Trek to the home of the Dalai Lama-India Himalayas

2013-03-20T20:05:00.001+00:00

Day 3 continued - 19 November 2011 - The home of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama - Dharamasala

2012-02-04T17:33:00.001+00:00

The view from the home of the Dalai Lama

To be updated as from 24 May 2012..............

Saturday 19 November 2011 - Day 3 - From overnight train to dusty roads

2012-02-04T17:13:00.001+00:00

Music to listen to whilst reflecting....................

Postcard 3 - Journal notes

At 07:00hrs we arrive at Pathankat Station. If I recall correctly, none of us felt particularly clean or invigorated. Another mad dash to make sure belongings are strapped to backs, and no one is left behind. We pass through the station where we are met by two drivers, splitting the team and allocating to vehicles while loading and tying down backpacks to the roof of people carriers. Our next stop was for breakfast at the Jyoti to enjoy a feast of omelettes, bread, jams, honey and chai a spice milk tea. A quick chance to baby wipe freshen up, brush teeth before boarding vehicles for a two hour plus road journey to our next stay in Surya (meaning sun) Resort Hotel Dharamshala. The hotel is located in McLeod Ganj, a village within the Dharamshala municipality, the home of the Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso, and the exiled Tibetan government.

My camera was glued to my eye, with my good ear alert (I am almost deaf in my right ear), trying to keep grounded, but in contradiction, capture and record as much as possible. The sun rays, dust, views, warmth, speed, colours, sounds, create mixed emotions from relaxed to excited. To never wanting to return to the UK rat race. Music and vehicle horns compete to be heard. We pass vans packed tight, logo’s with “Blow your horn if you want to pass” with people heading to work or who knows? Although vehicles travel at speed and have no road safety order there’s no road rage. Unlike back home in the U.K.

Two or more hours later we arrive at our hotel. Jane has paired off trekkers. My roomie? Hazel. We love our room and politely check out who wants what bed and would like to shower first. We freshen up, change and sort luggage with short spells of conversation as we settle in and prepare for the trek. This is such a different experience to the Sahara Desert Trek 2010. We were almost thrown straight into trekking. This trek provided advance days of over eating, sight seeing and moving from plane, train and auto-mobile. It made me somewhat nervous thinking I would become lazy and lose motivation.

Friday 18 November 2011 - Day 2 - Delhi and the overnight train journey

2012-01-27T18:24:00.003+00:00

Reflecting...music played while updating.

Postcard 2 - Journal notes

After a 9 hour flight from Heathrow T4, the India charity trekking team safely arrive on New Delhi tarmac. Passports approved, stamped and luggage collected, we walk into arrivals welcomed by Jane and Raul, our Charity Challenge guides. We experience a few delays whilst changing currency and waiting for our driver to take us to our first schedule meeting.

We continue to get to know each other, in-between, being individually greeted by Jane, as she dressed all in garnets of fresh marigold flowers, all excited travelling by mini bus in a dramatic climate change, atmosphere and environment. I love it!

I am not sure if this is my third journey to India, but the mayhem journey by road wasn't such a shock to my system as it was to new India visitors. Tuk tuk’s, cars, vans and wagons continually alert each other by horn, they are passing by. The noise is musical. We pass India’s Gate with a mix of local music from our vehicle, other road users and stalls along the way.

We register into the Johti Mahal Hotel to freshen up, sit together sharing the local cuisine and hear the trek schedule planned by Jane. The food was fresh, colourful and flavoursome. After our meal we had a few hours to cram in the local sights and absorb the atmosphere.

We visit the Masjid-i Jahan-Numa, commonly known as the Jama Masjid, the principal mosque of Old Delhi. To adhere to, and respect Muslim etiquette, female tourists are required to hire a full length gown. The gowns cover from neck to ankle with a similar design to a floral, one fits all, light weight dressing gown. A few of us shy to take photographs, were amazed how locals and other visitors welcomed being snap shot . Individuals and families rushed over asking us to capture them on photographic memory. In contrast to the UK, parents and children rushed over asking us to take a child/family photograph. Smiles on faces when we photographed, and when we shared what our digital camera screen moment had captured.

Time fled by, and before we knew it we were called to experience more of Delhi. In a rush, we returned gowns, tied on shoes and in pairs all took seats in rik shaws, for the equivalent of a mad roller coaster ride through tight, swerving, busy market roads and lanes. I would be very surprised if one team member walked away from that fun, fast, mayhem journey without at least one bruise.

We return to Johti Mahal Hotel, collect our rucksacks, board our bus and set off for another meal stop. I am already starting to feel sick of food. Good food, but too much in one day. After this meal we head to, and join in the un-organised rush of, finding and boarding our train for an overnight 12 hour journey.

PHEW! All safely on board and co-ordinated by Jane, we find our sleeping bunk. I remember thinking, this is mental but funny. Bunks lower and upper, run along one side of the train. I have a lower bunk with a window. Hazel my co trekker, above. From here there’s a very narrow walkway, corridor, breaking the gap from chambers of 2 lower and upper bunks. If you have the slight luxury of a full window you have the privacy by means of a curtain. For those opposite, they share with four, or more, and a curtain to close them off walkway/corridor activity to the loo or exits.

At this stage I think, we are all still quite shy, so most try to snuggle down and rest ready for the trek ahead. We have no idea what is going through the others mind. Maybe all having our own anxieties, excitements, regrets, wonder…the list could go on. One thing we shared eventually, not many had slept well that overnight train journey. I felt dread if I needed the loo. My first experience, viewing the facilities along with the stench, I automatically wretched. BUT! I have to confess, it was all part of the experience and I smiled. When you've got to go, you just have to go! Although the train was warm and rocked most gently to sleep I was too alert. My mind travelled ahead into the trek, and my eyes captured images from my bunk train window. Gentle noise of snoring, the train smoothly moving on the tracks, dim lights, curtains swaying in coordination with train motion, warm and sticky air, I drifted in and out of sleep with a smile on my face and some anxiety.

My journal postcards slowly return to me via post from the India trek

2012-01-22T18:27:00.002+00:00

A collection of postcards selected to write daily journals.

I think it was a couple of weeks returning from the India charity trek back to the U.K, I started to collect daily from my postbox my day to day postcard journal. Twelve cards in total to read, reflect and prompt me to post that wonderful mini adventure November 2011. I raised a total of just over £1600.00 for Acorns Children's Hospice. Once again I thank all who supported, encouraged and sponsored me on my self funding trek, and what was another amazing journey.

Thursday 17 November 2011 - Day 1 starting out........

In comparison to day one of my Sahara Desert charity trek last September, I felt considerably calm. I had not even completely packed and had an early appointment booked in the city centre at 9am. A ladies wax in time for the trek, for comfort and hygiene, knowing the lack of washing facilities this mini adventure would take away. My pal Jay sent me a great pre trek text hoping paying and suffering various body part waxing did not create a painful journey. Us girls and our sense of humour!

I strolled into the city for my appointment and after took time out to sit down and enjoy a quick bite at EAT cafe. I walk home and my mind starts to wonder when I passed the coach station. At 1pm I would be sitting in that coach station, tickets in hand ready to board my booked coach to take me to Heathrow T4.

When the time felt right to finally pack the last essential items, zip up my new rucksack and padlock I suddenly had the fast realisation, I'd been too laid back, assuming all would fit in nicely with no problem. After all, I had been very mindful laying out crucial kit and recommendations from Charity Challenge. I actually broke out into a sweat, trying to squeeze in tightly trekking gear and make the zips meet. Panic starts to set in when I check what time it is, and how close I am risking getting behind on my programme. I frantically began to pull items out, thinking what the hell I will just have to get by! There was no-way I could miss the coach I had booked. To allow for any problems on the motorway and arrive at least 3hours before the flight as instructed by trek organisers, I had set my time plan.

Hot, flustered, no longer feeling calm I arrive at the coach station. After only a 15 minute wait, I board. Backpack on board, I settle in and remind myself, I have a good few hours to come back down to earth and calm down. Although, I continue to check I have my passport and my India Visa information was correct. Calmer, eventually, after the coach journey, I collect my belongings and head to the Charity Challenge meeting point. There were eight charity trekkers registered, all supporting different charities. I meet Julia in person for the first time. We greet each other with a friendly smile and kiss on the cheek. Julia contacted me by email inviting me to call her on her mobile. In advance of the trek we had chatted a few times, sharing our nerves and excitement about the experience waiting for us. Julia not only had a smiley, pleasant voice during our conversations, she had a warm, beautiful welcome smile in person. She put me at ease and immediately made me feel I had made a good choice selecting this particular charity adventure.

Julia, Tracey 1 and Clare all check in. One team member trekker hadn't arrived at this point. Will, Martin, Tracey 2 and I decide to wait behind for them. We start to get to know each other as we wait. Sharing names and charities it wasn't long before our wait was over and we were introduced to young Hazel. I had no idea at this time Hazel would be my roomie and mischievous friend and trekking partner in par with Julia. Checking in goes smoothly, boarding passes approved, overhead luggage stashed away and all ready to relax as we fly to Delhi Airport.

Nervous since November!

2012-01-01T14:36:00.002+00:00

Prior to setting out on my charity trek in November I sat with a consultant discussing surgery. In agreement I booked my appointment for long awaited surgery to take place 30 December. Anxiety began Christmas as the day came closer. Early Friday morning, bags packed, jobs completed at home I call for a taxi. I am booked for an overnight stay at the Priory Hospital, where I was looked after first class. The staff and my consultant were angels. All pleased with progress I am permitted to go home late New Years eve. My taxi collects me, drops me home ready to welcome 2012, with two weeks booked off for recovery time. Hopefully I can start to recall and brief my blog with notes and photos of the India trek.

Where I can control I will make this a good new year, when I can't I hope to learn, develop and grow stronger. I open a blank page to start my journey of 2012. Happy New Year to all: wishing you the best of health, contentment, peace and to bring to life those dreams put on hold.

Not too good at the moment, will pick up for 2012.

2011-12-08T23:10:00.005+00:00

Not feeling too good since I returned from charity trekking in India. Flu'd up, on prescription for an ear infection and thought I had cracked ribs due to a fall. Fortunately my GP thinks it's just internal bruising but wants me to monitor for symptoms she asked me to look out for. Turned 43 6 December. Another year wiser.

Trekking Thursday......

2011-11-17T10:34:00.000+00:00

Time to break routine, learn to slow down, absorb the good, learn with and from fellow trekkers. A perfect opportunity to mind and body detox. I hope to return with an improved positive mind, inner strength and an appreciation for the simple things in life.

Thanks Jay......

2011-11-16T15:50:00.004+00:00

I love this! Thanks Jay, your card brought a tear to my eye. You know what a sensitive one I am. Very thoughtful, I will take it with me, tucked in my journal.

Thank you, loves to you from me.......

Great positive quotes included in the card, to inspire and encourage.

Jay and Lis, Birmingham Chamberlain Award Ceremony 11 November 2011. Our customer received well deserved recognition for the SONR project winning Excellent Service Delivery. A great do and chance to get out and celebrate the weekend before flying off to India. Hmmm......must remember not to pout in photo's to avoid looking more of an idiot.

Roll on trekking Thursday...........

2011-11-14T17:44:00.015+00:00

It still hasn't sunk in I will soon be trekking in India, proudly wearing my Acorns Children's Hospice promotional t-shirt. Thanks to all my generous kind sponsors, helping support life limited children, siblings and parents. Donations received have gone direct to the hospice. I have paid all expenses to participate in this charity trek. Thank you to each and every one of you. ((HUG)) sending love and best wishes.

I love hearts..at a recent work award ceremony, hiding behind heart clutch purse and proudly wearing remembrance poppy.

Trekking gear, must takes laid out to check off kit list. Needing at least one glam item for the first few days settling in, sparkly flat footwear for the India evenings.

The promotional t-shirt I designed

Essentials: 3-4 season sleeping bag and liner, mozi net, waterproof kag and trousers, first aid kit and washing pack.

More essentials includes hydration tablets, spare carbs as suggested, microlite towels, spare laces, headtorch and hand torch. Good old baby wipes, pro biotic's and repel insect repellent spray.

Magic trekking boots, pink poles and wise words shared from his Holiness the Dalai Lama. My loved photography equipment, MP3 and cards to write daily journals posting to myself from India, to enjoy and reflect on when arriving in my post box.

Sentimental Saturday

2011-11-12T21:08:00.003+00:00

After sharing my photography intermediate final assignment course work, I walked into the city to purchase a few last odds for my trek. Whilst ticking off my check list, a promotional advert for the release of the film "The Way" captured my eye. A must purchase. A touching film, which stirs food in the wok of thoughts and minds eye, and creates a yearning to trek new and wonderful places.

Monday...more and more mistakes...must try harder not to......

2011-11-07T21:57:00.012+00:00

I think I need a course to improve my people skills and thoughtfulness. I have looked back on the past six weeks and discovered I have a natural talent of upsetting so many different people. Today I was absolutely mortified to upset yet another, receiving payback in the form of humiliation.

Last year I promoted in a variety of ways my Sahara charity trek. This year has not been so easy, with the main opportunity circulating my link via social media and a regional works global email. Since July, I reminded co-workers I would be trekking for Acorns Hospice and if anyone could help by passing the link on or donate a minimum of £2.00 this would be greatly appreciated. I stated I hoped my link, promoting monthly, (weekly during the last month) did not offend.

September redundancies were made. I thought I had removed those notified and continued to reluctantly email on the basis, the majority of contacts know me well and I had openly said please let me know if this offends. I was disappointed to read I had clearly upset and included someone soon to be redundant. I was told how insensitive I am requesting money to fund "my holiday" and to delete him from my email spam. I fully appreciated, respected and at the same time felt awful, understanding this contact is within rights to his opinion. I emailed privately, apologies. I guess what added to the upset was "my payback". The sender I had unintentionally upset included all email contacts to read his response. I felt utterly ashamed and humiliated. People I have worked with for years suddenly given the impression I was scrounging and begging for flights, food and board funds.

A day sitting in tears and struggling to shrug off the feelings of disgrace and shame. I need to get a grip and pull myself together. I tried to put the feelings in to perspective and compare upset of families with loved life limited children. In honesty I still feel hurt knowing how clumsy I have been over the past six weeks with peoples feelings. Hand on heart I did not intend to be thoughtless and further more I have saved and funded entirely all expenses. I have never felt comfortable asking for sponsorship. Trying to make it easier I wanted any potential sponsors to know I had saved to self fund the trek. I have never found it easy to ask. I am far too independent to the point I can offend wanting to do everything for myself.

Yesterday I upset my sister, actually agreeing with her about original plans she suggested when I return from my trek. I drove home feeling dull, a nuisance and burden. I question why I feel a burden as I make little contact knowing all are always busy with their own families. I make odd calls to say hello, and to my knowledge never ask for a favour trying to ease and not add to busy lives. What have I done now? kept repeating in my mind, driving home and later lying wide awake in bed.

Co-workers I have rubbed up the wrong way. Knowing this is a very sensitive and difficult time, I have tried to take the bad with empathy. There is only so much ticking off one can take. Today's response to my email hurt. Socially I offended a new contact, due to the frustration of limited forms of communication, although this is still no excuse for failure of manners. I fully accept responsibility and know one of my reactions was wrong and caused hurt. I let myself down. Sending out thoughts to all those I have upset lately, putting both size 5.5's in. If all is my doing, a combination of both, misunderstandings all round all I can send out from my side is thoughts I am truly sorry.

Hoping: Please Lisa do not upset and pee off the trekkers you will soon meet and share time with. Time for bed, hope to switch off and not mull over things all night and ask tomorrow to be a better day for all.

Kundun

2011-11-05T10:56:00.002+00:00

Saturday brings photography course, trek kit list check and a stroll into the city to buy a few first aid and hygiene items.

Eat Pray Love..................

2011-11-04T22:08:00.002+00:00

Friday freedom...............

2011-11-04T20:16:00.007+00:00

Pictures and music only for this post....enjoying the Chris Spheeris track and reflecting on the fresh air, scenery, space and slowing down.

Lace leaves

Knitted tree

The richness of autumn

2011-10-30T09:38:00.006+00:00

Kingdom in the Clouds, a stunning piece of music set to loop on my MP3. Playing over and over as I walked against the wind. No make-up, wearing oversized trekking trouser and old fleece, I looked a complete scruff. With clumsy footings, I struggled to see at times when the wind blew my hair across my face and styled it into a matted mess. Nothing mattered, I felt content. I had music creating chocolate for the ears. The delight of rich, warm colours stimulating my eyes and the cold wind which made me feel alive.

Il dolce far niente..."the sweetness of doing nothing".

2011-10-23T17:18:00.014+01:00

Late Friday, driving home from work, my mind and body said, take a break this weekend. After another busy week, I gave myself permission to slow down and do as little as possible. Saturday, after my photography course and weekly food shop I booked a mental date with myself. Photography course over my next stop buy groceries. Shopping at the outdoor fruit and veg market, a time when I love to drift off imagining I'm buying weekly groceries from stalls in Mapusa. Mapusa is the main market town in northern Goa. It isn’t particularly pretty and in honesty there’s not a great deal to see. Setting this aside the colours, spices, incense and energy stayed with me. Eggs, vine tomatoes and a variety of fruit packed in my backpack my first stop was time with the Dalai Lama, notes on my trek and my first coffee of the day. My main date followed in Café Rouge, with more reading and enjoying a meal of salmon fish cakes, holding back on the fries replaced with a healthy salad.

Sunday: I bookmark a few work related posts to my Linkedin page. I felt a little guilty not training. This soon passed whilst watching for the 10th time “Eat, Pray, Love”. Il dolce far niente "the sweetness of doing nothing" a scene set in an Italian barbers, reassured and reminded me resting is good for the soul. The remaining part of the film created curiosity. What will I learn during my next trek? Twenty five days to go, with highs and lows, and a variety of challenges. I will be living in another dream. My “Bucket List” includes a second charity trek, seeing more of Asia, the Taj Mahal and meeting the Dalai Lama. I have covered all trek expenses and my reward to visit the Taj Mahal. Organised charity treks are by no means a cheap way to travel. However, I consider this trek a “win win” situation, seeing more of the world, and in hand raising the profile of and funds for Acorns Children’s Hospice. A main wonder is, will the November 2011 charity trekkers have the honour of meeting the Dalai Lama? This would be an incredible experience. Reminder to self: if it’s meant to be it will be.

I consider myself a middle aged girly girl. Typically playing with make up, a love for high heels and the soft feminine fabrics, bright colours and ethnic print garments from Monsoon. In contrast, I thoroughly enjoy the experience of back to basic’s and learning to travel as light as possible. My glamour “must take” will be my pink trekking poles and for the final nights social, a sweep of mascara and eye-liner. Following the trek organiser kit list and luggage weight restrictions, I need to carefully consider and organise essential needs, allowing for the weight and volume of my Canon camera. Reflecting on the Sahara Desert trek should help to improve my packing skills and remind me of nonessential items adding weight. Which reminds me, flashing back in mind to one night in the Sahara. With head torch on, collecting my sleeping bag from a pitch black canvas tent pitched up under the Sahara stars. Please God, Buddha, whoever, DO NOT! let me experience for a second time, a camel spider almost crawling on my hand, oblivious it was resting on my sleeping bag package, until my head torch spot lighted this unwelcome, evil creature. In advance, thank you for listening and reassuring me spiders from hell will stay well away.

Heavy backpack, heart and mind.

2011-10-16T18:07:00.001+01:00

It was a struggle forcing myself to attempt training today. On two occasions I nearly turned the car round, wanting to give in go home and quit. One time half way through my journey on the M5. I missed the hills the previous weekend, so reminded myself it was essential I made an effort. I wanted to go home, back to bed and sleep. I began to wish I had booked annual leave alone, involved in an activity that did not provide the pressure of possibly letting down sponsors. Missing last weekend, the hills had changed decorated with a carpet of autumn leaves. Stunning autumn colours, contrasted with the gloom loosing summer light nights. I regret not making the most of summer 2011, spending too much time hiding behind work.

It has been a very busy year, even now for me, although I am not assigned to a site project at the moment. August I added a post mentioning redundancy concerns. How right I was recently hearing co-workers called out and given notice. I am safe from redundancy at the moment, however not to take for granted this could change. So with the looming concern of how to continue to pay the bills, I have had to put in the hours. I had an official opening ceremony to organise for my customer, who had invited an MP to launch the new road. A head full of work, lack of trek training and other, argued in my mind which subject should dominate.

After many years hibernating from the social scene, this year I developed courage to make an effort. I thought with all my positive work, perhaps I had broken a negative cycle and improved my law of attraction skills. I discovered I need to go back into hibernation, study some more, or organise a head/personality transplant. Although I attract quite a lot of attention, not intentionally I add, I just don't seem to attract "the one." Someone who really wants to take time to get to know me. Someone who wants to call me, meet. A man who wants to work at making me feel butterflies and adored and I them. I utterly fail in the love department, a complete car crash. Perhaps I am not lovable material, I have really no idea any more. I can cope alone but thought after many years avoiding trying to meet a soul mate, it would be nice to share and make memories. As I mulled over various in my mind, I noticed a family of four ahead. Mom, dad, young daughter and son, over flowing with happiness sharing a family day outdoors. Mom and children stood posing on a high rock, whilst dad sets his camera on timer, racing to join them in time for the camera to catch a happy family portrait. I watched with a smile. As I walked by choked with tears. Floods of tears, trying to hide them behind sunglasses. Tears obviously required as a release valve when I noticed the tight knot in my stomach seemed to release. I felt softer.

I walked back to my car, feeling heart broken. The fact hit me, I will never know what it's like to have my own family. Family picnics, trips to the seaside, birthdays and decorating the Christmas tree together. Ruling out motherhood when I reached 40,I will never know the feelings of carrying a child, nurturing my own and wrapping them in love. The hand I was dealt did not include the family card. I have always been somewhat of a loner. Alone welcomed and enjoyed. Today I felt lonely, not a good feeling. Sat at home reflecting and typing, I ask myself how to get off this treadmill of: work, back home to an empty flat, bed, work, weekends the phone never rings, no sharing and just hill walks. I feel invisible and stuck. An early night ready to push the button for work at high speed. Maybe the change of scenery and Himalayas experience will bring change and ideas.

Today I am grateful I do not have my own children. Perhaps I would not have had time to work at Acorn's if I had family of my own.

Return of the King...Orc's, Hobbit's, safely watched by Gandolf

2011-09-18T22:26:00.001+01:00

The hills are alive with the soundtracks and themes of The Return of the King

Backpack with supplies of water and lembas bread

Orc squirrel spy..........................

Too late squirrel spy, I caught you. Run, run..... little squirrel spy, to whisper your tales and secrets..........

Fellowship of safe sanctuary

Window to the Souls

Padlocked and deserted

Return of the King

Not a full time employed working day. Hence, my mobile alarm clock was switched off, permitting a Sunday rest in, to enjoy and cuddle my big, fat, comfy, cloud quilt, wrapped in warm Asian colour and delightful soft prints. As if! My body clock is programmed to the full-time employed time table, waking up too early. Even during annual leave and weekends.

I have no idea why, but I felt somewhat deflated with no enthusiasm to enjoy the peace and calmness the hills reward. I battled negativity and prepared my back pack, dressing in appropriate walking costume to commit to my hill training.

I attended the second level of my photography course yesterday. An excellent tutor, mentor, and Lord of encouraging imagination in mind and eye. David, set a course challenge, over a four week period, for students to produce 10 pictures related to a chosen subject. I am warmed and drawn to the subject title offered "Windows to the Soul."

Setting out on my usual hills training, I stopped along journey's way, to take props and capture pictures located in a desired place of peace. Mind cogs had worked overtime since my tutor ignited the project challenge. Photos taken, and feeling more relaxed, Cherry Corsa heads to the hills.

I congratulated myself for arguing with the internal Sunday laze thief, that tempted me to quit today's training. Not only did I action my hill training, I calmed the soul, slowed down, and grabbed the moment to commence photography course work.

And so in my wild imagination.........................................................

I walked New Zealand hills today, filled with sound tracks and themes of "The Return of the King." Turned up to the max, drifting into hypnotic moving meditation, trees and sun rays creating imaginary strangers. I sometimes seriously have to remind myself, Orc's do not really exist. Trekking alone, along creepy covered pathways, trying to reach the open space, listening to this music. I ask " Why the hell do I try to frighten the wits out myself? listening to this music" I think I must have sub-concious faith Gandalf is watching over me, and the hobbits distracting the Orc's, therefore allowing me to pass. Safe at the top, the skies were incredible today. Soft, dreamy, blues and whites merging. Ideas I thought of and captured in my minds eye yesterday, during the photography course.

Sirens, showers and loss of sight.

2011-08-21T18:43:00.037+01:00

Start of training, I see plenty of greenery and texture.

Emergency services (ambulance and helicopter) required on the hills.

Fog suddenly restricts vision.

Within minutes fog hides the view.

I changed my hill training routine due to my sister’s invite, to help cook and share a good old fashioned, hearty Sunday roast dinner. Apart from the enjoyment of a rare Sunday feast, I have not teased and laughed with my nieces for some time, or caught up waxing lyrical with my sister and brother in law. My mother and step father also sharing the meal, I have not seen for four months or more, added to my necessity to change my normal Sunday training schedule.

I have no idea why I was surprised to see the hills busy on a Saturday. Enjoyed by loners, couples, families and dog owners walking and slowing down their pace of life. I smiled sweetly witnessing a few people stop to take mini breaks walking challenging terrain. I have not noticed a physical improvement as such. After a continual one day a weekend hill walks routine, over a six week period. However, I have noticed an improvement in mental determination which can be, if not more important at times, than stamina. At least I am not giving in, or taking numerous mini breaks. My breathing technique stills needs to relax, and weak muscles that aggravate need strength development.

The skies seemed clear. The sun warm, and the view stretched out for miles, during my first hour of walking. As always, sometimes I feel I am not physically walking, as my mind drifts away into the tracks on my mp3. I eventually, rather unexpectedly, arrive at my favourite hill, I adopt for personal reflection from time to time. From Sunday space, I notice an increase in visitors and the need for emergency services to assist an unfortunate trekker in need of help. Ambulance sirens echo over the hills. While a helicopter assesses the need to rescue from air. I have no idea who is hurt, how or the extent of their injury. Crowds begin to gather and head to the direction aid is required. My curious side wants to follow, but my respectable side insists I stay away. To let the emergency services carry out requirements, and more importantly, not add any further anxiety or distress, to whom ever is in need. I have no idea who was in need of help, why and if they are okay. I send out mindful best wishes they are safe and recovering.

I walk away from the drama and get back on track. I had become so lost in the beat of music, played at full volume I did not notice for a while sirens trying to alert me they needed me to move. A song I have listened to over and over again, suddenly had a sound affect I had not heard before. I thought to myself, I have never noticed that affect before. The sound affect doesn’t fit the mood of the music! Something made me turn round, realising the sound affect was actually the sirens of the Fire and Rescue gents trying to get me to move out the way! I gesture my apologies, pointing out my mp3 earplugs delivering music, had prevented me hearing them approach. Embarrassed, I receive smiles and laughter from three firemen. They give the thumbs up approval of my unintentional notice, of their call out and need to assist somebody vulnerable out on the wide open hills.

Away from the gathering crowds, walking a lone path, within minutes fog hides the views thick and fast. My hot brow is cooled by gentle showers. Very welcomed. I find the rain refreshing and it brings a feeling of contentment, for a while. I shared a previous experience, recalled previously in a blog update, how the weather can be unpredictable,and make training even more challenging, and quiet unsettling. Today is my first experience of cloud falling. Restricting my view, footings, feeling security and eventually having to accept, while continuation of training may appear brave, out alone lacking skills and knowledge would be idiotic. The fog restricted my vision to the extent, I could not see trails man made, or the possibility of walking of edge or into danger. At least 2.5 hours walked. I was not overly pleased with the miles completed but again accepted it was time to call today’s training to a closure.

What a week....

2011-08-14T20:21:00.069+01:00

It has not been possible to train in my local gym this week after work, due to appalling, mindless rioters looting and spreading fear throughout the city. I live less than a mile from the city centre where it was all kicking off. Thanks to my friend Jay text alerting me, I was on my way, by foot, ready to walk into chaos and danger.Her alert stopped me from God knows what. The gym I am a member of, had the front entrance windows smashed in amongst the random attacks,and looting. Helicopters have hovered above my apartment since Monday evening. One evening I sat by my window witnessing smoke hurling into the sky, from two directions of the city centre.We all felt unsettled in our homes. Safe and secure off the ground in apartments, but unsure if, as police forced rioters out of the city, they would flee in our direction and randomly start fires to our cars and property.

Today I had to get out, inhale some air and train. I walked for three hours and noticed I mainly thought of the sad events this week, which spiralled unintentionally to the rioters, cowards, and negative male role models I have encountered in my life. The United Kingdom seriously has a shortage of real men. Now do not get me wrong, I am not bitter, twisted or narrow minded with an attitude the male species is all bad or “the same.“ I have met and heard of some amazing, honourable men, who run marathons for charity, are loyal, loving husbands who support and protect their family. Numerous real men work at the hospice I work at as a volunteer. I have seen good men working with life limited children, grafting, fixing the gardens and or marshalling at ladies midnight walks as they raise money for charity. Lest we forget, the three Muslim men who died this week, as they protected their community from looters in Birmingham. Even more proof real men exist is the response of a grieving father. A father of one of those three brave men killed. Instead of anger and hate, he pleaded for the rioting to stop. He said:

"Our three boys have died. I hear that another person, a 68-year-old man, has died in London after he tried to help stop a fire. There should be no more deaths, and I hope and pray that message has got through."

My heart goes out to this man, all of his family, the short lived lives taken from these admiral men. I feel sadness and sickened to the gut by the rioting, looting teenagers, young and older adults actions around our country. Excuses have been made of poverty, boredom, no jobs. This idiotic behaviour has made situations worse. The tax payers expense for all the emergency services required. The loss of stock and damage to businesses which could result in closure resulting in more jobs lost. Damage to properties people go out and work hard to keep and maintain, either as a singleton or for a family. The unnecessary pain, tragic grief inflicted on innocent people. People who have had their lives turned so shockingly and unbelievable upside down, they will probably never feel return to real inner peace.

The hill training went well pedometer reads:16270 steps, 3+ hours walked needed and enjoyed. A happy positive week wished to all, make it a good one!

Ess leaving us..The ladies meal out, to wish her luck and best wishes in her new job xx

2011-08-04T23:16:00.061+01:00

The WOMEN!. True good friends...Lis, Jay, Ess.

Jay capturing the Ladies on her phone....Ess this is when you started sulking and hiding

Ess tells her childhood unicorn story.
Jay does impression.
Please do not mistake Jays sign language, normally used for male stupid drivers!

Jay spills coke all over Ess's pizza

The first time my eyes met Ess July 2009….. I had taken two months off work due to unfortunate bad health. Human resources, ticking boxes, required a health interview and part time routine breaking me back into full time work. I arrive back to work on a new project, new office and see many new faces. Two new females, greet me. Well, one actually greeted me. The girl that did not greet me had been hired to fill my shoes. I felt vulnerable returning after two months leave. Trying to sprite up, muster strength from recovery time off, due to a demanding role. During my leave off work, due to poor health, I hear my step mother be told, she had 6-12 months to live. This makes me try to get a grip with my health, after witnessing the news my step mom had been given. Human nature, it adds to my stress. Selfish I know.

I walk into unusual eco, accessible for all, temporary portacabins. This is highly professional due to the project scale and value. I remember putting on a top professional, confident woman outfit. to boost my moral, ignore my health de-lapse experienced and ignite confidence. When I arrived for my fit and healthy work interview, with a director, Ess, out of the two ladies was the first to greet me. I admit, I felt she looked me up and down, but I picked up on her smile, professional mask and a kind curiosity about me as I felt for her.

So, from that moment on, we bonded. A fun hearted, lovely lady, who worked for her wages to look after herself. And so, the story begins. She shared some blond moments, taught quiet a few, asked lots of questions and had lots going on behind the work scene. As we shared working days, we got closer and shared our highs and lows amongst the administration duties, JD's unpredictable diary and many busy times of the Selly Oak NR 2 project. She was going through some difficult times. As we all do. She always seemed to have strength, courage and a smile. I had to step in one day, and take over when I knew she needed time out and a check in on very bad leg injury. Rocky, her big butch dog had dragged her down the road, pulling her to the floor causing server open leg wounds, very close to getting septic. Ouch! I remember her poor painful expression, eyes and hearing her crying. Holding my hand when the A & E nurse took off bandages, she had wrapped on. Sure we laughed about it later. I still insist. to make a fortune Ess should write a novel on the tales of "Ess and Rocky" the rottweiler. It didn’t help Ess, that lots of other challenges were demanding this young lady at the time.

Ess recovers. Get's herself back to work, amongst the many other upsets and challenges. A strong and wise young lady. We share moments, work and fun again. Then, a lesson in life and our friendship which has since developed. We have a big break down in communication. We fall out. No talking at all. We have to carry on the work routine, but we no longer speak as friends for months. It took my Sahara Desert trek experience, and return from that journey, and time lost, for me to offer Ess a chocolate and reignite our friendship. I am proud that I followed my gut that day, and Ess accepted a genuine gift. Onwards and upwards.

I will miss Ess in the work environment. The selfish part of me wants Ess to be sitting in her chair when I walk in Monday morning. To hear her random funny comments, and odd rants. The young and wise comments and support Ess shares. The work situation is not good. Ess has made a wise, intelligent change to her next chapter. We shared a great, BIG, long hug. A few tears, and sentimental, meaningful words. I miss Ess so much already. When I watched her leave today, after almost two years sharing five days of each week of our lives together. But! New chapters start, and we will keep in contact. Ess, as I have told you again and again. No worries, you will bring life to your new place of work. Make new friends. They are privileged to have you. Love you loads. As said, when we hugged, our friendship, although not seeing each other daily, will remain and grow stronger. xxxx

Trying not to worry or get anxious

2011-08-04T11:03:00.027+01:00

I know worrying is pointless. Worrying and fretting will not change situations, but the words and negativity of others is sometimes difficult to avoid, escape and or ignore. We desperately need work now the Selly Oak new road project is near to completion. The atmosphere on site is not as positive as I hoped, when writing my 1st August blog update. More testing times I guess. More work to try and switch off when I'm home alone. Switch off the mind from worry and negative chatter. Maybe I should start talking the worry out loud to get rid of it. Then again the neighbours already think I'm a bit strange (who isn't?), best not to add to that by walking around my flat chattering out loud to myself.

What's the worst that can happen with regard to the work front? answer: I get made redundant. What next? answer: look for another job. That means dreaded interviews.   What if I can't match my salary to cover bills? answer: get two jobs (I've done this before, cleaning jobs, working as a receptionist in a nightclub while also maintaining a full time job.) What else is a worry? answer: change, new environment, new people etc. Reminder to self "change can be good, for God's sakes woman!" What if I can't get a job for ages? answer: just keep trying, or rent your flat out for a year, and action the travel dream, now that would be nice.   Another note to self:: See what listening to negative others does? Convince yourself you are going to be out of a job. STOP IT!

No doubt when I get home the above will roll around my mind again, re-creating anxiety. I thought my year was getting better not so long ago. Test, tests and more tests.  Please can I have a positive break through this month and have some nice, fluffy, pleasant surprise lovely things happen? I think I better re-read my previous post and get that lighter, positive attitude back. Alternatively put my fingers in my ears, say "lalalalalalalalala, I can't hear you" when the next person pours out bad luck and negative words in my direction.

Actually, I remember! Something nice has happened.   A sponsor has bought me a 3-4 season sleeping bag, which was quiet expensive. I knew I needed to purchase a good sleeping bag, to keep me warm and cosy during the cold nights anticipated on the Himalaya trek. Thank you to my kind, generous sponsor. Still, would like more good luck, nice things to happen, smiles, fun and laughter, because I'm worth it (corny but very true)

I want my Sunday walk, to clear space in my mind, get lost in a moving rhythm and music

Wishing a happy or content August to friends...Here we go ♥

2011-08-01T01:03:00.019+01:00

I like this photo...That is positive, happy and lovely radiant energy projected. Time for a new healthy, happy month magnifying good. Through the law of attraction I draw positive situations, opportunities and people into my life. Out with, and free from old negative and useless patterns, themes and situations. I deserve and welcome positive change and wish the same for my good friends. It is time to accept, receive and give positive productive change. I am liking this feeling and grateful for a new month.... loves and best wishes ♥♥

I AGREE, THAT DREAM SHOULD NOT COME TRUE!

Jay and Lis - Sunday trek training

2011-07-31T21:30:00.009+01:00

I am ready to dig nails in Jay's dashboard....

Jay finds a hill she wants to walk down, to admire the view

Time to walk back up the hill

What is this creature thingy??

Love it!..The 2011 Julie Andrews, high on a hill...............

Jay asked if she could join me on one of my Sunday hill training walks. Apart from the Acorns Hospice charity challenge teams one off social and pre Sahara Desert trek training day last year, I have always walked and trained alone. It was a welcomed change and lovely day. I made tuna and sweet corn sandwiches. Chopped pineapple and melon cubes, to share and enjoy a picnic on the hills. I never normally do this. Living alone I can be somewhat lazy when it comes to making meals or packing mini picnics for trek training.

Today is the first day Jay is testing out her trekking boots, I insisted she bought during our girly, trekking essential gear retail therapy day. Looking like pro trekkers, but not necessarily feeling so, we set out to train. Jay has all the mod cons. I have my works limited mobile and would not have a clue how to even operate the gadget Jay owns (I don’t even know what it is!?) She sets this gadget thingy ma jig to record our mileage coverage and the route we take.

It was kind of reassuring for me, and a relief to hear Jay share the path we are walking is fairly challenging. In my eyes she is a fit cookie (((cuppage)))) (private share between me and my girl). We walk my usual route. I ask Jay to pick out little worn in path ways she notices to add a change. She notices a view she wants to get near to. A steep way down and one hell of a challenge on the thighs and butt back up. All good work on the legs and mind attitude. We take a break to enjoy our picnic, and go over the list of my training and health schedule I want to put together on an excel spread sheet. I have asked Jay to be my training, check in monitor and mentor.

Rest over, and mock schedule sheet drafted, we carry on training. A challenging terrain where Jay does an amazing slope, gravel, downwards hill skate and skid with such grace and no tumble or fall. This crease's me up. Such style. I had no idea I would repeat this act later on during our trek training. We test out our legs and overall stamina on hills, and investigate tiny little worn away pathways, to see what views we can find. A great training day, and I really enjoyed sharing a Sunday walk with my mate Jay. Heading back to Jay’s car she cannot resist chasing the sheep off the hill. Hilarious, you had to be there! Back packing Jay, doing the mischievous Julie Andrews "the hills are alive" etc etc etc. She amused quiet a few onlookers too, although she was unaware of this but I clocked the pleasant amusement she created. Thanks Jay, I enjoyed our training, chats, putting together my schedule, smiles and laughs. *MWAH*

For Jay. Good luck with Ramadan, although I know you do not need it! I will support you with my new training regime and like last year participate in some fasting with you. Loves xxxx