Reasons to be cheerful. 1, 2, 3.


“And so of cheerfulness, or a good temper – the more it is spent, the more of it remains.” Ralph Waldo Emerson

31 Jan – Days to go on 100 days dry: 71. Days until the Dartmoor Way: 104

For whatever reason, I have slept more consistently over the last few nights. Maybe the patterns are beginning to take shape. Waking up at 6 and cracking on with the day is now a joy. Lethargy at an all time low. More energy to focus on everything, work, planning for the walk, reading, engaging with life in general is increasing.

Running is becoming a joy. I really look forward to getting out and progressing through the #couchto5k program from the NHS. Now half way through week 3 of the plan. (Although, I have been running for four!) I ran on Sunday morning, after the 4 hour walk on Saturday. Legs were in better shape than I expected and managed the extended intervals, with more in the tank at the end of each one. Yes, I paced myself better than I have previously, but I think that is part of the program as much as the objective of running for 30 minutes without a rest. (Some way to go on that still.)

The group that is walking the Dartmoor Way met up at the pub on Sunday to discuss logistics. So, after my run, I headed to the Old Spot for Sunday lunch. Roast Pork, a ton of vegetables and two pints of lime and soda. I am not turning into a health nut I promise, but I didn’t have the crispy, golden roast potatoes or fluffy towering Yorkshire pudding. Not even tempted. I did however succumb to the chocolate brownie. Bah! As Gandhi once said, ‘Learn like you are going to live forever, live like you will die tomorrow.’ It was one chocolate brownie, and it was delicious. I apologise for nothing.

My vitals are showing signs of improving. The ‘heart fitness’ measure is still too low for comfort, but as the app says, progress not perfection. Visceral fat is improving, weight is improving along with BMI, protein and water. Again, some ways to go, but heading in the right direction.

Good start to the week.

“Acknowledge all of your small victories, they will eventually add up to something great.” Kara Goucher

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