Reasons to be grateful

The final pieces of my Mum's estate were finally sorted out today. I had to pick up some documents from the solicitor and drop one final thing in to them which they will deal with for me.

It was a sunny and cool day.

Mid Wales looked magnificent. Mum would have loved it!

It felt a little strange ringing the doorbell of the house that had represented 'home' for half my life. I had a key - that was why I was there.
The new owners weren't in, but evidence of their presence, was.
I felt a bit like I was intruding!

So I posted the keys through the letter-box. I hope they don't think that was rude.

And I popped over to see my Dad.

Dad was engrossed (as is his way) in watching the tennis on the TV, and it gave me a chance to just have a quiet few minutes while I drank a cup of his tea.

My parents had enthused me about all things Outdoor from a young age.
Walking and camping trips were a large part of my early childhood. Mum insisted that I join the sailing club at school, something for which I will always be thankful.
I have never been happier than when I'm doing something in the outdoors.

It is the most natural thing in the world to me to made the most of opportunities that are offered - and get out and enjoy being able to enjoy our planet .
Well.... tiny bits of it, at least.

Running is an extension of that really.
That I can even contemplated running 10 marathons in 10 days is something that is rooted deep in the past.

"I can, and I will!" was something of a battle-cry that Mum instilled in Julia (my sister) and I for any challenges that we faced, be they a spelling test, or a music exam, or being able to walk to the top of The Great Rhos (a veritable MOUNTAIN when we were small!!).

Mum was a little person - tiny in fact - with the heart and persona of a Giant.
She also had absolute confidence and belief in her kids.

10 in 10....????

I can!

And I will.

Thanks Mum