Happy New Year

. . . so, it's 2012 and I would like to wish everyone who reads this blog a very, very happy, peaceful and prosperous new year.

I have started well, I've discovered that music is the way forward.  Since I've had my little music machine my mileage has really increased and in the last 48 hours I've loped 10 miles, I did a massive 5 miles yesterday - I'm not going to tell you how long it took but I'm looking at a sub-7hrs!!!.  but it doesn't matter, I've done 'silly season' these last few weeks and now I'm back to my marathon, my way and I've gone back to my original finish line crossing!.  Hopefully in time I might speed up just a bit but finishing at all is what it's all about - for me anyway.

I feel, as it's new years day that I need to say a few thank you's to the people who have dragged me, I mean, got me this far, so, taking last year from the start, here goes . . . and a surprise to begin with:

I would, honestly, like to thank Brian Barrett and Andrew Coe, without them I would never have fully appreciated what's truly good in my life.

And speaking of good, thank you to:

My Dad, who ran the marathon many years ago - for all his encouragement.

Michael Dann and Discord, for showing me that you don't need to be an expert (or even any good) at something to enjoy it and that singing is good for the soul.  I am a better person for singing.

Lucy and Hayley for all your tips, they really have helped.

Jan, for showing me that I need to be pushing to the next level.

My own Mr Motivator, you'll never know just how much strength you give me just by being there.

My boys, who laugh at me regularly and teach me that this really isn't that serious.

All the people who have sponsored me, they give me the drive to carry on.

Jeremy Kyle, for the 'Jeremy Kyle' moments I have when it's getting tough and I take myself back to the very beginning, loping in the lounge to his show.

To Olly Murs who's 'Dance with me Tonight' gets me through every extra mile.

My wonderful, amazing, beautiful coach, she has loped with me, laughed with me and encouraged me more than anyone and I will always cherish the time we have spent together.  I would advise any mum of a teenage daughter to get out and run with her.

To My brother Malcolm who taught me what true courage was and to the wonderful people at Isabel hospice who taught me about giving, they are my inspiration.

What an incredible team, how can I possibly fail over the next 3 and a bit months.

Thank you