Kilimanjaro waits...

Thank you.....

2011-02-15T22:27:00.000Z

August was a long time ago. What a journey was started by that little pop up advert in my inbox. "Climb Kilimanjaro"...go on..you know you want to!! Well I do want to, and in less than 48hours from now I will begin the final journey towards that goal.

On the way, I have been helped in so many ways by first family, and friends...by colleagues, and ex colleagues and by the generous spirit that is alive all around us, waiting to be tapped into. Fundraising of any sort is a balance...how often can I ask?

How much should I ask for? Well, I needn't have worried!!

I was determined that the full cost of this adventure would be paid, without penalty or cost to my charity, or to the many people who have so kindly dipped into their pockets and who have made that decision to hand over their gift....and it is a gift. I am delighted to confirm that 100% of the costs to take part in this adventure have been paid, not in personal donations, but by myself, or with the help of some corporate donations from friends at the Royal Mail, who through a matched funding scheme donated £200, and from local businesses Heavyweight Air Express, and Logistics solution provider Catalyst Logistics.

For the children, and young adults in Northamptonshire who are helped by the work of my chosen charity, Autism Concern...each £ that you have donated represents a chance. A chance to be themselves, to enjoy security, support, and understanding in a world where chaos and conflict, confusion, and misunderstanding are common. Together, you have helped to raise over £4000 in personal donations, or gifts. Thank you!!

Children with autism require patience...patience, and understanding, a bit like Kilimanjaro... to borrow a quote from William Shakespeare "to climb steep hills, requires a slow pace at first"

Six months preparation, and training ends tomorrow... a final rush round, maybe the odd moment of panic, but the bag is now packed, and I'm ready.

For Kilimanjaro, and for me, the wait is over! On Friday, after a long flight we will greet each other, and in the early hours of February 25th I hope she will allow me to stand on Africa's highest point, and to say a small thank you for her kindness, and a huge thank you for yours!!

This blog is over....I hope that you have enjoyed sharing the first part of my journey. A journey which has allowed me to enjoy some of the UK's most wonderful countryside, where I have stood atop of Wales' highest mountain, in all weathers, 3 times. I have enjoyed the Malverns, more local to me, but nonetheless just as beautiful, and a journey where I was smiled upon at Ben Nevis, the UK's highest point, on an October afternoon, which thought it was July, and high summer.

A journey that has introduced me to some inspirational new friends, and where our community has come together to enjoy great evenings of fun, and entertainment to help with my fundraising. Where fate has allowed me to take on this trip with one of those new friends.

Coincedence has thrown a curve ball, and we have caught it. In a village of our size, who would have thought that two hithertoo strangers would be choosing the same goal....and how wonderful fate is that should allow us to enjoy it together?

When I return, I will no doubt have tales to tell....but Kilimanjaro will no longer be waiting....

Thank you. Thank you for your kind thoughts...for the encouragement, and compliments you have paid. Thank you for the support you have offered, and for the donations you have made.

Graham :-) x

Kickstart to Kilimanjaro....

2011-02-08T06:42:00.000Z

And so on Saturday 5th February, we had the most fantastic evening, with friends and family at our local Social Club.

Sam has made a huge impression on many people in our village, but none more so that Iain Osborne who helped us by arranging a charity event like no other. Local Northamptonshire band, Kickstart gave up an evening to come along and entertain us with many old favourites from my teens.

Kids moved between sliding on the dance floor, to sliding a ball up the virtual ten-pin alley on an array of Wii games that Iain had set up to keep them entertained. Every attempt to help out, was answered with a cheery, "nope, don't worry, I have everything under control" and he certainly did.

The last big fundraiser before I go on my journey up Kilimanjaro was a huge success, with £561 raised for Autism Concern. The club gave us the hall for free, the band, who were fabulous, not only kept us well entertained for free, but also donated £100 towards my fundraising.

Every now and then the need for clever comment, humour, and witty innuendo is not required in a blog. This time, all I have to say is a huge thank you to everyone who came and enjoyed the evening, to the kids who helped with the raffle draw, and to the many volunteers who jumped in to sell raffle tickets, work the door, or just got on the dance floor and made the evening so memorable.

Most of all... with just 10 more sleeps until I leave for Kilimanjaro, I want to thank Iain.... with friends like these, you can climb mountains they say? We'll see.... Kilimanjaro Waits......

www.justgiving.com/graham-kennedy1

Boys Toys....it's just 14 more days!!

2011-02-02T20:54:00.000Z

There are those suspicious folk out there who would have you believe that this whole Kilimanjaro expedition is an extravegent excuse to treat myself to a few gadgets...well...they're wrong, of course...but I have enjoyed hunting down a few small treats for myself.

And there are so many to choose from, wow if Mr Lottery was kinder to me there is a host of little helpers out there...little being the most important thing to consider here...we have a maximum allowance of just 15kgs on the mountain so travelling light is most definitely the order of the day!! (Of course, I can't imagine anyone wanting to carry anything more than that up 19,340 ft in minus 20 degrees).

So, let me introduce you to my entertainment, some old, some new that I will have with me on this trip....

First up, we have my new watch...the Timex Expedition...it actually tells the time too..and unlike my other gadgets this little fella is actually, not very little...but hey, it will be on my wrist, and I figure that doesn't count as luggage. I'm now perfectly able to tell the time at heights up to 27,000ft...or of course if the worst happens and I tumble into the volcano, then I'm still good at -330ft in a pool of water, in the DARK!! I've always been a bit of a watch freak, and I'm really pleased with this housebrick of a watch, and it's been a while since I had a good one on my wrist.

Next up I have this little beauty.

Mr Multi-functionality....so I will know exactly where we are in our journey towards the Uhuru peak. Want to know how high up you are, in feet, or meters....your direction of travel, and the temperature your doing it in? This is your baby....and all for just a few pennies.

Actually, I guess there is an argument that says if you look at the machine and discover that you're heading South, when you should be heading North, and you have still got 4,800 feet to go...oh, and by the way, it's minus 20 outside?? It may not be good news...but....I like to be informed, so I'm delighted with this little gadget.

Of course, I will be taking my phone....there may be a signal that will allow the odd update on the way? I'll have my iPod to keep me entertained when talking is impossible without collapsing from exhaustion. Flip it onto shuffle, and enjoy almost 12 days of continuous music, with just the occasional interlude when I can teach myself Italian.....always handy in a foreign country to know a foreign language.....didn't the Italians occupy Kenya once upon a time?

and finally, I have my most treasured gadget of them all...a lifesaver of enormous proportions, this little baby is the key to my sanity I feel....and it's good for the environment. I can't afford them on the house roof, but whilst we're living in tents, I have the power to maintain the link to my music. Who would have thought, so much power out of just 6 inches?? (Thought I would put a line in for all you fans of a good double entendre)

All I need now is a few moments in the sun each day....but hey, it is Africa. They have loads of it don't they??

It's just 14 days til the off...excited? Just a little!!

I hope that you have enjoyed my preparation over the last few months, and if you've enjoyed my blog, then a little comment of encouragement would be fantastic....if you've LOVED my blog, then of course you can also leave a small donation in my fund raising pot. www.justgiving.com/graham-kennedy1

And, if you've been checking every day to see if I've put another update on, and you simply look forward to reading this stuff more than breakfast, dinner & tea...then please leave an enormous donation!!

checking out for tonight now.... thanks everyone.... Kilimanjaro waits....

New Ground, New Friends...

2011-01-29T22:28:00.002Z

Had a great day today, in a part of the country which I have surely missed out on too long. Towcester Tea and Kilimanjaro veteran Tony invited me to join him and his friends on their regular ramble for just over 10 miles around the Derbyshire Peak District.

So an early start to make some soup for my journey, before at 07:30 we set off up the motorway to Youlgreave, a small but ancient village in Derbyshire that sits upon a Limestone shelf, between two valleys, Bradford Dale, and Lathkill Dale.

Robin Hood's Stride

It was towards the Bradford Dale that we headed, 12 regular friends, and me making up a baker's dozen. Leading the group, Tony's friend Jeremy who regularly gathers this group of friends together for a monthly hike around a variety of the UK's finest walking areas. And so it was today...we headed off down the line of the River Bradford, over Grafton Moor, and along the Limestone Way to Robin Hood's stride, (an ancient pile of rocks,with two "turrets" that Robin is reported to have leaped between...doubtful, I would say), before heading back up to Youlgreave, for a well earned rest, a coffee, and some bakewell tart (in my case) or carrot cake at the Farmyard Inn.

Ideal preparation for Kilimanjaro, (I hope) we hiked for about 5 hours, over many hills, and through some fabulous valleys, and if there was ever an argument for walking to keep fit, then a chat along the way with long striding Rob (81 & 4th from the right, above) surely confirmed it. I've not walked like this for over 20 years he said...but striding on up hills like a youngster he was great company, and an incredibly fit chap.... (I wonder, actually if he hasn't discovered a cocoon in his garden)

Just a few small hills to get you in the mood, and blow away a few cobwebs, but this wasn't a stroll in park, and now typing this I'm quite happy to rest my feet. Regrettably the bus was ages away, so with about 3 miles left on our journey, there was no choice but to walk.... I wonder if they have a stop at the Stella Point?

It was a great day out, with a great new group of friends. With just 19 days to go before I head off for Tanzania, this was probably the last chance I will have to don the boots, and stretch my legs, so it was wonderful to have shared it with such great company.

19 Days... wow!! It feels almost like yesterday I started my blog in August.

In that time, I have been fortunate enough to have enjoyed some amazing walks, around Snowdonia, Ben Nevis, the Malverns, and around Northamptonshire, local to me. Today I extended that list to include the Derbyshire Peaks. For sure, when I return, there are many more hills to climb, just maybe not any as high.... Kilimanjaro waits... impatiently!!

Please sponsor me for this fabulous charity that does so much for children and young adults with autism in our community. www.justgiving.com/graham-kennedy1

Every Cloud Has a Silver Lining.....

2011-01-25T18:03:00.000Z

Been a strange, but amazingly rewarding 24 hours.

Yesterday, at about this time I was on the end of the phone to Action Challenge, who advised that unfortunately due to a group of seven participants dropping out that my adventure on the 17th March had had to be cancelled....... (I'm allowing this bombshell to drop...)

Of course, this news was just about the last thing I wanted to hear. There are so many reasons why this trip has taken over my life, for everyone who has donated, everyone who has been good enough to offer encouragement, and practical support it would be completely devastating not to go...never mind the hours in the gym, the 22lbs in weight that I'll never get back, the climbs up Snowdon, and Ben Nevis in preparation, the chocolate that I could have eaten, and the Guinness I could have enjoyed without moderation... the £1200 I've spent on equipment, ruck sacks, boots, thermals, coat, sleeping bag...you name it, I've been and got it....ready for this...wasted??

So last night was very flat....and then my silver lining to decorate my cloud appeared....

At 10:00 this morning, I received a phone call confirming that I could get onto the trip departing for the same route, a month earlier, on 17th February!!! OMG?? Just 23 days....not even time to get nervous left!!

Fantastic, for many reasons....firstly, I wrote in an earlier Blog of the coincedence that another person from the same village was doing Kilimanjaro.....well...maybe these coincedences happen for a reason, for now we will be enjoying the slopes together. What a fantastic bonus....we will not, (shame) be enjoying the same flight home together, however....regretably Action Challenge cannot get me back on a flight from Tanzania until March 1st, meaning that I will "forced" to spend an extra 2 days on the beach, gazing a zebras, or avoiding lions and market traders....it's tough, but I guess thats a price and a hardship I will have to bear for the team!!

What a 24 hours.... 23 days now and counting down quick... I guess as I am in France just now, there is only one way to celebrate.... Fantastique, Magnifique, encore!! encore!....

Kilimanjaro waits...but was clearly impatient that we should become acquainted. I'm now about as exciting as a dog in a butchers shop. bring it on!!

www.justgiving.com/graham-kennedy1

Do You Want Inspiration With That...?

2011-01-22T18:17:00.000Z

I'd been looking forward to today for about 10 days now, for two reasons...I have a couple of my kids down from their Mum's, so a good chance to go walk the legs off them somewhere new, but also I was looking forward to meeting up with a Kilimanjaro veteran for some advice....

And there was plenty of advice on the menu at the Towcester Tearooms, and plenty of inspiration all over the walls!! Owners Tony and Sharon have made a habit of taking on a number of amazing challenges. On every wall there is another story, another memory. Cycle rides the length of Britain, Marathons in Paris & London, Canoeing up the Thames, and of course Tony's climb up Kilimanjaro.

First off, in the morning we headed off to the small village of Gayton, in Northamptonshire for a circular walk through, what turned out to be the muckiest trails around Tiffield and Eastcote. Poor Samuel could hardly lift his feet through one field as he gathered up some additional ballast. It was like walking in diving boots!! Still, it was a refreshing jolly round about 5 miles of Northamptonshire that we'd not visited before, and we did find a little "entertainment" on the way!!

After an essential trip home to tidy ourselves up, we whizzed off to Towcester for our lunch. It seems Tony and I have more than a few things in common....apart from the trip up Kilimanjaro, we both share the same taste in glasses!! Someone suggested we were brothers??

So we had an afternoon, enjoying a great lunch, while Tony regaled us with tips, and advice for taking on Kilimanjaro, as well as some of his memories of that and other challenges.

"Food Bags for your clothes" excellent for keeping them dry in your pack, but also, easy to locate a change each day if you've pre-packed.

"Try keeping some batteries for you camera under your coat as you get near the top...you don't want to go all that way, and find they are too cold, and your camera doesn't work"

"Pole Pole"...slow slow...is clearly the way to climb Kilimanjaro, a scree top, and altitude makes the last day completely exhausting, but the sunrise at Gilman's Point is the most magnificent anywhere.

Apparently, from the top of Kilimanjaro, you can see more of the earth's surface than from any other point on earth!!

Now, that's inspirational.

It doesn't stop there for Tony and Sharon though...this year Sharon is donating a kidney to a friend in need, and Tony is setting off for a different mountain. He's raising money this time for the Northamptonshire Alzheimer's Society, one very close to his heart by climbing Mont Blanc.

I'm sure he could do with your support too. www.justgiving.com/Mont-Blanc-2011

I'm looking forward to a few more coffees in Towcester, and perhaps the odd hike with a very inspirational new friend.

Graham Kennedy is fundraising for Autism Concern

2011-01-18T00:28:00.012Z

Graham Kennedy is fundraising for Autism Concern

It's true, I am fundraising for Autism Concern. It's not easy fundraising, there's a balance to be struck between bullying people into donating, when actually they don't wish to, or cannot afford to, and asking for nothing, and most often getting it!!

But it's fun too. Life is so much richer, the more you give, and giving does not need to be money. Your time, care, a smile, a well done, or just a good luck all add value. Each gift you offer is received with grateful appreciation. A smile, and a word of encouragement is often the most valuable commodity you can offer. Ask your children??

And so it is with for people with Autism. Often misunderstood...naughty, out of control, poorly parented kids, making a nuisance of themselves? It's easy to miss the point. Compassion, care and patience are the gifts they need. Autism Concern helps children with autism reach their potential...helps to recognise that the rarest stones are the most valuable.

Kilimanjaro will be an amazing adventure for me, one which I've dreamed of for many years. To be able to realise my dream, whilst helping others reach theirs is my gift. If you can donate, please do....it's infectious...a gift freely given can help the lives of thousands of children, and families.

Thank you

www.justgiving.com/graham-kennedy1

Charity mountain trek helps to raise over £3k - Local - Northampton Chronicle & Echo

2011-01-14T21:44:00.000Z

Charity mountain trek helps to raise over £3k - Local - Northampton Chronicle & Echo

The Brain behind the mission..."Liz"

2011-01-13T18:55:00.004Z

Well I have had 3 tasks this particular week to organise all with virtually no notice at all - and this is no.3 - I got a call yesterday night whilst I was at work 'inviting' me to do a 'guest blog' for Graham! So I thought what on earth will I talk about - and this is what I have come up with.

Firstly: - I thought I would share with all Graham's readers that I am more the ideas person behind the fund raising, we had a great fundraising weekend which made a huge difference to the 'pot' with a total of £501.00 with our bottle stall and quiz evening combined - Well actually this total was in fact £301.00 and Parcelforce matched the 1st £200.00 raised - but thought I would still claim that within my total because it sounds more!!

Secondly: - our cook-a-thon raised another £43.00, we were all busy cooking away when I tried to discreetly glance over at all my donations raised and there was a grand total of £6.00!! I thought 'oh heck' how will I tell Graham I never did too well with this one!!!

Fortunately, I was rescued by a good friend who asked me to make a speech - and being quite unprepared for such a thing - I invited everybody to put there coins in if they would like to, I am more than happy to leave this kind of thing to Graham, but unfortunately he was still busy being innoculated at the surgery - so my good friend Catriona gave me a look of disgust for my complete lack of public speaking skills and took the job on herself - and very quickly the 'pot' got bigger!

Next I recieve a phone call in the middle of the afternoon informing me the newspaper are coming to take pictures in the evening; yep! no problem, and this was duly completed without mishap, Only on buying the paper the next day Sams' facial expression makes him look like the most hyper-active kid in Britian!

Whilst this used to be close to the truth at times he has certainly calmed down with age (he's all of 8!) and he has landed me in loads of trouble in the past, like the time he we'ed from a great height into someones dinner (god knows how she knew he was my son!) but we had to leave this particular ball park in a great hurry!

Or the time he sneeked the water squirter out in the middle of winter instead of the middle of summer and started aiming with great precision at the new neighbours even before they had unloaded their car! Those episodes are in the past and I have to say make fantastic memories - though i'm not sure I would have thought so at the time!!

Finally; - I would love it if you very kind readers of this 'blog' could just nip over to the just giving page and give a few of your coins to make our fund raising for this fabulous charity just that bit bigger - and you don't need to show just how much you have donated by using the hide button if you don't wish too. In the process help me show Graham and everyone involved that I am getting good at this fundraising! All children with this condition really do deserve choice and there parents do a fabulous job. In Northamptonshire we;re lucky to have a charity like Autism Concern to really help families achieve all these things!

Liz x

Guest Blogger Liz...good at writing, but not great at uploading pictures, so that pleasure was mine...I thought I would share a few that show off just how much fun she is to be around!! No wonder Sam is doing so well :-)

The Lion, The Witch & The Wardrobe

2011-01-12T20:58:00.000Z

Ok...catchy wasn't it?

I thought it sounded better than the Pincushion, the Thermometer and the Cook-a-Thon.....blimey today has had some variety in it.

One of the many tasks towards preparing for my little jaunt up Kilimanjaro has been to get myself inocculated against every disease known to mankind...and probably some more besides. So today, I trooped off down to my local surgery for a selection on needles, as for a few moments I became a human pincushion.

Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Diptheria, Tetanus, and Yellow Fever jabbed in one after the other...Phil Taylor (15xWorld Darts Champion) would have been proud of this nurse, I nearly shouted "One Hundred and Eightyyyyy!!! Anyway, I've never been really bothered by needles, but I was upset by two things...

The Bill - Oh my goodness.....4 x injections, and a course of Malaria Tablets...that'll be £93 please
David Cassidy !! Yes...would you believe while I was lying there allowing the nurse to jab me to oblivion, I was forced to stare at a poster sized picture of David Cassidy on the ceiling. Put there apparently to take the mind elsewhere for the ladies who normally occupy the nurses room??

And so to the Thermometer....Look,it's over there on the left :-) When I first considered taking on this challenge, I hoped to raise £3000 for Autism Concern. Now I thought that was quite ambitious, but wow!! I have 9 weeks left before I go, and I'm there already....YOU'RE there already.

Just amazing, and I would like to thank you all so much for your support, in many ways.

So it's been a rethink...I need to raise the bar...but what to?? £5895 thats £1 for each meter up Kilimanjaro. Your donations really do help, not only Autism Concern, but they also provide a huge lift for me in my preparation, and motivation. So far this challenge has consumed me for the last 4 months. 9 weeks to go....Please?? Don't stop!! Help me to reach the top of this mountain...every £1 you donate will help me make one more step, one more meter til I reach the £5895 summit. Thank you.

And finally tonight, I have enjoyed the most fantastic dinner, cooked with great enthusiasm by Sam, and Jessica at the cook-a-thon. It's gone so well, I have decided to let Liz put together a guest blog, which you can see tomorrow.

This challenge simply would not be possible without support in many forms, and Liz has been quietly going about thinking up some fantastic fundraising ideas, which can engage people in a fun activity, and at the same time earn us a few donations. Tonight, she succeeded in persuading 30 enthusiastic children to come along and take part in a cook-a-thon. Imagine...almost every mother from the school now tucking into a Chicken Biryani for dinner, prepared by their 5 & 6yr old children....I love it. Thank you everyone....and thank you Liz xx

Sam has a day in the Malverns

2011-01-09T18:30:00.000Z

Great day today, Sam and I headed off to the Malverns with Charlie & Murphy for a hike.

Graham? "Why are we going out in the middle of the night?" hmm...Sam, normally a morning person, struggled for a while to understand that it could be both dark....and morning?? Well, with the sun not rising until about 7:30 this morning, it was dark for quite a while after we got up.

Sandwiches packed for Sam, and a flask of Leek & Potato soup for me, we were on our way. The weather today was fabulous, but it was an interesting drive down...very cold overnight, and the roads were like sheet glass with black ice everywhere.

Anyway, we got there...and pretty soon Sam was off chasing after the dogs up over the hills. We found our first waypoint, and headed off to find the Giant's cave....not sure that this was the right one, unless this was a very small giant, but Sam enjoyed himself imagining that he was a caveman..

We found a big handprint on the wall of the cave, although Charlie & Murphy seemed less impressed!

Sam said to me, "when is it 11 o'clock Graham, so we can have chocolate!!" "I wish I was made of chocolate, he says...then I would eat myself"

We headed off up the hills, for a great view over the reservoir, Murphy & Charlie introduced themselves every other dogs on the hills today, but I kept them on the lead when this horse came strolling round the corner. After a hike of about 2.5 miles over Hangman's Hill, and Midsummer hill up to the Obelisk, where we sat down for some well earned lunch.

Down through the woods, dodging puddles, (most of the time...Sam did decide to jump in one up to his knees!!) we wandered off down the Worcester Way until we reached Swinyard Hill, and we could pick up the reservoir again. Another 1.5miles or so, and we were back at the car.

Sam had a fabulous day out, really enjoyed his walk round the hills. "Are you going up much higher than this Graham?" he says as we got to the top of Hangman's Hill....Yes Sam...just a bit.

"And are you camping at night time?" Yes Sam

"Is it just on one night, Graham?" no Sam....I'll be gone for 10 altogether....

"Oh great, he says...you won't be able to tell me off, so that means I can do whatever I like!!"

He kept me entertained all day with his quips, and we had a great time...thanks Sam.

Friends Like these.....

2011-01-08T21:37:00.000Z

So, on February 5th, 2011 the last BIG fundraiser for my Kilimanjaro Climb in March.

The Woodford Halse Social Club committee have come up with the most amazing offer to help my fundraising.

Local Band, Kickstart have agreed to come along and play for free...fantastic rock from the 60's to the 00's including covers from The Kaiser Chiefs, Green Day, Madness, Snow Patrol, Paul Weller, The Jam, Primal Scream, Stereophonics, the list goes on and on....this is going to be one hell of a night.

We have a disco, Wii games, and competitions, Raffle Prizes...this is going to be a fantastic night, and a great opportunity to support the Charity, and enjoy yourselves.

If don't share any other blog page this year....please share this one.....lets make this the most amazing send off to my Charity Fundraising. Autism Concern are a small, local charity, doing amazing work with children and adults, schools, social care groups affected by autism in our community.

The Social Club Committee, and the band have agreed that 100% of the funds raised on the door, and through the various competitions, raffles on the night will all be donated to help.

I can't wait.....with friends like these......Kilimanjaro waits, patiently....I have the most fantastic wind under my wings for this challenge. Thank you :-)

www.justgiving.com/graham-kennedy1

Homework....

2011-01-06T20:49:00.000Z

Schools went back today, so once again we have the nightly ritual of amazingly difficult homework for an 8 year old boy with autism (and his Mum).

Does his school not realise that Sam does not know much about Maths!! He does know the names of the 1st three people on the moon, and he knows what a triceritops is...he also knows loads about fire engines and smoke alarms, Tutenkhamun and World War 1.

He knows what a Tudor House looks like, he knows that Anne Boleyn had her head chopped off, and he knows where oxygen comes from.

He knows why there is a footprint on the moon belonging to John Glenn and he also knows that they didn't bring home the lunar buggy, and that Neil Armstrong left a flag there. He thinks they should have tidied up!!

He knows that you cannot have a shower unless you wet the bed, you never get dressed before breakfast, and you cannot possibly go to bed without a story with pictures in it.

He has a facination with feet. You should be sure to have shoes with laces on unless you want him to come along and take them off so he can look at your toes. He's like a super absorbant sponge....you never realise just how much he soaks up, and suddenly, without warning you give him a squeeze and amazing facts fall out, that you just wouldn't believe he would know about.

Just what do they teach them these days??

He's quite entertaining to have around....and although he has the attention span of a goldfish, he really does know a lot more than you think!!

The moral here is....don't judge a book by the cover. It may just contain something very interesting.

70 days to go...10 Weeks. Kilimanjaro waits....but not for much longer :-)

Please sponsor me www.justgiving.com/graham-kennedy1

74 Days....

2011-01-04T20:25:00.002Z

Well, the last 4 months have shot past...it seems like just yesterday that I was thinking to myself, how will I persuade Liz to let me do this? Amazing that a little pop up advert can send you such a journey of discovery..(excuse the pun), but that little red box from Action Challenge which encouraged me to join up has completely transformed the last few months.

Ambition, has moved now to excitement, and now that the year has a "11" on the end of it, well it all seems very close. In fact, it's 74 days...just 10 more Sunday's?? Blimey...that's just amazing.

I'm nearly done, preparation wise....still loads to do for fitness, but in terms of equipment, I'm there...visa to send off for, and appointments with the doctor for a few injections, and that'll be that. Today, I confirmed my insurance, bought myself a 4-season sleeping bag, and my kit bag for the journey. I'm sure if Liz or I sat down to work out just how much I've spent on this trip she'd be having kittens? So I won't tell her!!

But here's a quick checklist

Boots (by now well worn & blister proof)
Day bag - 35 litres
Ruck Sack - 80 litres
Sleeping Bag - 4 season (warm enough, I hope at -20 degrees)

Walking poles

Thermals (Top & Bottom)

Mountain standard coat

Head Torch (Summit day starts with 6 hours trek through the dark to about 17,500ft to watch the sunrise before making the final ascent to the Uhuru)

Camel Back - 3litres

Water Purification tablets

Mosquitto face net

Mosquitto repellent & repellent bands

Snoods x 2

Camera (including a replacement!!)

Gloves x 2 (Cold weather & Even Colder Weather)

Water Purification Tablets

Sleeping Bag Liners

Waterproof Trousers

Thermal Hat

Diahorrea Tablets

and a Partridge in a pear tree...

All I need now....? Your sponsorship.

I'm doing this for a very special charity, local to Northamptonshire, where I live, helping children and adults with Autism. Autism Concern

Reflections of years past.....

2010-12-31T15:53:00.004Z

New Years Eve has always been my favourite day of the year. A time to reflect, a time for family, a time to remind those closest to you, just how much they mean, to thank them for their love, and to commit yourself for the next year to helping each other through famine, or feast.

As a boy growing up, Hogmanay was a time spent at home, no matter where else the party was. Comfortable in the bosom of your family, at midnight, when the bells sound, and corks fly, doors open, neighbours cram in, people move from house to house with good wishes, and good spirit.

Hogmanay is a day of community, of family and of friendship. A day of hope, for a prosperous, and successful year, of good health, and happiness. Sadness too, sometimes. Reflections on words said, friendships lost and hearts broken. Hogmanay is a great healer, as with sadness, comes forgiveness and new beginnings, new resolutions, determination, purpose. It's just a day....but a day like no other.

And so for next year, my resolutions are simple....life has changed a lot since 2003. No longer is it straightforward to have all of the family together. Children are growing up, wanting their own space, finding themselves, and making their own choices. Two families to satisfy, two worlds to pull together.

in 2011.... My resolution is the same as it always has been. I'm a father, to five wonderful, beautiful kids. I'm blessed with good fortune, so my commitment is to be there whenever they fall...to enjoy their successes, to encourage their flight along life's path, to support them when that path is rocky, and to put wind in their sails when the path is clear. To test them, to push them to succeed, to try all of life's flavours without fear, and to embrace the people around them, to recognise that it is only by embracing the challenges in life that you can live your life well.

I've my own challenge...Kilimanjaro this year, 2011....just 76 days now until I depart on my own test. A challenge that truly embraces life, a challenge that recognises for me, a need to give more back than you take in life.

Thank you for your support, and I would wish all of my friends, and my family a happy, and peaceful 2011. I trust you will all find your goal, and have the courage to chase it down.

In 2011 I hope to raise £3500 towards Autism Concern.

Donate at www.justgiving.com/graham-kennedy1

A Boxing Day hike...

2010-12-26T17:25:00.004Z

I thought today was ideal for walking off yesterday's excesses. Liz maintained it was far too cold to be out, but what better day to check out how my new coat, and thermals performed?

I was like toast, despite temperatures of around -8 degrees. The coat is fabulous, and the snoods really do the job. Actually, it was a fantastic day, although cold, it was beautifully bright, and the snow was definitely deep and crisp and even...The dogs had a field day. Chasing around, burying their noses in the snow, and fighting over ever larger sticks. We walked about 7 miles round the Jurrasic Way, from our house, up to Charwelton, where we stopped for a welcome lunch. The dogs, after a bit of persuasion got themselves a sausage each, before we headed for home.

There was plenty of virgin snow on our walk, and it looked like for much of the route, only the farmer may have been out and about. It's a route we've done many times, and Charwelton Church looked magnificent today, isolated as it is.

Northamptonshire has a great history, and this church, and the village that was around it have been deserted since the mid 15th century, after the War of the Roses. Right now, all that surrounds it are sheep.

Meanwhile Christmas was an unusual one this year. I don't suppose too many people would be delighted if they received gifts of water purification tablets, anti diahorrea salts, and mosquitto repellant sprays, and cuffs? My Kilimanjaro war-chest if almost complete, just a small matter of selecting a decent 4-season sleeping bag, and I'll have all the kit sorted.

Just 81 days to go!!! I can hardly wait :-)

Visa to apply for....Yellow fever vaccination to arrange, and half a stone to lose....easy.

Coffee anyone...??

2010-12-07T20:15:00.000Z

Anyone who knows me will know that this is something I'm notoriously poor at....but this morning with a full office to make for, I happily encouraged anyone who wanted one to partake :-)

Nope, I've not turned over a new leaf....but I did have the chance to deliver a nice cup of coffee or tea to each & everyone of them, delivered, of course with a protective mat to keep the tabletops, or desks from scalding.

Great to see some of the faces, and I've had a few promises of some support on the back of them....trouble is, they want a cup every day in return...so I guess I'll be boiling the kettle a few times more than normal in the next few weeks.

I'm considering changing my target...I'm just £104 short of my first target of £3000, and there are 3 months to go before my climb. Thanks to everyone who's been generous enough already to donate. If you're tempted to help Autism Concern, just click on the Just Giving button at the top of the page, and indulge :-)

Quiz Night & Christmas Fair

2010-12-05T07:59:00.000Z

Well, we've had the most fantastic fundraising weekend...although it has to be said that I didn't imagine standing out in the street, selling wine bottles full of water when the temperature is about -6 degrees would be so much fun!!

Sam was very excited that Santa came past on his sleigh, and he quickly worked out that if he kept going back to see him, Santa has a really poor memory...Sam came away with 3 presents...(mostly chocolate).

After the fair, on Saturday morning we clicked into Quiz mode...loads of final preparations to complete, like a small matter of finishing the questions list, but in the end we had Wine, Beer, Nibbles all sorted....plenty of raffle prizes, and a fantastic group of friends rolling into the Memorial Hall by 7pm.

I think a great night was had by all....we certainly got through the wine!! There are so many people to thank for the help in making this weekend go fantastically well. We've had a brilliant time, and this weekend alone, we've raised over £500 for Autism Concern

Now it's back to the gym. Thank you Woodford Halse......

Dad’s big climb to help charity - News - Daventry Express

2010-12-03T15:06:00.002Z

I'm not used to this press attention, haha....and it featured on page 25, not page 3....but Sam is chuffed to bits with his picture in the papers.

Hope to see loads of people at the Street Fair tonight, and joining us at our quiz night on Saturday. Enjoy the read...or cringe quietly :-) Thank you Daventry Express !!!

Dad’s big climb to help charity - News - Daventry Express

Don't forget you can sponsor my by clicking on the "Sponsor Me" button at the top left. No amount too small, and it all goes towards the charity.

A busy week...complete

2010-11-29T22:51:00.000Z

We've been busy getting ready for a huge weekend of fundraising and fun. Liz has been collecting wine bottles from pubs, clubs, neighbours...even stealing them from recycling bins.

Samuel, Sam & Jessica have been helping prepare our table poster for this Friday's Christmas street fair, and we've been finishing our preparations for the quiz night on Saturday.....phew...breath!!

In between times, I've been on a couple of great walks around Farnborough. It's freezing cold...minus 5 degrees on Sunday afternoon, but a completely beautiful day.

We've got the loan of the Autism Concern publicity stand for the weekend, so we'll be easy to spot at the Christmas Fair....We'll be delighted to sell you a bottle for just £1.00 each....(trouble is....will it be wine? Or just water?)

www.justgiving.com/graham-kennedy1

Lipsmackin'thirstquenchin'acetastin'motivatin'goodbuzzin

2010-11-29T22:36:00.000Z

Wow, its been a great week....

I've managed to get to the gym, been interviewed by the Daventry Express, had a photographer around to take some publicity pictures, and persuaded Thirstys of Northampton, the UK's premium manufacturer of Beer Mats to produce 500 for me free of charge.

Coming to a bar near you :-)

Back in the race...

2010-11-22T23:21:00.000Z

Ok, so not a race exactly, but I have been very lazy over the last 2 weeks.... we've had a few relaxed walks with the dogs, the kids...even followed the noise of a hunt pack the other week, without actually seeing them. However, climbing Kilimanjaro will be slightly tougher than a stroll through the countryside, picking corn on the cob, and chasing the kids.

We did have a laugh when Murphy fell of a bridge into the stream.

Anyway, after 2 weeks off, I decided that this weekend I needed to get active.........and then it went a bit Pete Tong!! (Ok - translation at this point, for anyone from Russia, Turkey, Korea or of course the Netherlands...Pete Tong = Wrong!!)

2.5 hours up the road towards Shropshire was cut short by traffic problems on the way, so I end up instead in Cannock (That's #1). I decided to go for a walk round the Chase. Three hours was enough, I have to say, with apologies to anyone from Cannock....it was as dull as ditch-water, and I've seen loads of that recently !! (That's #2) If you ever fancy a scenic walk with loads features, plenty of variety and stiff enough to give you a feeling like you've exercised? Then stay away from here! I wouldn't describe it as totally boring, but only because it's not that nice.

Anyway, these things happen in 3's yes? And so it happened...Charlie, despite the nature of the walk, had managed to dig himself into a few holes, jump into a few pools and cover himself in muck...so he was going in the back on the way home...relegated from his relative comfort on the way there.

The estate was full, so while I moved the contents to the back seat to make room for Charlie, I placed my camera onto the roof of the car and......yep...you can guess the rest!! (That's #3) Fortunately, this means I have no pictures of Cannock Chase to share with you!!

I've never been particularly superstitious, but maybe I should have exercised more in the last two weeks? The payback was a bit rough mind....I mean, why guide me towards Cannock for a walk??

Suitably punished for my lack of effort in the last two weeks, tonight I went back to the gym. I may brave the wrath of Mr Wii in the morning....I'm sure he won't be too tough on me.

There has been a couple of positive things to report in the last couple of weeks....my friends at Catalyst Logistics became the first sponsor of my Kilimanjaro coat, adding £201 to my fund. Thanks to Jeremy Batchelor & his colleagues for the huge donation.

And, the Northampton Saints, who have already come up trumps with their enthusiasm and assistance publicising my challenge in their match program donated 2 match tickets, which were purchased for another £50 in the pot. £2370 raised....4 months to go. Bring it on!!

www.justgiving.com/graham-kennedy1

Birthday home truths....

2010-11-01T22:21:00.000Z

I'm 44 tomorrow...Sam told me this morning "you're fat, and you're old, and we need to throw you in the tip."" Goodness knows what he thought in August...I may have been 3 months younger, but I was also 20lbs heavier.

Still, it doesn't do any harm to have a little motivation from time to time...I think I'll give Sam a wide berth when choosing a personal trainer though!! The trouble with living with an autistic child is that he finds it very difficult to lie. He's not for the faint hearted...and you are advised never to ask if your bum looks big in this!!

Slightly more of a motivation is that my fundraising profile has taken a bit of a boost in the last week. Firstly, Snix magazine, (Special Needs Index for Northamptonshire) printed a full page poster advert, and then the Parcelforce News printed a lovely article highlighting my challenge. Between them, possibly an audience of 000's so all I need to do now is work out how to capitalise on the publicity.

We also have a feature in the November WOW (Whats on in Woodford)...Liz is organising a quiz night on December 4th to help with the fundraising. I think it's likely that I'll end up with the job of hostess with the mostest....or maybe just 100 questions or so. We're collecting plenty of prizes for a raffle on the night, as well as some decent prizes for the winners. It should be a fun night.

The training is picking up too, I've been doing a bit more running, and a bit less cycling, as I prepare for my 10k race (haha...did I say race??) on the 21st of November. In the mean time, I have loads to do...I've an appointment next week with Jeremy Batchelor at Catalyst Logistics to collect a nice cheque for £201 towards my target.

This whole challenge is a bit of a logistics nightmare...pack everything you need for 7 nights in a tent in temperatures ranging from +30 to -24 degrees, kicking off in tropical rainforest, through lifeless dry tundra, and up onto a frozen icecap with no oxygen....oh...and make sure you can fit it all into just two bags, weighing less than 25kgs between them. (remember you have to carry one of them 63kms up 19,340ft).

So, who better to be the first sponsor of my coat for the challenge than a specialist in Logistics planning & design? I'm delighted to have them supporting me, and it's given me a great idea for the remaining space on the coat :-)....

Onwards & upwards.....(I think thats what it's likely to be all about).

Dutch Courage

2010-10-29T20:59:00.002+01:00

I'd not really given this one a lot of thought, so it may be short.....in the last 24 hours my blog has been viewed by 26 people in Holland? As far a I can work out, I only know 3 people who are Dutch, or who sound like they could be Dutch.

Anyway, in recognition of this amazing influx of visitors I thought I would apply a Dutch theme to my blog. So here it is....

First we have Jan Van Reibeeck, who in 1621 was the founder of Cape Town, South Africa....they've been great explorers, and trend setters in the world, and good old Jan followed a line of famous Dutch seamen who explored the globe while the English were too busy fighting with the French or the Spanish.

And it's not just exploration of the globe that they've been good at. They grow some of the most exciting house plants too!!

And who can argue that they may have produced, in Johann Cruyff the third greatest footballer in the world. I can hear the cries of foul already....who are the other two I hear....well, of course there is Pele...probably no argument that he just pips good old Johann to the pinnacle, but what about this other chap??

Possibly the greatest world cup goal ever? You decide....thats what the comment box is for!! Just follow the link below, sit back & enjoy....(unless you're Dutch of course!!)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B8uchI1g3tM

Beware of expensive immitations...

2010-10-25T23:55:00.004+01:00

Ok...that's a bit tenuous ....but I'm very aware that taking on a challenge like Kilimanjaro is an expensive business...since picking up the mantel I've been astonished by just how many sources there are now offering the opportunity of a lifetime....and no doubt...it is the opportunity of a lifetime!!

For every one of these challenges there are overheads to be paid, flight costs, porters, medical support, park fees etc....not to mention the backroom staff, advertising costs, business locations, and marketing that these businesses need to support. Since the high profile of the sports relief challenge in 2008 the number of climbers on Kilimanjaro has quadrupled, and now around 50,000 people attempt the climb each year.

Around 70% will be successful, but for everyone there are generally three ways to fund the climb.

Minimum Contribution - Raise minimum £3500 Charitable donations, and pay about £499.
Mixed Contribution - Raise minimum £2500 Charitable donations, and pay £1000.
Self Funding - No Charitable donations necessary, pay around £1750.

There may be a little variation, but the cost of those overheads for all the businesses offering the trip is around £1750 - £2000. That's why my contribution towards the cost of my event will be £1750. No ifs, no buts...

I want 100% of the donations

you make to be used for

the charity of my choice.

There is no doubt, this is the most exciting, challenging, and daunting thing I've ever set about embarking upon. Kilimanjaro is 19,340 ft (5895meters) to the Uhuro peak, the journey takes you along around 63kms of treking path, over 7 days, and 5 distinct micro climates. Typically, the temperature at the bottom will be a tropical 30 degrees, by the time you reach day 5, climbing from 14,500ft to the top, temperatures may fall to -24degrees, and the last 3,000ft is likely to be across a frozen ice cap.

For me, the value of this experience is priceless, and for sure it is not one which I would want anyone else to pay for. I have set my heart on completing this, it will provide me with memories that you just cannot replace. I will share mine, as I have read others....but only by doing it will you really know..

So if you have any doubts, that a donation, no matter how small was not going to be used directly to support Autism Concern, then I'm happy to dispel those fears. No donation is too small...and every penny will be used to support the families, children, schools, support workers across our county.

Autism Concern (part of the the Autism Alliance) provide superb care, and support for thousands of families in Northamptonshire. Climbing Kilimanjaro is beyond a value....donating just a few pounds can change lives. You can be sure 100% of it will be donated to the Charity, and 0% to the organising company for my challenge.

Thank you everyone who has donated, and to those still thinking..... well...I hope I've helped you reach a decision. £1 or £100...invaluable, thank you :-)