Sarah in training

Marathon update

2011-04-25T12:34:00.000-07:00

Back home in Manchester now after my adventure in Brighton,and I did think of it as an adventure. Alot hillier than I expected but so much to do.Brighton Rocks!Gorgeous view of the sea and the pier from our hotel and I got to see a fair bit of the place on my run. Fantastic to meet Joe at last and her lovely other half and sweet daughter. We all spent a wonderful evening together. Thank you very much to Joe and Starfish for the most beautiful t-shirt ever I wore it with pride and it is rather salty now but I shall wash it gently and put it in my treasure trove. Well I did it, I completed a marathon and although it didn't go exactly according to plan I am very happy to have done this. I thoroughly enjoyed the run,the atmos was terrific as it always is at these events I was doing brilliantly, I was running well and was making good time for the first half, 13 miles. Then at mile 15 developed pain in the back of my left leg,this got progressively worse throughout both of my legs with the odd twinge of cramp. I knew what it was straight away, salt depletion and I knew I would be walking most of the rest of the way by mile 21 I couldn't run at all and my fingers had all swollen up so I went to the nearby paramedics who gave me a couple of salty drinks then I was on my way again,keeping my hands in the air as advised. I managed to run the last 50 metres over the finish line to lots of cheers. Got unexpectedly emotional because after all my training, efforts etc I had hoped to do this in 4.5 hours not the full 6.Britain has been in a heatwave this past week and I just cannot run in the sun, just as I struggle to swim in warm water.All has to be cool-ish for me. However I did it and got my medal damn it! There were some poor souls worse off than me. My fingers were normal size again by 8.30 ish after a meal. Thanks to our lovely hotel staff for putting on an early breakfast for us. Thanks to Joe and her family for coming along to meet and support me. I hope your journey home was fine and didn't take too long. Thank you to everyone who has sponsored and supported me, it really does mean alot to me and does make a difference. At mile 16 a lady with a tannoy stopped me and gave a shout out for Starfish So thats phase 1 complete, now for the more important phase 2,collecting sponsorship. So now I'm at the recovery and rebuilding of the body stage. Lots of rest, fluids and sleep.
        You can visit our Facebook page:
http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#!/pages/Sarah-and-Joes-Brighton-Marathon-April-2011/120777117978635
  To see an example of the      inititaives our fundraising helps, please visit Starfish   here:

http://www.rutgerhauer.org/rutgerhauer.org/adoption/ldaproject.php
  Thank you so much for sponsoring me, I look forward to hearing from you in the   future. We do make a difference together. To do so please go to the page entitled ‘Sponsoring me’ http://sarahstracks.webplus.net/page25.html

One week to go......

2011-04-02T02:38:00.000-07:00

This time next saturday I will be on my way to Brighton ;) I am traveling by train with my other half and we shall be staying there for 2 nights. I am really excited about the marathon and cannot wait! A good friend is traveling down to see me and offer her support. I am excited about that too as I haven't seen her in such a long while. Unfortunately there is some sad news I will be a lone runner in this race. Joe has had to postpone her race until next year. She has had various health issues which have mean't that she hasn't been able to train as she should for this year. I am sad for her but wish her all the luck for next year. Its a shame we can't be running together, her health has to come first and she is still coming to Brighton to meet me. I look forward to that. Take care Joe. So this weekend I shall collect all the things together I need to take with me so that I don't forget anything. My race number is 6369 and I am in the green wave. If you want to help HIV+ kids throughout the world and help me to help them please do sponsor me. I can't express how much I appreciate it and how much it is still needed. Thank you xxx Also yesterday I did my first vlog which is experimental and now on YouTube. I enjoyed it and hope to make it a regular thing. It could get addictive

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vzlxcDKdcww

Have a good weekend everyone and keep smiling

Lots of Love Sarah xxx

The countdown is on...............

2011-03-20T13:43:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, it arrived at last my information pack for the Brighton Marathon. Very exciting I am in the green wave and my number is 6369. Not that I think you have a hope of seeing me amongst the thousands of other runners, but you can try ;D The pack contained the usual stuff but also a rather large plastic bag. I am puzzled as to why they've sent us this. I mean, what are we supposed to do with it? Also we get a goodie bag on completing the run. Oh well, no doubt it will come in handy. My left knee is aching abit today but I'll be alright. I'm thinking positive as usual and well, 26 miles isn't that much is it? I also have a brightly coloured starfish hat for Joe. It matches my own and she can look silly right along side me. Take care people and remember to spread the word and also visit my website if you wish to sponsor me. xxx

One month to go...

2011-03-10T00:45:00.000-08:00

Ah 10th March, this means it is exactly 1 month until I run in the Brighton marathon to raise much need funds for The Rutger Hauer Starfish Association. It is also my birthday 1 month after this event. Please consider giving me an early present by sponsoring me ♥ you can do this safely online by visiting my website. I certainly do appreciate itand would also love it if you left a comment in my guestbook. Have a fab day and thank you! xxx http://sarahstracks.webplus.net/index.html

February 2011

2011-02-08T02:19:00.000-08:00

Hi folks so sorry that I haven't blogged sooner. This place isn't quite as active as I'd hoped to keep it but to be honest I can't really think of anything much to say on the subject of running and training, especially since I have a website and Facebook page too. I shall try to think of something every now and then though. I hope everyone had a nice new year and that January was good to you. Incidently the countdown clock is wrong, it was some time before I noticed ;p It is actually 2 months and 7 days until 10th April. I am well into my training and enjoying it. I even enjoy running in the rain and have a fluorescent jacket so I can run in the evening. I enjoy that too. So I might one day actually run well and eat well and look good xxx

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-27T06:56:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas everyone! I hope you all had a good one. It was a quiet affair for us this year remembering 2 people we've lost. As its my favourite season I made the best of it. Back home now and looking forward to the new year and New Year's Eve when we will be seeing Queen WWRY musical. I can hardly wait for that. I just want to wish you all a happy healthy and prosperous 2011. Thank you for reading and for your constant support. I hope you have some great plans for the day/evening and some resolutions too. Lots of love from Sarah xxx

World AIDS Day 2010

2010-12-01T13:18:00.000-08:00

On this the 1st December I hope that all are wearing your red ribbons. I must confess to being abit disappointed in the lack of red ribbons I saw around today. I think this indicates that there is still a great need to continue to raise awareness of the horror that is AIDS, to keep it in people's conciousness. I wore mine with pride and I do have a watch with a red ribbon on. I had to work today so couldn't really wear it and I couldn't get it to go lol. Today is also the second day of snow for us. Whilst I am enjoying it does mean I can't go out running. I don't want to risk breaking a leg or spraining an ankle. As I live opposite a wonderful leisure centre, this means that I shall be having 2 hour gym sessions on the treadmill. Not as good as running outside but better that doing nothing ;) Stay well and warm love Sarah xxx

A tiny update

2010-11-14T07:59:00.000-08:00

When I got out of bed this morning I weighed myself and to my utter joy I have lost more weight! So, thats now a total of 10 pounds! I hope it stays off. It would be nice to lose abit more, especially around the usual places ;) I think the cold weather probably has something to do with it. I may put some weight back on immediately, actually. I say this because my other half made a feast of a breakfast pre-empted by some ducks eggs I bought yesterday ;D.
By the way, my running partner Joe and I now have Facebook page so you can get the lowdown there too on what we are doing, interact with us and have abit of fun. Please consider sponsoring me, this isn't an easy gig. I can't express my appreciation enough, or stress how important it is to support Starfish*.

http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#!/pages/Sarah-and-Joes-Brighton-Marathon-April-2011/120777117978635

Stay well and take care xxx

2010-08-04T04:58:00.000-07:00

Hi All ;D

Having sponsors from all over the world, usually means it takes some time to collect all the money together. For this year I have now finally done that. I am happy to report that Starfish now have all of the money which I raised from my 10k run back in May. The grand total was £170 (250 euros). I cannot stress enough how grateful and appreciative I (and Starfish) are for every single sponsor, pound and cent xxx <3 A huge warm thank you to you all. Today there is an update by The Rutger Hauer Starfish Association on some of the work they do. They have a long distance adoption programme going on helping kids in Malawi get a proper education etc. This update is about one such young, very sweet child named Amadi.

http://www.rutgerhauer.org/rutgerhauer.org/adoption/amadi.php

Of course normally what happens is that I rest for many months and begin training again in January. As you know I am running in my first ever marathon next april with my friend Joe. So my training continues and will will keep you posted on our joint blog

http://trainingforthelondonmarathon.blogspot.com/

Yeah I know it says London in the link when it should say Brighton. Tell joe! lol. This will be a fun but gargantuan effort for us both. I am of course doing this as ever to raise funds and am collecting sponsorship from now. Please do consider sponsoring me for this very worthwhile cause. All funds are important and I hope to significantly increase the mount I raise from now until april. Thank you ever so much and also thanks just for reading.

Warm wishes,

Sarah

PS I won't be able to help talking about this and asking for sponsorship at all available opportunities so forgive me if it gets old or I get annoying! xxx

Good news and bad...

2010-07-12T13:16:00.000-07:00

I will be posting news of my fundraising total for this year's run soon. Sadly my mother in law passed away during the night. Rest in Peace Pearl xxx

Happy bank holiday folks! ;D

2010-05-29T02:27:00.000-07:00

Good morning world! I was surprised that a week after my 10k run for Starfish my body was still aching. That has never happened before, I must be getting old lol. The body is more capable than you might think. I went out for a gentle jog and was fine, felt wonderful in fact and did this again the next day. It is the bank holiday weekend here in the UK not to mention half term so I have a week off. I plan to go out for a run shortly and then we are going down south just overnight to see the inlaws. I shall be packing my running shoes too. So on my week off I intend to do plenty of swimming and running. I also might do some cooking too, Colleagues have been tantalising me with talks of risotto. Never made it before so that shall be interesting and fun. Have a healthy and happy weekend everyone.hugs Sarah xxx

2010 BUPA Manchester run report

2010-05-23T06:07:00.000-07:00

This time last sunday I was full of elation at finishing this run. The weather was glorious after a cool start. I love Manchester!It has been a great day, my new shoes served me well and I managed to shave 10 minutes off my time ;)I now have sore feet and a sunburnt forehead I've survived and am now rehydrating, hoping it will kill headache. It was another wonderful day and I didn't see many costumes this year though did see lots of causes which people are running for. Obviously I didn't see the run on the Beeb but there will be footage appearing soon of me crosing the finish line ;) So now its time to collect funds. Thank you to all who had faith in me to give me theirs before the run. On days like today though seeing all folks are doing to make a difference and raise funds I can only see the positive side of people. Not in a naive way though, the crap is out there. Photo's in to Starfish soon and I shall reveal the total when I have it all Speaking of revelations here we go, my exciting news. I have registered for next years fun run already, this will be the Brighton Marathon, yes marathon on 10th April. As I'm still collecting for this run and getting over it lol I'm not expecting any sponsorship for this just yet. Not that I ever expect anyway, only hope. I am happy and honoured to do this for Starfish. So after a week of rest I'm back in training and stepping it up a notch. Lots of love Sarah xxx

Nearly there again

2010-05-15T08:01:00.000-07:00

Well its almost here at last and already! ;D Tomorrow is the big day and I can't wait! I just love the atmosphere at this thing. My training is now complete. I had a lovely evening jog lastnight at sunset and am taking it easy today. Doing nothing but smile. I shall have an early night too. Don't forget the run is being televised at 10am on BBC2 Here is a taster videoclip for those interested in getting a glimpse into this run and Manchester. http://www.greatrun.org/Events/Event.aspx?id=4 Thank you from the bottom of my soles to everybody who has supported and sponsored me. I am always most grateful and appreciate of sponsorship, as it is badly needed for these HIV+kids <3. Standby for a full report and surprising news about next year already, keep on smiling and thank you friends, family and Starfish. hugsss xxx

The Great Outdoors

2010-05-03T03:43:00.000-07:00

Happy bank Holiday everyone. We are celebrating Glynn's birthday so this means we always henjoy this day. So far he has taken it easy and enjoyed playing with his new pc gadet which he requested lol. We are looking forward to a nice chinese buffet in town this evening. Oh I digress. I found a really interesting article which indicates that outdoor exercise especially in a green enviroment is great for our well-being. Hurrahh! ;D

From BBC News:

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/health/8654350.stm

First I need to go out and run though ;) Yesterday I changed my route slightly. It is longer, very enjoyable on the eyes and the ground is more uneven. I certainly got a good workout and will now stick to this route. I am still jogging around the block but now it is a longer run and I'm still bumping into other runners. Very motivating.

Hugs Sarah xxx

Updates,

2010-05-01T12:30:00.000-07:00

I'm having a great day today. Partly due to the sun shining upon us gloriously and also partly because I have done enough swimming and running and feel fine. I was up at 7.30am this morning for a swim. My leg isn't 100% better, still some pain and I shall see my doctor again pre-race but it is alot better. I can train no problem that is the important thing. I have updated my website today as well. Also upgraded it too.

http://sarahstracks.website.orange.co.uk/
This blog has passed its second birthday (10th Jan) which I forgot to commemorate. Oops sorry blog.

Take care all and lease sponsor me, even if only a few pence. It all adds up and is needed. Thank you very much and stay healthy

Hugs xxx

RH Message to Sea Shepherd Captain.

2010-04-28T11:00:00.000-07:00

I love this message and this is one of many reasons why I love Mr Hauer <3

Elizabeth Pisani: Sex, drugs and HIV -- let's get rational

2010-04-17T06:11:00.001-07:00

Shoes news ;)

2010-04-07T08:18:00.000-07:00

Today I was excited to be buying myself a pair of new running shoes. First though I must say goodbye to my old faithfuls. They were my first pair of running shoes and have served me well since 2002. Unfortunately as of last year I can use them no more, the soles have cracked and split all the way through. Last year I bought myself an inexpensive pair of trainers to train in and also used them for the race. Continued wear has rendered them unusable and I slung them out and replaced them earlier this year. Hear are a couple of pix of my old faithfuls. Take a look at and say goodbye to my Nike Max Air running shoes.

I shall have these photo's to remember them by and also memories of 6 races ;D

Now please give a warm welcome to my new shoes ;) My size 7.5 New Balance. A strange name I know lol. Many thanks to the lovely young helpful chap who served me. He turned out to be a physiotherapist. What alot he knows about shoes and muscles too. He gave me something called a gait analysis which required me to run on a treadmill for a few minutes in a pair of 'neutral' shoes. Turns out my gait is actually neutral so that was easy for him then So my nice new running shoes which set me back £75 quid have a neutral cushion. Looking forward to breaking them in.

I had several pairs to chose from but it was the twisty laces which swung it. This does serve a purpose, it stops the laces from coming undone. Excellent! The shoes themselves look blue in these pictures but they are purple. Don't the backs look odd? They don't in reality ;)

In other news: My left calf is still very painful when I walk anywhere though I can walk properly, no more hobbling. I have seen my doctor this morning. He wants me to see him again in 2 weeks time and advises gentle exercise. If it hurts then I am to stop :( I think I shall do alot more swimming in that case. On the plus side, I love swimming.

Hugs xxx

Oh NO! ;(

2010-03-27T15:18:00.000-07:00

Such a fine day I was going to have a walk about town with my beloved. We got as far as the bus stop when suddenly for some unknown reason my left calf muscle became quite painful. I've pulled it! Glynn went on without me and I returned home to a hot bath which made no difference. I'll just have to hope it goes away in a day or 2 :(

24 hour cycle marathon!

2010-03-20T14:05:00.000-07:00

No it isn't me lol. This is a very special weekend though. It started at noon today in Gorredijk, Friesland a 24 hour indoor cycle marathon by some lovely people with funds being raised for the same wonderful cause I support : The Rutger Hauer Starfish Association. You can find out more info by looking at their website

http://www.sportcentrumunifit.nl/home.axd

You will need to be able to read dutch though lol. Aren't some people just amazing? I <3 all lovely people.
Good luck to them for this currently happening event, I bet they are having lots of fun. I hope they raise a ton and then some and aren't too tired tomorrow xxx

In other news, nothing exciting to report other than the predictable yes I am running regularly as well as swimming and haven't broken any bones yet. I shall be buying a new pair of running shoes soon and will post a pic of them here alongside a pic of my old ones ;p. I do have some exciting news but I can't tell you that until next year ;D

So on that enigmatic note.............

Happy weekend everyone

Hugs xxx

I'm in!

2010-02-05T13:48:00.000-08:00

Phew such a relief, I don't mind admitting that I was a little worried! I am officially now one of 36,000 runners taking part in the BUPA Manchester 10k run on Sunday 16th May ;D This means of course that I am now in training again, ready to hit the gym and the road. Also and more importantly, I am now accepting sponsorship. Please just give what you can, every little helps and every cent/penny etc goes to The Rutger Hauer Starfish Association to help HIV+ pregnant ladies and babies. I deeply and sincerely appreciate every single donation and sponsorer/friend and take all currencies. I must apologise in advance to the Twitterverse as I will probably mention this frequently only with the hopes of increasing funding for Starfish. This year for the first time there will be live tv coverage on the BBC of the race so I'd better keep on running.......Right now I am a happy bunny!
Lots of love to you all xxx

http://www.greatrun.org/Events/Event.aspx?id=4

And if you need evidence of my shenanigans in the past then please visit

http://www.rutgerhauer.org/rutgerhauer.org/fundraisingrun.php

Hugs ;)

Happy Anniversary!

2010-01-10T08:21:00.000-08:00

I can't believe it but this blog is exactly one year old today already! Happy Anniversary 'Sarah in Training' ;D I have marked the occasion by reading back over the early entries from last year. Some goodies I had forgotten about. Alot not relevant to my running, but attempts to keep this blog active. As I now have a 2nd blog I really should keep the material as on topic as possible. I shall try. Thank you to everyone who has ever visited and read me here <3 <3 <3. Of course I shall keep you appraised of all the news and drama involved with this years 10k run. Thank you for reading xxx

BUPA Greater Manchester 10k Run 2010!

2010-01-09T13:06:00.000-08:00

The exciting news is as you can probably guess from the title, is that I have successfully registered for this years fun run with the goal of raising as many funds as possible for The Rutger Hauer Starfish Foundation. Alas my place is not guaranteed. There are 36,000 places this year which is 3000 more than last year. This is the 3rd day of registration for this race and I wasn't quick enough. The last 10,000 are subject to a ballot and yours truly is in that :( Seems silly to me but anyway fingers, toes etc crossed. Of course this means I can't do anything until I know for sure. The ballot takes place around the 1st February and I will know whether or not I've been successful by 5th February so please send positive vibes this way ;) So a tad frustrated at the moment, love doing this and getting wheels in motion.
Lots of love xxx

Merry Christmas Everybody!

2009-12-23T08:43:00.000-08:00

This is the view from our bedroom window. Pretty isn't it? Not that cold really. I wish all friends and visitors a merry Christmas. Hope you all get what you wish for and have a fun time. I will be back in Manchester and thusly online before the new year, all being well with the traffic. All the best xxx

HIV/AIDS now and then............

2009-12-01T07:47:00.000-08:00

A fantastic article about HIV including a video with a well known researcher

http://ow.ly/HvMP

World AIDS Day

2009-12-01T04:04:00.000-08:00

I'm wearing my red ribbon with pride today I hope you are too;)

http://www.avert.org/world-aids-day.htm

Whilst scientists grow even closer to finding a vaccine for this disease funding is always important. Please consider helping unfortunate families and their children by making a donation today to The Rutger Hauer Starfish foundation. They and I appreciate it.

To make a donation and find out about all the good things they do, please visit their page.

http://www.rutgerhauer.org/rutgerhauer.org/index.php

Thank you very much and have a nice day xxx

Still miss you Freddie xxx

2009-11-24T08:30:00.000-08:00

I have always been a huge Queen fan. My earliest memory is that of 'Another one Bites the Dust' being the latest single and me as a kid walking around the bungalow singing this at the top of my voice! Today I solemnly and fondly think about their legendary front Man Freddie Mercury who died on 24th November 1991 of AIDS related bronchopneumonia. This is just one day after revealing to the world that he was suffering from this disease :( Freddie or Farrokh Bulsara was born in Zanzibar in 1946. So if he were alive today that would make him 63 and I bet he would still be as handsome. When he was 17 his family moved to Feltham in Middlesex.

In 1996 a statue of Freddie was erected in Montreux Switzerland, which is where Queen have their recording studio. A few more have been since then too I think. The Palace Theatre here in Manchester has a golden coloured statue of Freddie on the canopy above the entrance. That was put there back in march this year when Queen's Musical We Will Rock You came to town. I think other lucky city theatres also have one ;) Today a new memorial plaque, a star is being unveiled in Freddies's home town of Feltham, the ceremony being attended by the rest of Queen. I can't wait to see that statue and to find out how the day went. This blog of mine came about as an attempt at cataloguing all the fundraising/funruns I have done since 2002 for my favourite AIDS charity. This is something close to my heart thanks mainly to you Freddie, though of course like all of your fans I wish you were still here. I still have a hard time listening to the last songs/singles you recorded. Queen still rock and rule! I love you and miss you, you will always rock me. RIP. Much love Sarah xxx

2009-11-08T06:27:00.000-08:00

Myself and the rather lovely chap Isaac who ran the CBBC proceedings.

My festival pix ;D

2009-11-07T13:57:00.000-08:00

Me overseeing The Darwin Tree of Life event at The Manchester Museum. I was there all day. Can you spot me? ;D I rather think I've posted these pix in the wrong order but frankly I can't be bothered to redo it lol

its over!

2009-11-07T11:45:00.000-08:00

My very first (although the third) Mancunian festival. I met and worked with some lovely people and had a fantastic time. I shall miss it and remember it fondly. Now I'm looking forward to the xmas do on the 8th of December when we can get together and recall the fun times as well as being allowed to look at the Da Vinci interactive exhibition lol. Here is a link to the festival blog so you can see what we all got up to plus the next post will be of my pix. Enjoy!

http://manchestersciencefestival.blogspot.com/

and not forgetting of course all the lovely photo's courtesy of Flickr

http://www.flickr.com/groups/mcrscifest/pool/

xxx

and not forgetting........

2009-10-19T10:32:00.000-07:00

.........of course that 2009 has been a wonderful year for science ;D
Regarding my previous post, I would love it if you had any thoughts, comments. Please satay tuned for further updates too. I am now participating in the Schools volunteer programme in the city centre on wednesday. This basically means helping out eg ushering kids in the right direction, helping to set up stalls etc. I shall be in the Printworks all day doing this if anyone wants to pop in and say hello.

xxx

Manchester Science Festival 09

2009-10-19T08:50:00.000-07:00

This is exciting to me though totally unconnected to the theme of this blog, its 'blog fodder' though so here goes ;) I am now officially a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) Ambassador for Manchester! As such this means I will be participating in the Manchester Science Festival which takes place 24th Oct-1st Nov. That is to say it begins next saturday......The festival has a fabulous website and blog where you can find out about all the amazing events taking place. They are aimed at kids, adults and families and are free though some may require pre-booking. Here is the link to the website to find out much more.

http://www.manchestersciencefestival.com/

One of the events is about robots and one such robot 'Robothespian' will be on tv tonight channel4 5pm on The Paul O'Grady Show.

The main aim of this event is to show children how fun and interesting science really is and on the lead up to the festival some events have also been taking place. I was involved in one yesterday. I spent the whole day in Stockport Science busking. It was great fun and it seemed to take no effort on our part to attract people to our tables. Local radio station Key 103 were there helping promote the festival and I thought we may get to do a podcast but they had more than enough, 12 within the first hour from enthusiastic kids! ;) It really was nice seeing them excited. I shall be doing this all again this coming thursday at Manchester Piccadilly train station so if you're in the area, please come and say hello ;)

Hugs Sarah xxx

PS........

2009-09-14T12:46:00.000-07:00

You can follow me on twitter at @SarahScientist, but not if you want to sell me something lol

xxx

Happily........

2009-09-12T04:27:00.000-07:00

.......I recieved an email from Starfish yesterday confirming they have recieved the funds. Happy day!
They will be keeping me posted about their latest project involving kids in Africa. I can't wait to hear all about that! I think the money I/we raised is going to help this project ;) Can't wait to read the news on the Starfish Website. They recieved 179 euros in the end too.

I shall keep on adding entries here, of relevance obviously but if anything else comes up which I think may be of interest or is of interest to me then I shall be back!

Have a great weekend all and please to leave a comment if you feel the faintest of urges ;)

xxx

Good news!

2009-09-09T10:18:00.000-07:00

Dear sadly neglected blog........

At last again I have something to say, and its great news. I have just handed over the fundraising money to Starfish and it is £160 in total, (202 euros). Well done us and a heartfelt thank you from the bottom of my heart to all my lovely sponsors. It will soon be time for me to register again for next years race. Take care,

Hugs Minty xxx

Webpage update!

2009-05-20T09:31:00.000-07:00

Over at the Starfish Association website that is, bless and love them xxx

http://www.rutgerhauer.org/rutgerhauer.org/fundraisingrun.php

I shall be back when I've collected all sponsorship to give you the grand total.

Take care,

Hugs Sarah xxx

photos

2009-05-18T13:24:00.000-07:00

post run reporting

2009-05-18T10:45:00.001-07:00

Oh my gosh what a day, so much to say it was fantastic! It was predicted to be the perfect weather for the run today, light cloudy with sunny spells. Wrong,very wrong as anyone who was there or watched on tv can confirm! It was very windy and thus cold. Opera singer Russell watson was there to run but first of all he inspired us with his singing. It was amazing, truly lovely. Moved us all. That certainly encouraged to enjoy the warm up and the run. I was wearing a pair of black fairy wings and this year does seem to have been the year for wings! There were plenty of them. In fact plenty of costumes this year. Fifi would have loved it and been envious E.g. snow white and the 7 dwarfs. She was alone when I saw her and I wondered if there were any dwarves lol. I bumped into them later and they told me the snow white I'd seen was the fake one Also there were some smurfs, 2 banana's, Cruella de'ville and I found myself running next to a purple octopus. I think I want a good costume for next year. A Starfish of course. If anyone here can make me one or knows someone who could and would be willing please get in touch. I'd really appreciate it. So I was enjoying the run and then it started to drizzle, I can live with that. Then the heavens opened and I mean flood gates. It was teeming for the rest of the run but you know what, I didn't care, not a jot. Made no difference. Living in Manchester one has a tendency to become waterproof! I was still enthused and raring to go. I'm lovin' it. Yes you've guessed it though, once the run was over with the sun decided to come out ppfffttt......I can safely say we all had fun running for all the causes close to our hearts. Afterwards more pix were taken and we were offered complimentary waffles, apples and jelly beans and as many bottles of energy drinks as we could hold haha. Whereas last yeer I didn't feel too well, this year I'm dandy. Just aching thighs. I came home looking forward to a steaming hot bath which I enjoyed and my thighs are still aching but I'm sure they'll feel worse tomorrow. No big deal really. Mission accomplished, happy and proud. Thank you to all my darling sponsors, love you and I'm still open for late comers who want to help. Lets do it all again next year, those poor babes need cots and heaters amongst other things. Lots of love to all XXX

Thats it then!

2009-05-16T07:45:00.000-07:00

My training is all over, had my last jog yesterday. Oh well. I shall be having an early night and hopefully plenty of sleep. Really, looking forward to it though can't guarantee that I will report in tomorrow. There will be photos! Not to late to sponsor me. Take care,

Hugs Sarah xxx

A week to go!

2009-05-10T11:44:00.000-07:00

I just can't believe it already. I am as committed as ever and really excited. Plus I have been out for a jog today around the block as usual. The weather is nippy but pleasant. I enjoyed it even more because I found my mp3 player which has Enya and Dido on it. Heaven to the ears ;) Must get some new earphones for it though!

Hugs XXX

Let us eat cake (and lots of it)

2009-05-09T05:14:00.000-07:00

Happy birthday to me, happy birthday to me, happy 40th birthday toooo meeeee....!

Yes today it is that day. It had to come, I'm okay with it. I am having a no exercise day though and am happy that this day falls on a weekend so I can celebrate it with my beloved. Last sunday he was 50 and I baked him a beautiful chocolate cake as you can see. When asked if he would be returning the favour he said 'how?' But we did have a lie in with plenty of coffee and then a bought chocolate gateau appeared. Here you can see a pic of both cakes. We are having a relaxing day together although some pc time has been allowed lol, We have consumed much coffee and cake and as predicted I feel no different! I am looking forward to this evening when we go out for a meal to my favourite indian restaurant.

Happy weekend one and all. Hugs Sarah xxx

wow

2009-05-07T12:57:00.000-07:00

only 9 days to go! I can't believe it. I rounded off today with a nice 90 minute swim. A few kids seemed like they might annoy me but under the watchful eye of their mum, in the end didn't. Bless em. xxx

May I present.......

2009-05-02T10:42:00.000-07:00

Tulips from my inlaws garden and bluebells from ours. Such a lovely bank holiday saturday. My beloved and I have been for a brisk 3 mile walk to the shops and back. He will be 50 tomorrow. We bought a lovely raspberry pavlova to feast upon. Nom, nom nom! xxx

its here!

2009-04-30T13:36:00.000-07:00

My BUPA information pack. Predictably I'm in the 'pink wave' as always but my race number has an extra digit. This year I am, 30092. Now you can look out for me ;¬) I have enjoyed a lovely evening 90 minute swim today. Feeling positive and excited about the run and I shall go for a run tomorrow, hopefully it won't be raining but that could be good practice. In any case, have a nice weekend darlings.

only 3 weeks

2009-04-25T06:22:00.000-07:00

to go until the big day! I have not been too well this passed week so therefore my apologies for not posting. In some ways I wish I had made this blog busier and talked about other things but I didn't really want to go off topic. I have had an email confirming that my 'race package' is on its way to me. At least then I will know this years number xxx

Speaking of YouTube.......

2009-04-13T08:28:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we had a walk to the wonderful Manchester Museum to see the Lindow Man. We have been there before but didn't know about the vivatarium (if thats how you spell it). I was armed with my digital camera. As luck would have it I was able to capture a green tree monitor in motion at the very moment I pointed my camera at it. I have uploaded this my first ever vid to YT. Many apologies for the naff commentary and indeed that there is any sound on there at all. I haven't done too many mpegs with my digital camera and tend to forget. Call this an experiment.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLQbczBTTTE&feature=channel_page

Hope you enjoy it anyhoo xxx

Oooh I have slacked off..

2009-04-13T08:19:00.000-07:00

..abit haven't I? Blogging that is. I hope everyone is enjoying a great easter weekend and that your weather is as pleasant and sunny as it is here for us. I have continued my runs and went on one today. A very tiring but lovely run around the block for 30 minutes. One really enjoys a shower afterwards. You all know why I'm doing this but for anyone who is a fan of Blade Runner I have a treat for you. It helps if as I do you enjoy Red Dwarf as well. They have made a new 3 part series which is now available on YouTube and is an excellent parody of Blade Runner. It gets going in part two IMHO.
xxx

Nothing finer.......

2009-04-03T14:53:00.000-07:00

.......than a 90 minute swim after work to build up an appetite and put you in a good mood for the weekend. Oh yeah heres proof I met and had lunch with Mr Hauer in 2002 xxx

My favourite big cat

2009-03-22T14:55:00.000-07:00

After a bit of a lie in and a hearty breakfast I have had my dose of 30 minute jogging on a pleasant but crisp sunday. I think its time for another photo lol. I'm more of a dog person than a cat person but I do like big cats. My favourite big cat is the cheetah ;¬) If only I could run as fast as this! I really admire the beauty and grace of these creatures. xxx

What do you think of the countdown clock?

2009-03-18T08:19:00.000-07:00

Well last evening I had a long and pleasant swim. When I got there though I thought it wasn't going to happen. There was a mini queue and 2 boys told me they were in the process of cleaning the pool out as someone had puked in it. Nice (not!) We didn't need to wait long though. Hope everyone had a Happy St Pats day. I think I prefer swimming in the evening even though you risk it being busier. At least the water is warm ;¬)

Happy Pi day everyone!

2009-03-15T12:46:00.000-07:00

And what a pleasant sunny sunday for jogging! Its so much more enjoyable once you know the ironing is over with and there will be a coffee waiting for you when you get home. xxx

Apparently.......

2009-03-10T11:25:00.000-07:00

at the start of the run this year the legendary Russell Watson will be singing to inspire us as we run. As he's never sang to 33000 people before hes asking for (sensible) suggestions LOL. Anyone got any idea's? xxx

2009-03-10T09:47:00.000-07:00

A very pleasant and sunny afternoon....I went for a 30 minute jog which was fine but I think I will most certainly benefit from another session in the gym. I am coughing a wee bit and feel like I have been smoking 50 a day lol. Never touched a ciggie in my life. On a sad note I think this will be the last race for my current and first ever pair of running shoes. The soles are removing themselves from the main part of the shoe. Still I can't complain, they have been good friends and seen me through 7 runs so far since 2002. I'm confident they will see me through this one. In the meantime though I have bought a cheap pair of trainers to do my training in. They are doing well. Hugs Sarah xxx

rewarding......

2009-03-06T13:58:00.000-08:00

.......myself with a lovely chicken curry after a vigorous 90 minute afternoon swim xxx

2009-02-28T13:18:00.000-08:00

What a day. A great day for training. I have had a long and very enjoyable 90 minute swim this aftenoon. I'm now feeling trim and looking forward to a good jog tomorrow. Time to relax and read now I think............xxx

Sad news........

2009-02-20T09:19:00.000-08:00

......personally that is. My one remaining grandparent passed away on monday. She went in her sleep which I guess is how we all want to go. Thus I haven't done much by the way of training this week.

Take care, xxx

Happy Valentines Day! ;¬)

2009-02-14T08:06:00.000-08:00

I'm afraid I've been lazy today re:exercising but I think I'm allowed a day off. Although after a long lie-in, we had a nice long stroll to the shops, bought stuff for tonites meal and some suitable beers. I am making good old spag bol. Always a favourite. Theres a rather nice ginger cake I baked lastnight too. I'm sure other people will be doing things much more exiting. Eh? Carry on Loving..............xxx

There is nothing like....

2009-02-10T08:29:00.000-08:00

........a good lunchtime jog! And mine was nothing like one. Yes it was, I'm only joking ;¬) I'm surprised how much I enjoyed it really. I jogged to the PO first to post a letter lol then carried running around the block for 30 minutes. The air is crisp and chilly (no snow or frost) the sky is blue and the sun is peeping out and smiling on the UK today. So a good positve exercising day I think. I love this blogging business, it will be a pity it will slow down after the fun run in May. Of course I intend to keep it. Its amazing how encouraging and motivating it is making me feel just reading other runners blogs. I am so pleased I decided to do this heehee. Of course I can't go for a run without thinking of Starfish* and why I am doing this and that makes me both happy and excited. A huge thank you of appreciation to my fellow bloggers who are following me xxx

Weather...

2009-02-08T09:46:00.000-08:00

.......scuppered my training plans for today. Honest! I had planned to go out for a nice long invigorating jog around the block this afternoon. Just as I was about to though I thought it felt abit more chillier than usual. I brushed back the curtain and saw that it was snowing. Lovely but noooooooooo........I want to go out and run :¬( Anyway I managed to improvise by running up and down stairs X number of times ;¬) Just as good I feel but would have been wise to do warm ups first LOL. xxx

Still.....

2009-02-06T08:22:00.000-08:00

..training and it is still going well. In terms of my motivation and enthusiams at any rate lol. I was up bright and early this morning for a long and vigorous swim. I really enjoyed it and have been in a positive happy mood all day. I've baked a lovely chocolate and vanilla marble cake. I think next time I want to make one of these I will experiment and see what a chocolate and strawberry marble cake looks and tastes like. The snow has all gone now and if not mistaken I think we could be in for more soon. Fine by me ;¬) Hope we all have a happy weekend xxx

Oh how strange........

2009-02-01T07:34:00.000-08:00

For the passed few days I have had trouble accessing my own blog even though my password has been correct. Weird. Rest assured that I haven't been resting ;¬) I have enjoyed early morning vigorous swims and tiring myself out at the gym. Todays exciting news is that its snowing! Well its exciting to me I love snow as I've never seen enough of it. Here is the promised photo of my local leisure centre where all this training is taking place.

Many happy returns

2009-01-23T07:48:00.000-08:00

Happy 65th birthday to Mr Rutger Hauer! and many many more, nothing but warm and good wishes from me to thee...xxx

Old chemistry sets

2009-01-21T02:29:00.001-08:00

Wow, chem sets older than 'Thomas Salter'. I never knew they existed. It would've been interesting to own one of these ye olde ones.

Yesterday...

2009-01-19T11:40:00.000-08:00

...The Rutger Hauer Starfish Association very kindly and sweetly updated the webpage they have for me on their site informing the (interested) world about this years race xxx I am hoping now thats sponsors are going to flood in, every pound/dollar/whatever counts....one needs to stay optimistic. I've been so busy today with work etc that I haven't had time to go to the gym. I shall make up for that tomorrow. So far 2 attempts at photographing my leisure centre where it all happens have failed lol. I'll also see what I can do about that. Hugs xxx

Any ideas?

2009-01-17T13:11:00.000-08:00

What a gorgeous sunny day it has been...well mostly and I have enjoyed if that is the word lol a rigorous hour in the gym which flew by and certainly gave me a good work out ;¬) My reward was then baking some scrumptious chocolate cupcakes which won't last long ;¬) The weather is now stormy and shall be so again tomorrow by all accounts.
Also contemplating on what to buy Rutger for his impending birthday. I've already selected my run t-shirt for this year. No don't ask, I need to keep somethings a mystery huh?
Take care xxx

Full up!

2009-01-16T06:24:00.000-08:00

Apparently BUPA Manchester Run have now reached their entrant limit and so are closed for registration. So it has taken 6 days to get 33,000 runners! I can't exactly recall but I think it was also this fast last year. A matter of days. You have to get in quick or miss out. Also Starfish have put a link to mysite/this blog on their 'Our Friends' section. Bless them what a great honour, hope I live up to that ;¬) Love em xxx

Training....

2009-01-15T10:49:00.000-08:00

I enjoyed a nice hour long swim today also chatting with sociable fellow waterlovers. Certainly perks one up for the day although it makes me hungry too. Great excuse to graze all day. Makes me feel full of life and energy. Did I mention I love swimming? ;¬) I actually feel like I am in training, but of course I am!
xxx

Important information

2009-01-14T08:20:00.000-08:00

I've had a gentle gym session in a somewhat cold gym today. I think a swim is in order tomorrow. There now only 122 days until this race so that means only 121 training days left. It sounds like a lot when I view it like that ;¬)
Okay comrades here is the important stuff, hope you are listening. For the passed 3 years Starfish have very kindly and beautifully displayed a webpage for me on their website. All funds I have raised have been used to help 'The Tanzania Project'. You can read all about it by clicking on this link

http://www.rutgerhauer.org/rutgerhauer.org/fundraisingrun.php

Essentially the money is being used to buy urgently needed cots and heaters to make life more bearable for HIV+ newborn babies. So sad poor, poor things. As it is they are 3 to a cot but I believe this situation is slowly improving. Also a couple of years a go they moved to new premises. A good job too I have to admit to being alarmed and saddened at the condition of the old hospital, on its outside anyway. I guess its the inside that counts.

Take care xxx

Its official!

2009-01-11T11:31:00.000-08:00

I've made a start so now it official I'm in training LOL. Its been a cold day but I did an hours worth in the gym this afternoon, a busy gym with more equipment and new equipment. It gets abit confusing as they keep swaping the gear around. The beauty of my local leisure centre is that it is opposite my flat. Very convienient for dragging myself out of bed and having an early bird swim ;¬) I have a photo of it on my pc which I was going to post but can't for the life of me find it at the moment. Btw tonight if you have a clear sky you have the chance to take a lovely photograph. Tonight the moon is going to be the biggest it will be all year apparently. I wonder if people are going to be checking this by taking a photo every month and comparing it. ;¬) I tried to take a pic lastnight but though it was a pretty night there was too much cloud cover. If I manage it this evening I shall post pic of that instead xxx

I love this

2009-01-11T06:35:00.000-08:00

probable contents

2009-01-10T08:28:00.000-08:00

I suppose this blog will get fairly boring if I just drop in and say yep had a swim this morning or did 2 hours in the gym this afternoon. So I shall do as other bloggers do and digress from time to time and add photo's, and tell you what else I might be up to. Also I love the word 'blog roll' ;¬) As I'm a scientist I'm afraid most of the blogs I read are chemistry or science related. I have to confess I've never even read a running one. Better put that right.
xxx

WELCOME

2009-01-10T08:21:00.001-08:00

Hello there and welcome! I am very happy to have you reading me. Whilst I am an experienced and addicted blog reader this is my very first blog so please bear with me. I hope you will stay around and enjoy this blog as its aim is for a very important cause. I am now officially registered into the 2009 Bupa Greater Manchester 10k run which takes place on Sunday 17th May 2009 and will also be televised by the BBC. I guess the purpose of this blog is twofold, following my journey as I train and also to promote my favourite AIDS charity The Rutger Hauer Starfish Association and its goals. See my website for more details

http://sarahstracks.mysite.orange.co.uk/

All feedback and comments are very very welcome and I am of course now accepting sponsorship. Please support us and encouragement me. Its not easy being athletically challenged LOL.

happy 2009 xxx