6 weeks to go!

Only 6 weeks to go now, and before I know it - I'm sure it's going to be here. I was working through my work calendar this morning and can't believe how booked up I already am through September. I did an article for RE World last week and was quoted as saying that you need to set yourself personal targets and deadlines or before you know it, years have passed you by. This really is the case! I turn 37 in a few weeks but still feel like I'm 27. I remember my parents turning 37 - and it just scares me!

I also had a mild taster of Africa last night. I left the window open in the bedroom as it was quite warm and something has got in and bitten me right in the back of the knee. Fortunately, having got my first aid kit sorted I had some bite cream at home, so christened that this morning! Didn't expect to have to crack that open so soon.

I've also raised the profile of my trip over the last week or so, and lots of people are talking to me about it. I just need to transfer the general interest into sponsorship now - so if you're reading this - can you spare me £5? It all adds up - and anything anyone can spare will make a huge difference.

7 weeks to go!

This blog is a bit later than normal. No excuse - had a few days leave (Thu & Fri) and paid the price with having to catch up with work afterwards! On Thursday I had a major catch up on housework but more importantly got up into the roof to get down my exped kit bag and sleeping bag. I was pleasantly surprised that I'd been organised enough not to keep my sleeping bag in it's stuff sack for the last 12 months+ and it was nicely aired and fluffy already. I have now packed it into its' stuff sack to work out how much room I'm going to have for clothes and goodies for the kids! Looking promising so far! I also popped to the Dr's to see whether I had to have a private prescription for Malarone (which I do!) I think I'm going to take it, even though the risk is relatively low. Mosquito's don't have boundaries - and I don't fancy getting Malaria! I think I've made a decision on the Rabies jab though. It's £80 for the course of 3 jabs, but it doesn't stop you getting rabies; it just gives you 24 hrs to get to a hospital where they can start the treatment. We're only 5 hours from Windhoek, which should be well set up for this so I think it's worth an educated risk not to bother. Please let me know if you disagree!!

On Friday, I had my 7 year old niece for the day (Rachel) and we went horse riding. She's been going for a few months now. I used to ride a lot as a kid but haven't been on a horse for at least 15 years. I'm pleased to report that it is just like riding a bike and it did all come flooding back. We went on a lovely hack and had a great time together.

I've also stepped up the promotion of my trip - but have been equally disappointed by the number of cake sales popping up in the building! I think I need to pace myself otherwise no one is going to have any money left to even consider being able to sponsor me for this worthwhile cause.

The Link to my Fundraising Page

I've just been reading back through some of my posts - and noticed that the very sporty triathlete "Will" has made a very valid comment, that it would be useful to post the link to my fundraising page on my blog! Flippin good point - so here it is; http://www.justgiving.com/cathyburgess/

Up to £560 now and going to be putting in some effort over the next few weeks to get it up to at least £1000.

8 Weeks to Go!

I got in some practice with the DIY skills this weekend as the exterior woodwork on the barn needed sanding and re-staining. This is a picture of my now immaculate front door. I also did the patio doors and a few windows at the same time. I will probably finish off the others over the coming weeks. The only downside is that my hamstrings are killing me! I'm normally quite flexible and prefer to squat rather than kneel down. I've clearly extended the old hamstrings a bit too far this weekend. Everything else is in full working order - not stiff anywhere else! I also broke in my new light weight work gloves - again so they don't look too shiny and new when I get to Namibia!

9 Weeks to go!

I had quite a positive weekend and have bought almost everything I need for my trip now. Ordered iodine tabs, mosi spray etc via Nomad on line. I couldn't face the shops so thought it would be better this way - and it gave me the chance to use the discount too. I think the only thing left to do now is sort out my first aid kit, but only need to get things like imodium etc as I'm hoping to get lots of plasters, bandages etc from my sister's St John's kit.

Saturday was a complete wash out, but I did pop out and do a food shop and also went to the DIY shop next door to get myself some work gloves for the trip. I've got a lightweight pair for painting (only £1.99!) and and more robust pair for heavier work.

On Sunday we went out on the mountain bikes for a couple of hours. Approx half of the distance was off road which was quite hard going - but better than being harrassed by cars on the country lanes. I took the opportunity to wear one of my new longsleeve tops. At least it now won't look shiney and new when I get out to Namibia! Need to do more work on fundraising too. I've got some ideas! I think a cake sale may be on the cards! Need to find some people who can bake now!