The Gory Details!

Sorry it's taken a while to fill you in on what happened last weekend.



We set off last Friday evening on the 17.40 flight to Gatwick. As you can see from the photo, we decided to wear our uniform of Walk the Walk t-shirts and pink hoodies - horray for Dunnes! This meant we were easily spotted and a few other Moonwalkers on the flight came over for a chat. We really started to get quite excited about what we were doing. We arrived at our hotel, Hilton Metropole on Edgware Road about 9pm and were relieved that they didn't ask for more money, we'd got this 4* hotel for such a good deal that we really did expect to be asked for extra money when we got there! Pam was already there as she'd gone over the night before to stay with her daughter, Stacey, and she told us to come up to the Asian restaurant on the 23rd floor as her and her husband, Brian (aka The Tea Man) were already eating up there. We went up and the view over London was fantastic....from up there we were able to see the 'moons' at Playtex City (huge white lights floating in the sky above the start/finish of the Moonwalk!). After looking at the menu and getting a call from Nik to say they were having burgers and chips in the Sports Bar on the ground floor, we decided to do a runner before they took our orders as we decided we really needed an athlete's pre-event meal of burgers and chips! Decided against the pint to wash it done....now that's dedication!

I was knackered, partly due to not sleeping great the night before and, partly due to the travelling. I started to panic at this stage as I think it was the first time it had hit me that we had to walk this marathin at night! I was thinking if I'm this tired tomorrow night how on earth am I going to do this! Headed off to bed shortly after 11 to TRY and get some sleep!

Woke about 6 thinking that I hadn't slept but realising that I must've done. At breakfast, Nik was worried as she'd had a bad night, following a week of sickness, she was worried that she wasn't going to be able to do it. Mum and I had decided that we were going to do a bus tour, to kill a few hours without having to be on our feet! We persuaded Nik to come with us and I think it helped take her mind of it. The bus tour was great and we were able to get spot some of the landmarks that we were going to see in a very different light that night!

We met up with Eileen and the rest of the girls at 6 and went to an Italian close to the hotel, to top up on some carbs to hopefully help us through the night! Then it was back to the hotel to get organised and changed! We met everyone else at 8 and we dandered the mile or so down to Playtex City.

At this stage, I was filled with such mixed emotions! I felt sick with nerves but excited at the same time! Looking back, I wish I'd enjoyed the build-up a bit more but I was bricking it about the walk which was silly as we'd done the training and at the back of our minds, we all knew we could do it.

The sight which greeted us at Playtex City was unbelievable.....there was a HUGE pink tent filled with 15,000 Moonwalkers and volunteers etc! Everyone was milling about, fixing their bras and costumes, getting photos taken, tying, untying and tying shoe laces! In the tent we were given a meal of ...yes, you guessed it....pasta and a cookie! Time to take on yet more water which then meant a long queue for the toilets! Nik, Julie and I did try the Sheurinals which was hilarious.....friends - ask me for more details the next time you see me as details are just too embarrassing to type - otherwise bask in the knowledge that 'ignorance is bliss'!!

The time flew in and before we knew it, our colour start orange was being called to the Start line. We waited around her for a few minutes and then at 11.45pm we were off!! We knew that we weren't going to be able to walk together as a group so I just concentrated on not losing Mags! Not an easy task when everyone is wearing pink and the same baseball hat! As it was a cold night, very few were just walking in their bras! Most were wearing tops and then the space blankets and waterproof thingies we were given. Mags and I managed to stay together and off we headed into the night! The first three miles or so were through Hyde Park so it was quiet except for chatter, laughs (mostly nervous) and the rustle of the space blankets. Volunteers were on hand to cheer you on but I have to say they p*ssed me off shouting how well we were doing after the first mile! A huge cheer went up as everyone passed the Mile 1 sign and at Mile 2 I remember saying to Mum that I'll be so much happier when I see a 2 with another 2 in front of it!

We got out of Hyde Park only to have to wait for about 10 minutes to cross the road! Unlike daytime marathons, they don't close the roads for the Moonwalk so there was a lot of time spent waiting to be told it was safe to cross the road! However, it was good with the traffic as there was lots of horn tooting and cheers from drunken men and women returning from their nights out. At Mile 3 it was time for the first (of many) toilet stops! The toilet stops were really frustrating as it took us up to 25 minutes of queuing (poor Eileen had to wait 40 minutes at one!).

The route took us past Buckingham Palace (only 1 light was on!), St Paul's Cathedral, over London Bridge, past Tate Modern Gallery, the London Eye then along the river out to Battersea Park. The pace was slower than our training due to the number of people and having to walk on footpaths! At Battersea, the sky started to lighten and we knew that morning was on its way. We then walked through Chelsea, Knightsbridge, along Kings Road, past Chelsea Royal Hospital (where the Chelsea Veterans live), Chelsea Barracks and the Chelsea Flower Show. Please forgive me if I've got these in the wrong order as it all blurred into one at 5am! We then were back to Battersea! Barbara Lewers had told me that she'd hit a low point at Battersea. When I saw it the first time, I thought that Barbara had hit her 'wall' very early on but I'm going to check with her and I'm sure that she meant the second time she saw it cos I was definitely feeling 'low' at this point!

Miles 17 to 21 were really tough! I did moan a bit at this stage...hard to imagine I know! Mum, however, was a star and just kept on walking! At one point she asked me if I was OK and I couldn't respond cos I knew I'd cry if I did! I was sore and busting for a pee! At Mile 16 there were toilets and we decided to walk on as the Volunteer told us the next ones were at Mile 18. This turned out to be a huge lie as there weren't any until Mile 21! Unfortunately there aren't many bushes in posh Chelsea so I had to hold on! Boy was I glad when those Portaloos came into view!

With the bladders emptied, Mile 21 passed, knowing that we were on the home straight and the crowd thinning, Mags and I just went for it! We flew home the last 5 miles, overtaking loads of people and being passed by no-one! I think we just thought that we have to get this over and done with!

Big Ben will always have a special place in my heart from now on! It was at Mile 22 (remember I'd said above that I'd happy when I saw the 22 mile mark) and the early morning sun was shining brightly! We passed the Tea Man but decided not to stop for a cuppa as we just wanted to get finished! From here it was back down The Mall to Buckingham Palace which looked fantastic - we'll never see it like that again as it was completely empty with no tourists milling about! I love this photo, spot the cyclist riding up the mall!

It was then back into Hyde Park for the last couple of miles and we were so happy to see the Pink Tent coming into view! There were quite a few supporters now and them and the Moonwalk volunteers really lifted our spirits when they shouted words of encouragement! Now I was glad to hear them as their support was deserved now, not like at Mile 1!

After walking for 7 hours and 45 minutes, Mum and I crossed the finish line! We were so happy and pleased with ourselves! What a star my Mum is, completing a marathon 2 weeks before her 60th birthday! Well done, Mum, I'm so proud of you!

Then we had to collect our bags and walk another mile back to the hotel! This was such an example of 'mind over matter'. We walked this mile no bother but as soon as we got into the hotel, neither of us knew how we were going to get up to our room as our legs just went!

After 2 hours sleep, Mum woke me to go shopping! We headed off to Regent Street for some well deserved retail therapy! It really did help to loosen the tight muscles and take our minds of our aches and pains! We then headed back to the hotel to meet the others for a definitely well deserved glass of wine (even it did cost us a bl**dy fortune!) and some craic! There were a few bad words when discussing the walk and how we were feeling!

After a nice meal in the hotel, it was lights out at 11pm! Headed home on Monday on the lunchtime flight from Gatwick. I was really looking forward to getting home, seeing Andy and the kids and getting back to a normal life!

I've probably forgotten little snippets that I'd like to tell you so I'll blog again soon! I'll also do an update on the final amount raised - can't believe that it's at £2,600! This is just fantastic - thanks to all!

Check out www.flickr.com/photos/lindasmyth for more photos!

That's it for now...until the next time...bye!

Lx

WE DID IT!!!

This is just going to be a short one but I wanted to update you all on progress as I know there's been loads of you checking us out over the months!

As we only got back this afternoon, I'm not going to go into details tonight as I've so much to tell you and wouldn't do it justice! Post walk fatigue has set in!

Mags and I completed the Moonwalk in 7 hours and 45 minutes on Sunday morning and had an absolute ball! We survived and none of you who know Mags will be surprised when I tell you that she dragged me off shopping after only a 2 hour rest!

I'll fill you in on all the gory details (and there were loads of them) tomorrow and will also share our photos!

Thanks for reading and I'll be in touch soon.

Lx

OMG!

It's just before 7am on Friday 15 May 2009!

Today's the day we set off on the final step of this fantastic journey and I can't believe that it's here! I guess it's a mix bag of emotions....excited (due to talking to people who have done it and said how fantastic the event is on the night and also that after all the time we've dedicated to this it's finally here) , scared (cos there's the apprehension that, although we know we can do it, you never know what might happen on the night and we really don't know what to expect), sad (due to the events of the last week) and emotional (cos everyone tells us we will bawl our eyes out!).

Still haven't packed so that's probably why I've been awake since 6am with a million things going round in my head. We're travelling in our team kit of trainers, jeans, walk the walk t-shirts and pink hoodies (thank goodness for Dunnes Stores!). The bras are in the final throws of preparation - Mags has to get the needle and thread out to sew on the 'modesty panel'! We've checked in online so other than packing and getting to the airport, we're done! Then only a small matter of walking 26.2 miles tomorrow night!

The fundraising still amazes me - with nearly £2.5k raised! I come home yesterday evening to a card with a cheque from Barbs Lewers. Barbs is a friend through hockey and she did the Moonwalk 2 years ago after her best friend Fiona Morris had been diagnosed wih Breast Cancer. I had a very long chat with Barbs last night when I called and this ended up with Barbs sobbing down the phone as she recalled the "journey not a race" that she and Fiona had gone through 2 years ago. Have to say that it really helped me to talk to her and it stressed what an amazing thing this is! Thanks, Barbs!

Mags did the shopping for the final bits and pieces yesterday - snacks, water bottles, socks, hoodies and blow up cushions for us to sit on in the Big Tent before we set off. We have to be there by 8.30pm so there's 2-3 hours to kill before we set off hence the cushion! Airport security's going to think we've al got a bad dose of piles!

Well, it's now 7.15am and need to get up and get organised for the day! I'm going to miss the kids and they're going to miss me too (so they tell me!). We're bad parents as Andy's also abandoning them to go to the Man U v Arsenal march tomorrow....COME ON THE MIGHTY REDS!

So this is it........

Bye and thanks for reading and for the support!

Lx

3 Days to Go!

Can't believe it's only 3 days to go - it seems like no time since I started the blog and it was something like 14 weeks to go!

This is the hardest post I've had to do as I don't really know what to say. The Moonwalk has been put into perspective due to other things that have happened to my family in the last week. On Saturday afternoon, my 20 year old cousin, Stephen died. Stephen had Cystic Fibrosis and developed an infection about 18 months ago which unfortunately was untreatable long-term. Just before Christmas, he was sent home from hospital having been told that he only had a few days to live but Stephen had obviously thought he'd a few more months left in him and courageously fought until Saturday. His funeral was yesterday and I have to say that it was probably the saddest event that I've ever attended. His family are just devestated by their loss.

I'm really struggling with this post. Because of events I don't want everyone to think that I'm being insensitive by now talking about the Moonwalk but Mags and I now need to lift ourselves and prepare for it. We've trained so hard and raised so much money, that we need to carry on and do it.

The bras are decorated - you'll have to wait for the photos to see them! Not sure how we're actually going to get them transported to London. We're so scared of our luggage going missing that we're taking our walking gear as hand luggage. Think the security guards are going to have a field day when they see the bras! Having experienced some of these 'jobs worths', they'll probably make us dismantle them!

Mum, Eileen, Alison and I are heading to Gatwick at tea-time on Friday. Pam'll already be there as she's heading tomorrow evening to stay with her daughter. Nik and her team are also going on Friday night but there going sleazy jet so we'll just meet them at the hotel. Staying at the Hilton on Edgware Road which Kerrie-Anne (my sis-in-law) informs me is class! We got such a good deal that I'm scared we're going to turn up and be told that we owe another £300!

I'm hoping to post something else before we head off so until then ......

Night Night

Lx

One Big One To Go!

Well, we're nearly there! On Saturday morning, starting at 8am, Mags and I set off for our last 'big' walk of our training. For the next couple of weeks, we only need to do 3 short walks a week. When I say short, they are still 5 miles, but they seem short now in comparison to what we have done! Saturday was tough but we managed it in 5 hrs 35 mins which we were pleased with especially as we had 3 shop stops to buy water and 6 pee stops!! We did it from Portstewart to Coleraine to Portrush and back to Portstewart with an extra lap of Portstewart to get the 20 miles! Boy, does that Ring Road round Coleraine seem long when on foot! Apart from sore feet we recovered really well and have no lasting aches or pains!

We're both getting very excited now and looking forward to the real thing! This week's task is get the bras decorated, my job is to dye 5 bras and then Eileen's organising the rest.....I hope! It's harder said than done thinking of how to decorate them, easy to think of ideas but we don't want them to have anything on them which annoy us when we're walking.....I'm guessing that it won't take much to annoy us after 17 miles when it's about 4am!!

Just a quick statistic....when walking on Saturday, we worked out roughly the total miles we've walked whilst training and we reckon we've done about 250 miles!!!!

Final couple of fundraisers are happening this week, firstly, on Thursday, Eileen and I are having an Office Coffee Morning and, on Friday, I'm doing one for the staff of Andy's school. The fundraising total standing at £1,875 so I'm hoping to make £2,000. Here's hoping the Capita Symonds and Spa Primary School staff dig deep this week!

Will try and blog a few more times before we head for London!

Keep reading and thanks!

Lx

Aghhhhhhhhh!!!

Just a short one tonight.......tonight was another first....we got absolutely soaked to the skin doing a short 6 miler! This made us both hope that there's no rain on 16th May and also made Mags realise that she may need to re-think what she wears! Her trackie bots were so wet that they were nearly round her knees by the time we got back! We have been so lucky with the weather so far and here's hoping that it continues that way!

Andy had the stove lit when I got home which was lovely....cheers, Andy!

Just off now to go onto the much visited (by me) website www.gmap-pedometer.com to plan our route for the 20 miler on Saturday. If any of you out there walk, cycle or run, this is the best website ever to plan routes and the distances are very accurate. Just type in your town (even Spa is on it!!), change zoom to 15, press go and hey presto!!

Sorry, I promised this would be a short one, think I'm starting to blog as much as I talk!! Here's hoping Andy doesn't start blogging!!!!

Lx

ps I note that some people must be reading this, if you are, please send me a comment as I'd welcome the feedback!

Overwhelmed!!!

This word is the only one that I can use to describe how I'm feeling at the minute and it's all down to the generosity of everyone who has donated to this great cause! Hazel's fundraiser was a fantastic success - both as a fundraiser and as a social occasion! We managed to raise a staggering £600 which is just unbelievable - you are all too generous! It was also a great night's craic, Vanessa's stories kept us in stitches all evening......thanks, Hazel!

This has raised the total so far to £1,810!!!! We're now hoping for £2,000! I can't believe it as I'd thought we'd be doing brilliantly to get to £1,000!







Now for the update on the walking front. Yesterday Mum and I walked 18 miles in 4 hours 47 minutes round Portstewart and Portrush. I took Andy's advice and ate something every hour or so which seemed to do the trick as I didn't suffer the same tiredness which had happened last week...cheers, Andy - all those hours on the tinternet has paid off! Next weekend we've to walk 20 miles and that's the last big one before the real thing! I can't believe that the end is in sight and that there's only just over 2 weeks to go!

Our final instructions pack arrived this week and we now have everything we need for the Big Night! I felt very emotional reading the instructions, not sure why but I think it's the first time I've realised what a big event this is! I can't really imagine what 15,000 people in a tent is going to be like. I'm really looking forward to it now, I'm confident that we'll finish it and it should be fun!

Bye for now. Lx

Sorry!

Sorry it's been so long but things have been hectic!

Last week we went to Enniskillen with our bezzie mates Big Gav, Nik, Megan, Katie and Fay - we all had a fab time! This was in spite of the weather being pretty wet but we didn't expect much else. Nik's also doing the Moonwalk so we trained together. Before we got there, Nik had toured the tourist information centres for some information on walks in the area - turned out they were all very unhelpful....until she found a friendly chap working in Castle Archdale which was only a few hundred yards from where we were staying! Nik told the guy we needed to do 14 miles so he took her out alone in his landrover to show her some routes through the forest.....brave girl! Anyway, she lived to tell the tale, and Easter Saturday we completed our task for the week! Mags was at our new holiday house in Portstewart and walked to Portrush and back and a bit more to get her 14 miler done.

Yesterday the traget was 16 miles! Mags and I set out at 7.30am to make sure we were back in time for Andy to get to hockey! 4 hours and 16 minutes later we returned - we were delighted with this time as we were clocking 16 minute miles and also that we managed to complete it without much difficulty. Legs and feet were tired and sore but we were still going strong. I was absolutely knackered later on and was barely able to keep my eyes open, also struggling a bit with hydration so if anyone out there has any bright ideas on this front, I'd really appreciate it! Adding salt to my water so see if this helps!

As you can see, the fundraising is going fantastically well - target achieved and bettered! My friend and neighbour, Hazel, has organised a little soiree for the Spa Ladies this Thursday! Hazel's returning to school this week after some fairly serious surgery so it's extra kind of her! Should be good criac and will be nice to catch up with all the girls from round these parts! Thanks, Hazel!

Better finish up now and I promise that the next update won't take as long as this one!

Lx

Another First!

Hi there

Well tomorrow's another first - having to walk my first long walk on my own! Mags has gone to Paris with Dad for the marathon, fingers crossed that all the physio sessions have paid off and Dad manages to start and finish! Whatever, I'm sure they'll have a great time!

So that leaves me on my own to do 12 miles! Have my route planned but think I'm going to be very lonely! Eileen did her 12 miles today and she said "it's very tiring".....slight understatement I'd say! Going to be out early again - have to say that I'm really missing those lazy sunday mornings lying in bed with Andy and the kids! Some day soon........!!!! Ellie keeps commenting "you're not going out walking again"!! So I'll let you know how it goes!

Then next week, it's off for a change of scenery for the walking. We're heading to Enniskillen with Big Gav, Nik, Meg, Katie and Fay for a week so will be out training with Nik next week which will be good. Can't wait to get there as it seems such a long time since we last got a proper break at Christmas. Will just need to remember to plan a few routes before we go but I'm sure we're bound to get lost at some stage!

Well better go as my pre-training drink of a huge glass of wine is calling! What an athlete!

Lx

Big Milestone

Today saw Mags and I achieve a big milestone in our training - 10 miles this morning in 2 hrs 38 minutes. We are both so pleased with this and has definitely given us both a boost! It was actually a miracle as it was achieved after only about 5 hours sleep, I was out at Annadale's 40th Anniversary Dinner and Mags was babysitting for us and with the clocks going forward, it led to an early start. Andy had a U18 session today so we started walking at 8.45 - definitely a new way to spending Sunday mornings! Though I have to admit that, much as I was not looking forward to it, it was such a beautiful morning that even I couldn't stay grumpy for too long! It was cold but the sun was shining - recommend it to anyone!

We've also reached our fundraising target with the total currently standing at £1,082 which is fantastic, we're both over the moon with this and are so grateful for everyone's kind donations!

Luckily for Mags, she's heading with Dad to Paris next weekend where Dad's (hopefully) doing the Paris marathon. I say hopefully as he's currently struggling with a back injury but fingers crossed all the physio treatments will pay off. So it means that Mags is having a change of scenery for her walking as she's planning to pack her trainers and tread the pavements..........though need to remind her that shopping doesn't count!

Anyway, off to my pit now to rest my weary limbs!

Lx

Walking Update

Hi there

Just a quick update on how the walking is going. On Saturday, Mum and I walked 8 miles in 2 hours and 5 mins, this was 15 minutes ahead of our target so we were really pleased! Target for this week is two 5 milers and then 10 miles at the weekend in 3 hours which we're hoping to achieve.

Just over 7 weeks to go so the countdown is very much on! With Easter looming, the weeks are going to fly in! I feel much happier now that we're starting to notch up the miles and still meeting the time targets.

Need to start thinking of how we're going to decorate our bras so any bright ideas will be gratefully received! Definitely want the design to cover all the lumps and bumps which would otherwise be on show! It's also important that any added bits don't annoy us on the way round.

That's all for now folks!

Lx

How Generous!

OMG - I can't believe how generous everyone is being and that fundraising to date is sitting at over £900!!! On Saturday night, Nik and Julie's gala dinner was held at the Ramada. This was a joint event, mainly for the Friends of the Cancer Centre charity, but a donation was being made to Walk the Walk. The fab 2 managed to raise £14,250 and with Gift Aid added the total exceeds £18,000!!! This is absolutely fantastic and allows Nik and Big Gav to give something back to the charity which has supported them over the last 18 months. Apart from the money raised, it was a fantastic nights craic with more than one or two sore heads yesterday morning, even Big Gav was suffering after a night on alcohol free Becks!!!! Well done girls!

Walking target for this week is a manageable 18 miles, 2 5 miles and then an 8 at the weekend! Lighter nights are allowing us to get out into the country for a change of scenery which is great. We're still managing to stick to our 15 minute miles but I'm sure this will change as the length of our walks increases. Mags and I are being out to shame by my Dad who is in his last few weeks of training for the Paris marathon in early April - good luck! I guess we all have to start somewhere!

Andy's promised to arrange a Night at the Races for me in April so I need to kickstart him into some organising! The date needs to be sorted asap so that everyone can put the date in their diaries - will keep you posted! So Andy - get your finger out!

Not much else to report right now so it's over and out!

Lx

Another Big Thank You!

Hey there

Sorry it's been a while but it's been a busy couple of weeks. Mags and I have been clocking up the miles, walking three times a week! It's now only 10 weeks to go and I know it's going to fly!

It's also been busy as we were preparing for the next Coffee Morning which was held today...another successful event raising over £400 for this great charity! Thank you to everyone who attended, donated, helped in any way... THANK YOU from Mags and Linda - you're all so kind!

Not only was it financially successful, it was also great fun and nice to catch up family and friends! In typical Norn Iron and 'small world' fashion, there were people who ended up knowing other people, not through us - a great surprise to all!

And now all thoughts are onto the next 'event' - Nik and Julie's fundraiser next Saturday night! In true Nik style - this is going to be bigger and better than any of our Coffee Mornings! Nik and Julie have organised a dinner at the Ramada Hotel, proceeds being split between Friends of the Cancer Centre and the Moonwalk. Not surprising that Nik wanted to do something for the Friends of the Cancer Centre charity after they'd helped her and Big Gav so much after Gavin was diagnosed in September 2007. We're all looking forward to this party next week but know it's going to be emotional too! Gav - can't wait to see you strutting your stuff on the dance floor with your new dancin' shoes! Gav (only seen wearing trainers and boots) has been shopping for the last month for his first pair of 'dressy' shoes since he bought his wedding shoes almost 10 years ago!!

Nik and Julie - Good Luck!

Had enough coffee for one day so I'm off now to have a huge glass of wine!

Cheers......Lx

Pancake Tuesday

Hey there

Just back in from a quick 5 miles - had to get out to walk off all the pancakes eaten at Mum and Dad's this evening! Thanks to Mags for the gorgeous pancakes!

It's now less than 12 weeks to go! I was out walking on Sunday morning and I realised that it was exactly 12 weeks until the big day! It was about 10am and I was just hoping that by that time on 16 May we'll be finished and relaxing over a huge breakfast - think we'll deserve it! It means now that we really need to be following our programme if we want to ensure that we cover all the necessary miles.

Now that the evenings are getting lighter, it'll be great to walk a few different routes to prevent boredom setting in. We're also planning to meet up with some others doing the Moonwalk so it'll also be nice to have other people to chat to - no offence, Mags!

Next week, I'm planning to send out the begging email asking for donations. Hopefully through friends, family, work colleagues etc we can raise a tidy sum for this fantastic cause!

OK, I'm off now to make a walking programme for the next few weeks. Again, if anyone fancies joining us, please get in touch.

Bye...Lx

First Dip!

As the title suggests, I've had my first dip in my enthusiasm but you'll (as I am) be glad to hear that it's all on track again and that I'm rearing to go!

It's been difficult over the last couple of weeks due to the weather and then at the weekend, I was ill and spent most of it in bed! Very sore throat which has cleared up though Andy hasn't been so lucky and is still off school! Very upset as it also meant missing out on my birthday celebrations....sorry to nik, gav, debs, innes, dazza and mazza for letting you down - I'll make it up to you, I promise!

Anyway, our training and sponsorship pack arrived last week so heading home tonight to inwardly digest and work out what we should be doing. It's becoming serious now as the weeks will quickly go by and we need to make sure that the miles have been covered!

Mags and I are also planning the next fundraiser which is going to be another coffee morning on 07 March due to the success of the previous one. This time it's going to be for friends, family etc and anyone else who fancies coming along. Please don't wait for an invite....just send me a comment if you fancy it. More details later.

This is just a short one as I need to rush home to my sick husband and dish out the necessary TLC as well as the dinner probably! Only joking....I know that he's genuinely sick this time (not that he ever fakes it!) as, not only did he not go near a hockey pitch on Saturday, but he also didn't say much when the usually mighty Dale went down to their old rivals, Garvey!

Promise to blog again soon!

Lx

HUGE THANK YOU!

Just a quick update on the Yummy P1 Mummies Coffee Morning! We managed to raise £252 which is absolutely fantastic - everyone was so generous and it made all those hours tidying the house well worth it! Feedback has been good - everyone seemed to have a lovely morning and we all promised to do it again sometime but with wine involved instead of coffee and buns! A huge thank you to all you came and/or donated - I really appreciate it! I also got a few donations from people who couldn't make it which was great.

When I woke this morning to yesterday's snow still there and made worse by a heavy frost over it, I worried that no-one would be able to make it so I was extra glad that so many people made the effort to get here!

I also got a few ideas for more fundraisers so watch this space for announcements!

Definitely need to get out walking again to work off the pounds gained this morning eating buns!

Thanks again!

Busy busy....

Well, it's only 3 days until the first fundraiser and things are a bit hectic! Trying to get organised for the coffee morning and keeping all the other balls in the air at the same time! Hopefully all the hard work will be worth it and we'll raise our first funds for this fantastic cause! The first £4 are in the pot......found down the back of a sofa whilst tidying the other night......and no, Andy, you're not getting it back! But the main thing is getting together and having a chat with the other mums in warmer surroundings than the school gates! Hopefully the bravest yummy mummy of all, Hazel, will make it who's well on her way to recovery after her op last week - Hazel, you're a star and an inspiration to us all!

Walking this week has been hampered by a couple of things! Firstly, Andy was in Cork at the weekend for Annadale's match against Cork Harlequins - well done boys! Then, tonight it was just too horrible to go out - no point catching pneumonia! Planning to get out on Thursday night and then over the weekend. Our packs are supposed to be on the way this week from Walk the Walk which contain training schedules etc - it'll be interesting to see if they differ from Andy's and Nik's! I guess the main thing is that we need to start upping the miles! Mags did a sneaky 8 miles on Sunday with Dad...cheers!

Anyway, look out for the next update soon which will probably be to let you know how Friday goes...fingers crossed. Praying that the snow doesn't prevent the mums getting here otherwise we'll be eating tray bakes for the next six months!

Finally, a big thank you to Sandra for offering to make some goodies for Friday. As a professional, I'm sure hers will go the quickest as they'll be the best looking! Big thanks!

Lx

Sorry!

Sorry it's been so long since I updated this blog.  I guess I'm starting to realise how much of my time this Moonwalk is going to take!  Last week was difficult as I walked a few times and then I also had a Committee Meeting at Kids Kabin (the pre-school that Ellie went to and that hopefully Charlie will attend) on Wednesday so I felt that I didn't see much of the kids.  Made to feel even more guilty when, as I was packing my walking gear last Thursday morning, Ellie remarked "Mummy, are you going out walking again!"  How bad did I feel especially as Andy told her it'll get worse before it gets better!  Can't complain though as everyone is being so supportive!

Back to the walking details.  We've been out 3 times every week walking up to 5.5 miles each time and yes, Mags, I know that you've done one more walk than me - not that she likes to rub it in!  First calamity of the training regime, Mags fell while out walking on Saturday morning, was sucked in by the sunshine and forgot about the frost! Fortunately she was in the country so no-one witnessed the event!  We're looking forward to the clearer evenings as it means that we will be able to vary the routes - so far it's been mainly laps of Ballynahinch.  We had a lovely walk on Friday morning as we parked one car at Lock-keeper's Cottage and one at the car-park bedside Bob Stewart's pub.  We then walked along the towpath and had lunch at the end!  We had some company with Charlie in the buggy so some extra training having to push him and hoping that there would be some ducks to look at round each corner!

We have had other walkers with us.  Mandy May has been out a few times and then surprise, surprise, my sis-in-law Kerrie-Anne joined us last Tuesday.  She's promising that this will be a weekly occurence - good on 'er!  For those of you who don't know her, KA isn't known for her sporting prowess except for skiing - she's the Snow Queen!  It's good to have the extra company.  One of the P1 mummies, Joanne, also said she'd like to join us so come on Joanne, dust off those trainers!  If anyone out there wants to come along, leave a comment here and I'll get in touch!

Need to really start planning the Coffee Morning!  Have to think about what buns to make and also to organise scones etc - hoping to get a good deal at The Cake Shop, Dromore Street, need to get used to this begging malarkey!  So if anyone has any good (EASY) recipes, please pass on, otherwise it could be Ellie's rice krispie buns the whole way!

So, here's to the start of Week 4!

Lx

Launch of First Fundraiser!

It's a day of firsts......firstly my first public thanks and then the launch of my first fundraiser - the Yummy P1 Mummies' Coffee Morning!

Had to get Ellie to school early this morning to speak to the School Principal to ask permission to distribute the flyer detailing this fundraiser. She kindly agreed and then Ellie's teacher and classroom assistant agreed to put them into the schoolbags of every child in Ellie's class! I feel another thank you coming.....Thank you all very much ( you know who you are)! Spoke to a few mums about the event and they were all very supportive.....a couple even agreed to do a bit of fundraising for me!

I'm hoping the event will tick a few boxes, firstly raise some money but secondly, a chance for these new school mums to get together in warmer surroundings than the school gate and have a bit of craic, a few buns (the post-Christmas diets should be finished by then so I'm hoping that everyone will tuck in!) whilst getting to know a few more faces.

So please all come along on 06 February between 10 and 12 noon - everyone welcome!

Anyway, enough blogging for one day, I'm off now to have well earned glass of wine or two but must be careful cos I've my next training session in the morning! Mandy May - are you coming??!!

Lx

First of many thanks!

This will, I hope, be the first of many thank you blogs I have to do!

For the last couple of weeks, Andy has been working secretly on designing and organising some MoonWalk PR material and has roped in the help of two friends, Paddy Grimes and Andy McGimpsey (Gyppie to most people!). Gyppie has designed a page/poster layout for me to use on fundraising flyers and also business cards to hand to all and sundry to try and raise as much as possible for this fantastic cause. Paddy's printing business, 300dpi , then produced the business cards which he delivered to me yesterday....what a surprise! They look fantastic! I'm sure within time I'll feel comfortable handing them out, I need to get over my fear of begging!

Guys - thank you so much for all your hard work and generously giving me your time and resources - you're stars. Feel proud that you're the first to get public recognition for helping me ( Hubby doesn't count - they must do these things for world peace and harmony!). Pints on me the next time I see you!

THANKS!

Lx

Interesting Fact!

Just had to share this interesting fact! Was chatting to Nik tonight and we were discussing how far 26 miles is! Yes I know it's 26 miles but we were trying to put it into context. Nik was able to inform me that Big Gav (her hubby) had informed her that it's from her house, on the King's Road, Belfast to The Outlet in Banbridge.......OMG.....that just seems such a long way! The way I'm looking at it is that we'll probably be walking for 8 hours which as anyone who knows me knows, I can easily manage on a shopping trip! But yes I know, shopping entails browsing walking not power walking but us girls can soon take off at an increased pace if there are some good offers on the go! And Mags is definitely the star of this game.....must let her know that walking round M&S at Sprucefield for hours doesn't count as training!

Night night Lx

Week 2!

It's week 2 with our 3 planned walks completed last week.  Mags ditched me on Thursday evening as she'd had a better offer ....dinner with friends....who can blame her!  Anyway, at least she completed her 3 miles before she went!  So roped my pal, Mandy May in, and we did our walk with lots of chatting on the way catching up with all the biz.  Another outing on Saturday morning completed Week 1.

Starting now to think of a few fundraising ideas and have set a target of raising £1,000, a lot of money I know but guess it's better to aim high.  I realise that it may be more difficult in the current economic climate but if everyone that I know gives a small donation then it'd be a good start.  I'd like to have an event every month from now until the big day and am considering a Yummy P1 Mummies coffee morning for the mums in Ellie's (my daughter) class in February, a Night at the Races in The Primrose (some free advertising for my Dad for the best bar and restaurant in Ballynahinch!) in March, a Wine and Cheese Night for neighbours in April and a BBQ for friends and family in May.  Can't let the guys in work off the hook so I'll be organising a few things for them to contribute - don't want them to feel left out!  If anyone out there has any other bright ideas, PLEASE PLEASE pass them on!

Anyway, tomorrow night it's back to the training programme - need to do 4 miles in 70 mins 3 times this week.  If anyone fancies joining us for the training, craic or just to get some fresh air, just get in touch - we'll be happy to see new faces!  Training times will be Tuesday and Thursday evenings and Saturday mornings!

So far, so good but I know it's a long way to go!  Mags and I are both enjoying it so far and can't wait to up the miles.

Lx

Our first walk!!

http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=2474169

Check out the link above (and yes, andy set this hyperlink up!) to see our first route.  First training mistake, work out the route before walking!  Our aim for today was 3 miles in 50 minutes but we ended up doing 4.6 miles in 1 hour 8 minutes!  Underestimated the length of a lap 'round the town' (Ballynahinch for those of you not familiar with this term!).  Our 3 mile challenge was completed in 44 minutes.  All statistics thanks to Nike+!  

Typical, it was also the coldest night of the winter so far.... -1.5 degrees when we set out at 7pm!  Need to research some decent gloves as hands were freezing!  Not sure my skiing gloves will look well with a pink bra in May! 

Anyway, good to get the first training session out of the way, only probably about another 60 to go!

Found out this afternoon that one of my best friends Nik has also got her place for the Moonwalk along with her friends, Julie and Ruth.  This is fantastic news and I'm so pleased for her.  Nik's doing this for very personal reasons and it is brilliant (whilst typical of her!) that she's putting herself through this to help others when it's her that deserves some star treatment!  Want to check with Nik before I say anything more about why she's doing this.

So roll on Thursday to our next session - same target and time!

Lx

In the beginning.......

Well, today is 06 January 2009 and the day I start my training for the London Moonwalk May 2009!

Over a coffee in October, my work colleague Eileen suggested casually that we enter the London Moonwalk, little did I know that this consisted of a walking a marathon at night in a bra - all for a great cause - breast cancer. In a split second, I agreed and called my mum, Mags, to see if she fancied it - which she did - very brave as she celebrates her 60th birthday in May.....sorry Mags if you didn't want the world to know this! At the same time Eileen's daughter, Alison also decided to sign up. Eileen and I were able to register online however entries were filled up before we could get Mags and Alison registered! After much stressing (over delivery options, downloading forms, etc) Mags and Alison also got their places confirmed!

By this time, our team has grown to Mags, Alison, Pam (Eileen's future sis-in-law), Anne (Eileen's friend in England and the person responsible for this madness as she did it last year and made the initial suggestion to Eileen!), Anne's friend, Eileen and myself. First competition: what should we call our team (clean suggestions only, please!).

Over the next few months, I will be attempting to fundraise as much as I can - there must be some reward for putting myself through this - so I will be tapping all my friends, family, work colleagues, acquaintances, strangers for some cash - please give generously to this great cause! More details to follow. If you want more details on the walk, charity etc, please go to http://www.walkthewalk.org/ (I know you can put a link in here but my IT knowledge doesn't stretch this far (need to ask Andy!!!).....DONE ( Andy xoxo)

By the way, on this note, a big thank you to Andy for setting up this blog! and for all the future advice on how do I link this, how do I put this photo on etc etc.......blonde, I know! also for all the fitness, injury advice etc I'm going to need as apparenty he knows something about that stuff!

Not sure, why I decided to do this but it seemed like a good idea at the time! After the initial excitement, reality has set in and I'm beginning to realise the size of the task ahead...especially after reading blogs of people who have done it before and seen the photos of their blisters!

But one thing stood out - everyone was so proud of their achievement (as they should be) and most said they would do it again!

Tonight Mum and I go out for our first walk - 3 miles in 50 minutes - should be ok but I'll keep you posted!

Lx

This is what it is all about.