Monday 26th September 2016

It’s always the same, when the clocks spring forward the weather turns to being wet and grey, probably a lot like my mood today after, unfortunately, a rather restless sleep. I do sometimes wonder whether, by writing this blog, I perhaps question my wisdom in wanting to share my dream with others. Don't get me wrong, there are so many who are really supportive. But there are others who, for whatever reasons, seem not to like, enjoy or even want to understand what I’m attempting to do. But that’s okay. I’ve laid bare my heart, my hopes and my dreams and, as such, I’ve laid myself open to everyone. Rather than fretting about it, perhaps I should see a positive and thank all the followers, some more frustrated than me with the weather and the delays, for giving me the nudge and reminding me why I’m here.

I need to also remember it’s important to get the very most out of this once in a lifetime experience of mine. At the same time, it gives me an opportunity to thank Mother Nature yet again for allowing me the luxury of taking such a long break from the city life; to remind myself of what I’m trying to achieve, not just for myself, but for all those people (like the lovely lady I met yesterday) who are endeavouring to make the world a better place for those suffering from mental illness.

It’s been a day for wondering and pondering, a day to try and get mundane jobs out of the way, a day not only to try and better understand others but also myself, a day for me to re-charge my batteries, to stay calm and remain focused. Having achieved most of the stuff on my whiteboard list, I felt more positive and so sat down and wrote a short piece for a running community that has apparently found some of my adventures inspiring. I find it uplifting that they seem to understand the connection between mental health and the need to exercise.

With the writing done and dusted, Anna and I then made a quick journey to the supermarket to get some more food and, as she’s not so keen on my colour selection of nail polish (just three different shades of red!), to do some girly things and buy her some new ones. By then, I really needed to go for a swim. Both to clear my head and to do some exercise, so I dragged Anna with me, although I was the one who needed to stare at the line on the bottom of the pool, to feel the balm of the water and enjoy the soothing air bubbles and soon enough I had 3km nailed. Afterwards, we spent far too much time in the hot spa where Anna actually got chatting to a lovely man called Ben who was really interested in what we are doing or at least, attempting to do!

My smiles today:
Anna enjoying a sleep-in.
Really beautiful people.
Positive, uplifting attitudes.
Anna so happy now that her iPhone is working again.

My thoughts today:
Some people really understand me and my journey. Others? Well, there’s still time for them to try and understand.

From Red and Anna, wishing you all a very good night.

Ma Te Wa.

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