After Nepal last year, I decided half through necessity (I was pretty weary/battered from the trip) but also in the knowledge that a rest would do me some good anyway, to take a break from the running through December. After being sick in early January and a lot of “running” around sorting the details of trips I’m now able to start focusing on getting in shape and pestering for sponsorship.

So this week I’ve played squash once, ran a steady 5km in the week and then this morning a quick 10km to stretch my legs properly. Surprised to do the 10km in 51:50 actually, given I’ve not run the distance for around 2 months and that on my own this morning I didn’t have people alongside me to help push me on. The one frustration is my trainers, which have once again given me nasty blisters on my in-step so need to get a new pair ASAP. Guess next week will be much the same, may try to fit 2 5km morning runs in if my feet heal quick or if not go for 15km on the Sunday.

I’ve received some kit from The Stroke Association, including a suitably loud/fluorescent running vest (never discrete these things) so I’ll soon be out sporting that when I train/run races. No doubt photos will soon appear of this!

Also getting closer and closer to long weekend in Wales between 6th-9th Feb, when I’ll be picking up things like ice axe/crampon technique, ropework and some crevasse rescue for good measure.