Couch to 5k

I've decided to have a go at doing couch to 5k.
It's a running programme that gets you to gradually build up the amount you can run over a period of 9 weeks until you can run 5k. See here: www.c25k.com
I've also managed to download an iPhone app that times the runs and gives the odd word of encouragement.

I'm only on week 1 so far which consists of three 30min sessions (Mon, Wed and Fri) where you walk briskly but at 90 sec intervals run for 60 sec. It doesn't sound that taxing but for the completely unfit (like me!) it gives a good balance of being achievable whilst feeling like you have done a bit of a workout.
So far I've done Monday's and Wednesday's sessions and should complete the week's requirement on Friday. Next week, it shifts up to running for 90 sec at a time with 2 min walks inbetween; week 3 is run 90 sec, walk 90 sec, run 3mins, walk 3 mins and repeat all of that twice.

I'm embarrassed to say that at the moment I don't know how I'll be able to run for 3 mins at a time but I guess by week 3 I'll be a lot more used to the programme. The gradual build up means I should be able to run 5k in approx 30mins by 19th July!

I'll keep you updated....

Sunny Sunday!

We had a lovely day yesterday. It was a gloriously sunny day and very warm so I decided to go into town and buy Owen a paddling pool. I had resisted up until now as I didn't know whether it would survive with the dogs but it was so warm yesterday that I didn't care!

I found a lovely little one with a shade over the top and , as you can see, Owen loved it!

I also bought him a bike seat which he loved! He went for a short ride behind Declan and I ran alongside taking photos!

My favourite photo of the moment though is this one as he and Declan set off, he waved good-bye to me!

It's the simple things in life...

So much over the last few weeks has been focussed around the General Election and - for me - the current restructure at work, but yesterday I had one of those moments that puts it all into perspective.

I took Owen to the park to play on the swings and found some dandelion clocks by the side of the path. I picked one and blew the seeds off and Owen wouldn't stop giggling at it! I did the same with another half dozen and for some reason he thought it was hilarious which then made me laugh :)

How wonderful to appreciate nature from the perspective of a 12month old :)

As an aside, he had a fantastic 1st birthday on Sunday. We are so grateful to all our friends and family that helped make his day a special one. He was an absolute star and despite not sleeping much during the day, remained sociable and happy throughout.

The General Election - A vote for the common good

This is the advice from the Catholic Bishops of England and Wales. I think any right minded person would try and use their vote for the good of their community, constituency, country and beyond.

The question is, who is deserving of that vote?!

On Sunday, I emailed the 3 candidates for the main parties the following:
"With less than a week to go, I am an undecided voter.
Could you tell me, if you were elected, what your priorities would be as MP for Reigate? (I don't mean the priorities of central government, I mean the priorities in representing the people of the Reigate constituency.)
Also what would your party do to tackle poverty, both here in the UK and around the world?"

So far I have only had a reply from the Labour candidate but I guess he has next to no chance of getting in and so probably has more time on his hands...

Anyone reading this, tell me who you think should get the vote for the common good?
I'm determined to vote but still undecided!