Thankful Thursday: Scotland, MS & Freshly Pressed!

October 22, 2026 by Steve 0 Comments

Dalmahoy Hotel & Country Club…

Dalmahoy House, a historic stone mansion set among beautifully landscaped green lawns and mature trees, with colourful rhododendrons, a stone wall in the foreground and a bright blue sky above. — Linked image taken from their website.

Hi Friends.

Well, it’s been absolutely manic since my last blog post! Between travelling to Scotland for the first time with my lovely wife Sarah, attending an MS Society legacy event at the stunning Dalmahoy Hotel & Country Club in Edinburgh, and weeks packed with one thing after another, life has been pretty frantic. But amidst all the busyness, there have been some really special moments to be thankful for. And just when we finally managed to press pause and enjoy a couple of nights away together at Wotton House in Surrey, God had a rather unexpected surprise waiting for me!

Edinburgh, MS Society and Haggis Bon Bons… 😋

Guests seated around round tables in a conference room at an MS Society legacy event, listening to a speaker presenting information on a large screen at the front of the room. The tables are laid with refreshments, glasses, booklets and orange event materials, while attendees listen attentively.

One of the highlights of the past few weeks was travelling to Edinburgh with Sarah, who works as the MS Society’s Legacies Lead. It was my first time visiting Scotland, and getting there involved around seven hours of travelling on two trains and a tube train. Quite an adventure for the ‘Blind Sightseers’! The event itself was a wonderful experience, giving me the opportunity to meet some amazing guests, listen to their personal stories and hear about the difference that the MS Society makes to people’s lives. There was such a lovely atmosphere, with people sharing their experiences and connecting over something that means so much to them.

One particularly special moment came at the end of the talks, when Sarah played the MS Society Legacy video that I was fortunate enough to be part of. It was quite something to sit there knowing that my own personal story in memory of my Mum was being shared with everyone in the room. During lunch, people came over to talk to me about the video, ask questions and thank me for taking part. It was genuinely touching to hear how much it had engaged them, and it reminded me why sharing our personal experiences can be so powerful. And, of course, lunch deserves a mention of its own because, wow, I got to try haggis bon bons, and they were absolutely fantastic! Who knew that one of my first Scottish experiences would include discovering a new favourite food? After such a special event, meeting lovely people and enjoying some proper Scottish hospitality, Sarah and I were ready for a little breathing space, which finally came with two nights at the beautiful Wotton House.

“Welcome to Wotton House”…

Steve (me) waving at the camera in front of a grand red-brick historic estate with gothic windows and decorative stone statues on top.

What a wonderful place! We spent three days enjoying the grounds and surroundings of this amazing estate, staying in a lovely room overlooking the rear gardens, enjoying great food and, best of all, having time to relax.

An outdoor patio area with tables and chairs next to a rock grotto formation and a lush, tree-lined lawn stretching into a forested hill.

Sarah went swimming (I’m still banned for life after our Martinique Adventure in 2018), which was fantastic to see. She works so hard, and knowing she could unwind and enjoy herself made me especially thankful. The place was beautiful, peaceful and felt a world away from everyday life. We could almost have been anywhere in the world! Sometimes, the greatest luxury isn’t going somewhere far away or doing something extraordinary. It’s simply having time together, enjoying good food, resting and appreciating the blessings right in front of us.

Sarah standing with arms outstretched on a paved driveway entrance to Wotton House with brick pillars and wrought iron fencing.

“Freshly Pressed”…?

Now, here’s where things get weird! As we were leaving for Wotton House and preparing to slow down, I received an email from WordPress. The subject? “Your site has been selected for Freshly Pressed!” My first thought was, “Freshly what?!” I’d never experienced this before, so I wasn’t entirely sure what it meant. The email explained that WordPress had selected my post, Motivational Musical Monday: iWalk 3.48 miles, to feature in its Freshly Pressed showcase, sharing it with a wider WordPress.com audience. Apparently, they loved my writing and wanted to share it with the world. I certainly didn’t expect that!

It actually takes me right back to July 2012, when iChristian began. I’d stood at the front of church and shared my testimony with the congregation, who were amazed by what I’d been through and loved hearing my story. Their response? To more or less strong-arm me into writing it all down on WordPress so others could read it too!

And here I am, fourteen years later, a blind man sitting in his little room at home, sharing my faith and testimony with people around the world. Who knew that a little nudge at church would lead to all this?

And then…

Just as life started to slow down, my blog absolutely exploded! As I’m typing this, that post has reached 120 likes and is still climbing! My phone has been blinging away with notifications as lovely people have been liking, commenting on my post and following iChristian. I’ve had such a wonderful response, and I’m genuinely thankful for every single person who’s taken the time to stop by, read something I’ve written and say hello.

Sarah leaning against a wooden fence in a wide grassy field framed by large leafy trees under a bright blue, cloudy sky.

The funny thing is that all you lovely new readers have arrived just as I’ve barely had time to blog for a few weeks! You spend ages writing and publishing posts, then the moment you finally take a little break, WordPress decides to give you a bigger audience! LOL! I’m absolutely stunned and humbled though, and I never want to take that kindness for granted. Welcome to all my new followers, and thank you to everyone who’s been part of this little adventure. You’ve made me smile more times than I can count. 😀

A wide courtyard paved with gravel leading to the main entrance of Wotton House with potted plants and green foliage. Sarah is stood at the entrance doors.

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)

As a Christian, I believe that thankfulness isn’t just about celebrating the big moments. It’s about recognising God’s goodness in the everyday. Sometimes He gives us opportunities we never expected, sometimes He gives us the rest we desperately need, and sometimes He uses something as simple as a blog post about a walk to connect us with people we might never otherwise have met. I don’t know where all these new connections will lead, but I’m grateful for every one of them.

A close-up shot of a stone griffin statue standing atop the corner pillar of Wotton House against a clear blue sky.

Another Scripture Snack…

“Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God.” Colossians 3:16

Give thanks…🙏

I love this reminder that thankfulness belongs right at the heart of our Christian lives. Whether we’re travelling across the country, relaxing somewhere beautiful, writing a blog post or connecting with someone new, we have reasons to give thanks. And when we share our stories, encourage one another and point people towards Christ, even ordinary moments can become opportunities to glorify Him.

So, friends, here’s my question for this Thankful Thursday: What are you thankful for today? Perhaps it’s a holiday, a little time to rest, a loved one who makes you smile, an unexpected blessing or simply the kindness of someone who takes the time to encourage you. Whatever it is, I hope you’ll pause for a moment and give thanks.

As for me, I’m thankful for Scotland, Wotton House, precious time with Sarah, the opportunity to slow down, and a WordPress surprise that has left me grinning from ear to ear! Most of all, I’m thankful for God’s goodness, for the people He brings into our lives, and for the privilege of sharing my faith and experiences with all of you.

And to my lovely new readers, welcome to the iChristian family! I promise I’ll be back with more posts as soon as life gives me a moment to catch my breath. Until then, thank you for reading, commenting, liking and following. You really are a blessing.

Let’s Keep Walking in Faith Together!

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Tuner Tuesday: iWalk 3.45 miles 👨🏻‍🦯

September 29, 2026 by Steve 4 Comments

Yesterday’s Pond Photo…

Alt text: A tranquil woodland pond surrounded by dense green trees under an overcast sky. Light green duckweed covers parts of the water's surface, bordered by reeds and wild bushes in the foreground.

Hi Friends…

It’s been a rather busy time here at Rebus HQ! I didn’t manage to publish a single blog post last week, as we spent a few days visiting Sarah’s family in Doncaster, and also volunteered with Sarah and the Legacies team at the MS Walk London, and life has generally been so busy that blogging had to take a back seat. Even yesterday, despite getting out onto the trail for Motivational Monday, I simply didn’t have time to write my usual post. So, the pond image above is actually from yesterday’s walk, and I’m using it today instead. Better late than never! 😀

“Debbie’s WordWay” Audio GPS Marker…

Alt text: A view of a tranquil trail pond framed by overhanging tree branches with reddish-brown leaves and vibrant green foliage. The calm water reflects the soft sky and surrounding forest.

Yay, it’s time for another Tuner Tuesday! As always, it’s an opportunity to reflect on the connection between music, health, fitness and faith, and how the things we love can help keep us motivated along life’s winding trails. Whether I’m picking up my guitar, working on my latest musical project, or putting one foot in front of the other out on Epsom Common, I’m constantly reminded that consistency matters more than perfection. Sometimes life gets in the way of our plans, and that’s absolutely fine. We simply pick up where we left off and keep moving forward. 💪🏼

Alt text: A narrow dirt walking path winding through dense forest woods. Overgrown bushes and tall trees with leaning branches surround the quiet trail.

So, wherever you find yourself today, I hope you’ll join me for this week’s Tuner Tuesday. Whether you’re chasing a musical goal, working towards a fitness milestone, or simply trying to find a little breathing space in a hectic week, remember to give yourself some grace. Progress doesn’t always happen on schedule, and we don’t have to get everything done at once. Sometimes the most important thing is simply to keep going, one note, one step and one day at a time. As ever, I’m taking the tortoise, NOT the hare approach!

And then, of course, there is the other essential part of Tuner Tuesday: Tuna Tuesday! Sarah has another one of her legendary Tuna Stack Sandwiches lined up, and this one is packed with goodness. Plenty of tuna, fat-free Greek yoghurt and balsamic vinegar instead of salad cream or mayonnaise, plus cucumber, tomato, lettuce, onions and more, all stacked between two seeded wholemeal slices. Plenty of protein, plenty of flavour and plenty of good stuff packed into one very satisfying sandwich. Now that is what I call tuning my lunch! 😋

Time to get back in tune… 🎸

You are seated and captured mid-performance, looking down with focused concentration at the fretboard.
You have long brown hair slicked back into a low ponytail, light facial hair, and are wearing a dark hooded sweater with subtle horizontal striped detailing across the chest and arms.
Instrument
You are holding a Butterscotch Blonde Telecaster featuring a classic single-cutaway ash body with visible wood grain under the warm finish.
The guitar is fitted with a black pickguard, a chrome control plate with volume/tone knobs and a pickup switch, a vintage-style bridge with barrel saddles, and a maple neck and fretboard with dot inlays.
Lighting & Background
The background features a dramatic, hazy deep blue backdrop lit from above by soft, bright overhead spotlights, creating an atmospheric stage lighting effect.

EADGBE…🎸

E – Endurance: Keep turning up. Slow progress is still progress. Tortoise, NOT hare. This is for LIFE, not a quick-fix challenge.
A – Awareness: Pay attention to what my body, mind, habits, and Apple Watch are telling me. Don’t ignore the signals. Awareness gives me the chance to make better choices.
D – Discipline: Motivation comes and goes, but discipline keeps the strings tuned. Make the right choice even when I don’t particularly feel like making it.
G – Gratitude: Don’t become so focused on the next goal that I forget to celebrate how far I’ve already come. Thank God for every step forward, however small.
B – Body & Balance: Look after the body I’ve been given, but don’t become obsessed with numbers. Training, recovery, food, rest, blood pressure, and listening to my body all need to work together.
E – Edification: What I learn through the journey shouldn’t stop with me. Feed the mind, strengthen the soul, encourage others, and use what God is teaching me to serve and inspire.

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 life knocks us out of tune, but we don’t have to stay that way. Take a breath, pick up where you left off, and keep moving forward. One note, one step and one day at a time. 🎸💪🏼

Let’s ‘FitBlitz’ 2026 Together! 💪🏼

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Tuner Tuesday: iWalk 6.06 miles 👨🏻‍🦯

September 15, 2026 by Steve 3 Comments

Today’s Pond Photo…

A wide landscape photograph of Stew Pond on a calm morning. In the foreground, dense, low-lying green brambles and ferns fill the left side of the frame. To the right, a grassy bank slopes gently toward the water. On the far right shoreline, a person is seated in a dark folding chair near the water’s edge. Across the calm, dark surface of the pond, a thick tree line of mature green oaks and woodland stretches end-to-end under an overcast, textured sky filled with soft white and gray clouds.

Hi Friends…

I headed out onto the trail early again this morning for another 6.6 miles and two laps, while the air was still cooler and the trail was quiet. But today was different. For some reason, I was absolutely shattered. From the start, I was tired, and more than once I found myself thinking, “I could just turn around and go home.” But I didn’t. I kept putting one foot in front of the other, settled into my rhythm, and carried on. It wasn’t about feeling motivated or smashing a personal best today. It was simply about endurance, showing up when I didn’t really feel like it, and reminding myself that sometimes the biggest victories are the ones nobody else sees.

“Sausage Roll Power” Audio GPS Marker…

A wide-angle eye-level photograph of a broad, well-compacted dirt trail curving gently through a dense forest. Tall, mature deciduous trees line both sides of the path, their branches reaching up to form a high, leafy canopy that filters the soft morning light. The trail surface is light brown, smooth, and clear of large debris. Near the bottom center of the frame, small wooden posts line the edge of the path where it meets the surrounding greenery.

One of my favourite audio GPS markers on the trail has to be my own Sausage Roll Power! marker. I named it during my 50K challenge for the MS Society on 1st March this year, when Greggs sausage rolls became an important part of my tasty calorie-intake routine as I worked my way around those 50 kilometres. Now, whenever I walk towards it, through it and then past it, my VoiceVista app calls it out in my ear, and it never fails to make me smile. In fact, every time I hear that familiar “Sausage Roll Power!” announcement, I immediately think, “Mmm… I could do with a Greggs sausage roll right now!” It has become a little piece of trail history and apparently, a very effective way of making myself hungry while walking!

Today’s 2nd Lap Pond Photo…

A framed view of a still body of water looking out from between two large, leafy bushes. At the bottom of the frame, low wooden retaining logs line the edge of the bank. Beyond the bank, the water reflects the overcast, cloud-patterned sky above. The far shore is bordered by a thick line of green trees, creating a quiet, enclosed woodland atmosphere.

I also absolutely love taking photos at the Audio GPS Donation Motivational Markers that you guys, my amazing readers, donated as part of my 50K MS Society fundraising challenge. Those markers became such a special part of the walk that, after the challenge was over, I added them to my regular trail lap. So now, instead of only hearing them during that one 50K challenge, I hear them every time I head out onto the trail. And honestly, I am amazed, humbled and blessed every single time I pass one. Each marker represents a person who supported me, believed in what I was doing and helped raise money for the MS Society. So as I hear that familiar marker called out in my ears, I remember that person and say a prayer for them as I continue my walk. What started as part of a fundraising challenge has become a daily reminder of generosity, friendship, faith and the people walking alongside me, even when they aren’t physically there. And keep your eyes open in future posts, because as I walk around the trail and take photos along the way, your donation marker might just make an appearance. You never know, you might even spot your own!

And then, of course, there is the other essential part of Tuner Tuesday: Tuna Tuesday! Sarah has another one of her legendary Tuna Stack Sandwiches lined up, and this one is packed with goodness. Plenty of tuna, fat-free Greek yoghurt and balsamic vinegar instead of salad cream or mayonnaise, plus cucumber, tomato, lettuce, onions and more, all stacked between two seeded wholemeal slices. Plenty of protein, plenty of flavour and plenty of good stuff packed into one very satisfying sandwich. Now that is what I call tuning my lunch! 😋

Time to get back in tune… 🎸

Now it’s time to get back in tune. There’s something motivating about knowing that the work I’m putting in now is building towards something much bigger, and hopefully me much leaner, lol! With just 29 weeks to go until our joint birthday trip to Florida, God willing! 😀

EADGBE…🎸

This week, I have given my EADGBE life tuning a little refresh. The principles are still familiar, but just like a guitar, I sometimes need to stop, listen, and retune. Life has a habit of knocking us out of tune, and my priorities, habits, body and even my mindset can all need a little adjustment. So I have refreshed each letter to reflect where I am on the journey now: endurance, awareness, discipline, gratitude, body and balance, and edification. And ultimately, I don’t want to do this journey in my own strength. I want to keep bringing my life before God, allowing Him to tune my heart, straighten my priorities and help me use what I learn to serve, encourage and inspire others. After all, a guitar sounds much better when it is in tune – and so does life.

E – Endurance: Keep turning up. Slow progress is still progress. Tortoise, NOT hare. This is for LIFE, not a quick-fix challenge.
A – Awareness: Pay attention to what my body, mind, habits, and Apple Watch are telling me. Don’t ignore the signals. Awareness gives me the chance to make better choices.
D – Discipline: Motivation comes and goes, but discipline keeps the strings tuned. Make the right choice even when I don’t particularly feel like making it.
G – Gratitude: Don’t become so focused on the next goal that I forget to celebrate how far I’ve already come. Thank God for every step forward, however small.
B – Body & Balance: Look after the body I’ve been given, but don’t become obsessed with numbers. Training, recovery, food, rest, blood pressure, and listening to my body all need to work together.
E – Edification: What I learn through the journey shouldn’t stop with me. Feed the mind, strengthen the soul, encourage others, and use what God is teaching me to serve and inspire.

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 guitar may be getting older, but it can still make a joyful noise! 🎸

Let’s ‘FitBlitz’ 2026 Together! 💪🏼

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Beholding the glory of Jesus!

September 14, 2026 by Steve 8 Comments

Beholding the glory of Jesus!
John Owen

John 17:24, “Father, I desire that those whom You have given Me may be with Me where I am, that they may behold My glory that You have given Me, because You loved Me before the foundation of the world!”

“That they may behold My glory” was the great desire of Jesus for His people. One of the greatest privileges of believers, both in this world and throughout eternity, consists in beholding the glory of Jesus.

What is the Christian called to behold? Not merely the blessings that Jesus gives, but Jesus Himself! Not merely forgiveness, peace, Heaven, or deliverance from judgment, but the glorious Person from whom every blessing flows. Jesus is the Sun in the firmament of Scripture. Every promise, every prophecy, and every doctrine of divine revelation shines with glory, because it reveals Him.

Here is the great tragedy of much professing Christianity: men want the benefits of Jesus without being captivated by the glory of Jesus. They desire Heaven, but not necessarily the holy beauty of the One who makes Heaven to be Heaven. They want salvation from sin, but have little desire to behold the glorious Savior.

The true believer, however, has been given eyes to see. By faith he beholds something of the glory of Jesus even now. His sight is dim and imperfect. Sometimes the Savior seems hidden behind clouds. Sometimes the believer searches for Him and cannot find Him. Yet there are moments when faith sees His beauty, love, and majesty with such sweetness, that the soul cries out for more.

The heart touched by the love of Jesus, is like the needle touched by the lodestone. It cannot remain still. It is drawn toward its center. In the same way, the soul that has truly tasted the glory of Jesus cannot be satisfied with the world. It pants after Jesus. It seeks Him in Scripture. It calls upon Him in prayer. It meditates upon His glorious perfections. It longs to see His beauteous face.

Here is the transforming power of this heavenly contemplation: when faith beholds the glorious Jesus, the soul is transformed into His likeness. The world becomes less attractive. Sin becomes more hateful. Holiness becomes more desirable. Earthly treasures lose their glitter. The heart becomes detached from the passing vanities of time, and increasingly fixed upon the wondrous glory of Jesus.

Believer, behold Him!
When your heart is troubled, behold His glory.
When the world disappoints you, behold His glory.
When sin grieves you, behold His glory.
When death approaches, behold His glory.
When you cannot understand His providence, behold His glory.
When your faith is weak and your heart is cold, return again to the Scriptures and look upon the One whom Scripture reveals.

The day is coming when faith will give way to sight. The clouds will disappear. The veil will be removed. The darkness will flee. The redeemed will see Jesus in His glory. We shall behold the King in His beauty. We shall be forever with Him. And the sight of His glory will never grow dim, never become wearisome, and never cease to satisfy.

This is Heaven — to behold Jesus.
This is blessedness — to behold Jesus.
This is the hope of the believer — to behold Jesus.
And this is the supreme calling of the Christian life now — by faith, to behold His glory.

The ultimate destiny of the redeemed is to see Jesus as He is — and this everlasting vision will be our eternal blessedness.

Oh, may God so unveil the glory of Jesus to our hearts, that we become weary of everything that competes with Him, satisfied with nothing less than Him, and increasingly conformed to Him — until faith becomes sight, and we behold His glory forever!

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Thankful Thursday: iWalk 6.06 miles 👨🏻‍🦯

September 10, 2026 by Steve 2 Comments

Today’s Pond Photo…

A tranquil, wide-angle view of a calm body of water surrounded by dense, lush green forest. The foreground features gentle, shimmering ripples across the surface of the dark water, which reflects the surrounding trees and foliage. A low wooden border runs along the bottom edge of the frame. In the background, thick foliage and leafy trees of varying shades of green frame the far side of the pond, creating a peaceful, natural woodland scene under soft lighting.

Hi Friends.

Today’s been one of those days when i’ve found myself thinking just how much I have to be thankful for. I headed out onto the trail and walked two laps, covering 6.06 miles, and there were no dramas whatsoever. Nearly two hours of walking, listening, thinking and thanking God. And that plate-sized hole in the trail that I encountered yesterday? Either it wasn’t there today, or somehow I managed to miss it both times I walked past it! I’m quite happy with either explanation! Most importantly, though, my knee coped brilliantly. After everything that has happened with it over the past five months, being able to walk 6.06 miles without any problems is something I certainly don’t take for granted. Thank You, Lord, for my knee, for my recovery and for every single step.

“David’s CrossRhodes” Audio GPS Marker…

A wide-angle, low-angle shot of a woodland trail junction enveloped by a dense canopy of tall, leafy deciduous trees reaching up toward a pale sky. A dirt path branches off in different directions through the forest ground, bordered by thick undergrowth and bushes. On the right side of the main path, a wooden signpost stands near a prominent tree trunk, with additional small wooden posts visible along the edge of the path to the left. Sunlight filters through the overhead branches, casting soft shadows across the earthy ground.

I’m also incredibly thankful for God’s creation and for the beautiful trail I get to walk around. Being registered blind means I experience it differently from many people. I can’t see the pond, the trees, the sunshine or the animals, but I can hear so much of what is happening around me. The birds singing, the wind moving through the trees, the sounds of the water, wildlife nearby and the changing sounds beneath my feet all remind me that God’s creation is still very much there. Sometimes we think seeing is the only way to appreciate beauty, but I’ve discovered that there are many ways to experience it. Today, with nearly two hours to walk, I had plenty of time to listen, think and thank God for the wonderful world He has created.

“Hazel’s Highway” Audio GPS Marker…

A outdoor daytime view showing a gravel pedestrian pathway running parallel to a paved asphalt road lined with dense trees and foliage. On the left, an unpaved, light-colored foot path stretches into the distance beneath a large, ivy-draped tree branch extending overhead. A silver van is driving down the road toward the center background, bordered by a green hedge separating the path from the street. On the far right foreground, a tall, black metal sign post with a mounted electronic or directional sign box stands near the roadside under the tree canopy.

I’m thankful for Sarah too, my lovely wife and one of God’s greatest gifts to me. I’m thankful for her love, her friendship, her fun, her laughter and, of course, all those constant cuddles! I’m thankful that I have someone to share life with, someone who makes me laugh, loves me through the good days and difficult ones, and makes ordinary moments so much better. I’m also thankful for music. I’m thankful that God has given me the opportunity to listen to it, play it, write it and create it. Whether I’m sitting with a guitar, writing lyrics or experimenting with a new song, I love being creative, and my hope is that whatever I create can ultimately be used for His glory.

“Debbie’s Wordway” Audio GPS Marker…

A scenic, daytime view looking through dark tree trunks out toward a quiet pond shrouded in light algae or duckweed. A prominent, thick tree trunk sits in the left foreground with a small white informational sign attached to its bark. Leaves and spreading branches frame the top and sides of the view, revealing a calm body of water with gentle reflections of surrounding green forest under a bright, partly cloudy sky.

I’m also incredibly thankful for all of you who read my blogs. Every comment, every kind word, every bit of encouragement and every little message means far more than you might realise. There is such warmth in the comments people leave, and over time many of you have become much more than simply people who happen to read something I’ve written. You’ve become friends. That’s one of the things I love about being part of this wonderful WordPress family. We might live in different places and have completely different lives, but somehow this little corner of the internet brings people together. So today I’m thanking God for every person who takes the time to read, comment, encourage, laugh, share and walk alongside me through these blogs. Your friendship is a blessing.

“James’s Jammin’ Junction” Audio GPS Marker…

Image 5

A low-angle, outdoor shot featuring a winding dirt path meandering through a sunlit woodland clearing. On the left foreground stands a prominent, mature tree with rough bark, its bare upper branches stretching into a bright blue sky filled with faint, wispy clouds. Lush green leaves, bushes, and ferns line both sides of the path, while full, leafy green trees form a dense canopy overhead on the right, framing the open trail as it curves gently toward the background.

So, after nearly two hours and 6.06 miles, I’ve come home with something far more valuable than a number on my walking app. I’ve come home reminded of just how much there is to be thankful for. Thank You, Lord, for my knee, for my health and strength, for the trail, the pond, the trees, the sunshine, the animals and every sound I can hear around me. Thank You for Sarah, for music, for creativity, for the ability to walk again and for every person who has become part of this WordPress family. Sometimes we spend so much time asking God for things that we forget to stop and simply say, “Thank 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…🙏

Image 6

An intimate, dimly lit photo inside a church featuring Steve and Sarah performing music together in front of a glowing stained-glass window. In the foreground, Steve sits angled slightly to the right, wearing a black blazer and t-shirt, focused on playing an acoustic Taylor K22ce guitar with a distinctive figure-grained koa finish. Standing just behind him to the left is Sarah, wearing a sleeveless white top and necklace, holding a silver flute horizontally and playing it with concentration. In the dark background, a tall, arched stained-glass window glows with warm yellow and amber light, creating a dramatic, ambient contrast behind the musicians.

So, what might you pause and thank God for today? Maybe it’s a simple prayer, a favourite Bible verse, a worship song that lifts your heart, a peaceful walk where you can take in the beauty of His creation, or perhaps catching up with a favourite blog from your WordPress family and enjoying the friendship and encouragement found there. Or maybe you don’t need to do anything at all. Just stop for a moment, be still and remember that you are in God’s presence. However you choose to spend that moment, I hope it gives you the chance to slow down, count your blessings and remember just how good and faithful God is. Beatific blessings, Steve.

Let’s Keep Walking in Faith Together!

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Wellness Wednesday: iWalk 3.40 miles 👨🏻‍🦯

September 9, 2026 by Steve 1 Comment

The Pond…

A scenic view of a quiet pond surrounded by dense green trees under a clear blue sky, with tall reeds in the foreground and tree reflections on the water's surface.

Hi Friends…

Today i completed one lap with absolutely no dramas — well, almost! At one point I very nearly lost a leg down a hole in the path. It looked about the size of a dinner plate, with what seemed to be a dinner-plate-sized section of ground just sitting there, before suddenly sinking straight down as I placed my foot on it! Somehow my foot stayed out of the hole, and instinctively I reacted by shifting my weight and lifting my foot straight back up. Even more amazingly, the lugs on my HOKA Speedgoats seemed to latch onto the side of the hole and, quite possibly, saved my life! 😂 It was one of those split-second moments where things could have ended very differently, but thankfully I didn’t crumple my legs and face-plant the trail. I survived the near miss completely unscathed, followed by a huge sigh of relief and a little smile because I knew I’d just narrowly avoided a pretty nasty fall.

The funny thing is, I completely forgot to photograph the offending hole! 🤦🏼‍♂️ And because I’m not quite sure exactly where it was, I’m now hoping that when I head back out tomorrow it’s been filled in — because I really don’t fancy testing my HOKAs quite that way again! 😂 I’ll let you know how I get on, lol. 🙏 😀

“Karen’s Kaleidoscope” Audio GPS Marker…

A dirt path curving through a dense green forest, flanked by tall tree trunks and leafy branches with sunlight filtering through the canopy.

And today’s “Karen’s Kaleidoscope” Audio GPS Marker gave me another little reminder of why I love getting out on the trail. 💪🏼

Motivational Quote:..💪🏼

Motivational Quote: “Not every day has to be a breakthrough. Some days, simply showing up is the victory.” Whatever your day looks like, keep moving forward at your own pace. A small step is still a step, and those small steps really do add up. 💪🏼

Let’s ‘FitBlitz’ 2026!

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Wellness Wednesday: iWalk 3.43 miles 👨🏻‍🦯

September 2, 2026 by Steve 2 Comments

The Pond Panorama…

Black and white wide shot of a peaceful pond framed by a wooden border in the foreground and a thick forest of trees along the far bank.

Hi Friends…

Today I headed back out onto the trail for another lap, covering 3.43 miles. The weather wasn’t exactly playing ball. Grey skies, dull light and not much colour to work with, so both photos ended up getting the monochrome treatment. Sometimes you just have to work with what you’re given. I also tentatively edged my way towards the pond to take a panorama. Being registered blind, there was a fine line between getting the perfect shot and accidentally becoming part of the pond’s ecosystem. Thankfully, I managed to stay on dry land. 😂

“Ian’s Highland Cairn” Panorama…

Black and white wide photo of a gravel trail splitting through a woodland area, with large leafy trees lining both sides and a small wooden park bench situated on the left near the edge of the woods.

Motivational Quote:..💪🏼

“Not every day gives you sunshine, clear skies or an easy path. Some days are grey, and some days you simply have to do what you can with what you’ve been given. Every mile, every healthier choice and every step forward is part of the bigger picture. Keep showing up, keep moving, and trust God with the journey ahead. You don’t have to reach the destination today. Just take the next step.”

Let’s ‘FitBlitz’ 2026 Together! 💪🏼

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Tuner Tuesday: iWalk 6.04 miles 👨🏻‍🦯

September 1, 2026 by Steve 8 Comments

The Pond Panorama…

A wide, panoramic view of a tranquil lake surrounded by dense, lush green trees under a vibrant blue sky filled with a mackerel pattern of small, puffy white clouds. In the foreground, a dry, sandy path bordered by wild bushes leads toward the calm water, which reflects the surrounding foliage.

Hi Friends…

I headed out onto the trail nice and early again, while it was still cooler, the sun wasn’t blazing too much, and the trail was pretty much empty. There’s something really good about having the place almost to myself, just walking, breathing in that fresh morning air and getting those miles under my belt before the day really gets going.

“Jesus Rocks” Audio GPS Marker…

A sunlit dirt path winding through a dense, lush green forest with tall, leafy trees framing the walkway. On the left side of the foreground, a slender silver birch tree with light gray, textured bark leans slightly toward the path, while dappled sunlight filters through the canopy overhead onto the ground.

And today felt like a bit of a milestone. I managed two full laps, clocking up 6.04 miles at nearly 3.5 mph! That’s a pretty decent morning’s work, especially considering how slowly I had to build things back up after my knee injury. I’m definitely starting to feel stronger and more comfortable out there, and I reckon I’m getting better at my pond panoramas too. Lol. I’m beginning to get a feel for where to stand, what to include and how to capture those views properly, rather than just pointing my phone in roughly the right direction and hoping for the best!

The 2nd Pond Panorama…

A wide panoramic view of a serene woodland pond framed by dense green trees and a bush with reddish-brown leaves on the right. The calm, moss-dusted surface of the water reflects a bright blue sky filled with a dense, dappled pattern of white clouds. In the immediate foreground, a curved wooden retaining wall borders the water's edge along a dirt pathway.

There was another little victory for me today too. My talking scales had the pleasure of shouting out my weight this morning, and I was genuinely surprised to discover that I’d managed to lose 8 pounds throughout August. I’m aiming for around 2 pounds a week, but the goal is to do it through a sensible calorie deficit, regular walking and making changes I can actually stick with. So seeing that number drop over the course of the month was a pretty encouraging way to start September.

“Bruce THE Boxer” Audio GPS Marker…

A straight, dirt pathway receding into the distance through a dense, leafy green forest. On the left foreground, a tall, thick tree trunk wrapped in climbing ivy reaches up toward a lush, full canopy, while sunlight softly filters through the surrounding branches above.

And then, of course, there’s the other essential part of Tuner Tuesday: Tuna Tuesday! Sarah has another one of her legendary Tuna Stack Sandwiches lined up, packed with protein, salad and plenty of flavour. At this rate, I’m beginning to think Sarah’s kitchen deserves its own record label. After Sarah’s Tamil Chicken, who knows what culinary single is coming next? Lol.

Now focus…

Now it’s time to get back in tune: and there’s something quite motivating about knowing that the work I’m putting in now is building towards something much bigger. With around 7 months to go until our joint birthday trip to Florida (God willing), I’ve got a pretty clear picture in my head of where I want to be by the time we’re heading off. It’s not about chasing some ridiculous transformation or starving myself into submission. It’s about becoming fitter, moving more easily, feeling better in myself and arriving in Florida knowing I’ve genuinely put the work in. There’s still a long way to go, but if this morning’s walk has taught me anything, it’s that progress really does add up, one lap, one mile and one day at a time. 😀

Time to get back in tune… 🎸

And speaking of getting back in tune… music has always been a huge part of my life, and I’m really enjoying this new chapter of writing, creating and releasing my own original songs. What started as a bit of experimentation with turning my lyrics into songs using Suno has grown into a rapidly expanding catalogue, and I’m loving discovering where each new idea takes me.

There’s already quite a mix developing, from Hawaiian reggae and singer-songwriter songs to piano ballads, Christian music and worship-inspired songs, with plenty of other musical adventures along the way. Some songs are already out there, while others are still being created behind the scenes.

It’s been great fun discovering what can happen when an idea, some lyrics and a little musical experimentation come together. If you haven’t discovered my music yet, I’d love you to have a listen and come along for the journey. 🎸

And now for a completely shameless plug… lol!

Listen to my music and find all my links here.

EADGBE…🎸

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

Scripture snack…

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

Motivational Quote:..💪🏼

“Progress isn’t always about how far you’ve got left to go. Sometimes it’s about stopping for a moment and realising just how far you’ve already come. Two laps. Six miles. Nearly 3.5 mph. Eight pounds gone. None of it happened overnight, and none of it happened by accident. Keep showing up, keep making the next good choice, and keep trusting God with the journey. There are still miles ahead, but that’s okay… because every mile is taking you closer to where you want to be.”Me. 😀

Let’s ‘FitBlitz’ 2026 Together! 💪🏼

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Friday Flowers:: RHS Garden Wisley 🌻

August 28, 2026 by Steve 6 Comments

A blonde bombshell called Sarah smiling in sunglasses and a beige utility dress stands on a wooden wooden-latticed bridge. Behind her lies a long pond filled with green lily pads, flanked by lush botanical garden landscaping under a bright blue sky with fluffy white clouds. A sign reading "Rock Garden" sits on the left path.

Hi Friends.

As part of our joint birthday gift (in April) from our friend Shivani, Sarah and I were given complimentary tickets to RHS Garden Wisley, so we decided to go today…And what a day we picked! The sun stayed out for us, and the flowers were absolutely stunning.

The flowers were beautiful, but honestly, they still weren’t as beautiful as my lovely wife Sarah. ❤️

A vibrant, dense cluster of bright yellow black-eyed Susan flowers (Rudbeckia) in full bloom, featuring prominent dark brown center cones and lush green foliage in the background.

A blonde woman in sunglasses, a beige short-sleeve outfit, and pink sneakers kneels beside colorful rows of yellow, orange, and red celosia flowers (Celosia argentea) in a garden display.

Alt Text: A blonde woman in sunglasses, a beige utility dress, and pink sneakers walks down a stone path inside a large glass greenhouse filled with vibrant green, climbing vines and potted plants under a sunny blue sky.

Alt Text: A low-angle shot looking up into the leafy branches of a smoke bush (Cotinus) bearing large, fluffy plumes of smoky pink and tan flowers, set against a bright blue sky filled with white clouds.

Alt Text: A close-up view of dried, spiky cardoon or globe artichoke flower heads with scaly, artichoke-like bracts and tufted tops, standing in a garden under a partially cloudy blue sky.

Alt Text: A wide-angle view of a formal garden featuring a square stone lily pond in the foreground reflecting a bright blue sky with fluffy white clouds. In the background, a long canal-style reflection pool stretches toward a brick pavilion, surrounded by manicured lawns, stone pathways, and lush green hedges.

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Thankful Thursday: Thank you God for the rain! 🙏

August 27, 2026 by Steve 5 Comments

Hi Friends.

It’s finally raining. Actually, it’s raining quite hard! After all the heat we’ve had, though, I’m certainly not going to complain. I think God may have heard me asking for some cooler weather and decided to empty the entire bucket at once! Looking back over this week’s activity, I’m really thankful for the progress I’ve been making with my walking. I’ve managed to get out onto the trail and keep building things back up, with walks around the 3.4-mile mark.

Monday’s walk was another 3.46 miles, and it felt good to be out there again. The cooler conditions made such a difference, and I’m grateful that I’m able to keep getting stronger and more comfortable on the trail. It’s easy to look at a walk and think, “It’s only three and a bit miles.” But sometimes it’s not about the distance. It’s about where you’ve come from. Every step represents progress, and I’m thankful to God for giving me the strength, patience and determination to keep moving forward.

And then there’s the rain.

After weeks and weeks of heat, sunshine and dry conditions, I’m genuinely grateful to hear it falling outside today. Rain might not be everyone’s idea of perfect weather, but sometimes the things we complain about in one season are exactly the things we find ourselves praying for in another.

Today is actually a bit of a different day for me. Rather than heading out onto the trail, I’m spending some time behind the scenes. I’ll be diving into the settings menus on my blogs, tweaking things, sorting out a few bits and pieces and generally doing the stuff that nobody sees but that helps keep everything running properly.

And, of course, there will be music.

I’ll be writing more lyrics, working on new ideas and making more songs. The creative side of things never really seems to switch off, and I’m enjoying exploring where all these different ideas can lead. So today I’m thankful for the rain, the walks, the progress, the creativity and the opportunity to keep building things…And most of all, I’m thankful to God.

🙏 “Thank You, Lord, for the strength to keep moving, the creativity to keep making, the patience to keep learning and even the rain pouring down outside my window today, Amen”.

Sometimes we need sunshine. Sometimes we need rain. And sometimes we just need to stop for a moment and realise that both are blessings.

Happy Thankful Thursday, everyone…Stay blessed, keep moving forward, and don’t forget to be thankful for the little things.

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…🙏

Steve giving his wife Sarah a piggyback ride on a mountain summit at sunset, both laughing joyfully with dramatic clouds and a scenic mountain range in the background. — 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…

Don’t be discouraged by the rain. Sometimes God sends the storms not to stop your journey, but to help you grow stronger for the road ahead. Keep moving forward. Keep trusting God. And remember, even the smallest step is still a step in the right direction. 💪🏼🙏

Let’s ‘FitBlitz’ 2026 Together! 💪🏼

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Tuner Tuesday: iWalk 3.41 miles 👨🏻‍🦯

August 25, 2026 by Steve 5 Comments

The Pond Panorama…

A panoramic landscape view of a calm, reflective pond framed by a dense tree line of lush green forest under a clear, bright blue sky. In the foreground, dry, light-brown sandy earth leads down to the water's edge. To the right of the water sits a small, dome-shaped dark green fishing tent tucked beside thick, overgrown green brambles and bushes. Fishing gear is subtle near the water's edge, and a wooden signpost marks a dirt path extending off to the right.

Hi Friends…

I went out on the trail nice and early when it’s cooler, the trail is pretty much empty and the sun isn’t blazing too much. There’s something really good about having the place almost to myself, just walking, breathing in the fresh morning air and getting those miles under my belt before the day really gets going.

And you know what? I’m already getting lighter and I can feel it! I’m almost springing along in my legs now, and my shirt is definitely getting a little baggier. Lol. It’s amazing how those little changes start to show up, not just on the scales but in the way you move and feel. And because it’s Tuner Tuesday AND Tuna Tuesday, I’m already looking forward to Sarah’s Tuna Stack Sandwich! What a burst of protein, salad and flavours. After the release of “Sarah’s Tamil Chicken”, you know how crazy a simple sandwich can get around here! Lol.

“Dayle’s Rest Stop” Panorama…

A wide panoramic scene of a sun-dappled dirt and gravel path winding through a dense forest of tall, mature trees with full green canopies. The path splits gently to the left while the main trail curves forward under the tree cover. Sunlight filters through the leaves, casting soft light and shadows across the leaf-littered ground. On the right side of the main path stands a simple, rustic wooden bench facing into the woods.

I also had to stop for a little while at Dayle’s Rest Stop this morning because the bench was looking absolutely beautiful in the early light. It’s become such a lovely little place to pause, take in the surroundings and appreciate just how peaceful the trail can be. It was also the perfect opportunity to attempt another Panorama… and surely I must be improving by now, lol! I’m beginning to think I’ve taken enough panoramic photos for one of them to eventually come out properly!

So that’s today’s Tuner Tuesday done. Another morning on the trail, another step in the right direction, and another reminder that consistency really does pay off. I’m not rushing it, I’m just keeping moving, enjoying the journey and seeing where these legs can take me. One walk, one mile, one protein-packed tuna stack and one slightly baggier shirt at a time!

Now focus…

Now it’s time to get back in tune: and stay in 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. 😀

Time to get back in tune… 🎸

And speaking of getting back in tune… music has always been a huge part of my life, and I’m really enjoying this new chapter of writing, creating and releasing my own original songs. I’m still only at the beginning of building my catalogue, and I’ve only been experimenting with turning my lyrics into songs using Suno for a few months, but the song list is growing all the time! There’s already quite a mix developing, from Hawaiian reggae and singer-songwriter-style songs to piano ballads and plenty of other musical adventures. And there’s lots more being created behind the scenes too, including a growing collection of Christian and worship-inspired songs that I’m really looking forward to sharing when they’re ready. It’s been great fun discovering what can happen when an idea, some lyrics and a little musical experimentation come together. If you haven’t discovered my music yet, I’d love you to have a listen and come along for the journey. 🎸

And now for a completely shameless plug… lol!

Listen to my music and find all my links here.

EADGBE…🎸

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

Scripture snack…

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

Motivational Quote:..💪🏼

“You don’t have to feel lighter to know you’re making progress. Sometimes progress is simply noticing that your legs feel stronger, your shirt feels looser, your steps feel easier, and you’re enjoying the journey a little more than you did yesterday. Keep showing up, keep moving, keep making better choices, and trust God with the distance still ahead. The goal isn’t to become a different person overnight… it’s to become a healthier version of yourself, one step, one choice and one day at a time.”

Let’s ‘FitBlitz’ 2026 Together! 💪🏼

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We are never beyond the reach of His care!

August 24, 2026 by Steve 4 Comments

We are never beyond the reach of His care!

(J.C. Ryle, “The Gospel of Mark” 1857)

Mark 6:50, “Take courage! It is I. Do not be afraid.”

Mark how our Lord sees the troubles of His believing people, and in due time will help them.

We read that when the ship was in the midst of the sea, and He was alone on the land, that He saw they were in serious trouble, rowing hard and struggling against the wind and waves; He came to them walking on the sea; and cheered them with the gracious words, “Take courage! It is I. Do not be afraid,” and changed the storm into a calm!

There are thoughts of comfort here for all true believers. Wherever they may be, or whatever their circumstances, the Lord Jesus sees them!

Alone or in company;
in sickness or in health;
by sea or by land;
in perils in the city;
in perils in the wilderness;
the same eye which saw the disciples tossed on the lake, is ever looking at us!

We are never beyond the reach of His care!

Our way is never hidden from Him!

He knows the path that we take, and is still able to help. He may not come to our aid at the time we like best, but He will never allow us utterly to fail.

He who walked upon the water, never changes!

He will always come at the right time to uphold His people. Though He tarries, let us wait patiently.

Jesus sees us, and will not forsake us.

“Take courage! It is I. Do not be afraid.” Mark 6:50

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Thankful Thursday: iWalk 3.41 miles 🙏👨🏻‍🦯

August 20, 2026 by Steve 4 Comments

The Pond Panorama…

Foreground & Paths: The image features a wide, open clearing in the foreground with dry, sandy ground and patches of pale grass. Dirt and gravel walking paths curve around both the left and right edges, leading further into the park or trail network.

Central Water Feature: In the mid-ground, a quiet pond rests surrounded by lush greenery, reeds, and low shrubs along its banks. A small wooden post or structure sits near the edge of the water.

Surrounding Woodland: Dense, mature deciduous trees surround the pond area, forming a full green wall of foliage around the perimeter.

Atmosphere & Lighting: The sky is filled with soft, overcast gray clouds with patches of bright blue breaking through on the right, casting soft, diffused sunlight across the landscape.

Hi Friends.

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…

Central Trail: The panoramic view centers on a straight, pale dirt and gravel trail extending forward into the distance through dense woods.

Left Forest Canopy: The left side of the path features slender saplings, young deciduous trees, and thin silver birch trunks leaning over the trail, creating a leafy arch overhead.

Right Undergrowth & Vegetation: The right side of the trail is lined with bushy green ferns, bracken foliage with hints of early autumn color, and taller, mature broadleaf trees extending backward into the forest.

Lighting & Atmosphere: Soft, natural daylight filters down through the upper tree canopy onto the path, creating a calm, sheltered woodland corridor feel.

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…🙏

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. 😀

Let’s ‘FitBlitz’ 2026 Together! 💪🏼

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Wellness Wednesday: Family & Friends!

August 19, 2026 by Steve 12 Comments

Three people sitting closely together on a grey sofa indoors. On the left, Jess, a young girl wearing a light blue ruffled top and a blue headband, looks off to the side. In the middle, Sarah smiles warmly at the camera, wearing a dark top, a sunflower pendant necklace, and polka-dot bottoms. On the right, Steve sits beside her wearing a dark short-sleeved button-up shirt with an embroidered design, looking toward the camera.

Hi Friends.

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

A young girl, Jess, sitting cross-legged on a dark mat on the floor indoors. She is wearing a light blue and white striped sleeveless top with ruffled shoulders, light turquoise shorts, and a bright blue headband in her strawberry-blonde hair. She looks off to the side with a slight smile while playing with a blue toy pool set and fashion dolls in front of a grey side cabinet.

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…

Steve on the left, wearing a black short-sleeved button-up shirt with white palm-like embroidered designs, seated at a wooden table with an iced coffee and a small pastry on a plate. Standing next to him on the right is his sister, Amber, wearing a white t-shirt, smiling warm-heartedly. They are inside her brightly lit coffee shop, with a white counter, espresso machine, menu board, and drink supplies visible in the background.

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

Rob on the left, a man with dark hair and a light beard wearing a dark blue polo shirt, looking down attentively over his daughter, Ella. On the right, Ella, a young woman with straight blonde hair parted down the middle, leans forward focused on holding and typing on her phone to order a takeaway.

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.

Ella on the left, a young woman with straight blonde hair wearing a fine pendant necklace, smiling gently at the camera. On the right, a young boy known as Mighty Mike, grinning happily while wearing a bright blue Spider-Man t-shirt covered in cartoon superhero graphics.

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.

Bridge on the left, a woman with dark shoulder-length hair wearing a black sleeveless top, smiling as she holds hands and slow dances with Steve on the right, who has his eyes closed and his head resting gently against hers. They are outdoors in a paved patio garden during a celebration, with party decorations, green balloons, a lit-up party speaker playing music nearby, and family and friends gathering around them in the background.

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. 😀

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Tuner Tuesday: iWalk 3.45 miles 👨🏻‍🦯

August 18, 2026 by Steve 7 Comments

The Pond Panorama…

A wide, panoramic monochrome view capturing a serene, natural pond nestled within dense woodland.
Foreground: Lush water vegetation, tall reed-like foliage, and leafy plant growth line the bottom-left bank, framing the view into the water.
Water Surface: Smooth, still water reflects the overcast sky above along with the soft silhouettes of the surrounding tree canopy. Surface algae or duckweed floats in gentle clusters along parts of the water's edge.
Background: A dense wall of mature trees and leafy shrubbery spans the entire far side of the bank, creating a secluded, quiet atmosphere. A single post stands upright near the center of the water.

Hi Friends…

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…

A panoramic view showcasing a wooden park bench situated at a distinct fork in a woodland trail.
Central Focal Point: A rustic, weather-worn wooden bench sits in a small clearing in the middle, featuring a memorial/dedication plaque mounted on its backrest.
Paths & Surroundings: Two clear dirt/gravel walking paths split around the bench—one veering off to the left and another continuing to the right.
Background & Vegetation: Directly behind the bench is a dense, sweeping bed of tall ferns/bracken backed by a wall of mature trees, giving the spot a peaceful, sheltered feel amidst the forest.

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 calorie deficit each day until healthy weight.
G – Goals: Focus (and celebrate) small, medium and BIG goals.
B – Body & BP: Check blood pressure & listen to my body and look after it (it’s not young anymore).
E – Edification: Feeding my mind and soul fuels me to serve, encourage, and inspire others.

Scripture snack…

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

Motivational Quote:..💪🏼

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.

Let’s ‘FitBlitz’ 2026 Together! 💪🏼

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Strangers and pilgrims on the earth!

August 17, 2026 by Steve 4 Comments

Strangers and pilgrims on the earth!

Charles Spurgeon

Hebrews 11:13, “They acknowledged that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth.”

This poor world is a boarding-house in which we lodge for a night or two, but it is not our home. The furniture is not ours, the title-deeds are not in our name, and the lease will soon expire. Why then, do we fret over its broken chairs, or quarrel about the best rooms? The Christian’s true estate lies yonder, where Jesus has gone to prepare a place for us. Let us hold all earthly things with a loose hand, lest when the Master calls, we be found glued to the toys of the nursery, instead of ready for the palace of the King.

The path of the Christian pilgrim is not strewn with flowers, but with thorns. He must expect to be misunderstood by the men of this world, for he speaks a different language and seeks a different country.

Beloved friends, you and I are passing through Vanity Fair, but we are not free to set up shop there. The true pilgrim buys none of the merchandise of the place–neither its honors, its pleasures, nor its empty praise. He has his treasure in Heaven, where moth and rust do not corrupt.

A pilgrim must travel light. The more luggage he carries, the more weary he becomes. So the Christian is called to lay aside every weight and the sin that so easily besets him. Houses, lands, gold, and reputation are heavy burdens for a man who is bound for eternity.

This world is a wilderness, and though the desert winds howl and the fiery serpents hiss, the pilgrim need not fear. His God has sworn to bring him safely to the land that flows with milk and honey–the better country of everlasting rest.

Our Lord Jesus was the great Pilgrim who had nowhere to lay His head. If we are in Him, we must share His pilgrim spirit. The crossmarks the pilgrim’s pathway, but the crown lies at the end of it!

We are pilgrims and strangers upon the earth, and we do well to remember it every day we live. This poor world is not our rest, for it is polluted! Our home is beyond the river of death, in the land where the flowers never fade and the sun never sets. Let us not build our nests too firmly in these trees that will soon be cut down, but keep our hearts loose from earthly things, that when the trumpet sounds we may rise and enter into the joy of our Lord.

What is this poor dying world, that we should fall in love with it? Its smiles are deceitful, its riches take wings and fly away, and its pleasures bite like adders! The believer has been taught by the Spirit to call it what it is–a broken cistern, a fading flower, a temporary tent. His heart is fixed on things above, not on earthly toys.

To the true believer, this world is a wilderness, dry and barren, full of serpents and thorns. He finds no lasting satisfaction in its broken cisterns. He is a pilgrim passing through, and though the road may be rough and the sky dark, he knows that every step brings him nearer to the city that has foundations, whose builder and maker is God.

“Get up, go away! For this is not your resting place, because it is defiled, it is ruined beyond all remedy!” Micah 2:10

“Beloved, I beg you as sojourners and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts which war against the soul!” 1 Peter 2:11

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Tuner Tuesday: iWalk 3.42 miles 👨🏻‍🦯

August 11, 2026 by Steve 4 Comments

The Pond Panorama…

A panoramic view of a tranquil pond bordered by lush green woodland on a sunny day. On the left, mature oak trees frame a serene body of water reflecting the bright blue sky and clouds. A small white sign is attached to the trunk of a large tree in the foreground. To the right, a sun-dappled dirt path curves along the edge of dense forest foliage and underbrush.

Hi Friends…

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.

A panoramic scene of a dirt woodland trail stretching straight through a dense forest bathed in sunlight. Golden-brown and bright green ferns carpet the ground in the foreground. Tall, leafy trees arch over both sides of the path, casting soft shadows across the ground beneath a clear, light blue sky.

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 calorie deficit each day until healthy weight.
G – Goals: Focus (and celebrate) small, medium and BIG goals.
B – Body & BP: Check blood pressure & listen to my body and look after it (it’s not young anymore).
E – Edification: Feeding my mind and soul fuels me to serve, encourage, and inspire others.

Scripture snack…

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

Motivational Quote:..💪🏼

“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.”

Let’s ‘FitBlitz’ 2026 Together! 💪🏼

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Reader, turn aside and see this great sight!

August 5, 2026 by Steve 0 Comments

Reader, turn aside and see this great sight!

(William Thoseby, “Foot-prints on the Sands of Time” 1869)

“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you!” Isaiah 43:2

John Bunyan writes in his Pilgrim’s Progress: “Now I further saw that between the pilgrims and the gate of the Celestial City, was a river, but there was no bridge to go over, and the river was very deep. At the sight of this river, the pilgrims were much stunned; but those who went with them, said, ‘You must go through, or you cannot come to the gate.’ The pilgrims then began to despond in their minds, and looked this way and that, but no way could be found by them, by which they might escape the river.”

How true and touching is this description. There is no way from this world to the Celestial City, but through the river of death. Whether men go to eternal glory or to eternal gloom–they have to ford its depths. There is no way of reaching the Celestial City, without crossing the narrow stream of death. When the summons for our departure arrives, we must enter the deep dark waters. None can disregard the call, nor choose any other mode of transit. But it is given to the Christian pilgrim to hear the voice of the Good Shepherd sounding like sweet music in the intervals of storm: “It is I, do not be afraid!” Jesus may allow you to hear some touches of richest music, and feel some waftings of balmiest air. It has even seemed to some of the pilgrims, that their very names were called; and then with new thrillings of the inner sense, they have joyfully answered, “We are coming! We are coming home!”

But as we near the banks of the river, the prospect of parting with beloved relatives and friends is sometimes deeply affecting. It was a touching scene in ancient Israel, “When all the congregation saw that Aaron was dead, they mourned for him thirty days.”

Oh, there is a luxury in tears! The tears of tenderness, are the jewelry of our humanity. The man who never sheds a tear, is by no means to be envied. Have we not heard of the weeping Savior? Reader, turn aside and see this great sight: the Creator of all worlds, in tears! “Jesus wept!” John 11:35. And those tears formed one of the most touching episodes in His sacred story.

Looking along the line of coming years, the Savior had before Him the believing bereaved of all ages, a picture gallery of the world’s aching hearts, a far and wide spread view of all the deserted chambers, vacant seats and open graves, down to the end of time. Therefore, weeping believer, your anguished heart was included in the Savior’s tear drops!

“Shudder not to pass the stream,
Venture all your care on Him,
Him whose dying love and power
Stilled its tossing, hushed its roar.

Not one object of His care,
Ever suffered shipwreck there;
See the haven full in view;
Love Divine shall bear you through!”

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Tuner Tuesday: iWalk 5.99 miles 👨🏻‍🦯

August 4, 2026 by Steve 5 Comments

The Pond Photo on lap 1…

This is a tighter, more intimate shot of the same location, focused on the fishing spot by the water. The sky is again bright blue with scattered fluffy white clouds. A dense wall of green trees and leafy bushes fills the background across the far bank of the pond; the water itself is still and a murky olive-green, reflecting some of the trees.
In the lower right foreground a person is seated in a folding chair facing the water, back mostly toward the camera. They are wearing a red short-sleeved top and a light-coloured wide-brimmed hat. A fishing rod is held upright, its tip pointing up into the sky. Around the chair are various items of tackle and equipment: a bright red bag or bag with a yellow circular design, a yellow soft bag or cool-box, a camouflage-patterned bag or seat, and a black trolley or stand with wheels. The near bank is dry, pale yellowish grass and earth, with taller green reeds and grasses growing along the water’s edge on the left. The overall mood is quiet and focused—someone settled in for a peaceful day’s fishing under a sunny sky.

Hi Friends…

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

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

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

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

The Pond Panorama…

This is a wide, horizontal landscape photo taken on a bright, sunny day. The sky fills the upper half and is a clear, vivid blue with scattered, soft white clouds that look wispy and stretched. Below the sky is a dense line of mature green trees and bushes that form a continuous backdrop all the way across the horizon; the foliage is full and lush in varying shades of deep and bright green.
In the middle distance sits a calm, greenish-brown pond or small lake whose surface is still and slightly reflective. The water is partly framed by reeds and low vegetation along the near bank. On the left-to-centre shore, just at the water’s edge, is a small fishing setup: a dark chair or seat with someone sitting in it (mostly seen from behind or side), bright orange and yellow bags or tackle boxes, and fishing rods. The ground in the foreground is dry, patchy, pale yellowish-brown grass and bare earth that slopes gently down toward the water. A few fallen branches lie on the ground in the lower right. On the far right a light-coloured dirt or gravel path curves away into the trees, with a wooden post and a couple of small signs standing beside it. Overall the scene feels peaceful, open, and rural on a warm, clear day.

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

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

Now focus…

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

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

EADGBE…🎸

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

Scripture snack…

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

Motivational Quote:..💪🏼

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

Let’s ‘FitBlitz’ 2026 Together! 💪🏼

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Motivational Monday: iWalk 3.41 miles 🙏👨🏻‍🦯

August 3, 2026 by Steve 8 Comments

The Pond Photo…

A self-taken photo on a bright, sunny morning by a tranquil pond. In the lower right foreground, I’m wearing a wide-brimmed tan sun hat with a dark band and a yellow, white, and grey short-sleeved plaid shirt. I’m holding the camera with my right arm extended. My expression is calm and content, with a gentle, relaxed half-smile and dark brown eyes looking directly toward the lens. The morning sun illuminates my face naturally under the shade of the brim. Behind me, the landscape opens up to a calm body of water surrounded by lush, dense green trees, wild bushes, and dry, sun-bathed grass under a clear blue summer sky.

Hi Friends.

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…

A wide panoramic photograph of a peaceful woodland dirt trail bathed in morning sunlight. The path is light-colored earth and gravel, curving gently through the center of the frame into the distance. On both sides, the trail is lined with dense greenery, low bushes, fern-like foliage, and tall trees. Sunlight filters through a lush canopy of leaves overhead, casting soft shadows across the ground. Ivy covers several of the dark tree trunks along the right, and bright blue sky glimpses through the top of the dense forest canopy.

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.

Let’s ‘FitBlitz’ 2026 Together! 💪🏼

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Thankful Thursday: iWalk 3.40 miles 🙏👨🏻‍🦯

July 30, 2026 by Steve 0 Comments

The Pond Photo…

Subject & Setting: A still, mirror-like pond surrounded by lush woodland.
Foreground & Framing: Two thick, textured tree trunks frame the view—one on the left with a small white informational sign attached to its bark, and another on the right wrapped in green ivy. Tall reeds and aquatic grasses poke out near the water’s edge in the bottom center.
Water & Reflections: The pond's surface has a warm, brownish-golden hue from surrounding algae/silt, yet it reflects the bright blue sky, soft white clouds, and the surrounding green foliage with remarkable clarity.

Hi Friends.

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.

Subject & Setting: A dirt trail winding through a dense, sun-dappled woodland. In the mid-ground, a lone runner in dark athletic wear is captured moving further up the path away from the camera.
Lighting & Atmosphere: Bright sunlight filters through the high canopy, casting soft patches of light and long shadows across the sandy/dirt track. The atmosphere feels tranquil and peaceful.
Composition: Tall, mature deciduous trees line both sides of the path, leaning inward slightly to form a natural arch over the trail. Dense green undergrowth and brambles border the ground on both sides, creating a sense of depth and immersion in nature.

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…

Composition & Layout: A wide-angle panoramic view of a woodland junction where two dirt paths split.
Centerpiece: Positioned right near the split in the trail sits a dark wooden bench (Dayle's Rest Stop.) facing out toward the path, dappled with sunlight filtering through the canopy above.
Environment: To the left, a dirt path curves upward; to the right, a lighter gravel/dirt path stretches straight into the distance through a dense tunnel of leafy green trees and high canopies. The overall scene feels open, inviting, and quiet.

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.

Subject & Setting: A quiet forest clearing featuring a wooden rustic bench resting along a dusty trail bend.
Trees & Canopy: Silhouetted foreground branches stretch across the top of the frame, framing a patch of bright blue sky with light wispy clouds. A tall, prominent tree with gnarly, twisting branches stands on the right.
Details: Low green shrubs, ferns, and dense bushes fill the background behind the bench, catching direct sunlight while the foreground path remains mostly shaded.

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…🙏

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.”

Let’s ‘FitBlitz’ 2026 Together! 💪🏼

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Wellness Wednesday: iWalk 3.42 miles 👨🏻‍🦯

July 29, 2026 by Steve 0 Comments

The Pond Photo…

Foreground: On the right foreground, there is a dense bramble patch/bush filled with green leaves and dark berries (wild blackberries). In the lower left, a wooden retaining edge separates dry ground from the water’s edge.
Midground: A calm, dark-surfaced pond or lake reflects the surrounding greenery. A small waterbird (such as a duck or coot) is visible floating near the lower-left edge.
Background: Dense rows of mature, leafy green trees line the far bank under a bright sky, bathed in soft, warm sunlight.
Imag

Hi Friends.

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!”

Setting: A dirt pathway winding through a dense, arching forest or woodland canopy.
Foreground: A gravel/dirt walking path starts in the lower-center and recedes into the distance. Tall, slender trees border both sides with thick underbrush along the path's edge.
Midground & Canopy: High, overarching tree branches cross over the path, creating a natural green tunnel effect. The foliage filters the natural light, casting soft shadows across the ground.
Lighting: Warm sunlight peeks through the upper-right tree canopy, creating a gentle flare and highlighting the texture of the leaves and path.
Imag

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…

Setting: A wider perspective of a sunlit forest trail bordered by mature hardwood trees.
Foreground & Framing: Large, sturdy tree trunks flank both sides of the frame. On the left, thick, sprawling branches arch gracefully over the trail.
Pathway & Background: A straight dirt/gravel trail extends through the center toward the sunlit background. Dense green shrubbery and lower-level foliage line the path on both sides.
Lighting: Bright, clear blue sky shows through the leaves above, with sunlight illuminating the upper canopy and casting dappled shadows on the ground below.

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.

Let’s ‘FitBlitz’ 2026 Together! 💪🏼

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Tuner Tuesday: iWalk 3.42 miles 👨🏻‍🦯

July 28, 2026 by Steve 1 Comment

The Pond Photo…

A wide, tranquil pond surrounded by dense green forest under an overcast gray sky, viewed from a dry, light-brown grassy bank in the foreground. Low reeds, leafy green bushes, and brambles line the foreground edge, while the calm, brownish water reflects the dark silhouettes of the lush tree line encircling the far banks of the lake.

Hi Friends…

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

A smooth, light-colored gravel path curves gently to the left through a lush woodland landscape under a cloudy sky. Thick green bushes, wild brambles, and tall mature trees line both sides of the path, creating a clear and inviting walking trail that winds gracefully out of sight into the surrounding forest.

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! 😀

A narrow dirt footpath winds into a dense, overgrown forest surrounded by a thick undergrowth of bushes and young trees under a high canopy. Thick, leaning branches stretch overhead from the right side of the frame, while light filters softly through the leafy foliage onto the soil path as it leads deeper into the secluded woods.

Now focus…

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

EADGBE…🎸

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

Scripture snack…

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

Motivational Quote:..💪🏼

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

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Carry all your concerns to Him, in the arms of faith!

July 27, 2026 by Steve 0 Comments

James Smith, “The Pastor’s Morning Visit“

“Casting all your care upon Him, because He cares for you!” 1 Peter 5:7

The Lord knows all His people–all their needs, and all their trials.

He thinks upon them–to bless, deliver and supply them.

He keeps His eye upon them–in all places, at all times, and under all circumstances.

He has them in His hand–and will not loosen His hold.

He looks upon them always as His own ‘treasured possession’ . . .
the objects of His eternal love,
the purchase of His Son’s blood,
the temples of His Holy Spirit.

They are precious in His sight!

He knows they are weak and fearful, and that they have many enemies. He teaches them to cast themselves and all their cares into His hands! And He has given them His promise–that He will care for them.

It is a Father’s care which He exercises.
It is a wise, holy, tender, and constant care.
Therefore all will be well with you–only trust Him.

Believe that He cares for you this day. Carry all your concerns to Him, in the arms of faith! Leave all with Him, persuaded that He will manage all by His infinite wisdom, and bring all to a good outcome by His omnipotent power.

Cast all your cares upon Him–as fast as they come in.

Do not worry about anything.

“Cast your burden on the Lord, and He will support you!
He will never allow the righteous to be shaken!” Psalm 55:22

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Motivational Monday: iWalk 3.42 miles 👨🏻‍🦯

July 27, 2026 by Steve 5 Comments

The Pond Photo…

A calm pond framed by two large tree trunks features vivid reflections of white clouds and blue sky across its smooth water surface. The tree on the left holds a small posted sign while the trunk on the right is wrapped in climbing ivy, with overhanging leafy branches arching down over the placid pond toward the far, densely wooded shoreline.

Hi Friends.

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…

Bright sunlight glints through the upper branches of a tree line framing a sun-dappled dirt path winding into a dense woodland area. Tall tree trunks line the left side of the path, leaning overhead to create a partial natural tunnel, while the wide gravel trail extends forward into the shaded forest, bordered by lush green bushes and illuminated by strong morning light filtering through the canopy.

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…

A rustic, light-colored wooden park bench (Sarah's Sunshine Bench Marker) sits beside a sandy dirt trail curving through lush green ferns and tall forest trees under a bright blue sky. Positioned on a patch of dry grass, the bench is closely backed by a dense carpet of vibrant bracken that leads into a thick canopy of leafy green deciduous trees, while the light gravel path to its right gently winds deeper into the woods under patches of sunlight.

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)

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Thankful Thursday: iWalk 3.40 miles 👨🏻‍🦯

July 23, 2026 by Steve 3 Comments

Pond Photo…

A peaceful countryside pond surrounded by mature green trees and dense shrubs on a bright summer morning. The calm, still water reflects the surrounding woodland and patches of blue sky, creating a mirror-like effect across the surface. In the foreground, a strip of dry, sun-bleached grass borders the water's edge, where a single blue folding camping chair sits facing the tranquil pond. Reeds and grasses frame the left and right edges of the scene, while soft sunlight illuminates the treetops, giving the landscape a calm and reflective atmosphere.

Hi Fitblitzers.

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! 🤣

A wide, well-maintained woodland trail winding gently through a mature forest on a bright summer morning. The light-coloured gravel path stretches into the distance beneath a natural canopy of tall green trees, with dappled sunlight filtering through the leaves. Dense brambles, ferns, shrubs and undergrowth line both sides of the trail, creating a peaceful corridor of woodland. The scene is calm, quiet and inviting, with no people visible, capturing the beauty and tranquillity of a nature walk.

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.

A peaceful woodland trail beneath a dense canopy of mature trees on a bright summer morning. The wide gravel path curves gently through the forest, surrounded by lush green foliage, ferns, brambles and ivy-covered tree trunks. Sunlight filters through the leaves, creating dappled patches of light and shade across the path. In the distance, a lone walker is visible beneath the trees, adding a sense of scale while preserving the quiet, tranquil atmosphere of the woodland.

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? 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)

Let’s ‘FitBlitz’ 2026 Together! 💪🏼

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Recovery Trail Tuesday: iWalk 3.40 miles 🙏 👨🏻‍🦯

July 21, 2026 by Steve 9 Comments

Calm pond on my trail surrounded by dense green trees under a blue sky with scattered white clouds

Hi Fitblitzers…

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

Trail at the bottom of the image going off to the right, with sunshine glowing through the beautiful tress filling the frame

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! 💪🏼 😀

> A scenic dirt path winding through a dense, leafy green forest, with bright sunlight breaking through the tree canopy and creating a dramatic lens flare across the scene.

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! 🤣

A wide gravel footway stretching forward and curving gently to the left through a woodland area, surrounded by tall leafy trees with dappled sunlight casting soft shadows across the path and illuminating a grassy clearing on the right.

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. 😀

A wide, sunlit dirt path extending into a lush green forest under a clear blue sky with light clouds, with a wooden park bench situated on the grassy verge to the right beneath the shade of tall trees.

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! 🙏 😀

A low-angle view of a light gravel path winding through a dense forest, framed prominently by a large tree trunk with textured bark on the left foreground, with tall leafy trees arching overhead and a small wooden post or sign visible in the background where the trail curves.

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

Now focus…

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

EADGBE…🎸

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

Scripture snack…

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

Motivational Quote:..💪🏼

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

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

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200 Flags: Welcome Burkina Faso 🇧🇫

July 17, 2026 by Steve 0 Comments

I generated an AI image for this post. 😀

Hi Friends

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Knee Recovery Update: Slow Progress Is Still Progress

July 16, 2026 by Steve 2 Comments

Hi friends…

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

Oh yes I forgot to mention…

A Little Taste of Madeira…

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

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Quick Knee Update 🙏 ❤️🎸

May 12, 2026 by Steve 5 Comments

Hi friends…

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

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

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Prayer Request – Knee Pain and Recovery 🙏👨🏻‍🦯

May 5, 2026 by Steve 12 Comments

Hi Everyone…

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

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

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

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

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Tuner Tuesday: iWalk 3.43 miles 👨🏻‍🦯

April 21, 2026 by Steve 1 Comment

Today’s VoiceVista GPS Beacon”Karen’s Kaleidoscope”

Hi Fitblitzers…

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

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Motivational Monday: iWalk 3.45 miles 🙏 👨🏻‍🦯

April 20, 2026 by Steve 2 Comments

Today’s pond photo…

Hi FitBlitzers…

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! 😀

Let’s ‘FitBlitz’ 2026 Together! 💪🏼

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Tuner Tuesday: iWalk 3.44 miles 🙏 👨🏻‍🦯

March 10, 2026 by Steve 4 Comments

Today’s pond photo…

Hi Fitblitzers…

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

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

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

Scripture snack…

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

Motivational Quote:..💪🏼

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

Let’s ‘FitBlitz’ 2026 Together! 💪🏼

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Is there any trace of Judas in your heart?

March 9, 2026 by Steve 0 Comments

Is there any trace of Judas in your heart?

Charles Spurgeon, et al.

(You will find it helpful to LISTEN to the Audio, as you READ the text below.)

Luke 22:48, “Judas, are you betraying the Son of Man with a kiss?”

Among all the sins that defile the soul, hypocrisy is especially detestable to God. It is not merely sin–it is sin under the mask of righteousness. It is rebellion, dressed in the robes of religion. No man exemplifies this dreadful evil, more than Judas Iscariot.

Judas walked with Jesus. He heard His voice, saw His miracles, and shared in His ministry. To all appearances, he was a faithful disciple–trusted enough to keep the money bag. But beneath the surface, his heart was cold, covetous, and corrupt. His outward profession, masked an inward love for self and silver. And in the end, he betrayed the Son of God–not with a sword, but with a kiss! That which should have been a sign of love and friendship, was desecrated to the vilest of purposes.

What a solemn reminder that hypocrisy is often found among the religious! “Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites!” Matthew 23:27

The most chilling aspect of Judas’ sin, is how close he was to the Savior, yet how farhis heart remained. He called Him “Rabbi,” kissed Him as a friend, and yet sold Him for the price of a slave. Judas kissed and killed his Lord. The kiss and the betrayal came together.

Hypocrites betray Christ still in this way: they profess to love Jesus, they kiss Him, they worship Him with their lips–but their hearts are far from Him.

Jesus’ question pierces like a dagger! “Are you betraying the Son of Man with a kiss?” The betrayal was not done in hatred, but in false affection. This is the essence of hypocrisy–using the appearance of devotion, to cover up sin. Many a man has kissed Jesus, and then gone to Hell.

Let us not be content with mere outward religion. God sees beyond the lips, beyond the motions, beyond the performances–He sees the heart! A hypocrite may fool men, but he cannot fool God. He may be applauded by the crowd, but he will be condemned at the judgment. The nearer a man lives to Christ, if he is not truly converted, the more terrible will be his eternal ruin.

Search your soul. Is there any trace of Judas in your heart?
Are your lips speaking peace, while your life denies it?
Do you name Jesus as Lord, but refuse Him as Master?
Do you have the form of godliness, while denying its power?

There is mercy for the repentant–but certain judgment for the pretender. Let us flee from the sin of hypocrisy, and run to Jesus in truth. Let us love Him, not with kisses of pretense–but with hearts that are humble, sincere, and wholly His.

“You hypocrites! Isaiah was right when he prophesied about you: These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me!” Matthew 15:7–8

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Steve’s The BIG 50 Challenge: Yay I did it! 🧡 🙏 👨🏻‍🦯

March 2, 2026 by Steve 8 Comments

Hi Fitblitzers

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 🧡

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Thankful Thursday: iWalk 3.41 miles 🧡👨🏻‍🦯

February 26, 2026 by Steve 1 Comment

Hi Fitblitzers.

This Sunday is the big one…

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.

If you’re donating, thank you — truly.

Next time I write, it’ll be after my longest walk ever.

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

Let’s ‘FitBlitz’ 2026 Together! 💪🏼

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Trail Blocked Tuesday: iWalk 1.52 miles 🙏 👨🏻‍🦯

February 24, 2026 by Steve 0 Comments

Hi Fitblitzers…

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Thankful Thursday: iWalk 20.99 miles 👨🏻‍🦯😲

February 12, 2026 by Steve 1 Comment

walking stats…

yay i’m a 7 lapper!!

Hi Fitblitzers.

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. 🙏 😀

Let’s ‘FitBlitz’ 2026 Together! 💪🏼

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Tuner Tuesday: iWalk 5.99 miles 🙏 👨🏻‍🦯

February 3, 2026 by Steve 2 Comments

Lap 1 “Arthurs apex assault:…

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 calorie deficit each day until healthy weight.
G – Goals: Focus (and celebrate) small, medium and BIG goals.
B – Body & BP: Check blood pressure & listen to my body and look after it (it’s not young anymore).
E – Edification: Feeding my mind and soul fuels me to serve, encourage, and inspire others.

Scripture snack…

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

Motivational Quote:..💪🏼

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

Let’s ‘FitBlitz’ 2026 Together! 💪🏼

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Motivational Monday: iWalk 8.52 miles 🙏 👨🏻‍🦯

February 2, 2026 by Steve 1 Comment

lap 1 pond photo…

Hi Fitblitzers.

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)

Let’s ‘FitBlitz’ 2026 Together! 💪🏼

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Motivational Monday: iWalk 17.27 miles 👨🏻‍🦯

January 19, 2026 by Steve 1 Comment

lap 1 pond photo…

Hi Fitblitzers.

yay i’m a 6 lapper!!! 😀

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)

Let’s ‘FitBlitz’ 2026 Together! 💪🏼

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🧡 Fundraising: Only 43 days to go until the BIG 50 for MS Society! 😨

January 17, 2026 by Steve 1 Comment

Hi FitBlitzers…

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.

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Thankful Thursday: iWalk 6.02 miles 👨🏻‍🦯

January 15, 2026 by Steve 3 Comments

lap 1 Pond Photo…

Hi Fitblitzers.

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…🙏

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)

Let’s ‘FitBlitz’ 2026 Together! 💪🏼

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Tuner Tuesday: iWalk 5.99 miles 👨🏻‍🦯

January 13, 2026 by Steve 3 Comments

Lap 1 pond photo…

Hi Fitblitzers…

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

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

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

lap 2 pond photo…

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

Now focus…

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

EADGBE…🎸

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

Scripture snack…

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

Motivational Quote:..💪🏼

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

Let’s ‘FitBlitz’ 2026 Together! 💪🏼

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You were fitter to be loathed, than loved!

January 12, 2026 by Steve 3 Comments

You were fitter to be loathed, than loved!

Thomas Boston

(Be sure to LISTEN to the Audio, as you READ the text below.)

Call to mind the state you were in formerly: “Remember that at that time you were without Christ . . . having no hope and without God in the world.” Ephesians 2:12

Now you are no longer a child of wrath–but an heir of God, and a joint heir with Christ!

Remember, that in the day our Lord first took you by the hand, you were in no better a condition than others. O, what moved Him to take you–when He passed by so many others who were much better than you? He found you a child of wrath, even as others–but He did not leave you so. He came into the common prison where you lay in fetters, even as others. From among the multitude of condemned criminals, He picked you out, commanded your fetters to be taken off, put a pardon in your hand, and brought you into the glorious liberty of the children of God–while He left others in the devil’s fetters!

Remember, there was nothing in you to engage Him to love you. You were a child of wrath, even as others. You were fit for Hell, and altogether unfit for Heaven! Yet the King brought you into His palace. The King’s Son loved you, a condemned criminal, and espoused you to Himself–on the day in which you might have been led forth to eternal execution! “Even so, Father, for so it seemed good in Your sight!”

Remember, you were fitter to be loathed, than loved, in that day. Be amazed and wonder, that when He saw you in your blood–that He did not look upon you with abhorrence and pass you by!

Remember, it was He who took off your prison garments, and clothed you with robes of righteousness, garments of salvation! He took the chains from off your arms, the rope from around your neck; and put you in such a spotless robe, to fit for the court of Heaven–even to eat at the King’s table!

Admire that matchless love which brought you out of the state of wrath! Christ’s love brought your soul from the pit of corruption! He gave His life for your life. He gave His precious blood to quench the flames of wrath–which otherwise would have forever consumed you! He took you out of the horrible pit, and out of the miry clay.

How broad is His love, which covers such a multitude of sins!
Note the length of it–reaching from everlasting to everlasting!
See the depth of it–going so low as to deliver you from the lowest Hell!
Ponder the height of it–raising you up to sit in heavenly places!

That your soul is not overwhelmed with the wrath of God, is owing purely to the Lord Jesus! That your heart is not filled with horror and despair, is owing to Him alone!
That your eyes are not now blinded with the smoke of the bottomless pit;
that your hands are not now fettered with adamantine chains of darkness;
that your tongue is not now broiling in the fire of Hell;
that your feet are not now standing in the lake of fire and brimstone
–is owing purely to your precious Savior!

Walk humbly, as it befits debtors to free and sovereign grace!

You have no reason to complain of your lot in the world, whatever it is.
Well may you bear the cross for Him . . .
who bore your curse for you;
who has freed you from eternal wrath;
and who has quenched Hell-fire for you!

“By the grace of God, I am what I am!” 1 Corinthians 15:10

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Motivational Monday: iWalk 3.42 miles 👨🏻‍🦯

January 12, 2026 by Steve 2 Comments

Today’s pond photo…

Hi Fitblitzers.

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)

Let’s ‘FitBlitz’ 2026 Together! 💪🏼

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Motivational Monday: iWalk 0.61 miles 👨🏻‍🦯 😨

January 5, 2026 by Steve 4 Comments

Hi Fitblitzers.

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)

Let’s ‘FitBlitz’ 2026 Together! 💪🏼

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The Ways and Ends of the Wicked

December 11, 2025 by Steve 3 Comments

The Ways and Ends of the Wicked

Charles Spurgeon, et al.

(You will find it helpful to LISTEN to the Audio, as you READ the text below.)

Psalm 1:4-6,
“Not so the wicked!
They are like chaff that the wind blows away.
Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment,
nor sinners in the assembly of the righteous.
For the Lord watches over the way of the righteous,
but the way of the wicked will perish!”

“Not so the wicked!” With these solemn words, the Psalmist draws a sharp contrast between the godly and the ungodly. The righteous are like fruitful trees–rooted, nourished and prosperous. But “the wicked are like chaff that the wind blows away.” Chaff is the worthless husk separated from grain–light, dry, and empty. It is easily scattered and quickly forgotten. Such is every life lived apart from God: rootless, fruitless, and ultimately futile. However impressive the wicked may appear for a season, their prosperity is short-lived and their end is destruction! (Psalm 73:18-19)

The wicked “will not stand in the judgment.” They will have no defense, no covering, no hope. When they stand before the Judge of all the earth, their works will be burned up as stubble. All their excuses will be silenced. The day of judgment will reveal what they are: rebels against the Most High God, having rejected His Son and despised His Word. They will not be counted “in the assembly of the righteous.” They may have mingled with the godly on earth–but in the last day, the Shepherd will infallibly separate the sheep from the goats (Matthew 25:32). Their exclusion will be eternal.

“For the Lord watches over the way of the righteous, but the way of the wicked will perish.” Here is the final contrast.

The Lord lovingly and attentively watches over the path of His redeemed people. He guards their steps, directs their course, and brings them safely home.

But the way of the wicked, though it may seem smooth for a time–leads only to ruin! Their end is not annihilation, but everlasting punishment (Matthew 25:46). The broad road may appear pleasant, but it descends into outer darkness, with weeping and wailing and gnashing of teeth!

Reader, Psalm 1 presents only two ways:
The way of life, and the way of death.
One is watched over by God, ending in glory.
The other is forsaken by God, ending in judgment.

Which way are you walking? The only escape from the perishing path, is found in Jesus. He bore the wrath for sinners, that all who turn from their wicked ways and trust in Him, may be counted among the righteous. “The Lord knows those who are His!” (2 Timothy 2:19) Let every soul flee to Him and find life!

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Tuner Tuesday: iWalk 3.41 miles 👨🏻‍🦯

December 9, 2025 by Steve 0 Comments

Today’s pond photo…

Hi Fitblitzers…

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

Now focus…

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

EADGBE…🎸

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

Scripture snack…

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

Motivational Quote:..💪🏼

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

Let’s ‘FitBlitz’ 2025 Together! 💪🏼

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Dalmahoy Hotel & Country Club…

Hi Friends.

Edinburgh, MS Society and Haggis Bon Bons… 😋

“Welcome to Wotton House”…

“Freshly Pressed”…?

And then…

Scripture snack…

Give thanks…🙏

Please Share:

Yesterday’s Pond Photo…

Hi Friends…

“Debbie’s WordWay” Audio GPS Marker…

Time to get back in tune… 🎸

EADGBE…🎸

Scripture snack…

Motivational Quote:..💪🏼

Please Share:

Today’s Pond Photo…

Hi Friends…

“Sausage Roll Power” Audio GPS Marker…

Today’s 2nd Lap Pond Photo…

Time to get back in tune… 🎸

EADGBE…🎸

Scripture snack…

Motivational Quote:..💪🏼

Please Share:

Please Share:

Today’s Pond Photo…

Hi Friends.

“David’s CrossRhodes” Audio GPS Marker…

“Hazel’s Highway” Audio GPS Marker…

“Debbie’s Wordway” Audio GPS Marker…

“James’s Jammin’ Junction” Audio GPS Marker…

Scripture snack…

Give thanks…🙏

Please Share:

The Pond…

Hi Friends…

“Karen’s Kaleidoscope” Audio GPS Marker…

Motivational Quote:..💪🏼

Please Share:

The Pond Panorama…

Hi Friends…

“Ian’s Highland Cairn” Panorama…

Please Share:

The Pond Panorama…

Hi Friends…

“Jesus Rocks” Audio GPS Marker…

The 2nd Pond Panorama…

“Bruce THE Boxer” Audio GPS Marker…

Now focus…

Time to get back in tune… 🎸

EADGBE…🎸

Scripture snack…

Motivational Quote:..💪🏼

Please Share:

Hi Friends.

Please Share:

Hi Friends.

Scripture snack…

Give thanks…🙏

Motivational quote…

Please Share:

The Pond Panorama…

Hi Friends…

“Dayle’s Rest Stop” Panorama…

Now focus…

Time to get back in tune… 🎸

EADGBE…🎸

Scripture snack…

Motivational Quote:..💪🏼

Please Share:

Please Share:

The Pond Panorama…

Hi Friends.

‘Liz’s Super Speedway” Panorama…

Scripture snack…

Give thanks…🙏

Motivational quote…

Please Share: