Not in the Algarve

Pesky volcanic ash cloud stopped us from flying to Portugal on Tuesday
4 sailing - we ended up rescheduling to July. I say "we" but I mean X
and S!
So we've come to Cornwall for a short break instead. The fabulous In
Laws have joined us & we are in a flat at Watergate Bay.
Fabulous lunch at Fifteen (photo location) - loved that they
automatically brought huge jug of tap water with ice & lemon and yummy
bread with olive oil. We all had gurnard to start - deep fried served
with aioli. I had pollock next with lentils followed by tiramisiu.
Pleased to have a wine with Sexy Rose on the label! Service was
gently done - a fabulous meal!
Went surfing once digestion was underway. That implies a higher level
of competence though than I achieved....
Blue sky, sunshine, beach - not bad at all.

South Downs Way - final post

Beachy Head - achieved by minibus!

South downs way - game over

Part way before checkpoint 1, bike started making a funny cronky
noise. Mechanic checked it and the bottom bracket was going. He
thought I would be able to get to next checkpoint, but it got worse
and I couldn't get 1st gear. So had to retire at 110km, 60km short. So
it remains a challenge to try again.

South downs way - end day 1

Got to the campsite at 5pm - 9 hours of pedalling but that includes
breaks. And wasn't quite last. And got the tent up. And bike is
receiving expert tlc. Now off to pub with a lovely group of 9 middle
aged blokes who have been keeping me company today. I think I will b
ok for tomorrow but it is going to be tough!

South Downs Way Day 1

At 2nd checkpoint & disappointed no cheese & pickle rolls! A bit
drizzly but not too wet.

Number 15 done - Pilates

I have tried Pilates before and did not enjoy. I don't have the right
mindset for slow classes, slow music and slow precise movements -
which is why I get on so much better with wii pseudo yoga than the
real thing. My Pilates experience was of a class of 30ish and I didn't
really get it.
But my back has been complaining of late and as I know my core muscles
are in need of development, I thought I should address 15 on my top 40
list with a class at the gym.
Only 6 attendees - good.
Instructor was straight forward and I could work out what we were
meant to do - good.
Abs ache today - probably good!
I may go again although 6:15pm is tough to achieve on a working day -
digging out my unopened Pilates DVD may be a more practical option.

Seaside running in Devon & Dorset

One on Bournemouth seafront over a week ago with a banging hangover
and today with my Fabulous Mother In Law across to Meadfoot Bay. I am
v.jealous of people who can run by the sea everyday!

Paintball last weekend was great fun. I haven't done it for ages and
loved feeling a bit fitter whilst scampering around failing to shoot
anyone! Lovely big bruises on my thigh are just starting to fade. Hurt
my back a little the following day whilst attempting to extract
buddleia roots but it's been worst when sitting, not moving.
Did all bar the beginners' run off road for Wrn last week - much more
engaging than pavement pounding.