The kids have been off this week and we have had a packed programme as ever. N,E & I spent a good chunk of the week in Manchester with grandparents so Noah and Esther had lots of fun and opportunity to exhaust their unlimited energy supplies.

There were a number of highlights which included:  

(i) Going to a Subway sandwich shop in Altrincham - the kids loved choosing their own fillings and Noah announced we must go to Subway at least once every time we visit Manchester. When he realises we have one in Brentwood his joy will be complete!


(ii) Going swimming at the local baths several times. Grandma purchased the kids some goggles and they were delighted - we discovered that Noah swims much better underwater than above, and Esther swirls around like a beautiful princess with bug eyes!!


(iii) Going to the park and feeding the ducks. Noah uses his bread up rapidly, flinging it far and wide in the ultimate demonstration of generosity, whilst Esther is much more methodical in her approach, ensuring each duck has an ample portion!

I managed a couple of jogs up the canal and even got my dad enthusiastic about running. At the ripe old age of 65 he reckons he could train up for a 5k, and as I departed was musing about purchasing a tracksuit… (running is contagious!)

We got back last night and Johnny rallied the troops off to see Bee Movie this am whilst I did a long run. I managed 12 miles injury free - hurray! - and a reasonable speed. It took me just over 2 hours so my goal of 2 hours 15 minutes for the Brentwood half (13 miles) is definitely attainable.

Paula Radcliffe’s fastest time for a marathon is 2 hrs, 15 minutes 25 seconds, so I reckon if I can run one mile for every 2 of hers, that’s got to count for something. keep it up all you runners out there!!

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