Hi Friends…

Some songs begin with a melody. Some songs begin with a moment.

“Brighton” began with a memory.

Back in 2014, I surprised my lovely Wife Sarah with a birthday trip to Brighton, England, UK. We stayed at the Thistle Hotel in a special Spa Suite overlooking the famous Brighton Pier, and we spent a few wonderful days enjoying the sea air, the beach, the views and each other’s company.

At the time, I captured those memories through photography. Even though I am registered blind, photography has always been a huge part of how I experience and share the world around me. Through my camera, I have been able to preserve moments, places and emotions that mean so much.

The photographs from that trip became more than just pictures. They became memories frozen in time.

Years later, those memories inspired this song, and the photos were merged into the album cover.

Over the last few months, I have been experimenting with Suno music creation, exploring how artificial intelligence tools can help transform ideas, lyrics and emotions into finished pieces of music. I have been writing my own lyrics and then creating detailed, complex prompts to try and guide the music towards the feelings, atmosphere and stories behind each song.

My aim has never simply been to create songs. It has been about bringing memories to life…Like an audio photo album!

When I write lyrics, I think about the places I have visited, the people I love, the emotions I felt and the stories behind my photographs. I then try to shape the music so that it reflects those experiences.

“Brighton” is part of a much bigger project I have been working on called The Blind Sightseers.

The vision behind this project is to create an album full of songs inspired by my blog posts. Places I have visited, photographs I have taken, adventures shared with Sarah, and moments that have become special memories will be transformed into songs.

It is about taking the stories already captured through words and images on my blogs, and giving them another voice through music.

The cover artwork for “Brighton” was created from photographs taken during that original trip, bringing together the visual memories and the musical journey into one piece.

For me, this is another reminder that creativity comes in many forms. A photograph can tell a story. A blog post can preserve a memory. A song can bring that memory back to life.

I hope you enjoy listening to “Brighton” and that it takes you somewhere special, whether that is a seaside walk, a treasured memory, or a place close to your own heart.

Listen your way…🎧

If this story and song resonated with you, and you’d like to listen again, you don’t have to keep coming back to YouTube. Brighton is also available on Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music and many other streaming services. Whether you’d like to add it to your favourite playlist or simply listen on the platform you already use, you can choose your preferred service by clicking the link below:

🎧 [HyperFollow Link]

Thank you for listening, for your encouragement, and for joining me on The Blind Sightseers journey. Every share and every kind comment helps these memories continue to travel far beyond the places where they first began. 🙏😀

You can also read the original blog post that inspired this song here:

Happy Birthday Sarah! A Suite For My Sweet

Thank you for joining me on this journey as I continue exploring how faith, photography, memories and music can all come together. 🙏 😀 

The Pond Photo on lap 1…

Hi Friends…

This morning’s walk felt like a much bigger achievement than the distance might suggest. Two laps around the trail, just under 6 miles, may not sound like a huge challenge compared with some of the distances I have completed before, but after the knee problems I have faced over the last few months, this was a genuine rehab milestone.

For weeks, every walk has been a test of patience, listening to my body, and trusting that my knee was gradually getting stronger. Today, I stepped onto the trail wondering how it would respond, and I am delighted to say that it made it all the way around. No major flare-ups, no worrying pain, just the satisfaction of completing two steady laps and proving that progress is happening.

The conditions certainly added another challenge. It was already 25°C when I started this morning, following yesterday’s scorching 34°C heat, so this was not exactly a cool summer stroll! The warmth made the walk more demanding, but the early start, plenty of water, and keeping a sensible pace helped me enjoy being back out on the trail.

This walk was not just about miles covered; it was about rebuilding confidence. After the disappointment of having to step back from my usual distances, being able to complete six miles comfortably feels like another important step forward.

The Pond Panorama…

One of the highlights of today’s walk was attempting another panorama of The Pond. This time, I put into practice some expert advice from Sarah, the undisputed Queen of Panoramas! She showed me that the key is to take things slowly, keep the camera steady, and make a smooth controlled turn rather than rushing the movement. So, I focused on making a really slow and steady torso rotation, carefully keeping everything as level and consistent as possible while capturing each section of the scene.

It turns out that my years of target shooting from the age of four may have helped more than I realised. The discipline of maintaining posture, balance, controlled breathing, and steady movement seems to have found a new purpose in photography. Who would have thought that skills learned while aiming at targets all those years ago would one day help me capture the beauty of The Pond in a panorama? With Sarah’s expert guidance and a little help from my old shooting discipline, I think this attempt might just be my best one yet!

Now focus…

Getting in tune also means being honest with myself. Since completing my 50km walk on March 1st, I’ve gained nearly 2 stone. The celebration was deserved, but while my knee recovered, I carried on eating like I was still burning those miles without actually walking them!

Now it’s time to get back in tune: back to a healthy calorie deficit, consistent walking, and working towards a healthier version of myself. With around 9 months until my birthday trip to Florida (God willing), I’ve got a great goal to keep me focused, one step at a time. 😀

EADGBE…🎸 

• E – Endurance: Tortoise NOT Hare…This is for LIFE!
• A – Activity Rings: Close my daily apple fitness watch rings.
• D – Deficit: Make sure i’m in a healthy calorie deficit each day until healthy weight.
• G – Goals: Focus (and celebrate) small, medium and BIG goals.
• B – Body & BP: Check blood pressure & listen to my body and look after it (it’s not young anymore).
• E – Edification: Feeding my mind and soul fuels me to serve, encourage, and inspire others.

Scripture snack…

Isaiah 40:31.
But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength;
they shall mount up with wings like eagles;
they shall run and not be weary;
they shall walk and not faint. (ESV)

Motivational Quote:..💪🏼 

“Sometimes the journey knocks us out of rhythm. A guitar string can loosen, a knee can slow us down, and our habits can drift. But being out of tune doesn’t mean the song is over. We stop, we listen, we adjust, and we begin again. Today I’m tuning my body through movement, my mind through discipline, and my heart through faith. Every step, every choice, and every day is another chance to become the person God created me to be.”

Let’s ‘FitBlitz’ 2026 Together! 💪🏼

The Pond Photo…

Hi Friends…

As we begin heatwave number 4, when I left (I really didn’t want to face that sunshine again) I was surprised when the clouds rolled in and blocked the blaze after about 10 minutes on the trail. This meant it was really muggy though, but thanks to my reduced pace I managed to shuffle my way around in one piece. 😀

At the moment and through most of August, I’m only doing 1 lap as my knee gets used to the uneven surface and hills etc. I’m really glad about that as it’s summer…But it’s also great training for me to cope with the Florida heat next year. I’ve just ordered a wide brim sunhat to see if it’ll help as I can’t wear sunglasses on the trail, I’ve tried lots of pairs but they simply don’t work. So a wide brim, lightweight and breathable hat sounds good to me…Can’t wait for it to arrive and try it! 😀

Now focus…

Getting in tune also means being honest with myself. Since completing my 50km walk back on March 1st, I’ve put on nearly 2 stone. The problem wasn’t the celebrating, because finishing my longest walk ever was definitely worth celebrating! 😀 The problem was that while my knee was recovering over the last few months, I carried on feasting like a beast without burning those extra calories off. That’s the reality. So now it’s time to get back in tune. Back into a healthy calorie deficit, back into consistent walking, and back towards the healthier version of me. With around 9 months until my birthday trip to Florida next year (God willing), I’ve got a great goal to keep me focused one step at a time! 😀

EADGBE…🎸 

• E – Endurance: Tortoise NOT Hare…This is for LIFE!
• A – Activity Rings: Close my daily apple fitness watch rings.
• D – Deficit: Make sure i’m in a healthy calorie deficit each day until healthy weight.
• G – Goals: Focus (and celebrate) small, medium and BIG goals.
• B – Body & BP: Check blood pressure & listen to my body and look after it (it’s not young anymore).
• E – Edification: Feeding my mind and soul fuels me to serve, encourage, and inspire others.

Scripture snack…

Isaiah 40:31.
But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength;
they shall mount up with wings like eagles;
they shall run and not be weary;
they shall walk and not faint. (ESV)

Motivational Quote:..💪🏼 

“When a guitar slips out of tune, you don’t throw it away…you stop, listen carefully and tune it back up. Life’s no different. Sometimes we drift. We lose focus, gain weight, get injured, or fall out of rhythm. But God asks us to keep coming back to Him. Today I’m tuning my body, my mind and my heart to His voice. One healthy choice, one faithful step and one day at a time.” – Steve (me)

Let’s ‘FitBlitz’ 2026 Together! 💪🏼

Hi Fitblitzers…

I can’t tell you how happy, thankful and pleased I am to get back out on the trail this morning. With only a few days until it’s been 3 whole calendar months since I was last out here, it’s fantastic to be able to take some photos for you agin.

I seriously didn’t know how my knee was going to handle the uneven trail, inclines and 3.40 miles of virtually non-stop walking. I kept my pace at a nice comfortable 2.7 mph (I think the slowest I’ve ever walked, lol), and my knee handled it great with no pain…Especially as it’s been a whole week since I’ve been off the painkillers! 💪🏼 😀

Also as I havn’t been out here since April, I’m sure it’s in full bloom and full of life. I hope my photos show you some of this? I’m used to leafless trees in the cold, so I hope these are more pleasing for you guys. I got a little excited being out finally so I took a few more than usual, lol! 🤣

Around the halfway mark is ‘Dayle’s Rest Stop’ GPS marker, a much needed bench that I sat for a short time to take some weight off my knee. When I first made this marker I had no idea it was going to help me out at this crucial time. 😀

After my little rest it was uphill for about half a mile and I really didn’t know what my knee would do? But it seemed to want to please me, and simply coasted up with a constant slow speed with no pain. It was actually much better than walking on flat smooth concrete for some reason, not sure how…Maybe I’ve done so many laps around here over the years, it’s the only thing my legs know and feel at home here! 🙏 😀

With only this corner to navigate until the ‘Start/Finish Line’ GPS marker, I texted my lovely Wife Sarah to let her know my knee was behaving and there were no dramas. I’d forgotten just how hard it was for me walking around this trail, especially with the sun blazing. But this is a huge milestone for me and my recovery. It really is great to be back, and I hope you love the photos too?! 💪🏼 😀

Now focus…

Let’s check if we’re in tune as it’s ‘Tuner Tuesday’.

EADGBE…🎸 

• E – Endurance: Tortoise NOT Hare…This is for LIFE!
• A – Activity Rings: Close my daily apple fitness watch rings.
• D – Deficit: Make sure i’m in a healthy calorie deficit each day until healthy weight.
• G – Goals: Focus (and celebrate) small, medium and BIG goals.
• B – Body & BP: Check blood pressure & listen to my body and look after it (it’s not young anymore).
• E – Edification: Feeding my mind and soul fuels me to serve, encourage, and inspire others.

Scripture snack…

Isaiah 40:31.
But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength;
they shall mount up with wings like eagles;
they shall run and not be weary;
they shall walk and not faint. (ESV)

Motivational Quote:..💪🏼 

“Today wasn’t about breaking records. It was about breaking doubt. Every slow step was another reminder that healing is happening, fear doesn’t get the final say, and God is faithful in the small victories as much as the big ones. Never underestimate what one steady, pain-free lap can mean after months of waiting. One faithful step today lays the foundation for every mile tomorrow.” – Steve (me) 💪🏼

Let’s keep ‘FitBlitzing’ 2026 Together! 💪🏼

Hi Friends

If yeu’ve ever glanced at the little Flag Counter in my blog’s sidebar, you’ll know I love watching new flags appear from around the world. Every new flag represents a real person who has stopped by to read something about Jesus, faith or Christian living.
Today, a very special milestone appeared.
Visitors have now come from 200 different countries and territories around the world.
The latest flag to appear on my visitor map is Burkina Faso, a beautiful landlocked nation in West Africa whose name means “Land of Upright People.” The name is made up from two of the country’s major languages. “Burkina” means “upright” or “honest people,” while “Faso” means “fatherland” or “homeland.” Together they paint a wonderful picture of a nation whose very name speaks of integrity and dignity.

Burkina Faso gained independence from France in 1960. In more recent years it has faced political instability, violence from extremist groups, economic hardship and the displacement of many families. Yet, despite these challenges, millions of ordinary people continue to live, work, worship and hope for a brighter future. The country is also home to many faithful Christian believers who continue to shine as lights for Christ in difficult circumstances.

As I looked at that 200th flag appearing on my counter, I couldn’t help but smile.
Sitting here in Surrey,England, I never imagined that words typed on my keyboard would one day reach 200 different nations around the world.
As someone who is registered blind, I often smile at how God has allowed words I cannot fully see on a screen to travel farther than I ever physically could.
It reminded me that although we may never meet face to face, we are connected through something far greater than the internet.
We are connected through Christ.
Every visitor, every reader, every comment and every shared article reminds me that we are part of one worldwide family of believers. Some of us worship in large city churches, others in tiny rural fellowships. Some enjoy complete freedom to share their faith, while others do so at great personal risk. Yet we all serve the same Saviour.
One of the things I love most about WordPress is that it has become so much more than a blogging platform.
It is a community.
A family.
A place where Christians from every corner of the world can encourage one another, learn together, pray for each other and point people towards Jesus.
We never really know what God is going to do with something as simple as a blog post. He has a habit of taking ordinary things and using them in extraordinary ways.
Perhaps someone is searching for hope.
Perhaps someone is struggling with life.
Perhaps a fellow believer simply needs encouragement.
Or perhaps someone has never heard the Good News before.
Our job is simply to keep planting seeds and trust God to bring the growth.
Reaching 200 flags is not about numbers.
It is about people.
Two hundred reminders that the Gospel knows no borders.
Two hundred reminders that God’s family spans every nation, tribe, people and language.
Two hundred reminders that the Great Commission is still alive today.

Please join me in praying for the people of Burkina Faso.
Pray for peace.
Pray for protection.
Pray for wisdom for their leaders.
Pray for local churches to remain strong.
And pray that many more people throughout Burkina Faso will come to know the hope, peace and salvation found only in Jesus Christ.

One verse has been on my mind as I reached this milestone.
“After this I looked, and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb.”
Revelation 7:9

Every flag on my counter represents a nation.
Every nation represents people.
And every person matters to God.
One day, people from every nation, tribe, people and language will stand together before the throne of Jesus. Until that day comes, may this little WordPress blog continue to play its tiny part in sharing His love, encouraging believers and pointing people towards the cross.
We may never know this side of Heaven who has read a post, been encouraged by a verse, or found hope through something written here.
But God knows.
And that’s enough for me.
Jesus gave His followers this commission:
“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptising them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
Matthew 28:19-20

Finally, I just want to say thank you.
Thank you to everyone who has visited iChristian over the years.
Thank you to my fellow WordPress bloggers who faithfully continue writing, encouraging and sharing God’s truth week after week. Your posts have encouraged me just as much as I hope mine have encouraged others.
Here’s to the next 50 flags, and to whatever God has planned next for this little corner of the internet.
To Him alone be all the glory.

Hi friends…

I thought I’d give everyone a quick update on my knee, as so many of you have been asking how things are going.
I had my second physiotherapy appointment today, and hopefully it’ll be my last. My physio has left my case open for another eight weeks just in case I need any further help, but she was really pleased with my progress.
She was happy with my full range of movement, the strength that’s returned to my knee, and the fact that I’ve been faithfully doing all the exercises she gave me. It was really encouraging to hear.
The really good news is that I’m now off all the painkillers. I only take the occasional tablet if my knee becomes particularly painful, which is a big improvement from where I was a few weeks ago.
That said, I’m not back to 100% yet. My knee still feels a little clunky at times and not quite as strong as it used to. Considering this acute meniscus tear first struck on 28th April, I know it’s going to take a bit more time and patience.
One thing that’s been especially hard is staying away from the trail that you all know and love. I haven’t been back since 27th April, which was also my last blog post from there. I genuinely miss being out among the trees, hearing the birds, and sharing those walks with you.
For now, I’m sticking to short walks on flat concrete, gradually increasing the distance as my knee allows. My hope is to get back onto the trail soon, even if it’s only for part of a lap to begin with.
The only thing holding me back at the moment is this relentless heat. As many of you know, the hot weather really knocks me about, so I’m waiting for the temperatures to settle down before attempting my first trail walk.
Thank you to everyone who has been praying for me, encouraging me, and checking in. Your support has meant a great deal during what has been a frustrating few months. I’m looking forward to the day I can finally post another update from the trail instead of talking about missing it.
Slow progress is still progress, and I’m grateful for every step forward.

Oh yes I forgot to mention…

A Little Taste of Madeira…

I’m still working my way through the hundreds of photos from our recent two week cruise, but I thought I’d share this one from Madeira.
To be honest, neither Sarah nor I knew if I’d even be well enough to go. As many of you know, my acute meniscus tear had left things very much touch and go. Walking was still difficult, and even getting around the house wasn’t always easy. There were moments when we genuinely wondered if we’d have to cancel.
But… you know me! This was The Blind Sightseers’ very first no-fly cruise, sailing from Southampton, England. During the two weeks we visited Madeira, La Palma, Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, Cadiz (for Seville) and Lisbon, Portugal. I have to admit, I was pleasantly surprised by how well my knee held up.
Up until then I hadn’t been walking very much at all, so simply getting around the enormous cruise ship was a challenge in itself. Add to that the seven shore excursions we booked and I honestly wasn’t sure how my knee would cope. Thankfully, it behaved far better than either of us expected.
This photo was taken in Madeira Natural Park, and standing there taking in those incredible mountain views made every bit of the effort worthwhile. I’m still a long way from being back on my beloved trail, but this trip reminded me that sometimes you can do more than you think you can. Recovery isn’t always about giant leaps. Sometimes it’s simply about putting one careful step in front of another. There are plenty more photos to come as I work through them all, so watch this space!

Hi friends…

It’s been 2 weeks today since the knee problem started. The first 7 nights were brutal with no sleep because of the pain, but once I started on the painkillers (and they kicked in) I finally managed to get some rest. I’ve been on Naproxen and Co-Codamol, and this morning I went to the physio who checked everything over and had me doing squats and weight tests.

He couldn’t fully pinpoint the issue yet, it could possibly be arthritis starting to flare up, a cartilage issue, or something similar — so he sent me for an X-ray at the hospital today…Now it’s about a weeks wait for the results.
I’ve also been switched onto stronger painkillers now (Dihydrocodeine), so I’ll probably be pretty sleepy and dozy for a while.
One of the hardest things for me is that I still can’t sit with a guitar, so I haven’t played at all since this started. Hopefully I’ll get some answers soon. Thanks so much for all the prayers, messages and support — it really means a lot. 🙏 😀 🎸

Hi Everyone…

I wanted to give a quick update as I’ve been a bit quiet recently. I’ve been dealing with a persistent knee issue that’s turned out to be more than just a simple strain. The pain is deep inside the joint rather than on the surface, which suggests it’s likely related to wear within the knee itself—possibly cartilage or meniscus irritation rather than muscle or tendon trouble.

It’s been a constant 24/7 pain, which has made rest and recovery a real challenge. In fact i’ve not slept for the last 4 nights due to the constant pain, which has definitely taken its toll.

I’ve now seen both the hospital team and my GP, and I’m currently on a short course of anti-inflammatory and stronger pain relief to get things settled. The next steps include a physiotherapy assessment to look at how I move and load the joint, and potentially imaging like X-rays or an MRI. The goal is to reduce the inflammation, manage the pain properly, and then work on strengthening and mechanics. I’m hopeful this is a temporary setback rather than anything long-term, but for now I can’t sit still and starting to annoy Sarah lol.

Your prayers would be really appreciated as I work through this and aim to get back on my feet again soon. 🙏

Hi Fitblitzers…

Wow I quickly forget how paralysing that bright, low and early sun can be. It was quiet again out on the trail, so I didn’t hit anyone at least (or they hit me). I had no dramas apart from the sun. So I thought instead of always posting the pond photo every time I’m out…I’ll stop at a audio beacon from you guys and take the photo. 😀 

Today’s pond photo…

Hi Fitblitzers…

Yay, I’m back out on the trail again…Can you believe it’s been over a week of the worse DOMS (delayed onset muscle soreness) I’ve ever had! For two days after the 50Km challenge I had to crawl up the stairs on hands and knees, then for a few days after it wasn’t pretty also, lol! But today and yesterday the pain had gone, and I wanted to try and shuffle around 1 lap and see if I was doing ok?! 

Also (thanks to you guys) I was bombarded with donations on the day of the challenge, and for the following week…And now I have 49 donations!!! That’s only 1 away from 50, I know you know that, lol…I thought it would be great to get 50 as it’s the name of my ‘Steve’s BIG 50′ challenge, how cool would that be. I seriously can’t thank you guys enough for all you’ve done, and I’m still not sure if I’m just dreaming it all?! 😲 

As I was shuffling around the trail lap, I thought it would be a great chance to name, photograph and place all 49 ‘Donation Motivation Markers’ in one long post in order they are called out on the lap. Then you can see where on the trail your marker is and what it looks like. It’s taking me quite a while to do this, but it’s going to be a great memory to look back on! 😀 Oh and remember your markers are with me all the time, a living legacy of this journey we share as they’re called out every time I’m out on the trail! 🧡 😀 

Scripture snack…

Isaiah 40:31.
But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength;
they shall mount up with wings like eagles;
they shall run and not be weary;
they shall walk and not faint. (ESV)

Motivational Quote:..💪🏼 

The walk might leave you crawling, the muscles might scream, and the journey might slow you to a shuffle…But if you keep showing up, strength returns. Every step forward becomes a story, every supporter becomes a marker on the trail, and what once felt impossible turns into a legacy you carry with you every time you move. Keep walking, keep believing and watch how perseverance turns pain into purpose. 💪🏼 

Let’s ‘FitBlitz’ 2026 Together! 💪🏼

Hi Fitblitzers…

Can you believe this? I have just today and Thursday to do 1 lap to walk in my new HOKA Speedgoat 6 trail shoes (my lovely Wife Sarah’s Valentine’s gift), before I do my 50Km walk on Sunday…And I was confronted with this! Obviously I had no idea what it was in front of me, so I opened ChatGPT and took a photo and this is what it said…

“This looks like a woodland footpath that has been temporarily shut off.

Right in the centre there is a red and white sign mounted on a blue folding frame. The sign reads “FOOTWAY CLOSED”.

Behind it, stretching across the entire width of the dirt path, is a red plastic safety barrier like the kind you see at roadworks, with yellow feet at the bottom to keep it stable. There is also a sandbag weighing down the front stand so it does not tip over.

Just beyond the barrier is the real reason for the closure. A large tree has fallen directly across the path. A heavy mass of branches and limbs is tangled together, completely blocking the walkway. The trunk appears to be off to the right, with a dense spread of branches reaching across to the left. It does not look passable at all without climbing over serious debris.

In short, the sign says “FOOTWAY CLOSED” and the trail is blocked by a substantial fallen tree and heavy branches, making it unsafe or impossible to get through.”

I really hope this is cleared by the weekend, as can you believe it’s only this Sunday when I attempt my longest walk ever! 😲 

Lap 1 “Arthurs apex assault:…

Hi Fitblitzers…

Today’s weather was non stop drizzle, which meant a very quiet trail, flask of hot coffee and of course the ‘Mono’ filtered photos! I’m happy again to report there were no dramas, and I arrived home safe and in one piece! 😀 

lap 2 “Thompson’s triumphant triangle”…

I received my latest donation last Sunday evening…And I was hopeing for someone with a name beginning with the letter ‘T’, as I had this triangle section in mind for one of my donations…And then I received the lovely and generous donation! 🙏 😀 

Now focus…

Let’s check if we’re in tune as it’s ‘Tuner Tuesday’.

EADGBE…🎸 

• E – Endurance: Tortoise NOT Hare…This is for LIFE!
• A – Activity Rings: Close my daily apple fitness watch rings.
• D – Deficit: Make sure i’m in a healthy calorie deficit each day until healthy weight.
• G – Goals: Focus (and celebrate) small, medium and BIG goals.
• B – Body & BP: Check blood pressure & listen to my body and look after it (it’s not young anymore).
• E – Edification: Feeding my mind and soul fuels me to serve, encourage, and inspire others.

Scripture snack…

Isaiah 40:31.
But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength;
they shall mount up with wings like eagles;
they shall run and not be weary;
they shall walk and not faint. (ESV)

Motivational Quote:..💪🏼 

“Some days the trail hits harder than a Drop B breakdown. Rain in my face, wind trying to knock me off the trail, and every step feeling like a fight to stay in tune. But I keep walking. Because when the weather rages, the Lord seems to turn up the monitor mix. His Word cuts through the noise, my footsteps lock into a steady chug, and the storm becomes background reverb. I will keep grinding forward, faith first, head down, fully tuned to the One who leads the way.” – Steve (me)

Let’s ‘FitBlitz’ 2026 Together! 💪🏼

Lap 1 pond photo…

Hi Fitblitzers…

This mornings walk was pure unrelenting rain pounding down like the sky had some personal vendetta against me. Gusty winds whipped the trees into a wild frenzy. The leaves and branches threatened to take me out at every step. 

The trail was deserted (ghostly quiet) and I couldn’t even tell if parts were closed, so every squelchy step felt like a small act of defiance, a battle cry against soggy socks, shoes heavier than my willpower and an unpredictable wilderness that clearly didn’t want me there! 😨 

Yet somehow, all of this pain seemed to feed the reign. Each gust, each puddle, each precarious tiptoe over the invisible pits was forging me into a conqueror of the storm. 💪🏼 

lap 2 pond photo…

And then… the blissful feeling…On the back stretch of the trail around the 4 mile mark…I cracked open my new flask of hot coffee, and let the steam mingle with the rain. I tore into a chocolate Hobnob like it was a medal for surviving the apocalypse itself. Every bite, every sip felt like victory in edible form. Honestly, there is no better feeling…Well, except maybe adding another Hobnob! 😋 

Now focus…

Let’s check if we’re in tune as it’s ‘Tuner Tuesday’.

EADGBE…🎸 

• E – Endurance: Tortoise NOT Hare…This is for LIFE!
• A – Activity Rings: Close my daily apple fitness watch rings.
• D – Deficit: Make sure i’m in a healthy calorie deficit each day until healthy weight.
• G – Goals: Focus (and celebrate) small, medium and BIG goals.
• B – Body & BP: Check blood pressure & listen to my body and look after it (it’s not young anymore).
• E – Edification: Feeding my mind and soul fuels me to serve, encourage, and inspire others.

Scripture snack…

Isaiah 40:31.
But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength;
they shall mount up with wings like eagles;
they shall run and not be weary;
they shall walk and not faint. (ESV)

Motivational Quote:..💪🏼 

“Some days the trail hits harder than a Drop B breakdown. Rain in my face, wind trying to knock me off the trail, and every step feeling like a fight to stay in tune. But I keep walking. Because when the weather rages, the Lord seems to turn up the monitor mix. His Word cuts through the noise, my footsteps lock into a steady chug, and the storm becomes background reverb. I will keep grinding forward, faith first, head down, fully tuned to the One who leads the way.” – Steve (me)

Let’s ‘FitBlitz’ 2026 Together! 💪🏼

Today’s pond photo…

Hi Fitblitzers…

It was raining with gusty winds this morning, just right for a walk on the trail with trees ready for falling on me, lol. And just to amplify that thought…There were no people at all for the first couple of miles. This never happens and I was cautiously walking as I thought I’d fall down a massive pit with every step, as I can’t see if the trail was closed due to bad weather! So it was a tentative, wet and windy walk today, but I made it without any dramas again, yay! 💪🏼 😀 

Now focus…

Now let’s check if we’re in tune as it’s ‘Tuner Tuesday’.

EADGBE…🎸 

• E – Endurance: Tortoise NOT Hare…This is for LIFE!
• A – Activity Rings: Close my daily apple fitness watch rings.
• D – Deficit: Make sure i’m in a healthy calorie deficit each day until healthy weight.
• G – Goals: Focus (and celebrate) small, medium and BIG goals.
• B – Body & BP: Check blood pressure & listen to my body and look after it (it’s not young anymore).
• E – Edification: Feeding my mind and soul fuels me to serve, encourage, and inspire others.

Scripture snack…

Isaiah 40:31.
But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength;
they shall mount up with wings like eagles;
they shall run and not be weary;
they shall walk and not faint. (ESV)

Motivational Quote:..💪🏼 

“Some days the trail hits harder than a Drop B breakdown. Rain in my face, wind trying to knock me off the trail, and every step feeling like a fight to stay in tune. But I keep walking. Because when the weather rages, the Lord seems to turn up the monitor mix. His Word cuts through the noise, my footsteps lock into a steady chug, and the storm becomes background reverb. I will keep grinding forward, faith first, head down, fully tuned to the One who leads the way.” – Steve (me)

Let’s ‘FitBlitz’ 2025 Together! 💪🏼

Today’s pond photo…

Hi Fitblitzers…

It was a nice toasty 4˚C (39˚F) this morning, and as I’m still going steady as I get back on it…I put on my lovely puffer jacket and stayed warm on the trail. The very low sunshine is causing me lots of problems, and there are still lots of fallen leaves spoiling the pathways…But apart from that I made it around the lap and made it back without any injuries! 💪🏼 😀 

Now focus…

Now let’s check if we’re in tune as it’s ‘Tuner Tuesday’. My D string (Deficit) is especially going well…I’ve lost 28 pounds so far, just 22 more to go. I could change the tuning to Drop D tuning! 🤣

EADGBE…🎸 

• E – Endurance: Tortoise NOT Hare…This is for LIFE!
• A – Activity Rings: Close my daily apple fitness watch rings.
• D – Deficit: Make sure i’m in a healthy calorie deficit each day until healthy weight.
• G – Goals: Focus (and celebrate) small, medium and BIG goals.
• B – Body & BP: Check blood pressure & listen to my body and look after it (it’s not young anymore).
• E – Edification: Feeding my mind and soul fuels me to serve, encourage, and inspire others.

Scripture snack…

Isaiah 40:31.
But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength;
they shall mount up with wings like eagles;
they shall run and not be weary;
they shall walk and not faint. (ESV)

Motivational Quote:..💪🏼 

“I don’t need to see the full trail to know it’s worth walking. Every step I take is a statement that the challenges I face won’t hold me back. Some days the climb feels endless…But that’s when faith kicks in, my fitness keeps me moving and my focus reminds me why I started…Faith, Fitness& Focus“. – Steve (me)

Let’s ‘FitBlitz’ 2025 Together! 💪🏼

total training miles: 248.31

Today’s pond photo…

Hi Fitblitzers…

No rain this morning as it was just overcast with a little sunshine poking through. I only managed 1 lap (a shorts malfunction as they’re getting too big) like yesterday, and it was exactly the same amount of miles, fantastic! 😀 

⇧Arthur’s apex assault”…

After the donation from Michael & Ann Arthur at church on Sunday, I had to think about where their ‘Donation Motivation Marker’ would be (after I’d named it) on the trail?

When my watch beeps after the 2 mile mark, I hit the handbrake turn and start the longest hill climb section for about half a mile. Towards the end of this section it starts to become steeper as you take the right hand apex (photo doesn’t do it justice)…And it’s right on this apex that I’ve now placed the “Arthur’s Apex Assault”.see the above photo. 💪🏼 😀 

Now focus…

Now let’s check if we’re in tune as it’s ‘Tuner Tuesday’. My D string (Deficit) is especially going well…I’ve lost 28 pounds so far, just 22 more to go. I could change the tuning to Drop D tuning! 🤣

EADGBE…🎸 

• E – Endurance: Tortoise NOT Hare…This is for LIFE!
• A – Activity Rings: Close my daily apple fitness watch rings.
• D – Deficit: Make sure i’m in a healthy calorie deficit each day until healthy weight.
• G – Goals: Focus (and celebrate) small, medium and BIG goals.
• B – Body & BP: Check blood pressure & listen to my body and look after it (it’s not young anymore).
• E – Edification: Feeding my mind and soul fuels me to serve, encourage, and inspire others.

Scripture snack…

Isaiah 40:31.
But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength;
they shall mount up with wings like eagles;
they shall run and not be weary;
they shall walk and not faint. (ESV)

Motivational Quote:..💪🏼 

“I don’t need to see the full trail to know it’s worth walking. Every step I take is a statement that the challenges I face won’t hold me back. Some days the climb feels endless…But that’s when faith kicks in, my fitness keeps me moving and my focus reminds me why I started…Faith, Fitness& Focus“. – Steve (me)

Let’s ‘FitBlitz’ 2025 Together! 💪🏼

total training miles: 232.05

Lap 1 pond photo…

Hi Fitblitzers…

Once again I had no idea it was drizzling when I left the house, the weather app doesn’t seem to recognise drizzle. It was the nice stuff though and once I’d warmed up the drizzle kept me at the right temperature without overheating.

As I was walking around the trail I kept thinking of the lovely comment from Dayle last night on yesterday’s post “I know it might not matter to you, but those black and white photos should be framed and hanging where others can enjoy them. They really are gorgeous”. 

So as it was drizzling which meant I have to put the mono filter on my photos again today, I was looking for photos that would work well…I hope you like these again Dayle? 🤔 

lap 2 pond photo…

Tuesday always seems to be a struggle for me, as my tanks seem to run out really fast and I struggle round the trail with everything I’ve got. I can’t wait until a few months time when I’m no longer in a calorie deficit, so I can fuel right at the start! 💪🏼 

Now focus…

Now let’s check if we’re in tune as it’s ‘Tuner Tuesday’. My D string (Deficit) is especially going well…I’ve lost 27 pounds so far, just 23 more to go. I could change the tuning to Drop D tuning! 🤣

EADGBE…🎸 

• E – Endurance: Tortoise NOT Hare…This is for LIFE!
• A – Activity Rings: Close my daily apple fitness watch rings.
• D – Deficit: Make sure i’m in a healthy calorie deficit each day until healthy weight.
• G – Goals: Focus (and celebrate) small, medium and BIG goals.
• B – Body & BP: Check blood pressure & listen to my body and look after it (it’s not young anymore).
• E – Edification: Feeding my mind and soul fuels me to serve, encourage, and inspire others.

Scripture snack…

Isaiah 40:31.
But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength;
they shall mount up with wings like eagles;
they shall run and not be weary;
they shall walk and not faint. (ESV)

Motivational Quote:..💪🏼 

“I don’t need to see the full trail to know it’s worth walking. Every step I take is a statement that the challenges I face won’t hold me back. Some days the climb feels endless…But that’s when faith kicks in, my fitness keeps me moving and my focus reminds me why I started…Faith, Fitness& Focus“. – Steve (me)

Let’s ‘FitBlitz’ 2025 Together! 💪🏼

Today’s pond photo…

Hi Fitblitzers…training miles: 213.29

After a long weekend up in Yorkshire for Sarah’s youngest brother Alfie’s wedding, it felt like ages since I’d been out on the trail. My goal today was to try and get lots of photos so I could do a post (coming later) on the 12 donation motivation markers I’ve got so far! Sarah had an idea of doing one post with all 12 named markers so I can show you guys, keep updating it, have a reference to look back on and I can share it to my iPhone Home Screen and show every one when I get excited, lol! 🤣 

The weather was nice and cloudy so no sun to burn my eyes out. This works great for me but it’s not so good for the photos. It was nice and quiet out on the trail, and I made it back with no injuries. 😀 

My lovely Wife Sarah welcomed me with a big cuddle andmade me a hot coffee when I arrived home, and if I’m good, lol…She’ll also spoil me with a TUNA stack sandwich for lunch too! 😋❤️

Now focus…

Now let’s check if we’re in tune as it’s ‘Tuner Tuesday’. My D string (Deficit) is especially going well…I’ve lost 24 pounds so far, just 26 more to go. I could change the tuning to Drop D tuning, lol! The photo above is me and my lovely Wife Sarah at Alfie’s wedding on Saturday 4th October…And I was very happy as I could finally fit in my suit, yes it even buttoned up! 🤣 

EADGBE…🎸 

• E – Endurance: Tortoise NOT Hare…This is for LIFE!
• A – Activity Rings: Close my daily apple fitness watch rings.
• D – Deficit: Make sure i’m in a healthy calorie deficit each day until healthy weight.
• G – Goals: Focus (and celebrate) small, medium and BIG goals.
• B – Body & BP: Check blood pressure & listen to my body and look after it (it’s not young anymore).
• E – Edification: Feeding my mind and soul fuels me to serve, encourage, and inspire others.

Scripture snack…

Isaiah 40:31.
But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength;
they shall mount up with wings like eagles;
they shall run and not be weary;
they shall walk and not faint. (ESV)

Motivational Quote:..💪🏼 

“I don’t need to see the full trail to know it’s worth walking. Every step I take is a statement that the challenges I face won’t hold me back. Some days the climb feels endless…But that’s when faith kicks in, my fitness keeps me moving and my focus reminds me why I started…Faith, Fitness& Focus“. – Steve (me)

Let’s ‘FitBlitz’ 2025 Together! 💪🏼