Today I managed to bring my walking speed back up to 3.5 mph. My knee felt really good throughout the walk, which I’m incredibly thankful for, although my eyes were certainly letting me know that 3.5 mph is quite a pace for me! 😂 Still, it felt great to be moving more confidently again, and I’m genuinely encouraged by how my knee is responding. After everything I’ve been through with it, being able to get back out here, walk at a speedy pace and enjoy the trail feels like a real blessing. And, of course, I had to stop and take another panorama of the pond…
One thing I particularly like about this panorama is that I managed to capture the path on both sides of the pond in the same photograph. Those of you who have been following my trail walks will know this is the very path I walk along from left to right before stopping to take my pond photograph.
‘Liz’s Super Speedway” Panorama…
And then we come to another familiar part of my route, which I’ve affectionately named ‘Liz’s Super Speedway’. If you’ve been following my walks for a while, you’ll know exactly why I call it that! This is the long, straight section of trail where I can really get into my stride, and today, reaching 3.5 mph made it feel rather appropriate to give the place another panoramic outing. I love how this particular view shows the trail disappearing into the woodland, with the trees and vegetation creating what almost feels like a natural tunnel. It’s a completely different atmosphere from the open clearing around the pond, but it’s just as much a part of what makes this trail special to me.
Scripture snack…
Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18)
Give thanks…🙏
Me carrying my Princess Sarah! 😀
How might you pause to give thanks today? Perhaps it’s saying a simple prayer, reflecting on a Bible verse that speaks to your heart, listening to a worship song, enjoying a peaceful walk in nature, catching up with a favourite blog from your WordPress family, or simply sitting quietly in God’s presence. However you choose to spend the moment, may your heart be reminded of His goodness and faithfulness.
Motivational quote…
Today I’m thankful for so much: for our wonderful trip to Derby, for family and friends, for the encouragement of my WordPress family, and for the simple blessing of being back on the trail. I’m thankful that today I could pick up the pace to 3.5 mph, that the weather finally gave my eyes a break from being burned out by the heat and glare, and that my knee held strong every step of the way. Above all, I’m thankful for God’s faithfulness and for the people He places around us to encourage, teach and walk alongside us. 😀
I haven’t been on the trail this morning because I’m still writing about our trip up to Derby last Thursday through Sunday, and actually, I think that’s quite fitting for a Wellness Wednesday. Because wellness isn’t just about walking, exercise, fitness, eating well or getting your steps in. Sometimes, wellness is about the people around us. It’s about family, friendship, laughter and making memories together. Sometimes, it’s about stepping away from the usual routine, travelling several hours up the country and surprising someone who means an awful lot to you. And sometimes, wellness is simply about being surrounded by people who remind you just how blessed you are to have them in your life.
A trip to Derby with a secret…
About a week before we went to Derby, I received a message from Bridge’s daughter, Laura. She told me that she was organising an amazing surprise 70th birthday party for her mum. Then she said something that really made me smile. She said that Bridge never shuts up about me, and she thought it would be great if I could come up to Derby and surprise her. Well… how could I possibly say no to that?
So Sarah and I packed our bags and headed up to Derby, while keeping the whole thing as secret as possible. We stayed at the Derby Mickleover Hotel, which was perfect for us because it has something particularly important for Sarah: an indoor swimming pool. Sarah absolutely loves swimming, so when we’re looking at hotels, having an indoor pool can make all the difference, as our local pools are simply too crowded and impossible for us to visit. It meant that while we were away, Sarah could still get in the pool and enjoy one of the things she loves doing…And for me, the hotel became our little base while we spent a very busy few days catching up with people.
Family time
One of the lovely things about going up to Derby was getting to see my brother Paul, his girlfriend Carrie and my niece Jess. Jess is only four years old, and spending time with her was brilliant. There’s something about being around a four-year-old that reminds you that life doesn’t have to be complicated. Everything is exciting. Everything is interesting…And sometimes the simplest things produce the biggest smiles. (Oh and I also wrote her a great Birthday song of course…Coming up in the ‘Story behind the song’ series).
I also got the chance to see my sister…
Ambber had absolutely no idea we were even in Derby! So Sarah and I decided to walk into her coffee shop completely unexpectedly and surprise her. We walked in, and there we were. Surprise…We sat down and had a bacon roll, a lovely coffee and, of course, an egg custard. So discovering one was available was never going to end well for the egg custard. 😋
An American smokehouse and old friends
We also spent some really lovely time with my best mate Rob, his girlfriend Shelley and some of their children Ella, Georgia and Mighty Mike. On Thursday evening, just after Sarah and I had arrived at the hotel, they invited us back to their house for a takeaway, which was a lovely way to start the weekend and catch up properly. On Friday evening, we all went out together to an American smokehouse, enjoying some great food, plenty of laughs and even more catching up. Then on Saturday, we headed into Derby city centre together, wandering around the shops and soaking up the atmosphere before finding some beautiful pink lilies for Bridge’s birthday party that evening.
There was something really special about spending those few days together, not just at the big birthday celebration, but in all those little moments in between – sharing food, walking around the city, laughing, chatting and simply enjoying each other’s company. Those are the moments that often become some of the best memories.
And then there was Bridge…
Of course, the whole reason for the trip was Bridge’s 70th birthday. Bridge wasn’t simply someone I knew. Twenty-six years ago, when I lost my sight, Bridge was my home help. But she became so much more than that. Those were some incredibly difficult years for me. I was in a very dark place, and there were times when I was suicidal. Bridge was there during those years. She saw me when life was very different from what it is now. She saw the struggles. She saw the darkness…And she stayed, that’s why Laura’s message meant so much to me. To hear that, all these years later, Bridge still talks about me so much that her daughter thought I should be part of her 70th birthday surprise… Well, that is something pretty special.
So I wrote her a song…
Just before the last photo, I want to tell you about the moment that, for me, brought the whole weekend together. Laura suddenly grabbed the microphone, and as the noise and laughter in the garden faded into complete silence, she called out, “Mum, I need you to listen to this song! And where is Steve?” She then told everyone that I had written a song especially for Bridge and pressed play. The music came through the very loud speaker, and suddenly there was nowhere to hide from the emotion of that moment. Laura and her sister Charlotte stood either side of their mum, each holding her close, while I stood opposite them with Sarah in my arms. Then the first verse began… and I just broke down in tears. Sarah told me afterwards that there wasn’t a dry eye anywhere in that garden. I had written every word, heard the finished song and listened to it countless times, but hearing it there, in that garden, with Bridge standing in front of me, was completely different. This wasn’t just a song anymore. This was our story.
Then, after the first chorus, Bridge came over, took me in her arms and we began to slow dance together as the song continued. We were both crying, holding onto each other as those words played around us, and I found myself thinking about everything that had happened since we first met 26 years ago. She had been there when I lost my sight. She had been there when I was in some of the darkest years of my life. And now, here we were, all these years later, dancing together at her 70th birthday party while listening to a song I’d written to tell her what she had meant to me. I’m still not quite sure why I cried because, let’s face it, I wrote the blooming song! Lol. But they were happy tears. Tears of gratitude. Tears for the memories, for the journey, for the friendship, and perhaps for the sheer realisation of how far both of us had come.
On Sunday, before we headed home, my brother Paul came to pick Sarah and me up from the hotel. He then picked up my Dad and the four of us went to the pub for Sunday lunch together. After lunch, we headed to Starbucks for a lovely coffee and a proper catch-up before Paul dropped Sarah and me off at the train station to head home. I don’t get to see my Dad very often at all, so having the chance to spend some time with him, sit together, chat and simply enjoy being in each other’s company meant a lot to me. As we said our goodbyes and Sarah and I boarded the train home, I found myself reflecting on just how full those few days in Derby had been. Family, old friends, surprises, laughter, memories and one very emotional birthday celebration. It was a weekend I’ll remember for a very long time. 😀
There was something different about this morning’s walk. The trail hadn’t changed. The trees hadn’t moved, the paths were exactly where they have always been, and the hills certainly hadn’t disappeared overnight. But for the first time in a while, it felt like I was properly back on the trail.
The difference?
The sunshine had gone. After what seems like weeks of blazing sunshine, this morning was heavily overcast. And for me, that makes an enormous difference. The blazing sunshine is my nemesis. When the sun is hammering down, there is another layer of information my brain has to deal with. Heat, glare, changing light, shadows and the general sensory assault of a bright day all add to the cognitive load of navigating the trail.
This morning, that extra noise had disappeared. The trail felt calmer. And so did my brain.
Getting Back Up to Speed
Something else happened today that I’ve been thinking about ever since I got home. I found my speed. I’ve mentioned before that when I deliberately slow down on this trail, I can actually find navigation more difficult. You might think that walking more slowly would automatically make things easier, but for me it can have the opposite effect…This trail is incredibly familiar to my body. I’ve walked it so many times that my subconscious has effectively built a map of it. My body knows the rhythm of the path, the changes in gradient, the corners, the surfaces and the sequence of what’s coming next.
It’s almost like being an F1 driver who knows a circuit so well that they aren’t consciously thinking about every corner. They don’t drive around thinking, “Right, there’s the corner. Now turn. Now straighten up. Now accelerate.”They simply know.
They feel the circuit. That’s what walking this trail can feel like for me. When I’m moving at my natural pace, everything starts to flow. My stride, balance, orientation and memory of the trail all seem to work together automatically. When I slow down too much, I interrupt that rhythm. And suddenly my conscious brain starts getting involved…And I can go completely blank!
“Where am I now?”“Is this the next turn?”“Am I still on the right section?”The slower I become, the more I seem to have to think about something that my body already knows. So this morning, when I got up to speed, something clicked. I wasn’t fighting the trail. I was flowing around it.
Sarah’s Sunshine Bench Panorama…
And the Knee?
This might actually be the best part. My knee held up brilliantly. After everything I’ve been through with it, there’s something quite satisfying about being able to get out onto the trail, increase the pace, tackle the elevation and finish the walk feeling good. So although it felt like I was absolutely flying compared with some of my recent walks, my body wasn’t screaming at me that I was overdoing it.
Without the blazing sunshine, there was simply less cognitive load. I wasn’t dealing with the same level of glare and heat. I wasn’t constantly processing the effects of the sun. I could concentrate less on managing the conditions and more on simply walking. And when you combine that with a trail my body already knows, something interesting happens. The conscious mind can step back. The subconscious takes over. The body remembers. The trail flows beneath my feet and, corner by corner, hill by hill, I know where I’m going. Maybe that’s why today’s walk felt so different. It wasn’t just that the weather was cooler. It wasn’t just that my knee was behaving. It wasn’t even just that I was walking faster. Everything was working together.
For a little while this morning, I didn’t feel like someone recovering from a knee injury who was carefully negotiating a familiar trail. I felt like the old me again.
Now focus…
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 caloriedeficit 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:..💪🏼
Progress isn’t always about pushing harder. Sometimes it’s about removing the things that get in the way, trusting what you’ve practised, and allowing your body to remember what your mind has already learned. Today, the sunshine disappeared, the cognitive load became lighter, my rhythm returned, and the trail seemed to flow beneath my feet. The knee held up, the miles went by, and for a little while, I felt like the old me again. That’s the thing about a journey towards a healthier life: some days you build strength, some days you build endurance, and some days you simply rediscover what you’re capable of. Keep showing up. Keep moving. Keep learning. Keep trusting God with the bigger picture. You don’t have to conquer the whole journey today… you just have to take the next step.
Well, this is a slightly different Story Behind The Song… I’ve already written about Sarah’s Tamil Chicken once before, but that was back when it was still just dinner. Apparently, I wasn’t satisfied with simply eating it. I had to turn it into a song. And if you’ve been following my recent musical adventures, you’ll know that this is becoming something of a problem. Give me a good story, a guitar, a few lyrics and a little help from Suno, and apparently absolutely anything can become a song. Including chicken. Especially Sarah’s chicken.
IT ALL STARTED IN THE KITCHEN…
Back in September 2025, I wrote a FitBlitz post called “Sarah’s Spiced Symphony: Tamil Black Pepper Chicken.” And honestly, I think the title gave the game away, because when Sarah gets into the kitchen, she doesn’t really cookdinner. She puts on a show. That particular evening, the headline act was chicken breasts, marinated in a fiery black pepper paste with coconut and seared until they were beautifully golden. Then came the pilau rice, cooked with that deep, wonderfully spiced Tamil-style stock. Then the supporting cast arrived: caramelised onions, fried mushrooms and lettuce. And finally, the cooling turmeric yoghurt seasoning. It wasn’t just a meal. It was an event. At the time, I described it as being like a rock concert, complete with Marshall stacks, guitar solos and enough flavour to make Wembley sit up and take notice. Which, looking back, was probably my first mistake. Because once you start describing chicken like a stadium rock performance… the next logical step is apparently to write a stadium rock song about it.
FROM DINNER TO THE STAGE
Fast-forward to 2026. I’ve been having great fun writing my own lyrics and then using Suno to turn those lyrics into actual songs. And somewhere along the way I thought: “Hang on… what about Sarah’s Tamil Chicken?” Why not? It had everything: drama, heat, rhythm, a killer chorus and, most importantly, chicken. So I started writing. And suddenly that original FitBlitz post came back to life. The chicken became the star, the black pepper and coconut marinade became the opening act, the pilau rice laid down the rhythm section, the caramelised onions became the guitar solo, the mushrooms and lettuce wandered onto the stage completely unexpectedly, and the turmeric yoghurt came in for the cooling encore. Except this time, I turned the whole thing into lyrics.
WELCOME TO THE SARAH KITCHEN ARENA
The song takes the original idea and pushes it completely over the top. Because why simply say that Sarah has made a tasty chicken dinner when you can imagine the whole kitchen transformed into Sarah Kitchen Arena? The smoke is rising, the crowd is going wild, the black pepper is hitting like a guitar riff, the chicken is sizzling, and somewhere in the background I’m probably wondering whether we should call the fire brigade. It’s completely ridiculous. And that’s exactly why I love it. The song isn’t meant to be serious. It’s meant to make you smile. It’s meant to make you want to bop along. And, ideally, it’s meant to make you slightly hungry.
BUT THERE’S A SERIOUS POINT…
Well… sort of. One of the things I’ve really enjoyed about creating these songs is discovering that a story doesn’t have to be huge to become something worth creating. It doesn’t have to be about a life-changing event. It doesn’t have to be profound. Sometimes it’s simply: Sarah cooked chicken. I thought it was brilliant. I wrote about it. And then, months later, I thought: “That would make a funny song.” So I wrote one. And that’s the beauty of creativity. You never quite know where an idea is going to take you. A walk can become a photograph. A photograph can become a story. A story can become lyrics. And apparently dinner can become a rock concert.
SARAH’S TAMIL CHICKEN
So here it is. Sarah’s Tamil Chicken. A song born from one of Sarah’s ridiculously good dinners and my inability to leave well enough alone. The original meal was real. The FitBlitz post was real. The lyrics are mine. And then Suno helped me turn those lyrics into the musical madness now known as “Sarah’s Tamil Chicken.” I think Sarah deserves the credit. After all, without her cooking, there would be no song. Although I suppose technically I deserve a little credit too… because I was the one who ate it. That’s research.
THE ORIGINAL FITBLITZ POST
If you want to see where the whole thing started, you can read my original post: Sarah’s Spiced Symphony: Tamil Black Pepper Chicken.That’s where the chicken, pilau rice, caramelised onions, mushrooms, lettuce and turmeric yoghurt all first appeared. Back then, I called it a culinary anthem. I clearly didn’t realise how prophetic I was being. Because now… it actually is one.
FROM THE KITCHEN TO THE STAGE
And that, my friends, is the story behind “Sarah’s Tamil Chicken.” One meal. One slightly overexcited food review. A handful of lyrics. A lot of imagination. And one very willing AI music generator. Who knows what’s next? At this rate, Sarah had better be careful what she cooks. Because there might be a song about it.
Thanks for stopping by, and remember… Sometimes inspiration comes from the strangest places. Sometimes it comes from a guitar. Sometimes it comes from a walk. And sometimes… it comes with black pepper, coconut and a side of pilau rice.
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. Sarah’s Tamil Chicken 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:
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. 🙏😀
It’s Tuner Tuesday again, which means it was time to get back out onto the trail and put in another bit of training…And of course, no Tuner Tuesday would be complete without my trusty Tuna Stack Sandwich, lovingly prepared by Sarah. 😋
I’m beginning to think the sandwich is actually an essential part of the whole Tuner Tuesday experience. The walk, the photos, the hat and the tuna sandwich. That’s the routine. And yes, I wore my new wide-brimmed sun hat again…I’m becoming rather attached to this thing.
With the sun blazing down today, that big brim did a pretty good job of keeping some of it at bay, which made the walk a lot more comfortable. I’m still not a fan of being roasted alive while I’m trying to walk, so anything that keeps a bit of that sunshine off my head is a winner in my book. But I’ve discovered something rather disappointing…
The hat isn’t magical.
Despite the trail being pretty busy today, I didn’t get a single “Good morning.” Not one.
Because today I wasn’t wearing my usual khaki outfit. Nope. I was dressed entirely in black. So maybe the combination of wide-brimmed hat + khaki clothing was giving off some sort of unofficial park ranger vibe after all. Clearly I need to conduct further scientific research. I’ll probably have to wear the khaki outfit again and see what happens.
And then there were the photographs.
I’ve taken not one, but TWO panoramas today!
I’m definitely getting plenty of practice in, because I’m going to need all the training I can get before we head to Florida next April. Every panorama I take is another bit of practice in getting the positioning right, keeping everything steady and getting a feel for how the finished image is going to come together. Considering I’ll have some pretty spectacular scenery to work with in Florida, I’d rather get the mistakes out of the way here!
So that’s another walk, another bit of fitness training, another experiment with the camera, another opportunity to test the magical powers of my hat…And naturally, another Tuner Tuesday complete with Sarah’s Tuna Stack Sandwich. Although I’m still slightly concerned about the lack of “Good mornings.” Maybe it really was the khaki.
Now focus…
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 caloriedeficit 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:..💪🏼
“Getting fit isn’t about being perfectly in tune every day. It’s about showing up, putting in the miles, practising the things that matter, and making a few adjustments along the way. Today it was another walk, two panoramas, a wide-brimmed hat, a Tuna Stack Sandwich and plenty of practice for Florida. Some days we’re building strength, some days we’re building habits, and some days we’re just figuring out why nobody said ‘Good morning!’ 😂 But every step counts. The goal isn’t to rush the journey…it’s to keep moving forward, stay focused, enjoy the little wins, and trust God with the bigger picture. One step, one choice and one Tuner Tuesday at a time.”
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:
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:
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 caloriedeficit 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.”
This morning’s walk was also a bit of an experiment! I was trying out my new lightweight, wide-brim sunhat to see if it would help stop some of the bright sunlight drilling straight into my retinas. It didn’t perform miracles, but it definitely made a small difference. When you’re registered blind, though, a small difference can be a massive improvement, so I came away really pleased with it.
I also attempted to take a photo of the pond with me standing in front of it wearing my new hat. As always, I have absolutely no idea how it turned out, but I’m hoping it came out alright! One unexpected bonus was that I seemed to get more friendly greetings than usual. I heard quite a few “Good morning!” and even a cheerful “Morning, mate!” Perhaps the new hat makes me look like a park ranger, lol! 🤣
My 2nd attempt at a Panorama…
I also had another go at taking a panorama this morning. After some helpful advice from my lovely Wife Sarah, I tucked my elbows into my sides and rotated my whole body instead of just moving my arms, hoping to keep the phone a little more level throughout the sweep. It certainly felt steadier, so I’ll let you be the judge of whether it made a difference! There was another encouraging moment on the walk too. I accidentally jolted my recovering knee a few times on some uneven ground, and each time I instinctively waited for the pain… but it never came. There was no pain during the walk and none afterwards either, which feels like another small but significant milestone on the road to recovery. Tomorrow, all being well, I’ll be attempting my first two-lap walk since the injury, so today’s outing has given me plenty of confidence that things are continuing to move in the right direction.
motivational Quote…
Never underestimate a small improvement. When you’re walking by faith instead of sight, even the smallest step forward can change the whole journey.
Today marks my fourth consecutive day of completing one full lap of my local trail, and I honestly couldn’t be more thankful to God. Just a short while ago, after suffering a meniscus tear in my right knee, I wasn’t sure when I’d be able to walk this beautiful route again, let alone enjoy it day after day. Every gentle step reminds me that healing doesn’t always happen overnight, but with patience, perseverance and God’s faithfulness, progress comes. This isn’t about speed or distance today. It’s about simply being out there again, surrounded by His incredible creation and appreciating every moment.
The photo above really captures the scale of this amazing woodland. If you look carefully at the image (thanks alt text descriptions), you’ll notice a tiny runner dressed in black disappearing into the distance beneath the towering trees (they blasted past me when I stopped to take the photo, lol). That small figure almost disappears amongst the giants of the forest, giving a real sense of just how vast and majestic this trail is. It’s one of those scenes that reminds me how small we are in comparison to God’s magnificent creation, yet how deeply loved and cared for we are by Him every single day.
‘Dayle’s Rest Stop’ Audio Marker Pano…
I also decided to try something a little different by creating a panorama at “Dayle’s Rest Stop”, with the familiar audio marker bench sitting right in the centre of the image. Normally Sarah is the undisputed panorama Queen in our family. She’s simply brilliant at capturing those wide, sweeping scenes, so I was stepping well outside my comfort zone! Whether I managed to do the location justice or not, it was fun to experiment and continue learning as a blind photographer armed only with an iPhone using Voiceover, lol. Every outing is another opportunity to improve, explore and see the trial in new ways.
Finally, on this Thankful Thursday, I simply want to thank God for each and every one of you. Your encouragement throughout this week has meant far more than you probably realise. Every comment, every kind word, every ‘like’, every shared smile over a photograph, and every prayer has lifted my spirits and reminded me that this wonderful community is about so much more than walking or photography. It is about friendship, encouragement and walking life’s journey together. Thank you for continuing to support both Sarah and me. We are truly grateful, and we pray that God richly blesses every one of you. 🙏 ❤️
Scripture snack…
Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18)
Give thanks…🙏
Me carrying my Princess Sarah! 😀
How might you pause to give thanks today? Perhaps it’s saying a simple prayer, reflecting on a Bible verse that speaks to your heart, listening to a worship song, enjoying a peaceful walk in nature, catching up with a favourite blog from your WordPress family, or simply sitting quietly in God’s presence. However you choose to spend the moment, may your heart be reminded of His goodness and faithfulness.
Motivational quote…
“Gratitude turns ordinary moments into reminders of God’s extraordinary faithfulness. Every step taken, every breath drawn, every encouraging word received, and every glimpse of His creation becomes another reason to trust Him for the road still ahead. Today’s thanksgiving strengthens tomorrow’s hope.”
With temperatures forecast to reach a scorching 33°C today, I was determined to get out nice and early before the blazing sunshine turned the trail into a giant flame thrower! Thankfully, the cooler morning air made for a much more comfortable walk, and after three days on the bounce, my knee is still behaving itself. That’s a milestone in itself because I haven’t managed three consecutive trail walks since before my meniscus injury earlier this year.
Today’s 1 lap trail walk doesn’t feel particularly hilly while you’re walking it, the route still packs in 214 feet (65 metres) of elevation gain. That’s the equivalent of climbing a 22-storey building! To put that into perspective, I climbed higher than Cinderella Castle at Walt Disney World in Florida, which stands at 189 feet (58 metres), and reached almost half the height of the London Eye, which rises 135 metres (443 feet) above the Thames. Not bad for this hobbling blindman for what most people would simply call “a walk in the woods!”
What’s encouraging isn’t just today’s walk, though. It’s the consistency. Three consecutive days tells me my knee is coping well with the repeated effort, and that’s every bit as important as the distance itself. Recovery has been a long road, but little by little the confidence is returning.
I’m already looking ahead to next month, when I hope to start tackling two laps of the trail again. That would mean covering 6.84 miles and climbing around 428 feet (130 metres) of elevation, the equivalent of 44 storeys. Amazingly, that’s higher than The Wheel at ICON Park in Orlando (formerly known as the Orlando Eye), which stands 400 feet (122 metres) tall. It’s funny how a woodland trail in Surrey can quietly rack up enough climbing to rival one of Florida’s best-known landmarks!
“Wilson’s Walkway” Audio Marker…
Every walk is another step towards my long-term goals. Not just getting fitter, losing weight and strengthening my knee, but preparing for the adventures Sarah and I hope to have together next year. Sometimes progress isn’t measured by speed or personal bests. Sometimes it’s simply measured by getting out there again, putting one foot in front of the other, and being grateful that you can.
Thanks, as always, for following the journey. Your encouragement means more than you know.
Have a wonderful Wednesday, and if you’re in the middle of this heatwave too, take care, stay hydrated, and try to find a little shade along the way! 😊
motivational Quote…
Today’s walk reminded me that some of life’s biggest achievements don’t always look spectacular from the outside. To most people, it was just another stroll through the woods. Yet hidden beneath those woodland paths was the equivalent of climbing a 22-storey building. It made me realise that our progress is often the same. We quietly overcome obstacles, grow stronger, and move closer to our goals without the world noticing. Keep taking those small, faithful steps, because one day you’ll look back and realise you’ve climbed far higher than you ever imagined. Great achievements are rarely built on giant leaps. They are built on thousands of faithful, ordinary steps that refuse to stop.
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 caloriedeficit 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)
Yay, it feels like I’m really back after my time out from my meniscus tear injury…As this is my first ‘Motivational Monday’ post. I managed another lap this morning without much knee pain at all. The trail was very quiet today, so I spent the whole lap wondering if the trail was closed, and at any moment I’m going to crack my shin again…I didn’t! 💪🏼
“Meach’s Melodic Momentum” Audio Marker…
I’m certainly MOTIVATED at the moment, not only because my knee is actually getting better…But there is now a real chance of me and Sarah (The Blind Sightseers) flying over to Florida for our birthdays next year! 😲
This is one of our dreams as we’ve never done the USA before, we’ve cruised all around the Caribbean islands, Mexico and Honduras…But not the USA! It would be amazing to get over to Florida and were trying not to get too excited…But it’s not easy and we can’t stop looking everything up that we’d love to do, lol! 🤣
“Sarah’s Sunshine Bench” Audio Marker…
I think I need a little sit down on ‘Sarah’s Sunshine Bench’ and think about the \Florida Goal Challenge’ ahead. There’s still lots to do but I love a challenge, and when the goal is set…I get focused, lol! 🤣
motivational Quote…
Sometimes all it takes is one reason to look forward instead of looking back. A healing knee, a dream worth chasing, or the thought of tomorrow being better than today can reignite your determination. Goals have a way of pulling us through the ordinary days because every small step suddenly has a purpose. Trust God with the journey, stay faithful in the process, and keep putting one foot in front of the other. You may be closer to your next adventure than you think. – Steve (me)
After Tuesday’s first walk out on the trail for 3 months, I wanted to go out and see if it was a fluke…It wasn’t! 😀 I managed it again without any knee pain, which meant I can really start trusting my knee again, and stop keep waiting for it to crumple and leave me face down on the floor, lol! 🤣
And after comments like this from Dayle (see blow) on my Tuesday’s post on iChristian, how can I not be thankful and get out there and keep going just a little bit further…
“I’m so glad you’re able to do this! You’re being courageous–you’re not quitting! And the pictures are glorious, my friend. You should be so thrilled with what you’re able to do, what you’re willing to work towards” – Dayle.
Scripture snack…
Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Give thanks…🙏
Me carrying a Princess! 😀
How might you pause to give thanks today? Perhaps it’s saying a simple prayer, reflecting on a Bible verse that speaks to your heart, listening to a worship song, enjoying a peaceful walk in nature, catching up with a favourite blog from your WordPress family, or simply sitting quietly in God’s presence. However you choose to spend the moment, may your heart be reminded of His goodness and faithfulness.
Motivational quote…
“Every step I take is a gift I refuse to take for granted. I’m thankful for the legs that carry me, the air that fills my lungs, and the strength God gives me to keep moving forward. I’m thankful for the quiet moments on the trail where I can hear His voice in the wind and feel His presence in the steady rhythm of my steps. Life may not be perfect, the path may not be smooth, but the journey is still beautiful. Faith, Fitness, Focus” – Steve (me)
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 caloriedeficit 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) 💪🏼
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.
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!
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. 🙏 😀 🎸
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. 🙏
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. 😀
Well I think I’ve finally recovered from the ‘Steve’s BIG 50’ fundraising challenge, lol. So walking out this morning and listening to all of the donation markers was such a blessing. The sun was out but still cold (it is England, lol). At least it makes the photo look nicer with a bit of colour. I had no dramas out on the trail, which was really quiet, yay! 😀
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. 💪🏼
This morning everything aches. Stairs are now a tactical exercise. Sitting down is fine. Standing back up requires prayer and leverage. Yesterday i completed my ‘Steve’s The BIG 50‘ challenge…And it wasn’t just about distance, it was a fundraiser for the MS Society, and in memory of my mum.
Why 50 Matters…
My mum died at 50 because of Multiple Sclerosis. MS took her mobility long before it took her life. I grew up watching a strong woman gradually lose the ability to walk. To move freely. To trust her own body. Yesterday I walked 50 kilometres at 50 years old — something she was never physically able to do because of MS.
By mid-afternoon, when my hips were burning and my feet felt like they’d been introduced to a cheese grater, I reminded myself that this pain is chosen, this pain is temporary…For thousands living with MS, the limitations are not. That perspective changes how I’ve endured this challenge.
The Hardest Thing I’ve Ever Done
This was the hardest physical challenge I’ve ever taken on…
11 hours moving. Over 2,200 feet of elevation. 30.37 miles recorded before my watch shut down just before the finish. Yes, the watch quit…I didn’t, I walked the final 0.7 miles hand in hand with my lovely Wife Sarah.
At 50, eleven hours of constant impact leaves a mark. Today my legs feel every mile. My back is stiff and my feet are tender…But I didn’t collapse.
The Battle Most People Didn’t See
The only photo I’d taken as I wanted to save battery power.
I had never encountered so many cyclists, runners, dog walkers, and entire family convoys walking three abreast across the full width of the trail. When you’re blind, that’s not an inconvenience, It’s cognitive load.
Every approaching voice requires processing. Every bike needs direction tracking. Every dog lead is a potential hazard. Every blocked path demands spatial recalculation. For eleven hours…By late afternoon yesterday, the mental fatigue was as real as the physical fatigue. This wasn’t just a leg test. It was a neurological endurance test.
The F1 Pit stops
Now let’s talk about the quiet hero of yesterday, My lovely Wife Sarah. She was extraordinary. Every lap I came in, she was waiting like an F1 pit crew.
Water flasks refilled.
Chocolate Hobnob tubs jammed full. Sausage roll handed over for pit stop fuel.
Hug, kiss and words of encouragement. Minimal delay and back out!
Fast. Slick and Efficient. ❤️
Lap 5 – Sunshine & The Mosh Pit
On lap five, Sarah and her brother Marshall were waiting at Sarah’s Sunshine Bench (her donation marker on the trail). Marshall (the man behind Marshall’s Mosh Pit marker) was there too. They met me at the bench and we walked a short stretch together before they peeled away so I could stay in rhythm, they didn’t want to disturb the zombie stagger too much, lol.
The Bigger Picture
This wasn’t about proving I’m tough…It was about honouring my mum Valerie, and raising funds for the MS Society. When it hurt…Especially when it hurt, I remembered that… Temporary pain is not the same as permanent limitation. If this challenge helps raise funds for the MS Society, If it supports research, If it moves us even slightly closer to treatments that spare other families what ours endured…Then every step was worth it.
Thank you 🙏 🧡
I have to say thank you to God. Truly. There were moments yesterday (especially in the later laps) where strength felt borrowed rather than generated. Where steadiness wasn’t just physical but spiritual. I don’t take that lightly.
And to every single person who donated and placed a motivation GPS marker on the trail (when your names were spoken in my ear as I passed them), it genuinely felt like you were there. Like you’d stepped onto the path and were walking alongside me, offering encouragement stride for stride. Those markers weren’t just fundraising ideas. They were fuel. Presence. Momentum. You carried me further than you probably realise.
Today
Today I’m under strict orders to stay off these battered feet, so I’m parked in my chair typing this out. Every part of me has clocked the mileage…Feet, ankles, knees, hips, back, even my neck is chiming in. 11 hours on trail leaves a signature. So instead of pretending I’m indestructible, I’m doing the smart thing: recovery mode, front of the computer, reliving yesterday one stiff keystroke at a time. 😀
The ‘Steve’s The BIG 50‘ challenge wasn’t just about distance…It was about perspective, about using what I still have…It was about legacy!
My JustGiving page
And if you’ve followed this whole slightly mad adventure, cheered from the sidelines, or just enjoyed picturing me negotiating stairs like a malfunctioning robot this morning… the fundraising page is still open until 30th May 2026. The walk may be done, but the mission isn’t. If you’ve been meaning to donate, this is your nudge. Every pound goes toward research, support, and real progress for families living with MS. Let’s not let the momentum stop at the finish line. If 50km at 50 proved anything, it’s that forward movement matters…So let’s keep moving. 🧡 DONATE HERE 🧡
50Km (31.07 miles), my longest walk ever…One continuous ultra around the trail that has become part of my story.
If you had told me a few years ago that I’d be preparing for a 50km ultra as a registered blind man, I probably would have smiled politely… and quietly looked for the nearest coffee shop.
But here we are.
On Tuesday’s training walk, I hit a problem. A large tree had fallen straight across the trail. Completely blocking it. No easy way through. For a moment, I just stood there thinking “Seriously? This week?”
Today, I went back out to check (photo at top of post) and it was clear. Fully cleared. Open Path and no obstruction.
That hit me harder than I expected. Obstacles don’t always stay planted in your way. Sometimes they’re moved before the biggest challenge of all. The timing felt like a gift.
Today I also did something intentional. On this final walk before Sunday, I stopped at every single Donation Motivation marker along the route. Every name. Every bench. I paused, thanked God for that person (you), and prayed for them.
Some of those markers belong to friends and supporters right here at home…And some belong to people much further away — even in Florida, USA, you know who you are, lol!…That blows my mind. 😲
People across towns, across counties, across the Atlantic, backing a 50km ultra on a local trail in the UK. I didn’t rush those moments. I stood there and genuinely thanked God for each one of them/you.
This walk is deeply personal. I’m 50 years old. My mum died of MS at 50. So this 50km isn’t random…It’s intentional. I’m walking in her memory, and I’m walking so that other families don’t have to endure what ours did. MS takes enough. We need better treatments. We need breakthroughs. We need research that changes the future, not just manages the present. That’s why this matters. And it’s even closer to home because my lovely wife Sarah works for the MS Society and yes, she is genuinely the greatest. The work they do supporting families and driving research forward isn’t theoretical for us. It’s personal.
If you would like to support the challenge, click HERE for my JustGiving page. At the bottom of this post there’s also a QR code — just hold your phone up to it and it’ll take you straight there.
Every pound genuinely helps.
And because it’s Thankful Thursday, I want to say this clearly:
I am deeply thankful to God.
For strength in my legs.
For breath in my lungs.
For safety on the trail.
For the tree being moved.
For every donor.
For every prayer.
For Sarah — who supports every bold, slightly unhinged challenge I dream up.
Sunday will hurt. Fifty kilometres isn’t a casual wander. There will be heavy miles. There will be moments where I’ll need to dig deeper than comfort allows…But I’m going for it!
If you’re praying, pray for steady legs and sharp focus.
If you’re cheering, cheer loudly, even from Florida I’ll hear you, lol.
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! 😲
I can’t believe I made it around 7 laps yesterday…I’m posting it today as I couldn’t move afterwards, and I’m still very delicate and suffering with DOMS! And of Course it was the perfect day to give thanks with a grateful heart! 🙏 🧡
pond photo…
I generally kept my iPhone in my pocket as I was too focused on enduring this walk, but I did take it out once and took a photo of the pond that I passed 7 times, lol! 😀
Scripture snack…
Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Motivational quote…
Today wasn’t just about pace, distance, or stats. It was about gratitude. 7 laps, countless uneven small hills, and a body that kept going when it could’ve stopped. I thank God for the strength to move, the mind to stay focused, and the opportunity to even be out here doing this. Every step is a gift, and I don’t take a single one for granted. 🙏 😀
Photo of the GPS Donation motivation map marker “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”…
Photo of the GPS Donation Motivation Map Marker “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 caloriedeficit 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)
Can you believe there’s only 29 days to go until my 50K (31.07 miles) trail walk?? It’s getting serious now, especially after another week on walking was halted last week due to calf painaafter I cracked my shin..But today I went out and the rest must have done me good, as I had no calf pain at all! 💪🏼
lap 2 “Debbie’s wordway” photo…
The weather was also grey and dim which is great for me, and it lasted for the whole 3 laps too.
lap 3 “Dayle’s rest stop” photo…
I’m happy to report there were no dramas today, and the trail was pretty quiet so I managed to walk around eating a few hobnobs, drinking my flask of coffee and sipping my water without damaging myself, yay! 😀
I also tried to slow my pace by around 1 minute per mile, and walk really slow at the beginning and end of my walk…Which helped lots! 😀
motivational Quote…
When progress isn’t pretty and your body feels like it’s running on fumes, showing up still counts. Dragging, shuffling, zombie-mode laps after injury teach you something comfort never will: resilience isn’t about looking strong, it’s about refusing to quit. When your vision blurs and your legs argue back, you learn to move with a different kind of sight…The kind that sees purpose instead of excuses. Faith keeps you grounded, fitness keeps you moving, and focus gets you to the finish. One lap, one step, one stubborn decision at a time. – Steve (me)
I’m happy and a little surprised to be typing this post, as I thought going this far after my two month cracked shin injury was pushing it. I can’t say it was pretty or easy in any way, but I dragged, shuffled and no matter what I was going to finish, lol! 🤣
lap 2 pond photo…
The weather was great and overcast the whole 5 and a half hours, really good for me but not the best for the photos. I knew with the immense cognital load that I’d be in ‘Zombie Mode’ fast, so I thought I’d only get my iPhone out and take a photo of the pond on each lap.
lap 3 pond photo…
I tried to get a few different angles of the pond, as just taking the same shot would drive you guys crazy, lol. I was ready for my pitstop after the third lap. I have 10 minutes to refill my two 500ml soft flasks, my two tubs of chocolate hobnobs and also a much needed toilet break. It’s funny trying to refill flasks and tubs as I have no coordination when in zombie mode! 🤣
lap 4 pond photo…
I was happy to start the fourth lap without stiff legs as they just slowly stomped on and on…I think it was the super sausage roll I’d just had during the pitstop. 😋
lap 5 pond photo…
The overcast weather didn’t keep people in today, as the trail had dog walkers, cyclists, runner and lots of other moving obstacles, but I still managed to get around without any dramas! 💪🏼
lap 6 pond photo…
Now lap 6 wasn’t pretty, I kept telling myself off and not to stop, collapse or do anything that will keep me from finishing. My legs were hurting, my eyes were just washed out (like rubbing vaseline in your eyes and swimming under water without goggles) and I just wanted to stop…But I’m so glad I didn’t! 💪🏼
motivational Quote…
When progress isn’t pretty and your body feels like it’s running on fumes, showing up still counts. Dragging, shuffling, zombie-mode laps after injury teach you something comfort never will: resilience isn’t about looking strong, it’s about refusing to quit. When your vision blurs and your legs argue back, you learn to move with a different kind of sight…The kind that sees purpose instead of excuses. Faith keeps you grounded, fitness keeps you moving, and focus gets you to the finish. One lap, one step, one stubborn decision at a time. – Steve (me)
With just 43 days to go, I can’t believe I created this challenge (questionable judgement confirmed), the training hurts, and my body is already lodging complaints. It’s happening whether I’m ready or not…So if you fancy supporting a good cause and watching me suffer with purpose, a donation would mean so much. Every pound helps, every share adds pressure, and both are very much appreciated! 🧡
Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving – they’ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to the charity. So it’s the most efficient way to donate – saving time and cutting costs for the charity.
As you may have guessed…It was chucking it down with rain when I left the house this morning, so the photos automatically qualified for the mono filter! 😀
I managed another 2 laps this morning in the rain. I had no dramas to report, mainly because there were not many people out again…They seem to hate getting soaked by the heavy rain, lol! 😀 But for me it’s fantastic as it means the blazing sun isn’t ruining my walk.
lap 2 pond photo…
I thought for the second lap pond photo, I’d try and take a photo of myself with my ultra bright yellow jacket…I didn’t use the mono filter for this one as you need to see the colour, lol. I also wanted to show you my new flask filled with Sarah’s hot milky coffee. I got the flask as a Christmas present from Sarah’s friend Ilkay, it works perfectly in the heavy rain as I can stop and have a lovely warm drink in the cold and wet weather…Thankful! 😀
Each time I reach this part of the lap, I imagine the tree that’s at about 45˚ (photo above) finally falls and squishes me into a pile of bone fleshy mush…I’ll give thanks that it hasn’t yet, lol! 🤣
Scripture snack…
Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Give thanks…🙏
Me carrying a Princess! 😀
How might you pause to give thanks today? Maybe it’s lifting a prayer, holding onto a Bible verse that leaps off the page (or screen), letting a worship song wash over you, walking in nature, reading a fave blog post or simply soaking in a quiet moment of reflection.
Motivational quote…
“Every step I take is a gift I refuse to take for granted. I’m thankful for the legs that carry me, the air that fills my lungs, and the strength God gives me to keep moving forward. I’m thankful for the quiet moments on the trail where I can hear His voice in the wind and feel His presence in the steady rhythm of my steps. Life may not be perfect, the path may not be smooth, but the journey is still beautiful. Faith, Fitness, Focus” – Steve (me)
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 caloriedeficit 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)
It seems ages since I actually walked down to the pond to capture one of my fave photos! I’m about 2 months behind on my training, and I have less than 2 months until the 50Km (31.07 miles) trail walk! 😨 Now this is going to be a Brobdingnagian of a challenge for me!
After the last post Sarah & I were completely snowed in for a few days, and I was totally snowblind and it was fully iced up…So no walking at all until this morning. The snow had completely gone this morning and it was a little bit warmer, but raining…That works fine for me as that nasty sunshine was nowhere to be seen, and it didn’t melt my eyeballs and brain to mush!
motivational Quote…
“When your vision is blurred, you learn to walk with a different kind of sight, the kind that sees purpose in every challenge. Faith, Fitness & Focus.” – Steve (me)
HAPPY NEW YEAR! I hope all of you had a lovely Christmas and are having a great and healthy start to the new year?
I was itching to get back out on the trail after over a month off with my shin (November), then travelling around England through December catching up with family. I’m almost 2 months behind on my training…So when I couldn’t even get to the start of the trail as it was -3˚C, the paths were iced up and I was snowblind…I wasn’t amused, lol! 🤣
It took me ages to walk (ice slipping the whole way) to the path (photo above) that leads to the trail start line. But I knew there was no way I could carry on, I just hope the temperature starts to warm up soon and evaporate the snow! 💪🏼 😀
motivational Quote…
“Life doesn’t promise smooth paths or even a clear start line. Some days the trail is frozen solid, the cold bites at –3°C, and the conditions turn you back before you’ve even begun. That’s when FAITH teaches patience, FITNESS reminds you to live to fight another day, and FOCUS means knowing when stopping is the strongest step forward.”Faith. Fitness. Focus. — Steve (me)
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 caloriedeficit 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)
Yay it’s good to be back out on the trail, and there were much less leaves causing mayhem. My shin didn’t fold in half and stayed strong and I managed to walk around the lap and almost enjoy it, lol. 🤣
It was a great feeling to get back out and walk without any dramas. Sarah was very happy too as she had a lovely hot fresh coffee and a cuddle waiting for me. ☕ 😀 No excuses now so I’m going for 2 laps tomorrow!
motivational Quote…
“Life won’t always hand you smooth paths or easy walks. Sometimes it’s mud, sweat and grit. That’s when you lean harder on your faith, push deeper with your fitness, and keep your eyes on the goal…Faith, Fitness & Focus” – Steve (Me)
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…🎸
Me and my butterscotch blonde Fender Telecaster.
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 caloriedeficit 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)
It’s almost a whole calendar month since I’ve been out on the trail properly. My shin has kept me out for nearly a month and I really didn’t need that! Now this monumental challenge has now got even bigger for me! 😨
I tentetivly walked around the lap this morning as a test, to see if the too many leaves were blocking my way (sounds crazy but it really ruins everything). It was better but still not great as I had to do a shortcut right at the end and knock off about 400 metres as the leaves were too much and there is a lamppost somewhere along the path which I really don’t want to hit on my first day back. Good news is that I made it around one lap in one piece, and my leg seems ok so I can hopefully get back on with my training…Only now I’m a month behind. 💪🏼 😀
motivational Quote…
“Life won’t always hand you smooth paths or easy walks. Sometimes it’s mud, sweat and grit. That’s when you lean harder on your faith, push deeper with your fitness, and keep your eyes on the goal…Faith, Fitness & Focus” – Steve (Me)
After my ‘5 Lapper (14.72 miles’ a couple of weeks ago, you may remember I cracked my shin on a fallen tree or rock)…Well I havn’t been out on the trail since, as I’ve had my shin in a large dressing as I try and get the wound to heal. It’s quite a big one and is right up the shin bone, my lovely Wife Sarah has been taking care of it and I’m hoping to try and get out on the trail this Wednesday! 😀
So I hope you can imagine my joy as I received 2 more donations yesterday from our church friend Ken and my lovely Wife Sarah! This was not only fantastic…It meant I also earned the raised over £500 badge (see above) for the MS Society. It truly is overwhelming how amazing you guys are, who keep believing, praying and encouraging me throughout my rollercoaster challenge! 🧡
More Motivation…
If you’ve already donated…Thank you from the bottom of my heart. And if you haven’t yet, there’s still plenty of road ahead and every pound really does make a difference. Let’s keep this momentum rolling, help me smash through to the next milestone! 🧡 DONATE HERE 🧡
motivational Quote…
“Life won’t always hand you smooth paths or easy walks. Sometimes it’s mud, sweat and grit. That’s when you lean harder on your faith, push deeper with your fitness, and keep your eyes on the goal…Faith, Fitness & Focus” – Steve (Me)
I can’t believe I’m writing this, and I’m going to celebrate once I’ve stopped feeling like a zombie! 🤣 The sun was on killer mode this morning for the first few laps and I thought about stopping as It was cooking my brains…But I’m glad I powered through!
The trail was quite clear for the first lap, and I thought it was a mistake choosing to walk 4 hours 20 minutes today as I was feeling a little sluggish. But I was fully loaded with water, chocolate hobnobs and my new Under Armour HeatGear base layer! 😀
Lap 2 photos…
The Mental Fatigue Side of a Long Walk
It’s funny — my body seems to be adapting really well to the long-distance walks now. I can handle the miles better, my legs just about keep up, and even the recovery’s getting shorter. But the thing that’s been catching me off guard is how mentally tired I get afterwards — especially when the sun’s blazing like today’s first 3 laps.
When that bright light hits, it feels like my eyeballs and brain are being fried. It’s not physical exhaustion, it’s mental. Being registered blind, my brain’s already working overtime to process what little I can see. Add in the glare, reflections, and flickering sunlight through the trees, and it’s like someone cranks the sensory volume up to 11. My brain’s visual circuits go into overdrive trying to make sense of it all, and that’s super draining.
The concentration side of things makes it worse. I’m not just walking — I’m navigating, listening, keeping my balance, tracking sounds and surfaces, and staying aware of every step. Other people can zone out and cruise; I’ve got to stay switched on the whole time. That constant focus eats through mental energy faster than my legs ever could.
It’s kind of like running an amp at full gain for hours — it’ll keep working, but it’s going to heat up, or blow up. My brain’s the same. It can just about handle the load (so far), but it needs time to cool down after.
It’s not a body problem — it’s a sensory load problem. The fitness is slowly coming; now I’m learning how to manage the mental side too! 💪🏼
Towards the end of the second lap I finally found a little boost as I passed the finish line to start lap 3…I think it was me getting excited as I knew I was about to crack open the chocolate hobnobs! 😋
lap 3 photos…
Passing the pond for the third time, I was starting to think about stopping the whole walk as the sunshine was simply exhausting me. My body felt like it could cary on but my brain, eyes and mental overload just wanted me to stop…I really can’t describe the feeling but it makes you want to finish and finish now. 😨
then crack!!!
My shin bone suddenly cracked against something hard and I instantly said “OUCH”. I had no idea where it’d come from or what it was as I was walking on the left hand side of the trail. After a few hobbles I stopped to feel throbbing and pain from my shin. My first thought was “I hope it hasn’t ruined my new UA base layer”. As I was about 2 miles from home and I knew I had my 10 minute pitstop after this lap I carried on with my shin throbbing and feeling a little wet.
lap 4 photos…
I knew Sarah was in a ‘Teams meeting’ during the pitstop so I had to decide whoever to stop or carry on…I thought I’m NOT doing this on another day this week so I’m going to ‘Man Up’ and carry on.
The pitstop went fantastic as I filled up my soft flasks, put more chocolate hobnobs in my tubs and had a toilet break. It’s the first time that my legs had not felt tight at all when I started out walking again…I really like those UA base layers! 💪🏼
lap 5 photo…
Yay come on Steve only one more lap to go, it was nice to see the pond again for the 5th time as I knew it was the last, lol! My shin had stopped throbbing finally as I kept walking and didn’t give it time to complain.
As I got home after 4 hours 20 minutes with a average pace of 3.5 miles per hour, I was happy I could finally stop. Sarah welcomed me with a lovely fresh hot coffee as I told her about my shin. She quickly turned Into a medic and got the first aid kit. I’m still not sure what’s happened to my shin, I only know I hit the bone and my skins ripped off…I’m sat typing this with a large dressing and cream over it and it’s throbbing now…But YES I DID IT!! 💪🏼 😀
More Motivation…
Screenshot
My watch also beeped after I’d completed this months challenge badge after my walk!
motivational Quote…
“Life won’t always hand you smooth paths or easy walks. Sometimes it’s mud, sweat and grit. That’s when you lean harder on your faith, push deeper with your fitness, and keep your eyes on the goal…Faith, Fitness & Focus” – Steve (Me)
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…🎸
Me and my butterscotch blonde Fender Telecaster.
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 caloriedeficit 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)
Wow it was proper chucking it down out on the trail this morning. I havn’t walked in the rain yet since I started at ‘June time to prune’ over 4 months ago. It’s drizzled before but nothing like this. I got to try out just how waterproof my layers are!
The trail was really clear and I think I only seen 2 people, that’s never happened before. I had no dramas and I stayed nice and dry whilst staying warm. And when I arrived home to my lovely Wife Sarah who also had a fresh coffee in hand…Wow just wow! ☕ ❤️
More Motivation…
YAY…I’ve just hit 25% of my fundraising target! I was sat at church yesterday and Michael & Ann came over to me and handed me an envelope and said “Here is a donation towards your great challenge”. I’m honestly blown away by the support so far. Every donation, every word of encouragement, every prayer and every share has helped keep me going. This challenge isn’t just about covering 50 kilometres in 1 day; it’s about pushing limits, raising awareness, and doing something meaningful together. If you’ve already donated…Thank you from the bottom of my heart. And if you haven’t yet, there’s still plenty of road ahead and every pound really does make a difference. Let’s keep this momentum rolling, help me smash through to the next milestone! 🧡 DONATE HERE 🧡
motivational Quote…
“Life won’t always hand you smooth paths or easy walks. Sometimes it’s mud, sweat and grit. That’s when you lean harder on your faith, push deeper with your fitness, and keep your eyes on the goal…Faith, Fitness & Focus” – Steve (Me)
Wow…When I ended my walking workout at my front door after walking 2 laps, I couldn’t believe it was exactly 6.00 miles. I think I’ve managed to create a very measured lap, great for my stats, lol! 🤣
As you may have guessed, there was a slight drizzle when I left the house this morning, so the photos automatically qualified for the mono filter! 😀
lap 2 pond photo…
I thought for the second lap pond photo, I’d try and get the usual pond and the path inside one photo. I think I have the path on the right that I usually stop and take the photo on. I don’t often walk across the grass to get close to the pond, as I don’t want to risk twisting my ankle…Or falling in the pond, lol! 🤣
Scripture snack…
Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Give thanks…🙏
Me carrying a Princess! 😀
How might you pause to give thanks today? Maybe it’s lifting a prayer, holding onto a Bible verse that leaps off the page (or screen), letting a worship song wash over you, walking in nature, reading a fave blog post or simply soaking in a quiet moment of reflection.
Motivational quote…
“Every step I take is a gift I refuse to take for granted. I’m thankful for the legs that carry me, the air that fills my lungs, and the strength God gives me to keep moving forward. I’m thankful for the quiet moments on the trail where I can hear His voice in the wind and feel His presence in the steady rhythm of my steps. Life may not be perfect, the path may not be smooth, but the journey is still beautiful. Faith, Fitness, Focus” – Steve (me)
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 caloriedeficit 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)
Can you believe it’s been 7 years since i did my first fundraiser?! I thought this would be my first and last! I thought you’d like to look back with me on the day this blindman tackled the Tough Mudder…And survived…Just! Looking back on this post has given me some more motivation to keep smashing away at my current (and 7th) fundraising challenge…”Steve’s The BIG 50“
Tough Mudder
Yay…..We did it!
From left: Adie, Vini, Me, Josie & Ashley
Tough Mudder 5K – Saturday 13th October 2018…….Here Goes!
From left: Adie, Me & Josie Me carrying Adie on the “Hero Carry”
It was amazing to have my friend of nearly 30 years Adie Monk join our “Hard As Nails” team. I thought we’d sit and catch up over a coffee….I didn’t have this in mind, lol!
Thanks John Atherton for taking another great photo. I can’t thank you and Sarah Atherton enough for giving us all these memories to cherish! 😀
After jogging a little, we came to this…….
“At over 2 stories high, this is one of the most impressive obstacles in the UK. It is a giant A-shaped cargo net that you and your team will have to scramble up and over it. Working together will be the only way to overcome”.
This is where my new trainers just hooked perfectly around the rope and it felt completely solid. Also my blindness helped me out for once as i couldn’t see how high i was, and didn’t freeze like a couple of people i heard up there!
Then….When getting to the bottom i hear “Yay, Whoop Whoop, Steve, Steve, Steve” and the sound of the plastic clapper hands were going crazy! What a feeling to know my lovely Wife Sarah and the Crazy Clappers team were cheering me all of the way, a great feeling! 😎
Me, Vini & Ashley biggin’ up the cheering team
More jogging….Adie and the team were excellent at guiding me when jogging. Moving low hanging branches, telling me of tree roots and pulling me in the right direction. Adie said “I tried running with my eyes closed for a few steps…And there is no way i’d try any of this if i couldn’t see”.
Then…..
“We’ve taken the 10′ Hero Walls and tilted them right at you. By removing the ability for you to climb up and over this wall, you will have to form a strategy with your team, work together and boost each other to the other side”.
Ouch, my leg hasn’t bent that far in about 20 years, lol!
More Jogging…..
“This obstacle will have you crawling on the ground, pinned down by a giant cargo net. Working your way through this one will require lots of communication, teamwork and a strong will”.
You’ve guessed it…..More jogging and then….
“The aim of the game is to get your team up and over this stack of super-sized hay bales. There is no right or wrong way so boost, shove or yank every last team member over the other side”.
⇧ Ashley helping Josie in a display of team work ⇧
Next…….
“Can’t go through it, can’t go round it, you’ll have to go over it. Work together to boost and shimmy your teammates up and over this 10′ Tough Mudder staple”.
Yep, more jogging…..
“Time to get swinging. Grab on, hold tight, feel the momentum and swing yourself from ring to ring like a regular Tarzan. This obstacle will test your strength, coordination and flow. Hang in there, you got this”.
Really didn’t do well on this one…And i can’t really blame my sight for lack of strength, lol!
After a little more jogging……
“One of the most teamwork-inducing obstacles in the Tough Mudder portfolio, this obstacle is difficult to complete alone. You’re going to have to work together to form a human pyramid and, like its namesake, climb up and over your fellow Mudders on the way to the top”.
As Vini was making everything look so easy…..It was great to look at the photos afterwards and see it wasn’t all too easy!! 💪🏼
AND NOW……MY NEMESIS!!!!
“A true Tough Mudder legend. Everest will challenge participants to run up a quarter pipe to reach the summit. Can’t do it alone? Not to worry – teammates are encouraged to hang over the top to pull their new friends up and over”.
I knew this was going to be more difficult for me as i needed to try it and get hands on before i could calculate what exactly i needed to do. Adie & Ashley explained the process….But i knew i just had to do it before i would really know….As running at a half pipe wall thingy when blind is going to be interesting!
Here Goes Nothing…..
I took 1 step too many….and before i knew it the wall was in my face! Ooooo i was so close to reaching the ledge.
After hitting the wall i dropped down on both knees, and as the obstacle was made of hardish tyre rubber, it simply burned and ripped the skin off both knees….Wow that stings, lol. Time to regroup and recalculate!
“Ok Steve, just do the same but with 1 step less”. Here i go again!
Yay….That’s better…..And once i had my talon trainers gripped to the ledge, i could just heave myself up. Wow i made it! 💪🏼
⇧ Ashley showing how it should be done! ⇧😎
The team were fantastic and we all made it up. No-one was being left behind and you could just feel the team growing closer with each obstacle, it was amazing.
Now the final obstacle was overcome, it was time for a short jog to the finish line,Yay!
The Finish Line & The Headbands……
WE DID IT……
⇧ When words fail to say how thankful you are!!! ⇧
Me, Adie & the headbands ⇧ Adie, Vini & Me for a final photo ⇧
WOW WHAT A JOURNEY……
I can’t thank everyone enough….
With more than a week past….My knees are still scabbed and bruised…..But i’d like to give an Elephantine amount of thanks for everyone involved! 💪🏼
First, I’d like to give a stupendous amount of thanks to my lovely Wife Sarah….The amount of love and encouragement was/is mind-blowing! And the “Hard As Nails” team…..”“my muscles were fading but the sense of team work was overwhelming and no matter what…..We were getting over those obstacles”.💪🏼
Second, i’d like to give a monumental amount of thanks to the “Crazy Clappers” team. “When i’d finished an obstacle and was about to collapse……I’d hear the Cheering Team and you’d put a big grin on my face to remind me it was alright and to keep going! 😎
Third, i’d like to give a gargantuan amount of thanks to all of you guys for your donations to “World Cancer Research Fund” and encouraging me(& the team) every step of the way! “Intention isn’t Prevention……And you all have helped me spread the good news with everyone so we can all be aware and empowered to start fighting the cancers we can prevent.”
Fourth, A colossal amount of thanks to John & Sarah Atherton(from the Epsom Camera Club) for giving up your Saturday and taking the amazing photos of us all….We’ve got fantastic memories of the day!
Wow…i hope you enjoyed reading and it’s MOTIVATED you in some way too?!
motivational quote…
“Obsessed is just a word the lazy use to describe the dedicated” – Bak of my INOV8 t-shirt.
It was nice to be back out on the trail after a lovely weekend of rest, reflection and filling up the tanks. Spending time with my lovely Wife Sarah is the most special and blessed thing for me! Once again I had no idea it was drizzling until I left the house, I even checked the weather app and it said there was zero chance of rain, lol! 🤣
It was pretty clear out on the trail as I think the drizzle kept most of them away. This is also good for me as I have to spend most of my concentration on not hitting anyone or any dogs etc…Another win win for me. 💪🏼
2nd lap pond photo…
I seriously didn’t want to do 2 laps this morning as I just wanted to come home early for my coffee and big hug…But I knew it’s ‘Motivational Monday’ and it wouldn’t be very motivational if I just gave up and put comfort first!
motivational Quote…
“Life won’t always hand you smooth paths or easy walks. Sometimes it’s mud, sweat and grit. That’s when you lean harder on your faith, push deeper with your fitness, and keep your eyes on the goal…Faith, Fitness & Focus” – Steve (Me)
I’m so thankful that there is not much to report from today’s walk. The trail was nice and quiet, I didn’t hurt or injure myself and I actually enjoyed myself out there as I slowed down and gave thanks for everything! 🙏 😀
My lovely Wife Sarah welcomed me home with a lovely fresh black coffee, a big hug and that amazing sunshine smile that I can feel as it warms me up instantly! 😀
sarah & the siblings…
From left: Maddie, Sarah, Simon (top), Alfie, Marshall & Corrie
Speaking of Sarah…As you know we were up in Yorkshire for Alfie’s (Sarah’s youngest brother) wedding last weekend, and there was an opportunity to capture a photo of all six siblings in the same place together. The six siblings havn’t been together like this for over 20 years!! 😲
Scripture snack…
Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Give thanks…🙏
How might you pause to give thanks today? Maybe it’s lifting a prayer, holding onto a Bible verse that leaps off the page (or screen), letting a worship song wash over you, walking in nature, reading a fave blog post or simply soaking in a quiet moment of reflection.
Motivational quote…
“Every step I take is a gift I refuse to take for granted. I’m thankful for the legs that carry me, the air that fills my lungs, and the strength God gives me to keep moving forward. I’m thankful for the quiet moments on the trail where I can hear His voice in the wind and feel His presence in the steady rhythm of my steps. Life may not be perfect, the path may not be smooth, but the journey is still beautiful. Faith, Fitness, Focus” – Steve (me)
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…🎸
Me on my butterscotch blonde Telecaster! 😀
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 caloriedeficit 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)
It was a 3 lapper this morning, and I was so thankful for the quiet trail and the weather that was cloudy and overcast…Perfect! 😀
I walked at an average pace of 3.60 miles per hour, and I arrived home tired but not in too bad shape. I can’t believe I’m saying this as I couldn’t even imagine a 3 lapper a few months ago! 😀
lap 2 pond photo…
The temperature was a little warmer today at 10˚C, so I could just wear my t-shirt and tracksuit bottoms with my INOV8 ultra pack and it was cool but manageable!
Oh and yes I had my chocolate hobnobs with me too! 😋
lap 3 pond photo…
The trail was nice and quiet so I could focus on walking speed and staying on the trail without all of the distractions.
Scripture snack…
Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Give thanks…🙏
How might you pause to give thanks today? Maybe it’s lifting a prayer, holding onto a Bible verse that leaps off the page (or screen), letting a worship song wash over you, walking in nature, reading a fave blog post or simply soaking in a quiet moment of reflection.
Motivational quote…
“Every step I take is a gift I refuse to take for granted. I’m thankful for the legs that carry me, the air that fills my lungs, and the strength God gives me to keep moving forward. I’m thankful for the quiet moments on the trail where I can hear His voice in the wind and feel His presence in the steady rhythm of my steps. Life may not be perfect, the path may not be smooth, but the journey is still beautiful. Faith, Fitness, Focus” – Steve (me)
First of all before I forget, I was asked by a friend when we were talking about my BIG 50 challenge…”So how many miles have you walked during your training so far?”. That was a question I didn’t know the answer to and didn’t think I’d be asked. So yesterday I added up all of the miles from every post on here since I started on 10th June 2024. And the grand total of miles (including today) is: 197.82 miles
I’m going to add that number of miles to the posts from now on so I can keep a record, I love stats, lol! 🤣 Back to the walk this morning and I (as usual) didn’t want to go out of my warm house and walk in the cold…But after a hot Sarah special espresso I headed out. As soon as I past the pond on lap 1 my legs instantly slowed a little and I thought “Oh no that’s how it is”. This meant that my legs were empty and they’re not walking any faster, so I had to switch to maintenance mode as I tried to drag them for another 5 miles in this state.
2nd lap pond photo…
On the 2nd lap I managed to walk into a rogue golden Retriever that nearly popped my left knee out (the dog was fine). As I walk on a sandy coloured trail these are the worst dogs as they are like the Predator in the original Predator movie where it’s pretty much invisible! 😨
My lovely Wife Sarah welcomed me with a big cuddle andmade me a hot coffee when I arrived home, and 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 23 pounds so far, just 27 more to go. I could change the tuning to Drop D tuning, lol! 🤣
Me on my butterscotch blonde Telecaster! 😀
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 caloriedeficit 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)
Today is the start of my 2 lap minimum each day to try and build up more strength and stamina…I’m really going to miss the 1 lapper. After managing 12.12 miles last Thursday(4 laps) it’s time to level up ready for the October 5 lapper which I’m really not looking forwards to! 😨
The trail had lots of runners, cyclists and dog walkers and I managed to miss all of them, lol. I even managed to overtake some walkers too…Yay this blindman is getting faster! 😀
2nd lap pond photo…
This photo of the pond through the trees is right next to the path. The photo doesn’t show how bright and blinding it is as I can’t see the trail and try really hard not to walk straight into the pond…Now that would surprise me, and of course I’d try and get you photos from the bottom of the pond, lol! 🤣
I averaged a 3.56 mph pace over 1 hour 41 minutes which is quick for me, and to arrive home without any damage or dramas at that speed is fantastic!
motivational Quote…
“Life won’t always hand you smooth paths or easy walks. Sometimes it’s mud, sweat and grit. That’s when you lean harder on your faith, push deeper with your fitness, and keep your eyes on the goal…Faith, Fitness & Focus” – Steve (Me)
more motivation…😲
After last Thursdays 4 laps (12.12 miles) I achieved the ‘September Challenge’ badge. I don’t think I noticed it until the following day as I was too tired from my trail walk! 🤣
August 20, 2026 
⇧ Ashley showing how it should be done! ⇧😎 
iChristian 
Recent Comments