I’m old enough to remember a time when a new year began, you’d write the new year date in a few cheques in your cheque book to make sure you didn’t get the date wrong, and give someone a cheque they couldn’t cash. I can’t now remember the last time I wrote a cheque, although I still recieve the odd one at birthdays and Christmas. I’ve never been one for new years resolutions, but I did want to try a few things this year.

I wanted to lose some weight/ get fitter, so was aiming to run twice a week, raising to three times. To support this, I entered the Old Sodbury Scramble, which took place in March. This would be my first non parkrun 5k, and it was certainly different. A very slippery course over what was effectively farm land, with some steep climbs. However, I managed to get around, and even enjoyed it from time to time – and didn’t fall in the mud. I am enjoying the running, and also trying to do one lunchtime run at work – which makes sure I take a break as well as getting some exercise. You can follow my running adventures on Strava if you’re interested. My wife also set me a chalenge of doing 30 parkruns in 4 locations – I’m a bit behind so need to keep it up, but my time has been coming down nicely.

The second thing I wanted to attempt was a Bullet Journal. Apart from tracking my parkruns and the books I’ve read, I have to say I haven’t really got into it – but a bit more on that in a while.

Third was finishing my ILM Coaching qualification. Since the arrival of baby number 2 in July, this had taken a back seat – mostly because of tiredness/ holding the baby. However, it is something I really enjoy doing, so I’m determined to finish it.

Stoma and IBD are all under control – I’ll be doing the Bristol WalkIT event in May for Crohn’s & Colitis UK with the family.