as I can.</font></div><div><font size="5"><br /></font></div><div><font size="5">However, I have decided to carry on Dry July into August. I actually haven't had any alcohol since 20th June, so I have included those dry days in June. Should I keep going for 100 days?</font></div><div><font size="5">In fact, does anyone have any wacky challenges I could do in the meantime? Obviously, something that doesn't involve using my shoulder! Maybe giving up chocolate until I can do push-ups again? Or walking so many steps a day? Or learning a tune on one of my instruments (I can't really play any of them ๐). </font></div><div><font size="5">I will consider anything, within reason, as long as you're willing to donate! Let the ideas commence!</font></div><div><font size="5"><br /></font></div><div><font size="5">And as always, the reasons I'm fundraising; follow the links to find out their stories.</font></div><div><font size="5"><br /></font></div><div><font size="5"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/ewensroom/" target="_blank">Ewen's Room</a><br /></font></div><div><font size="5"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/HWDT.org/" target="_blank">HWDT</a><br /></font></div><div><font size="5"><br /></font></div><div><font size="5">Over the next few days, I will be doing a few updates about why these charities are important to me, and the unknown links we all have!</font></div><div><font size="5"><br /></font></div><div><font size="5">To donate to my ever-increasing challenges, follow the links below:</font></div><div><font size="5"><a href="http://paypal.me/fioweo" target="_blank">Paypal</a><br /></font></div><div><font size="5"><a href="gf.me/u/yf6d3g" target="_blank">GoFundMe</a><br /></font></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><font size="5">Here's a wee lovely thing for those that might be feeling a little broken today:</font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BpGXItygPuY/XymS2QxTScI/AAAAAAAASv8/_By11p0E_FYv9KS9sjjEq6gYLKy3lOs6QCLcBGAsYHQ/s751/117166346_3472166139468702_1646783154961682219_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="751" data-original-width="563" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BpGXItygPuY/XymS2QxTScI/AAAAAAAASv8/_By11p0E_FYv9KS9sjjEq6gYLKy3lOs6QCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/117166346_3472166139468702_1646783154961682219_n.jpg" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><font size="5">Take care and be kind,</font></div><div><font size="5">Fi x</font></div>Fihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07379848535463709994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7972352290145034258.post-4929562823186797142020-07-27T10:39:00.002+01:002020-07-27T10:39:20.279+01:0030 day Push-up challenge - day 21 & 22<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-size: large;">Push-ups completed - 2000</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Push-ups to go - 1000</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Alcohol consumed - 0</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Another milestone achieved last night. I made it to 2000 push-ups! </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Here's a wee vlog update</span><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dytWp2aBwM1Wm-Yi1vF5NPUohQ72ia5ww-cA4m5MvR3qQJDDlv2qNLhqwtHfhaUtj5QE66uY9SCfnDuye7R0g' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ekyeDjVhoXc/Xx6dSavSwJI/AAAAAAAASrg/xlBMXBzziEExs25M_3tF6RbaPxh20wnNgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/116340584_416867455884959_5322595273526722119_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="779" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ekyeDjVhoXc/Xx6dSavSwJI/AAAAAAAASrg/xlBMXBzziEExs25M_3tF6RbaPxh20wnNgCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/116340584_416867455884959_5322595273526722119_n.jpg" width="193" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Donate:</span><br />
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<a href="http://gf.me/u/yf6d3g" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: x-large;">GoFundMe</span></a><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="http://paypal.me/fioweo" target="_blank">Paypal</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Charities:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/ewensroom" target="_blank">Ewen's Room</a></span><br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/HWDT.org" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;">Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust</span></a><br />
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Fihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07379848535463709994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7972352290145034258.post-31327523536778440432020-07-23T23:59:00.000+01:002020-07-24T00:00:25.117+01:0030 Day push-up challenge - day 10 - 20<div><font size="5">Push-ups completed:1730</font></div><div><font size="5">Still to go: 1270</font></div><div><font size="5">Alcohol consumed: 0</font></div><font size="5"><div><font size="5"><br /></font></div><div><font size="5"><br /></font></div>I've been a bit tardy with the updates, apologies, but the push-ups have continued...more or less! I passed two milestones: 1000 and 1500 - half-way!</font><div><font size="5"><br /></font></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: right;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="205" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QJLmNWPH4N4/Xxn8txJST_I/AAAAAAAASkg/w_w25wuTv8o1BVGfcIMlquQBZpuakLRZACLcBGAsYHQ/w205-h205/116000577_295093091694449_5250393362043483415_n.jpg" style="text-align: left;" width="205" /><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k7h87ZhJJYo/Xxn8twkG8zI/AAAAAAAASkc/wsPb733bpaMLApcLEXKbH7MP8bakeMCSwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/115805091_626335521337002_1450738542328700475_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="996" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k7h87ZhJJYo/Xxn8twkG8zI/AAAAAAAASkc/wsPb733bpaMLApcLEXKbH7MP8bakeMCSwCLcBGAsYHQ/w195-h400/115805091_626335521337002_1450738542328700475_n.jpg" width="195" /></a></div></div><div><div><font size="5"><br /></font></div><div><font size="5"><br /></font></div><div><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y2X5PFD0Uz0/XxoRVsvPhHI/AAAAAAAASkw/540Scbs2Fsksm4KSh9qDRFKGXVMK6Ox3gCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/115805741_668390850414583_2861530499561631814_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="996" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y2X5PFD0Uz0/XxoRVsvPhHI/AAAAAAAASkw/540Scbs2Fsksm4KSh9qDRFKGXVMK6Ox3gCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/115805741_668390850414583_2861530499561631814_n.jpg" /></a></div><div><font size="5"><br /></font></div><div><font size="5"><br /></font></div><div><br /></div><div><font size="5"><br /></font></div><div><font size="5">The last 10 days have been filled with business; sometimes productive, sometimes not! But mostly filled with stresses and worries and trying to make decisions which leads to fatigue and an inability to anything.</font></div><div><font size="5"><br /></font></div><div><font size="5">But then, on Sunday, my very good friend Maggie, her partner and daughter came to visit for the last few days and we had a magical time! It's been almost 3 years since we last saw each other and we were both desperate for a catch-up. We had wonderful adventures exploring the island, kayaking, swimming, bonfires on the beach, and just chilling by the fire. It was just what I needed and I feel revived.</font></div><div><font size="5"><br /></font></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n3kk47C6DWA/Xxn6AX6IJtI/AAAAAAAASkQ/fU_ctFRBNHsXebub7PdLlMinaWk_ceaAQCLcBGAsYHQ/s960/110317085_10164020951370068_7064352413713544270_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="960" height="281" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n3kk47C6DWA/Xxn6AX6IJtI/AAAAAAAASkQ/fU_ctFRBNHsXebub7PdLlMinaWk_ceaAQCLcBGAsYHQ/w500-h281/110317085_10164020951370068_7064352413713544270_n.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><font size="5"><br /></font></div><div><font size="5"><br /></font></div><div><font size="5">However, the kayaking, on top of the push-ups, took its toll on my shoulders and I've struggled to lift my arms above my head! So needless to say, there have been no push-ups for the last 2 days and I am now over 200 behind schedule ๐ฌ The last 10 days are going to be a massive challenge!</font></div><div><font size="5"><br /></font></div><div><font size="5">But, a challenge wouldn't be a challenge if it didn't push our limits.</font></div><div><font size="5">I have to remember why I'm doing it and keep going with the determination I started with.</font></div><div><font size="5"><br /></font></div><div><font size="5">There are lots going on with the charities so head on over to their Facebook pages and see where your donations are helping.</font></div><div><font size="5"><br /></font></div><div><font size="5"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/HWDT.org" target="_blank">Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust</a><br /></font></div><div><a href="https://www.facebook.com/ewensroom"><font size="5">Ewen's Room</font></a><br /></div><div><font size="5"><br /></font></div><div><font size="5">As ever, your donations keep me motivated and are very much appreciated. If you can spare a few pennies, you can donate here:</font></div><div><font size="5"><br /></font></div><div><a href="gf.me/u/yf6d3g"><font size="6">Go Fund Me</font></a><br /></div><div><a href="http://paypal.me/fioweo" target="_blank"><font size="6">PayPal</font></a><br /></div><div><font size="5"><br /></font></div><div><font size="5">More updates coming soon!</font></div><div><font size="5"><br /></font></div><div><font size="5">Take care and stay kind ๐</font></div><div><font size="5"><br /></font><div><br /></div></div></div>Fihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07379848535463709994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7972352290145034258.post-25737877353857926202020-07-13T01:00:00.001+01:002020-07-24T00:00:59.705+01:0030 day push-up challenge and Dry July - Day 8&9<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-size: large;">Total push-ups completed: 850</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Push-ups to go: 2150</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I've had a bit more energy this weekend so I have managed to catch up on some of the missed push-ups and I'm now just 50 behind schedule. I'm hoping I'll be back on track by Wednesday. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I'm still struggling to do more than 10 at a time at the moment though. Surely they must get easier soon!! </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I decided to add Dry July to my challenge. While I don't drink very much anyway, I wanted to have a proper break from alcohol for a while, but again, due to my lack of discipline and various celebrations this month, I knew I would crack if there wasn't a good reason to stay sober! This weekend was a test and I'm happy to say I passed with flying colours, despite the peer pressure!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">My tolerance for alcohol, and the inevitable 3 day hangover, seems to have evaporated in my advancing years! So learning to be sociable without alcohol again is a very good thing! The more you donate, the more likely I am to succeed ๐</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">And on the donation front, thanks to Peter Campbell for today's very generous donation.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Peter informed me that the Paypal.me link requires you to have an account to donate, which I'm sure didn't use to be the case. So, for those of you that don't have a Paypal account, I have set up a personal GoFundMe page. Finding a platform that would allow me to link 2 charities has proved fruitless, so these are the best options I can come up with. Here's the links for both options:</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="http://paypal.me/fioweo" target="_blank">Paypal</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="https://gf.me/u/yf9rwj" target="_blank">GoFundMe</a></span><br />
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<u><span style="font-size: large;"><i>The Charities</i></span></u><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/ewensroom" target="_blank"><b>Ewen's Room</b></a> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Lots of goings-on on their Facebook page. They are currently running workshops on Tuesdays via Zoom, focusing on Realising Emotional Wellbeing and Resilience Development. If you are interested, you can register <a href="https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZcrdOmqrT8tHd3VjMzz6kzBlLLh3VEkogDp" target="_blank">here</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/ewensroom/posts/3088542234548880" target="_blank">Ewen's Room lockdown cookbook</a> - If you have any favourite recipes you'd like to share, they are putting together a recipe book from all our favourite lockdown foods. Send them yours via the link.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/HWDT.org" target="_blank"><b>Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust</b></a></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Exciting sighting of West coast Orca rockstar, John Coe, was spotted of Neist Point on Skye today!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Check out the awesome pictures <a href="https://www.facebook.com/HWDT.org/posts/10156970760207434" target="_blank">here</a>.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I've been lucky enough to spot John Coe and his partner in crime Aquarius from the good ship Silurian, in this very location! I didn't manage to get a picture of that encounter but I did see the rest of the gang on another trip, again just of the west coast of Skye. Here's a couple of pics from that encounter. </span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D2rOYamQD3Y/XwufZ3GnPRI/AAAAAAAASjM/nbgZN6DUB3IgLwQmFAlGLjSoLEVcPrsNgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/floppy%2Bfin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="402" data-original-width="604" height="212" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D2rOYamQD3Y/XwufZ3GnPRI/AAAAAAAASjM/nbgZN6DUB3IgLwQmFAlGLjSoLEVcPrsNgCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/floppy%2Bfin.jpg" width="320" /></a>Floppy fin</div>
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Aquarius & Moneypenny (I think)<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">All their research expeditions have been cancelled this season, so they are relying on any sightings of cetaceans and basking sharks being logged by those at sea or by the public from the coast. If you see anything, please use the <a href="https://whaletrack.hwdt.org/" target="_blank">Whaletrack</a> app to log your sighting.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Another way you can help them, is by shopping. If you use Amazon, register for <a href="https://smile.amazon.co.uk/ch/SC022403" target="_blank">Amazon Smile</a> and select HWDT as your chosen charity. It's a really easy and effective way to raise funds without even trying! </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">That's all for tonight. I'll be back with another update of my progress soon.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Stay kind,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Fi x</span><br />
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Fihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07379848535463709994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7972352290145034258.post-25939280920255334302020-07-11T01:01:00.001+01:002020-07-24T00:01:13.479+01:00Fi's 30 day push up challenge - Day 4 - 7<div><font size="5">Total Push-ups done: 630</font></div><div><font size="5">Push-ups to target: 2370</font></div><div><font size="5"><br /></font></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6Rtp1mMbiyg/XwkAV0k1hAI/AAAAAAAASic/c9FZFYkTfhkhwuL8eJ13nGNTM8NSxPhTACLcBGAsYHQ/s2220/107828109_1257638164576430_4844578691135980308_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2220" data-original-width="1080" height="500" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6Rtp1mMbiyg/XwkAV0k1hAI/AAAAAAAASic/c9FZFYkTfhkhwuL8eJ13nGNTM8NSxPhTACLcBGAsYHQ/w244-h500/107828109_1257638164576430_4844578691135980308_n.jpg" width="244" /></a></div><font size="5"><br /></font></div><font size="5"><div><font size="5"><br /></font></div>The last few days have been a real struggle and I have fallen behind in my daily targets. I struggle with chronic fatigue every day and can usually manage it reasonably well, but sometimes even the slightest exertion floors me. On Monday and Tuesday I did quite a lot; yoga, cleaning our community shop, 100 push-ups each day, dog walks, gardening and painting. Not overly busy by any standards, but it seems to have been enough to exhaust my body and for the rest of the week, just getting out of bed and functioning has been a challenge in itself. </font><div><font size="5"><br /></font></div><div><font size="5">I have included some alternative push-ups from my yoga sessions.</font></div><div><font size="5">In Mondays Stay Strong class, we do a vinyasa sequence which includes pike presses, and on Wednesday, my yoga instructor very kindly included some dolphin dips just to help me reach my target for the day. Here's a video sample of the moves:</font></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dzikEnoeqoOqoJG2KrGqIj_K1GsCvD_wOrRjqL3UjejT-8q4BDaqBWizMn_HLiGcciqzGk1Mi0cPTN3TgLvrA' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><font size="5"><br /></font></div><div><font size="5">All the yogis very kindly donated their dips towards my total, but I haven't included them as it felt like cheating! But thank you so much for the thought and support! </font></div><div><font size="5">And if you fancy joining a yoga class, I can highly recommend <a href="https://www.facebook.com/mountainyogakinlochleven" target="_blank">Mountain Yoga Kinlochleven</a> via the wonders of Zoom!</font></div><div><font size="5"><br /></font></div><div><font size="5">So it's now the end of day 7 and I am 70 push-ups behind schedule! But I hope to make these up over the next few days. Donations create motivation, so if you can donate, even the price of a coffee would be fantastic. If all my Facebook friends did that, we'd reach the target in no time!</font></div><div><font size="5"><br /></font></div><div><font size="6"><a href="http://paypal.me/fioweo" target="_blank">Paypal.me/fioweo</a></font><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><font size="5">100% of donations will go to the charities, plus gift-aid.</font></div><div><font size="5"><br /></font></div><div><font size="5">An update about the charities will follow over the weekend, but for now, it's time to rest! </font></div><div><font size="5"><br /></font></div><div><font size="5">Goodnight,</font></div><div><font size="5">Fi x</font></div><div><font size="5"><br /></font></div><div><br /></div>Fihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07379848535463709994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7972352290145034258.post-22396079068394496162020-07-07T01:23:00.000+01:002020-07-24T00:01:27.034+01:00Fi's 30 day push-up challenge - Day 3<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-size: large;">3 days in, 300 push-ups done, 2700 to go!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Many thanks for today's donation, Gillian. It now takes the total to ยฃ40. Slowly but surely, keeping me motivated!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Here's the link to my PayPal. Please donate if you can:</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/ewensroom/posts/3073278732741897" target="_blank">Ewen's Room Big Summer Challenge</a> - This week, Ewen's Room have a challenge for you! If you've got kids that love arty crafty stuff, this should be right up your street. 'Art that falls apart'. Make a picture or model from natural things you find around you when on a walk or at the beach. Take a phot and then leave it for other to enjoy until it falls apart!<span style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: georgia;"> Follow the link to find out more!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/HWDT.org/posts/10156955701637434" target="_blank">HWDT latest news</a> - unfortunately, but not surprisingly, they have taken the decision to cancel the rest of the research expeditions for the remainder of the year. I can empathise with their decision, which would not have been an easy one to make. SO now more than ever, they need not just funds, but your help with their research. If you're lucky enough to live or travel on the coast or sea, keep your eyes peeled for those sea monsters and log your sightings here <a class="oajrlxb2 g5ia77u1 qu0x051f esr5mh6w e9989ue4 r7d6kgcz rq0escxv nhd2j8a9 nc684nl6 p7hjln8o kvgmc6g5 cxmmr5t8 oygrvhab hcukyx3x jb3vyjys rz4wbd8a qt6c0cv9 a8nywdso i1ao9s8h esuyzwwr f1sip0of lzcic4wl py34i1dx gpro0wi8" href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwhaletrack.hwdt.org%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR3TVX2FqBd8AeCHNiocJziEUNy30k-_fP_lB3iXm3DW90GggNWoFgcSkj4&h=AT3ecUnRM2qRsSfn2ksHBgArtxKx5KM3Y8lEvBSZBgiq-QdJ95m_XMgVDd3EUsfL0k182eFMbzK9Q89bp_Ug61rwkmS4p7y2heX506XFpUAuh4wXfuTiskaS2aF4jf9JmA&__tn__=-UK-R&c[0]=AT1N4lCcCRdXU-DSMFCW3RuyQqCzXHJv375XTTgZOmj_bmIp48ohBUi4zMiETXhpZPKjMKxRwFadTy609F9C1VhFrI8URIg1yUsJAQpVC2mG0RupAJdCk3qDmixwE4goHQjB7RR8HN1CeTjSD-1r19VAPNw_eZgDB50DkWfAUchR6h6SJETCWNR1vDA04iVYM1TFBivOSWLSnflCpcM1WZcua89Y" rel="nofollow noopener" role="link" style="background-color: white; border-width: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; cursor: pointer; display: inline; font-family: "segoe ui historic", "segoe ui", helvetica, arial, sans-serif; list-style: none; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;" tabindex="0" target="_blank">Https://whaletrack.hwdt.org</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Today's stats:</span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7SMg4BUCTTo/XwO7eO3BBUI/AAAAAAAAShs/RACNveI1RkQdaPhypXe4_UFnwEQbUmHwQCK4BGAsYHg/s2220/107082953_1422520508135742_694812681770629343_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2220" data-original-width="1080" height="625" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7SMg4BUCTTo/XwO7eO3BBUI/AAAAAAAAShs/RACNveI1RkQdaPhypXe4_UFnwEQbUmHwQCK4BGAsYHg/w305-h625/107082953_1422520508135742_694812681770629343_n.jpg" width="305" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I am thoroughly knackered and need to start going to bed earlier!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Stay kind,</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Fi x</span></div>
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Fihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07379848535463709994noreply@blogger.com0Small Isles, Isle of Canna PH44 4RS, UK57.0570977 -6.533106699999999455.87034435113776 -8.730372325 58.24385104886224 -4.3358410749999994tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7972352290145034258.post-91358461422539440032020-07-06T00:16:00.000+01:002020-07-24T00:01:40.052+01:00Fi's 30 day push=up challenge - Day 2<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I'm not going to lie, today has been a struggle. My arms, shoulders and chest ache from the additional 75 push-ups yesterday, and I've had to improve my technique immediately to make them register on the app! I've had to do them in smaller sets throughout the day and I'm still only halfway for today's target at 10.30pm!<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_bsgm3U_R6s/XwJEr9L7D_I/AAAAAAAASgo/de3dwlMqjc4uc692E3fNyfyJxLdirOGEQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/580b57fcd9996e24bc43c43b.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="486" data-original-width="1000" height="96" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_bsgm3U_R6s/XwJEr9L7D_I/AAAAAAAASgo/de3dwlMqjc4uc692E3fNyfyJxLdirOGEQCLcBGAsYHQ/s200/580b57fcd9996e24bc43c43b.png" title="" width="200" /></a></div>
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BUT...I got my first two donations today. Yipee!!<br />
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In the meantime, if you want to keep me motivated, here's the link to make a donation:</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://paypal.me/fioweo" target="_blank">http://paypal.me/fioweo</a></span></div>
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Any amount, large or small, makes all the difference and is very much appreciated. </div>
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A reminder of the charities I'm raising money for:</div>
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<a href="http://www.ewensroom.com/" target="_blank">Ewen's Room</a></div>
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<a href="https://hwdt.org/" target="_blank">Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust</a> </div>
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And a wee video of where I live</div>
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<br /><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dyM_lgOnG77THluCnKKXU1nZlbAk8MFkMefoyXfr6a_Rxa9Pyj_VzuzUiN2P5oKMDureKgh183CJIS9GqT8zg' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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...It's 00:02hrs and I made it! I did one extra yesterday so I did one less today to keep me perfectly on track. Here is today's count:</div>
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Thanks again for today's donations and everyone's words of encouragement/bewilderment!</div>
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I'm off to rest my weary arms which are aching just typing this!</div>
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Goodnight x</div>
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Fihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07379848535463709994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7972352290145034258.post-69212223627231219742020-07-05T00:07:00.004+01:002020-07-24T00:01:52.199+01:00Fi's 30 day push-up fundraiser challenge Day 1<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-family: georgia;"><b><u>Welcome to my 30-day push-up fundraising challenge!</u></b></span><br />
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I've resurrected my old blog after setting myself a crazy challenge of doing 3000 push-ups over the next 30 days to raise some much-needed cash for a couple of charities that are important to me.</div>
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<a href="http://www.ewensroom.com/" target="_blank">Ewen's Room</a> is a charity based in west Lochaber providing mental health services to local people as well as online resources to anyone that needs it. As the name might suggest, the charity was set up in memory of Ewen Gillespie, and his mum writes the heartfelt story of how Ewen's Room came to be <a href="http://www.ewensroom.com/about-er/ewens-story/" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
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Give their <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ewensroom" target="_blank">Facebook</a> page a like!</div>
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<a href="https://hwdt.org/" target="_blank">Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust</a> are a conservation charity based in Tobermory, on the Isle of Mull. I have volunteered numerous times on their research survey trips aboard their yacht, Silurian, and was lucky enough to work as a marine mammal observer too. They have carried out over 2 decades of research of marine life and have an amazing education outreach programme, connecting with local communities and schools up and down the West Highlands and Islands. </div>
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Check out their <a href="https://www.facebook.com/HWDT.org" target="_blank">Facebook</a> page for more info. You might even find my face in the archives!</div>
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I am aiming to raise ยฃ1000 and hoping I can achieve that with your generosity and sharing the challenge with your friends. </div>
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I'm also hoping I can sustain it over the 30 days. I do struggle with pain and chronic fatigue, so while I'm not looking for sympathy, I want to stress the 'challenge' element. It won't be easy, but I can be bloody stubborn and determined when I set my mind to something. Just ask my mum!! So the more you give, the more motivation I have to carry on ๐</div>
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If you are able to donate, no matter how small, it would be gratefully and humbly received.<br />
*Update, I now have a GoFundMe page for those without a PayPal account<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="http://gf.me/u/yf6d3g" target="_blank">GoFundMe Link</a></span><br />
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I've decided just to use PayPal to save on any commission or fees so 100% of donations will go to the charities. Here is the link</div>
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<a href="http://www.paypal.me/fioweo" target="_blank"><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">paypal.me/fioweo</span></b></a></div>
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Please use the 'Friends and Family' option.</div>
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I'm looking forward to the challenge and hope you'll follow along with me. I need plenty of cheerleaders!</div>
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I am using a push-up counter app on my phone to record the number of push-ups. It doesn't let me get away with rubbish attempts so I'm going to have to build up strength quick smart! </div>
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Here are todays stats:</div>
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Stay safe, stay healthy, keep those eyes peeled for sea-monsters from the deep, and keep your mental health healthy!</div>
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Much love,</div>
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Fi x</div>
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Fihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07379848535463709994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7972352290145034258.post-8597240123094037292012-06-09T09:23:00.000+01:002012-06-09T09:26:05.271+01:00Life in the Tropics<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
So, it's been a while, again, since my last blog and as I am currently resting a twisted knee and hip (don't ask), I have no excuse for not updating you all on my last 3 months. If you have been following my Facebook/Twitter updates you will know I am now in Airlie Beach, 512km and 6.5hrs south of my last post. In the grand scheme of things, I haven't made it very far!<br />
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Mission Beach is where I left off, so it's where I shall begin.<br />
I spent 9 weeks there, driving the courtesy bus by day for <a href="http://www.absolutebackpackers.com.au/" target="_blank">Absolute Backpackers</a> and working in the restaurant at <a href="http://www.mackaysmissionbeach.com.au/" target="_blank">Mackays Motel</a> by night. The restaurant only had 6 tables so it was very easy work and most of the guests were long-term trade workers, so I spent most of the time socialising with the boys! I did some gardening work for Mackays, until I was attacked by an angry colony of ants and spent a week with my legs in itching agony and my hands in my pockets! I also managed 5 hellish shifts in a Thai kitchen, being shouted at in Thai, cleaning all the dishes by hand, but eating fabulous free food!<br />
Only working for pay 3-4hrs a day, I found it hard to save much so activities were limited to the free stuff; lying by the pool/on the beach when the sun shone, bonfires on the beach at night, rainforest walks, hunting cassowaries and wallabies (not literally), swimming in creeks and jumping off waterfalls.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We were reliably informed there were no crocs in here!</td></tr>
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Being the rainforest, there was inevitably going to be some rain, and when it rains in the rainforest, it really rains! We were flooded on several occassions, even having the bridge over the creek covered in fast flowing water. Once the rains dried up, the bugs appeared in their thousands! Such is life in the tropics!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I'm a bug killing demon!</td></tr>
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There were obviously many nights out, some which ended sensibly, some not so much, and some which didn't end until the sun came up. Cairns is a 2hr drive north and it was too much of an irresistible draw when Vanessa had a car, so myself and Noora just had to join her in a road trip. Having not seen more than 1 shop in over 4 weeks, we found it hard not to spend, spend, spend the money we didn't have. Cairns is a lot of fun and I wish I had more time to spend there and further north. But my time is limited and after 2 months of laid back life, I made the hard decision to move on. But not before my free skydive! I was surprisingly calm on the day of the jump, but I had had a cancelled jump just 2 days before so I think the nerves had been drained from me then. Vanessa had been working for <a href="http://www.skydivemissionbeach.com.au/" target="_blank">Skydive Mission Beach</a> and decided to join me to do her first jump as well, so we were able to distract each other somewhat.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The 'before' shot</td></tr>
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I was jumping with Rob who I can't praise highly enough for his skills and ability to keep me calm. In fact the only moment I felt a tad terrified was when the door of the plane opened (plane doors generally should not open). Having bungee jumped before, I was convinced this would be easier, having no perspective of how high I was etc etc. Turns out it is easier, but only because you have someone attached to you who does everything for you, including throwing you out the door! Freefalling from 14,000ft is probably the best adrenalin rush I have ever had! I cannot put into words how amazing it is, but it is an incredible feeling of freedom being able to push the limits of your survival. Once the canopy is opened (which takes you by surprise and hurts a tad around the legs - note my face in the vid) it's a joyous glide over magnificent views of the great barrier reef, back to solid ground. My biggest fear was, by far, the landing, having 'landed' badly from height in a previous life. I needn't of worried, I just had to lift my legs up to my chest and Rob did the rest. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The slightly windswept 'after' shot</td></tr>
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I seriously DO recommend this to anyone with an inkling of a desire to fight gravity!</div>
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And so ended the age of Mission. I had a fantastic time there and made some amazing friends. One of which comes from my hometown of Motherwell. Small world indeed. Chinelle, Vanessa, Sebastian, Heather, Noora, Toni, Catherine, Jenny, Liam, Rebecca, Diesel, Mags and all the other Scots, Barabara and my tradey boys, and of course, Pip, Brendan, Peta and Dez. You all made my time there an amazing one and I miss you!</div>
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So onto Townsville. Again, I had only planned to stay 3 weeks, but... I initially worked at a hostel for my accommodation again, but found an advert for a job working in boarding kennels. Naturally I was very keen on the work and earning some proper cash, but it meant 12hr days for 29 days straight. Being poor, I couldn't pass up the chance of money, so I had to suck it up! The job was 15km away from town so I has to hire a care for the month. I forgot the joy of freedom a car can bring! I also found an amazing flat to stay in as living in a hostel was going to be way too expensive and tiring! I just wish I had more time to enjoy the time with my flatmates, Nathan and Ange. </div>
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The kennel work was easy. It was great to be back working with dogs again. The owner also had another business transporting pets around the country, which I wasn't aware of until my first day, and I had 2 days to learn the entire business before he and his wife left on holiday. He did admit he flung me in the deep end, but I managed and hopefully didn't bankrupt him! The money has been a life saver, however, I was taxed almost $1500 when I wasn't expecting to pay any tax, so the flight home remains unbooked! After the work was done, I had 5 days to enjoy the fun side of Townsville and Magnetic Island. Kayaking, horse riding and more beach times were had before I had to give up the motor and head south once again. To be continued...</div>
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</div>Fihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07379848535463709994noreply@blogger.com0Airlie Beach QLD 4802, Australia-20.2687204 148.7184564-20.2836159 148.6987154 -20.253824899999998 148.73819740000002tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7972352290145034258.post-33392983848287273802012-03-01T12:58:00.000+00:002012-03-01T12:58:45.043+00:00Bad blogger on the buses<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN">Ok, so it's been nearly 3 months since my last blog. I apologise for the tardiness! <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN">The adventures have continued, although there have been a few bumps in the road, a lot of hanging about, waiting for the next step, as well as beach times and road trips. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN">The next adventure has already begun. I am now a bus driver for a hostel in Mission Beach, Queensland. I do 3hrs work a day and in return I receive free accommodation, free internet, free laundry and if I stay at least 1 month, thereโs a free skydive on offer. Too good an offer to pass up! It also allows me to find some paid work as well and puts me in a good position for saving some money to do the fun stuffโฆand buy a flight home :-s<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN"><br />
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</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN">That perfect job still eludes meโฆ in fact finding any work that isn't a sales role duping people out of their hard earned cash is hard to come by! I have been kept afloat by odd shifts here and there (thank you Gregg Peek โ check out his free city tour of Sydney www.peektours.com), the generosity of family and friends who have put me up for a few nights and kept me fed and watered, but mainly the bank of Mum and Dad have been far too generous and have enabled me to stay here living the dream! Thank you kindly!<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN">In the time since my last blog I have worked as a 'shepherd' for the aforementioned Peek Tours; worked as a nanny living on millionaires row right on Tamarama beach (just round from Bondi) looking after 4 kids for a very rich family; spent Christmas working for said rich family and then partied with my fellow orphans; had a fantastic New Year with some fabulous people watching the fireworks at Sydney Harbour and then watching the sun rise on Bondi with a lovely random Aussie bloke; campervan road trip to Melbourne and a 3 day Great Ocean Road tour with the lovely Katie Day; spent 5 strange days in Adelaide melting in 40 deg heat before hitching a lift back to Melbourne with Paul Atkinson. I then spent a week in Melbourne, hosted by the right honourable Dr Glassford (thank you kind sir for your unyielding generosity). I managed to take in the semi-final of the Australian Open Tennis between Andy Murray and Novak Djokovic. Great atmosphere, even though the outcome was not the desired one. I spent a day pondering the complexities of life in the Botanic gardens, getting emotional at the Anzac memorial and wondering along the Yarra river. I caught up with some long lost friends; Alisha, my favourite little Aussie, and Jamie and Sarah Anne, my favourite islanders from Skye! I wish I had stayed longer, but the promise of work was too tempting and I made my way back up north to Sydney. I spent a lovely long weekend in the Blue Mountains with my Dad's cousin, Marilyn, her husband Kevin and Milo the dog, who very kindly put me up and gave me a personal tour of some delightful towns, shops and cafes, as well as experiencing the worst hail storm I've ever encountered </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=10151271716665068" target="_blank">Blue Mountains Hail Storm</a>! Thank you both for your wonderful hospitality.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Blue Mountain home</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RnBJ2alny5Q/T09vZyeBTxI/AAAAAAAAAHQ/cvAKNVPQTOk/s1600/P2130015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RnBJ2alny5Q/T09vZyeBTxI/AAAAAAAAAHQ/cvAKNVPQTOk/s320/P2130015.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Milo</td></tr>
</tbody></table>I also managed to find a volleyball club to train with while back in Sydney, as well as attempting some beach volleyball with Dirk and Megan. There was the Australian Open surf champs in Manly, free gigs on the beach, great music at Spectrum, skateboard comps, surfing with Jarrod and the Mojo boys, movies and meeting Mark Wahlberg with Piritta. </div><div class="MsoNormal">I am glad to finally be travelling and exploring again, but I will miss Sydney and the people in it. I have become quite attached to the place. I will be back!</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">When trying to recall everything I've done in the last 3 months, it makes me smile thinking of the fun I've had and the friends I've made, and I really wish I had the discipline to keep a diary/update this blog so I can look back and remember everything I've done. I must make a concerted effort to blog more often, but I fear they may become like buses... none for ages then they all appear at once!<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ctB9z28sooA/T09vjcDUemI/AAAAAAAAAHY/npUKKkvtbu8/s1600/P2180027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ctB9z28sooA/T09vjcDUemI/AAAAAAAAAHY/npUKKkvtbu8/s320/P2180027.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Living End free gig on Manly beach</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4hBoA7V6CH0/T09vshea1SI/AAAAAAAAAHg/EgqX6GoxErg/s1600/P2240041.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4hBoA7V6CH0/T09vshea1SI/AAAAAAAAAHg/EgqX6GoxErg/s320/P2240041.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Moonlight cinema, Centennial Park</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Hzsf_h45RjU/T09v2Y7j9uI/AAAAAAAAAHo/Jgr-OT3yybE/s1600/P2250045.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Hzsf_h45RjU/T09v2Y7j9uI/AAAAAAAAAHo/Jgr-OT3yybE/s320/P2250045.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bowl-a-rama Bondi</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ll74VUjNpYI/T09wBMFUZfI/AAAAAAAAAHw/bUGztvXTLZU/s1600/P2260054.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ll74VUjNpYI/T09wBMFUZfI/AAAAAAAAAHw/bUGztvXTLZU/s320/P2260054.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sydney sunrise</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
</div></div>Fihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07379848535463709994noreply@blogger.com0Mission Beach QLD 4852, Australia-17.8691214 146.10633810000002-17.8909354 146.0888356 -17.847307400000002 146.12384060000002tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7972352290145034258.post-17278336208968257992011-12-04T12:33:00.000+00:002011-12-04T12:33:47.820+00:00Imagine...<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">What's the one thing you've always dreamed of doing? The one thing above all else that you would give anything to do or see?<br />
For me it has been swimming with dolphins, particularly common dolphins, my favourite species. But not just being in the water with them, actually swimming along side them, being part of the pod. A wild, fanciful dream you may think, and I did too, being not of the dolphin persuasion.<br />
<br />
Coming to Australia, a swim with dolphins was high on my bucket list and having already been on a swim with dusky dolphins in New Zealand I was very much looking forward to doing it again. I had looked into a few companies who do dolphin cruises and sent off my CV in the hope of finding a job as a boat guide in the sun. I contacted Andrew at Dolphin Swim Australia, the only permitted dolphin swim in NSW and they invited me for a trip on their vessel 'Imagine' to experience what they do. And what they do is spectacular.<br />
<br />
My day started early, leaving the hostel at 5.15am (thanks to the wonderful Pete at Melaleuca for getting out his bed and driving me there!) arriving in Nelson Bay to be fitted with my wetsuit and board Imagine, a fabulous purpose built 15.8m ocean sailing Catamaran. The staff and crew are a wonderful bunch, very welcoming and friendly. They also know their stuff and we were fully briefed on what we were about to do and how to do it, as well as everything we needed to know about the species and the beautiful marine park we were in. We headed out into the open ocean in search of the dolphins.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5CWx-QY8-bQ/TttVoFAsBrI/AAAAAAAAAGI/HpjJn0lzLJc/s1600/PB270087.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5CWx-QY8-bQ/TttVoFAsBrI/AAAAAAAAAGI/HpjJn0lzLJc/s320/PB270087.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In search of dolphins</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Elise, Andrew's other half, is a marine biologist in her own right and is carrying out research into the migratory patterns and distribution of the common dolphins in NSW waters, so I felt very comfortable that we were not chasing or harassing the dolphins in anyway, and that everything was on the dolphins terms. What came next reinforced that entirely!<br />
<br />
When we located the dolphins they showed that they were interested in us by approaching the boat and swimming around us, enticing us to play. We carried on our heading and the dolphins stayed with us. That's when we get in the water! Sitting on the boom net on the bow, we adorned our flippers and snorkels and on Elise's signal we entered the water as gracefully as possible, clipping our harness onto the the grab rope. Holding onto the rope, the skipper gently powered forward and we were indeed swimming along-side the dolphins! Initially I was so overcome with what I was doing that I forgot to breathe and relax, and to welcome our new friends! I soon remembered what I was supposed to be doing and relaxed into the ride, singing some Scottish tunes and getting to know these extremely inquisitive and playful individuals. Being a small group of us onboard, there were plenty of chances to get back in the water and have another play. The more I got in the water, the more fun we had and the more the dolphins seemed to enjoy our company. One dolphin in particular seemed to enjoy my rendition of 'Ae Fond Kiss' and stayed beside me for a full 10 minutes! They talked and sang back to us too and you can actually feel their echolocation clicks bouncing off you. Incredible!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://neptune.atlantis-intl.com/dolphins/sounds/dd_sonar.mp3">Common dolphin echolocation</a><br />
<br />
Just when we thought it couldn't get any better we spotted at least 1 sei whale, a new sighting for me! Unfortunately we didn't see it underwater, but what excitement to be in the water with a whale!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fDCvz0iO9Ks/Ttti9OtHmvI/AAAAAAAAAGY/UKmcqk1Ek7g/s1600/sei-whale-50M1478-05.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fDCvz0iO9Ks/Ttti9OtHmvI/AAAAAAAAAGY/UKmcqk1Ek7g/s320/sei-whale-50M1478-05.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Not the sei whale we spotted. My camera is not that good!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Unfortunately for both humans and dolphins, the adventure had to end and we had to get out the water and head for home. We were accompanied most of the way by 3 of our friends who rode the bow almost to the Bay. Quite a goodbye!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BkxDaGsuR4k/TttXRShKVkI/AAAAAAAAAGQ/QrkciKjHLH4/s1600/PB270103.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BkxDaGsuR4k/TttXRShKVkI/AAAAAAAAAGQ/QrkciKjHLH4/s320/PB270103.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Escort home</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
I have always found whales and dolphins amazing to watch in their natural habitat, but to be accepted into their world, their home, is an immensely humbling and breathtaking experience and one I will never forget. <br />
<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="300" mozallowfullscreen="" src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/9366424?title=0&byline=0&portrait=0" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="400"></iframe><br />
<a href="http://vimeo.com/9366424">Dolphin Swim Australia</a> from <a href="http://vimeo.com/user589098">Andrew Parker</a> on <a href="http://vimeo.com/">Vimeo</a>.<br />
<br />
<br />
If you don't believe in your dreams, or chase them, they will never be within your reach.<br />
So if you ever doubt your dreams, think they are just fantasy, stop. Breathe. Relax. <br />
Sometimes dreams do come true. All you have to do is Imagine...<br />
</div>Fihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07379848535463709994noreply@blogger.com0Port Stephens NSW 2324, Australia-32.695136509649622 152.14075771484374-32.725456009649619 152.01463921484375 -32.664817009649624 152.26687621484373tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7972352290145034258.post-6330868998584799952011-11-17T06:56:00.000+00:002011-11-17T06:56:22.539+00:00A week of firsts<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">There was a moment of hesitation when I awoke on the 5th Nov. 'Will I just not go? It'll be so much easier to stay.'<br />
I finished packing at 4am and finally got some sleep. Scott, Ange and my nephew Angus came round to see me off and there was a tear in my eye when I thought that the next time I see Angus, he'll be walking and won't recognise me. But they'll all be in New Zealand visiting the Kiwi rellies after New Year, so I can always nip over and visit.<br />
<br />
I tried to make the airport farewell to mum and dad as short and painless as possible, so it was one very quick, tearful goodbye at the security gate before I went on my way. Luckily, friends on my folks were travelling on the same flight en-route to Hong Kong, and very kindly signed me into the business class lounge. Free cuppa, a biscuit and chat to take my mind off the thought that this was the first time away from home for longer than a month. Thank you Campbell and Val :)<br />
<br />
The flight to Dubai was fairly uneventful, however, flying across Baghdad I happened to open the window shutter. I saw a flash behind me and was unsure what it was so I continued to stare out into the dark night.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-scc-RS_zLwc/Tr4MeJ1JUQI/AAAAAAAAAFY/o4wbvxge7fE/s1600/lighting-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-scc-RS_zLwc/Tr4MeJ1JUQI/AAAAAAAAAFY/o4wbvxge7fE/s1600/lighting-4.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lightning storm above Baghdad</td></tr>
</tbody></table> I was witnessing my first lightning storm from above. Highly impressive! The tunes only added to the moment. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TWcyIpul8OE&feature=relmfu">Bon Iver - Holocene</a><br />
<br />
I arrived at Dubai airport just after midnight local time. Campbell and Val tried to sign me into the business class lounge again, which would have been bliss, but to no avail, as we were not travelling on the same onward flight. So I set about looking for some free food, bu the place I was informed of at Glasgow airport was closed for refurbishments. By the time I found where I could get said free food, I had walked the length of terminal 3 almost 4 times! Fed and watered I found a lounger and made myself comfortable and set about entertaining myself. 6 hours later it was time for the final leg to Sydney. I slept most of the way, somewhat uncomfortably, only awakening for the vast amounts of food provided on the wonderful Emirates airbus a380. I highly recommend it!<br />
I landed in Sydney, greeted by spring sunshine, and waiting to collect my bags I was approached by the sniffer dog. Being a dog in a previous life, the pup was obviously excited to see me and gave me the best Aussie welcome he could. Luckily his keeper laughed and moved on, much to my relief!<br />
<br />
After finding the shuttle bus to the hostel, I was on my way through the streets of Sydney central. The driver had kindly agreed to drop an elderly lady in an area outside her normal route and proceeded to get lost, and I found myself navigating for a local! Finally the way was found and I was checking into my room. I found my room, found it was the wrong room and found myself back at reception! The right room found, I said g'day to my roommates and went off to explore. The first nights entertainment was free food and a drink in the hostel bar while getting to know my new friends. An early night called, it had been a long day!<br />
<br />
Day 2 the group meet for a walk of the city. We took in most of the main tourist attractions, lead by our fantastic group leader, Katie, Bontanic gardens, Hyde park, Harbour bridge, the Opera House, Darling Harbour - I was melting by the end! We hit Scubar at night for some pizza and drinks. Some of us stayed later than the rest and ended up in an Irish bar dancing with some lovely Aussie boys :)<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-InKztxU6gu0/TsSo8Eb2vPI/AAAAAAAAAFk/iG2jtOxhOp8/s1600/388393_259141314133296_121931404520955_712379_2098447637_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-InKztxU6gu0/TsSo8Eb2vPI/AAAAAAAAAFk/iG2jtOxhOp8/s320/388393_259141314133296_121931404520955_712379_2098447637_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The gang</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<br />
Day 3 was the harbour cruise on our private boat! We took in all the sites from the water, stalked some celebrity abodes, had lunch at Sydney fish market, quick stop at Manly where my camera took a dip in the ocean and died (oops!), and then we ended on a lovely little beach where some of us swam, jumped of rocks, played some ball games and generally chilled out. After 2 days of constant drinking I was feeling a little worse for wear and quickly developed a chest infection (very easy when living in hostels) and headed to bed, after my free meal of course!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y60uGyn311U/TsSqgp0OuLI/AAAAAAAAAFs/nsc-Yl_KYbM/s1600/IMG_3583.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y60uGyn311U/TsSqgp0OuLI/AAAAAAAAAFs/nsc-Yl_KYbM/s320/IMG_3583.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Manly beach, the last picture before the Canon took a dip and died!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Day 4 - After sleeping off the last 2 days shenanigans I headed to the Travelers contact Point for a quick talk on working and travelling in Oz. Some good hints and tips I've yet to put into practice. Still feeling really ill, I wasn't up for another big night so we headed down to Darling Harbour for a bite to eat and some fun on THE greatest play park in the world. Fact! I will take more pics with my new camera to show you all how amazing it is!<br />
<br />
Day 5 was a trip to the Blue mountains which lies 2hrs west of Sydney. I love it there and will have to spend some time there later in my trip. We were taken into the National Park to search for kangaroos, which are apparently becoming a rarer sight in these parts, thought to be caused by dingos. We finally found 3 eastern greys, no photos due to a dead camera, but they are huge. We were taken on a fabulous walk and spent 11:11 11/11/11 looking out over a waterfall into Megalong valley. Spectacular. If only I had a camera!<br />
It was a long walk down the valley but fairly easy. Getting back however, involved climbing over 1000 steps. I do not recommend doing this with a chest infection!! Friday night and Saturday were spent in bed!<br />
<br />
Day 7 was surfing day with Mojosurf. These guys are awesome and got me standing up...eventually! I think I will spend a lot of time in the ocean :) Being the awesome surfer dudes that they were, they took us for a discounted meal that night and we chilled with some beers and pool. If you want to learn to surf, the Mojo crew are highly recommended :)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vDz48IqcW9E/TsSvl_dpQwI/AAAAAAAAAF0/GYORxQHmyyI/s1600/PB150003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vDz48IqcW9E/TsSvl_dpQwI/AAAAAAAAAF0/GYORxQHmyyI/s320/PB150003.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-e05kLNtG22c/TsSvsB61AYI/AAAAAAAAAF8/DN_ZxplkJgM/s1600/320870_261685500545544_121931404520955_718325_693298967_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-e05kLNtG22c/TsSvsB61AYI/AAAAAAAAAF8/DN_ZxplkJgM/s320/320870_261685500545544_121931404520955_718325_693298967_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
And so ended my first week with UltimateOz. The rest is unknown and still a bit scary, but I'm looking forward to coming adventures :)</div>Fihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07379848535463709994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7972352290145034258.post-44907226488583711872011-11-02T23:37:00.000+00:002011-11-02T23:37:59.200+00:00Superfluity of reason...<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">My mind is starting to take a wander of the map with the inordinate amounts of 'stuff' running riot around my brain, so please do excuse the following ramble!<br />
<br />
So there are less than 3 days left until I fly due south and I am consumed by emotions, not least, stress due to packing uncertainty. Anticipating future events for the next year in an unknown country is a tricky task, and I'm not the most competent at making decisions.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fo3iFiAfFCE/TrBda8A1xHI/AAAAAAAAAFM/78Mfgt5H1qs/s1600/IMG_3518.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fo3iFiAfFCE/TrBda8A1xHI/AAAAAAAAAFM/78Mfgt5H1qs/s320/IMG_3518.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">I'm gonna need a bigger bag!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I certainly travel lighter than my younger days, but I'm forever considering the 'what if's' and the 'just in case' scenarios - I get that from my mother, so I tend to pack things I'll no doubt not need. But I can still somehow justify my reasons for packing that extra top, squeezing in one more pair of shoes, buying ANOTHER bikini, because I might wear out the other 12! because you just never know. The truth? Simply making myself believe there is any number of logical reasons to the extra item other than 'I want to take it!'</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So what soon-to-be suitcased items will be superfluous...? Only time will tell.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Time to stop thinking and do!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
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</div>Fihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07379848535463709994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7972352290145034258.post-46715193869708942202011-10-10T03:55:00.000+01:002011-10-10T03:55:20.702+01:00No regrets...?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">They say you should go to your grave with no regrets, but in reality I don't believe that it is possible, for anyone.<br />
<br />
8 years ago today, my life was irreversibly changed. To the very core I would never be the same again. Dealing with loss is a painful and complicated business, but it does tend to get easier with time. Dealing with regret is another predicament altogether. It's something I've struggled with to varying degrees over the years. <br />
<br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><i>'</i></span><i>Regret for the things we did can be tempered by time; it is regret for the things we did not do that are inconsolable'</i><br />
<i> </i> Sydney Smith <i style="color: #20124d;"> </i><br />
<i style="color: #20124d;"><br />
</i><br />
My biggest true regret is indeed something I did not do. <br />
8 years ago, I swore I would never make the same mistake again, that I would not feel frightened to take action that might cause me embarrassment or pain, because in the end, my hesitation hurt all the more.<br />
Maybe that's why I have moved from place to place, and from job to job, so as not to miss out on an opportunity. Or maybe I have just been wandering aimlessly, waiting for the world to make sense again.<br />
<br />
I think Tolkien personifies my sentiments best:<br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><i> 'How do you pick up the threads of an old life? How do you go on... when in your heart you begin to understand... there is no going back? There are some things that time cannot mend... some hurts that go too deep... that have taken hold'</i></span><br />
JRRT: The Return of the King<br />
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This year I learned that regret CAN come from things we do and that these can also be inconsolable. I was once again broken and changed, my intuition was once again right, and I once again failed to listen. In some such way, it seems harder to accept a mistake when you've made it twice.<br />
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However, I have managed to find a silver lining. I can travel at long last! It's something I've waited years to do. The time was never right; I never had enough money; I had no-one to share it with. I should have lived the dream a long time ago. But here is one regret I can remedy!<br />
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If I'm honest, if I had a choice of life right now, I'd choose the fairy-tale ending, where I'm swept off my feet by my handsome prince to live a life happily-ever-after in our white-picket fenced cottage by the sea, with our beautiful children and our crazy dogs. But it's not a choice I have. So instead of waiting for the fairy-tale to happen to me, I am choosing to create my own magic and adventure in the hope that it leads me to the happy ending I desire. And if not, then so be it. I'm going to enjoy every minute of the journey<br />
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And so starts another epoch. The 3rd age of Fi. And I am hopeful that this aeon will be the one where the sun truly shines after the rain.<br />
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</div>Fihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07379848535463709994noreply@blogger.com3Motherwell, North Lanarkshire, UK55.789136 -3.99545690000002255.7521115 -4.0503989000000216 55.8261605 -3.9405149000000219tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7972352290145034258.post-32974247948110656562011-06-26T23:42:00.001+01:002011-06-27T00:32:28.518+01:00Once upon a time, I had a dream...For as long as I can remember I've been a dreamer, living in my own little world believing I could fly or run with wild horses...or better still, flying on multi-coloured horses over rainbows! The older I got, the bigger the dreams became and the more I wanted to escape what I perceived to be a dull and boring life. <br />
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I suppose my wanderlust was instilled from a young age by my Dad who worked at sea with the Merchant Navy. He would return with weird and wonderful gifts from places I had never heard of, and I remember the feeling of excitement as I thought of exotic far flung places, imagining wise, age-old cultures living in perfect harmony with the world.<br />
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Then I got older still and the dreams kept coming (and going) and the more they failed to materialise, the more I started to think they were never going to come true. I gave up on a lot of dreams for various reasons but always thought I had plenty of time to achieve them if I wanted. I now realise that time, is in fact, running out.<br />
I haven't dealt well with turning 30. My mortality has caught up with me and I genuinely feel like I don't have enough time. I don't know why. It's just a feeling.<br />
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After years of chasing unfulfilled dreams, I am now in a position to let my feet wander. After a very bad start to 2011, I have picked myself up and found I am left with no ties or responsibilities and if there is a time to follow my feet, it is now. After all, soon I'll be too old and the dream will be over.<br />
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In 4 months I plan to be on my way to Australia to spend about 10 months travelling and working, and I don't mind admitting it's a terrifying prospect travelling over 10,500 miles to the other side of the world on my own, but I know I'll regret it if I don't do it. Life is short and sometimes very hard, but I'm eternally optimistic that it can be bloody amazing if you focus on the good times and don't let the bad overwhelm you.<br />
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<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">So this is my blog, to share my experiences, good and bad, with friends and family, to capture the dream as I live it and to remind myself that no matter how stormy it gets, the sun always shines after the rain.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
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</div>Fihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07379848535463709994noreply@blogger.com3Duror, Appin, Highland, UK56.641060016654 -5.285163497314442855.492585516654 -7.2806714973144429 57.789534516654 -3.2896554973144427