Training Day 1

23rd August 2016

Today was HOT.  Temperatures soared into the high 20's. What a gorgeous day, for chilling in the park, throwing a frisbee around....OR......my first attempt at going for a jog/run!?

The latter of course was the order of the day:)

So, not only was it a *boiling* day today, I was also running with 3 year old Joshua in the new (pre-loved), sports buggy!  This must make running harder, right?

When I first started out, after 5 mins, I thought I couldn't do any more - my legs were killing me after just that short time, and I began wondering why on earth am I putting myself through this?

I persevered, but it was start/stop practically the whole way which made my average pace really terrible at 19 mins!!! This must have been because on quite a few occasions, I walked for a short while before starting to jog again? Anyway, I know it's rubbish - but this is my very first attempt at running/jogging practically - ever! For this reason I am not feeling shameful, but ever so slightly proud that I got my lycra on and actually did it! 

Oliver was on his bike, and he was absolutely such an encouragement to me.  What really helped was that Oliver was giving me targets, for example - get to that bus stop without stopping mummy! lol.

When we were near the duck ponds in Bradley Stoke we passed a group of young boys squealing with their mobile phones in there hands - we thought - must be Pokemon!  So I asked what have they caught, to my delight there was a Bulbasaur, right there, so I must admit I ceased the opportunity to catch the the little beauty! (We have 83 in the Pokedex now, but that's another story!).

On the first half of the outing, I actually bumped into a lady that Oliver knew from school, and we started chatting, about what I was training for.  It turns out she has done lots of organised running and obstacle events!  We exchanged some pictures, and I told her about myself spectating Jayce & Andy doing Tough Mudder on the weekend - when I showed her the picture of the lads, it turns out that she works with them and knows Jayce quite well!  Small world!

As we continued on our journey, while I cannot lie and say it was easy - it some ways it felt a teeny bit easier than it had done to begin with.  Running is hard!  I wouldn't say I was really unfit - but cycling is so much easier!!!  

The total distance was 3.6 miles, with a moving time of 1hr 9 minutes. it seemed quite a nice little route actually - so I will probably do it again next time :)  It will be interesting to see how I get on without pushing the buggy the next time I get to go on a Solo-run without any kiddie's in tow! :)

I've signed up to Tough Mudder!
22nd August 2016

On the weekend (20th August), I was a spectator at Tough Mudder in Cirencester Park.  Next year, I will be a participant!

Last night I actually registered to take part in the event, and I am really really excited about it.  It's really motivated me to try and become fitter - something to work towards.  It's a whole 12 months away so I do have a long time to train for it - and I will have to!

I am not a particularly strong runner - a tredmill is something that I tend to avoid when I do happen to be at a gym!  I usually go for the Cardio Waves and Cross trainer.  I'm going to have to work hard - and I will.

My loose plan is:

• Run with Joshua in the off road buggy while Ollie is on his bike.
• When the boys are away - run....
• Go out on my bike with boys or on my own.

I am not super fit - but I don't think I am in the worst shape.

I expect people will realise that I am not particularly one for getting all dirty and I hate being unclean - so it's also a personal challenge in a way for me as well. However, Funnily enough though, I am actually looking forward to being covered in mud for some daft reason!  

I'm glad I have been to the event to spectate and therefore I know more or less what to expect!

Once some one told me I couldn't possibly do a 38 mile bike ride from Bristol to Clevedon - and I did it, of course - so I know I can do whatever I set my mind to - and I know it won't be a walk in the park - but I can do it - I know I can! :)

Oliver's first Cub Scout Camp

Scout Camp July 2016

All ready to go!

I've just picked Oliver up from his very first scout camp.  The sun was shining, and it was so hot!  Every one was busy helping to dismantle the tents and haul the equipment to the top of the field.  I was extremely surprised to see how resilient Oliver was lugging camping equipment across the field, he wasn't that cooperative when we camped last year!!

He's exhausted, and dirty. (and smelly).  He hasn't changed his socks or underwear all weekend, he tells me with delight....!  

Oliver upon his return from Camp!

Ollie is 8 years old, he's only just moved up to Cubs, from Beavers.  I am so grateful that he has had the opportunity to have this experience!  I was a little apprehensive at the thought of leaving my son in a field for two nights, but now I just feel beaming with pride.

Bed is made!

When dropping him off on Friday night the atmosphere was wonderful.  I had an excitement building up inside me, as I tried (with ease) to imagine how he was feeling.  The drop off took rather longer than anticipated, but after having set up Oliver's bed, including placing teddy in pride of place, I was somewhat pleased to finally be home at 8pm with a tired Joshua, who went promptly to bed!

I am very used to Oliver being away from home - he has been spending weekends away from me since he was 1 years old.  However he has never been away without his mum or dad.  This made it all a little different... I found myself waking up during the early hours listening to the rain, and feeling anxious knowing that Ollie wasn't tucked up in his bed at home.... I didn't sleep well at all that night, but I needn't have worried, he was well looked after!

The beginning of the Camp!

The following day, I distracted myself with house hold chores, amongst a few other less laborious activities later in the afternoon.  I did have a call from the Akela, which gave me a fright, but it was just to check if Oliver could have another does of his hay fever medicine.

My little boy has had a wonderful time! He drank hot chocolate and ate biscuits on Friday night, but he tells me he had little sleep on the first night.   They were woken up bright  and early for breakfast for 8am.  Ollie enjoyed sausages, baked beans and eggs for breakfast, sounds tasty!  He tells me there was an option of Jam/chocolate spread/ham sandwiches for lunch - take a guess on what Ollie went for? ;)  (Chocolate spread of course!).

Activities including Abseiling and Archery, and they did lots of playing.  I found it very interesting to watch the closing ceremony at the end of the camp where they sang Kum ba yah, and say prayers and watch them bring the flag down.

I don't think I have ever seen Oliver *so* tired.  He has clearly had little sleep.  He's had an amazing experience though, and I am so happy that he is a Cub Scout!

Poldark Episode 4 - a turning point?

After watching Episode four last night, I was strangely, left without feeling a sense of disappointment.   I wasn't bored or distracted at all, as I had felt in the previous three episodes.  So what was the difference this time?

Firstly, I've been trying really very hard to see this new version as an adaptation of Winston Grahams novels, rather than a 're-make' of the original TV series.   I've found this hard, since I am so fond of the original adaptation, and in many ways I prefer the dramatic style of acting we see in the first series.   However now that I am (slowly) getting through the novels, its easier to see it as an adaptation from them.

I was thrilled to see some of Jud & Prudie's personality coming through at the start of the episode.   There was a slight humorous angle on them in this episode that I have not seen before, (apart from perhaps when Jud was counting in the wrong order at the start of the dual episode).   I really enjoyed the dialogue between Jud, Prudie and Demelza at the start when they were discussing Demelza's new status in the household!

I am finding myself very much warming to Verity now.  I think she is a gorgeously talented little actress.  The scene where she comes to stay with Ross and Demelza, and Ross leaves the two ladies alone together was lovely.  I used to think Verity was mis-cast but I am rapidly changing my mind about this.    I am still not feeling the love for Francis, however I can see his character is improving somewhat.   Elizabeth comes across so very different to how Jill Townsend portrays her in the first series.  I am finding I do not dislike her character now, although I still feel as though she's a little empty in emotion.  I would say that, this is one of my main "bug bears" at the moment in that I really cannot see or believe their previous romantic connection in any way at all.

In this episode the pace seemed to slow down considerably, and I am hoping it will remain so going forward.  In terms of character development, I feel now we are definitely getting to know and love Demelza, who could not after Christmas at Trenwith when she delights the group with such a sweet beautiful song.  I still cringed at the bedroom seen, although it was quite tame!   (I am the type that had to look away at the sexy scenes in "The Tudors" but enjoyed the historical story line to it).  

I still desperately miss the focus on 'Side Stories/characters' that were explored in the original TV series.  We saw much more before of the 'Common Folk' than we do in this series. It still seems very much the "Ross & Demelza" show, or dare I say the "Aidan Turner" show.  I am very much looking forward to meeting Dr Enys & Miss Penvenen as well as Cap'n McNeil!   I was looking at pictures of Judy Geeson last night, she was so beautiful!

I do like Aidan as Ross.  However he still seems a little too young and inexperienced in the world to be Ross.  However he does do a good performance.  I imagine Ross to be a bit more rugged and 'worn', and less polished.

Despite this, something was just more 'Right' about episode 4 in my opinion. It was gripping, emotional, funny, inspiring, and heart warming and left me wanting for more!  I just really hope that this is a turning point and that the next 4 episodes do not disappoint!

I would love it if you have time to leave a comment on the blog, many thanks, and if you haven't read my previous critique feel free to view here:

http://delightful-dragon.blogspot.co.uk/2015/03/poldark-critique-episode-3.html

Poldark Critique Episode 3

Sigh...sadly I am actually starting to feel sorry for any one watching this new series without having either read Winston Graham novels or seen the 1970's series.

There's some thing tragically missing from this new adaptation.   I have had mixed feelings from Episode 1 of Poldark 2.  At first I liked it, then I wasn't sure, then I watched in another two times and I loved it.  However as the weeks are going by, its more and more glaringly obvious that the new version is just missing the allurement  that is my love for Poldark.

To start with the speed of which events are unfolding - it really feels like am watching highlights of a football match!   There's no depth to the character development.  I feel nothing for Elizabeth & Francis.  I never saw the passion that Ross has/had for Elizabeth.  Their "relationship" seems shallow, there's just nothing there.  I remember a scene from the original where Ross was so passionate in his speaking to her (Elizabeth), we've had none of that.  Its all just very superficial and hollow.  Anyway back to Episode three, how can any one who hasn't had previous knowledge of the story-line get to grasps with what's really going on?  I am sure new viewers do feel they understand, and perhaps they do - its just I feel they're only seeing this "Glossy" and "Smoothed" over version of events.  Some characters parts are being completely omitted, for example Zachy Martin, who had a special friendship with Ross.  

Secondly, I am getting increasingly bored with all these brooding scenes, of Ross gazing into the distance, and galloping horses across the coast.  (I know that there was some of this in the first series).  Furthermore, I am also not in the least interested in bare chested Aidan Turner - I don't feel that these scenes give any value whatsoever into the story, and I feel its unnecessary.  It makes me feel that the wonderful story alone isn't engaging enough to bring in an audience without Aidan exposing himself.   I would like to add I am a 32 year old woman, I am not denying Aidan isn't handsome.  But Robin Ellis didn't need to appear as a sex symbol in the original series, and it worked because every one fancied him.  I just don't think its necessary! 

The seduction scene, just for me couldn't live up to the original - just thinking of when Angharad says "Do you think I'm pretty?", it was just so sweet and delightful to watch. I don't see the chemistry and passion between Ross and Demelza - its all moved too quickly with no explanation of why.   I still can't warm to the new Demelza.  All the new cast are good actors/actresses I am sure, but the magic is not there - at least not for me.

Also, I feel its worth adding, I am getting really fed up of being shot down in Facebook Poldark Discussion groups.  It seems you can't state an opinion without some one telling "Not to watch if you don't like it"... yes that's really very construction and valuable to the conversation - thanks :)  I don't wish to come across as too negative - I appreciate and respect every one's views, and like to discuss the finer detail and compare.

I absolutely LOVED Robin Ellis's (AKA the original Ross) performance in Episode 3.  It was absolutely the highlight of the program for me. Although he's now of course older I can still see that sparkle in his eye, and for me he's still the true Ross.

The new version is obviously a very nice visual adaptation, and its more cinema style than play-write.  It was always going to be different, and more modern.   There's less dialogue, and more is down to interpretation.  I am not completing slating the adaptation.  It is of course very popular, so that in itself says something to its credibility.  

I just sincerely hope that those unfamiliar with the original will discover the truly enchanting performance of Robin, Angharad, Jill, Ralph, Clive, Mary and Paul, not forgetting every one else who took part in the production.   Saying all this I will still be tuning in next Sunday :)

(see my previous blog on Poldark here http://delightful-dragon.blogspot.co.uk/2015/03/all-things-poldark.html)

Cloth Bum Diaries!

Around six months ago I decided that I would try using Cloth nappies.   My friend had just recently tried it out, although gave up after a week because she was getting leaks with them.  However, seeing her pretty nappies did give me the inspiration to give them a go myself.

I didn't fancy spending a huge amount on re-usable nappies to start with, my son was already 14 months old, and I didn't know if I would get on with them or not.  So I got on the look out for some cheap/free pre-loved cloth nappies.   I was so incredibly lucky, because after placing a "wanted" advert on Freecycle, I had a reply from a lovely lady who had 15 "Wonderoo" pocket nappies she wanted to give away.   At this stage, being new to the whole world of cloth I didn't know if these were good nappies, or if they were just a cheap brand. It turned out that the were a fairly good brand, and although the were the "Version 2" so slightly out of date, to buy their "Version 3" nappies, they'd have been about £14 each.

I was a bit nervous about getting second hand nappies - but I thought I'd collect the nappies, and just see what they were like.  I was delighted!  There were no stinks or stains, and they seemed in excellent condition, hardly used.  I washed them at 60 degree's and then I used a laundry sanitiser too.  After I washed them they were so fresh and clean, I really didn't feel worried at all about using these pre-loved nappies at all.  Besides, I use a fleece liner & a disposable liner on top anyway.

I also got some "Cheapie" Little bloom nappies from some one (I paid for these but not much).   So with now a "Stash" of 25 cloth nappies I was ready to go!

I found much support on Cloth bum facebook groups such as:

Cloth Bum Mums - Fluffy Chat and Advice

I never experienced any problems with leaks.  The nappies I had so far were pocket nappies.  It's basically a nappy shell with waterproof material on outside, with a fleece inner which opens up at the back of the nappy.  You then stuff absorbent boosters inside.  You can get various different types of material boosters such as Microfibre, Bamboo & Hemp.  The wonderoo's came with a bamboo tri-fold (Which is like a square piece of material that you fold in three for multi layered absorbency), they also came with a microfibre insert that you can conveniently popper together.   

The "Cheapie" nappies like "little bloom" are a great way to get into cloth for many, as they are so affordable!  They are about £3.99 for a nappy and booster.  Some people swear by them, others don't get on, but definitely worth a try! 

The other type of nappies I have are called "all in ones".  I like a brand called "Mio Solo".   They are similar to pocket nappies in my opinion, however the absorbent booster is attached at one end to the nappy, so its not in two parts. These fasten with velcro rather than poppers.  They have just started to sell these Mio Solo nappies in supermarkets such as Waitrose (only 75 stores nationwide) and Morisons, and even sainsbury's.  I am so glad the are trying to make cloth more main stream.

I also have some "All in Two" nappies.  These are "Fitted Nappies", that you put a "Waterproof Wrap" around the outside.   The fitted nappy part is fully made of the absorbent material such as bamboo or microfibre.  There are some gorgeous patterned wraps available to buy.  Blueberry ones are lovely.  Motherease Rikki, seem to work really well, but not so attractive.

I always thought that there'd be no way that I would use reusable nappies.  My sister even tried 7 years ago with her daughter, and did not get on with them sadly.  When I had my second son she offered me all her nappies, which I stuck my nose up at, and declined!  They really are easy to use!  It's so nice not to have to go out and buy nappies.  (although I do still I am afraid, because I don't use cloth for my son when he goes to nursery three days a week, and I also currently use disposables at night time).

As I mentioned previously I use a disposable liner, so when my son does a poo, you just scoop in up in the liner, and dispose of.  I then pop the wet nappy in the nappy bin (dry, not to soak).  No, it doesn't smell!  Then every two to three days its wash day.  I LOVE wash day - seeing all those pretty nappies on the line!  I have way too many nappies really (Not as many as some - some people get very addicted and have stashes of over 100 or even more!).  I have about 45.   I don't get through them really.   I think I could definitely get away with having 20 ish.

If you haven't ever thought about trying cloth - I'd really recommend it, and urge you to try.   I have even started using cloth wipes now - but's thats for another day :)

All things Poldark

Spring last year (2014) my mum introduced me to "Ross Poldark"!  I had remembered seeing this old VHS's as a child in the cabinet, and vague understanding it was some program that my mum was mad about, and it was about Cornish Mining but I had never watched them or shown any interest.

However upon a visit to my mums in West Devon last year, we started to watch the series. My mum had heard that the BBC were to start making a new adaptation of the Poldark Saga which is based on the Winston Graham novels.  This is why she was keen for me to watch the original series.

The 2015 new series has just aired episode 2, and is already very popular (Not least because of the new Ross, played by Aidain Turner). However, if you are new to Poldark I urge you all to watch the original 1970's series too, because really it is such a treat, and in my opinion cannot be bettered.  I have just started to read the books that its based on, along side the TV series.   I am also re-watching the original TV series too at the moment.

The actors in the original were a dream cast, and fit perfectly in their roles. Robin Ellis who played Cap'n Ross Poldark was some what of a heart throb.  He doesn't necessarily have the perfect polished look that Aidan Turner does, but it was the handsomeness of his character that for me shone through in the original TV adaptation.   The script was rich with dialogue, unlike the more 'moody' silences' current version.  From the beginning Poldark had me hooked. Yes its a little old fashioned watching it now, 40 years on, but its so much more punchy and funny that what the BBC has just produced now.   Do not get me wrong, I am enjoying the new BBC drama, very much, and the characters are growing on me.  Its a different way, it was never going to be the same.  The story is moving so fast with the new 2015 version.  As I mentioned there was much more conversation/explanation as to what is going on in the original series.  I wonder if I had never watched the original, would I have got a good understanding of the characters & their relationship with each other.  I don't think so.

Robin is now living in France, and he has personally replied to my post on his blog last year!  He has also favourited one of my tweets!  I found this program on youtube earlier which is very interesting about the original series:

The Cult of Poldark 

It's definitely worth a watch to give you a feel of the programme.

As I said I am warming to the new casting in the 2015 Poldark.  At first I was reluctant to like Demelza, played by Eleanor Tomlinson.  Its because I love Angharad Rees portrayal of Demelza so much, she had so much charisma!  The new Demelza seems so tall, and awkward and clumsy looking but I am sure as the series progress she will come into the role.  I can't wait till Sunday evening now.  In the 1970's Poldark took the nation by storm.  It was on at 7pm back then!  I wish it were on a little earlier, as I am always quite tired by 9pm! I've watched the first episode of the new series three times, and I have watched the second episode two times.  Well, I am off to have a little read of the the first book, since my little one is sleeping!