Last week I tried a short slow jog of around two miles sandwiched between two cycle rides.

Wow!! Nothing remarkable about that, I know, until I stopped to think of what has been going on for the past year.

This time last year I developed a very painful foot and ankle that felt like it was bruised, strained, battered and tight. I thought it would never go away. I tried physio, orthotics or varying kinds, rest and supports but the problem didn’t seem to get any better.

I put weight on and have become slightly uncomfortable  with my size. Willpower doesn’t appear to be word I can stick to so dieting is disastrous. So I resigned myself to a life without jogging and cycling.

That the toughest part of my life. Although I quite like cycling its not a passion. Jogging was. I loved the full-on exertion and challenge that a run can give and the chemicals that flood the body. The sense of achievement was massive when one crossed the imaginary finish line after a 20 mile jog. In more recent years that distance was down to 6-10 miles but with similar results.

So when last week I donned some trainers, set my watch to jog mode and strode over the fields and back in a slow but determined jog I was delighted to cover 2 miles in around 18 minutes. I was breathless and hot at the end but high on happiness and achievement.

To round the session off with a 14 mile cycle was the cream on the cake. Brilliant.

Will I try again? You bet I will.

I  miss it so much and will beast myself to continue as long as I can.

Being forced to retire from something you love is not just hard its life-changing and depressing.

Some may think me mad (probably right though) but unless you have experienced the rush of exercise and the pure joy of pushing the body then you will find what I have said confusing and idiotic. If you have done this then you will understand the frustrations and problems that plague me now.

Do I stop and focus on something else or fight and never give up????

There has been a lot of unrest and bloodshed in the U.K. recently and its just so sad.

The saddest observation is that it is only a very small minority who have and will behave in such a way but everyone that fit the profile or image of those who are guilty will be labelled and criticised too. Maybe even hurt innocently.

For example the bombing in Manchester and the stabbings in London are said to be Muslim and Isis related acts of terrorism. Absolutely abhorrent and disgusting. Committed by a handful of hate-filled, brainwashed idealists who hate the Western ways. But the knee jerk reaction is to see all ethnic people, scarf wearing women, bearded men and robe wearers to be guilty of being the same and that is just plain wrong. Most (to the point of nearly all) are decent loving, fun, sociable people who live for peace and harmony. It is just the tiny percentage who black the minds of those they offend.

Another example is that all shaven headed people wearing braces and boots are supporters of the National Front. A few may be but some just like the image. Many supporters will be normal looking people from all walks of life but it will be the ones who fit the image that will be frowned upon and scorned by those who don’t stop and find out the big picture.

Jumping to conclusions is not only dangerous and wrong it can be fatal and irreversible. Many innocence will be caught in the aftermath of acting without knowing the full facts.

How do we stop it? I am not condoning these acts, far from it, the culprits need punishment and removal from society but its an enormous ask when they can hide in plain sight.

The other question is when violence crosses over to terrorism.

Violence is becoming a daily occurence. Youngsters being stabbed or shot over petty ignorance. Abuse in the home and out on the streets, both verbally and physically. Bullying online and at work are all causing mistrust within our society and the shrinking budgets to police and protect the innocent is a shocking disgrace by those who lead us from Government. Even more shocking is the fact that if our taxes were spent with more insight and efficiency then there would be plenty enough to go round.

Okay these acts can bring communities and people together in solidarity but the focus of that solidarity must be to make our lives peaceful and better not to destroy or alienate those who innocently live around us as the memories of those who perish will be be defiled for good.

Terror is bad enough so why do we have to add to it with violence and bullying and take one thing from this and don’t rush to condemn or hate those without stopping to think about another’s guilt.

Yeah I know its Monday and its not my usual time to post things but I thought I’d throw caution to wind and do a second blog this week as I feel a bet rebellious.

For a while now it has come to my attention that the world is a little bit messed up, confused and worrying. Its also very unfair and unpredictable.

Random bombings of ordinary people whether they be on a bus, listening to music or hanging around in cafes or bars. Missiles being fired into the sea to test their capabilities and then subsequent ideas of military action being taken to stop it. Major computer hacks that cause worry. Greed and penny-pinching bosses that result in chaos in airports. Road-rage and suffering. Not to mention all the other rubbish that is have a damaging effect on society, the environment, incomes, health and learning.

Is it just me being pessimistic, over-reacting, looking to deep or just opening my eyes or it it becoming worse and worse?

My brother has a way of dealing with it by going home, closing the door and buring himself in chores, films and tinkering. Lucy finds not reading the papers or turning on the news works for her. But isn’t that just ignoring the problem? I had aspirations that maybe if action was taken then slowly things could change for the better but how wrong I seem to be. I hear so many politicians saying that they will do this, that and the other in their manifestos. However, words are cheep and not delivering promises is an easy way to move forward. I think also many start out with good intentions and ideas of changing the world but sadly are blocked from every angle by those who act immorally and dishonestly.

Our whole world now appears to be built on all the wrong standards.

If one is immoral, dishonest, a bully, heartless, manipulative and would sell their own soul to the highest bidder then they become leaders and power-lords. Whatever happened to integrity, mercy and fairness? They may become lost from our lexicons soon.

Yes we can make happiness and fun and we can experience trust and love in our own tiny corners of the globe but we often have that at the cost of keeping one eye open looking out for danger to spring.

We live our lives in such small and isolated bubbles that so often we stop having any regards for others. Take an innocent cycle ride. One can be minding their own business and enjoying the country air and sights when a car can’t wait mere seconds to pass and have a near fatal accident. Are we in so much of hurry?

Okay in recent days we have seen horrific bombings and the selflessness of those who just want to help and offer support; so humanity still exists. But surely it shouldn’t take acts of aggression or hatred to bring out those actions.

As a world we ALL should stop occasionally and notice our own actions and what influences they are having on those around us and if they are negative then change.

We are all responsible for each other.

Staying in has its benefits and can be fun. One can’t be a socialite always and keep up the appearance of happy and cool.

However, if one has stayed in for a while it can become rather routine so going out for an evening can become a chore or a too much effort thing.

Well, I am pleased to say that I did venture out last night. I didn’t drown, die or get mugged. It was fun; yes fun.

No really it was a laugh and funny.

Its quite brilliant going out occasionally as things don’t get stuck in a routine or become taken for granted. Seeing old friends and meeting new faces is like having brand new adventures. Hearing live music and watching others enjoy themselves lifts the spirit and makes one feel, well human, I guess.

The only downside is that time goes so quickly and the evening turns into night in the blink of an eye or the draining of a pint. “I only had a couple, honest guv”. “yeah right mate, how many?” “Ok a few more than that”.

And strangely enough the beer always tastes that little bit better in the pub that it does at home but the glasses seem smaller or at least the liquid inside disappears at a far speedier rate. Maybe its evaporation; yes thats it.

So I raise my morning tea mug to toast a well earned and good night out with new and old friends where no-one was fatally harmed in the production of fun and even the entertainer had a good time and a thirst quenching pint.

The dog was happy too.

So was my bed to finally have me back in its company. Lay down my friend, snore, sleep and be comfy.

I don’t recall any more………

I’m not like many people. No, honestly, I’m not. I know this is hard to imagine but it is true. What I mean is that most folk I am acquainted with take holidays but I tend not to as they are a lot of hassle. However, this year has proved different and I have experienced new […]

via A Smart Getaway. — froggyfroment.com

To all those reading this and who know me. This is not about me, well not at present and hopefully never, but for those I have heard are in a position of confusion, hurt or abuse.

The human mind is complicated. That is an understatement if I ever have heard one. The human mind is beyond comprehension and understanding should be a better and more accurate description.

So why should some be labelled mad or lacking mental capacity? Why can’t it fix itself? Whats going on? When does forgetfulness, confusion and reaction time become a problem?

In my opinion one is fine if they can perform daily tasks, drive safely, interact with others, talk and not become bogged down in confusion and emotions.

Just because someone calls you mad or mentally incapable it doesn’t mean you are. Far from it. Has that person ever thought that it maybe them who is of mental or moral incapacity? And anyway showing signs of dementia doesn’t have to signify an end  of life. Lords-a-leaping, most of us show signs of madness sometimes during our lives especially as we get older.

However, in some cases the brain can develop problems when electrical connections are broken or become lost and this is why more research and cures should be investigated. Mankind has increased the living age of people through the use of drugs and surgery but little has been done to keep the brain up to speed. Naturally, when the average life expectancy was around 40-50 years of age certain flaws in our biology were few and unknown. Cancer was less obvious and dementia less noticeable as we often died before the signs were evident.

Today we see far more age related problems. Mobility, mental capacity, organ failure and cancers to name but a few. So we should be helping those with problems not trying to expose them or belittle their existence.

Another question is when eccentricity and oddness become mental illnesses? I don’t know. My guess is it is when a person becomes a danger to themselves or others or their actions cause problems otherwise we should all shut ourselves away in isolation.

Being a little different can be cool. Anyhow, who has the right or defining knowledge to say how mad someone is unless that person is helpless to look after themselves?

Before one judges stop and think about how damaging a label could be and ask the question how  you would feel if that label were put on them. Growing older is scary enough as it is without casting further doubt.

Just an observation I have seen of late but not related to me or my family. Just saying!

FILE – This Wednesday, March 2, 2016, file photo shows an Echo Dot, left, and an Amazon Tap in San Francisco. The Amazon Echo, which listens to you, answers questions and carries out tasks like calling an Uber or turning on your lights, is finding a place in millions of living rooms. The Dot and the portable Tap give the Echo’s Alexa software even broader reach. (AP Photo/Jeff Chiu, File)

Until quite recent times music was either bought from a shop and played via record, tape, cd or mp3.

Today we can still do this but add to that streamed music, computer downloads and on demand radio and music aps.

To be honest I haven’t really listened to music for ages as its been so expensive to buy or download albums. I didn’t even realise how much I missed it. So when I discovered the Amazon Echo (I know this and the dot have been out for an age)  I decided to give it a go.

It has proved to be one of the best gadgets I have stumbled across for some time and it is simply more than just a speaker for music via bluetooth.

Its fantastic and connects via WiFi so one can stream music, listen to the news, ask questions and set reminders. The sound quality is great for the average home’s rooms and it has opened up new avenues of sounds that I have never come across. Over the last few months I have listened to tracks off albums that bring back so many memories and times.

If one has a Spotify ,Tunelin or Amazon Prime accounts then accessing music for free is simple and for those who want even more can pay a monthly fee. This is still far cheaper than buying or downloading but its not for keeps. Its a cool way of finding new interests and then buying a selected favourite few.

One can connect the smart speakers to HiFi systems, bluetooth speakers and amplifiers so the sounds can travel from room to room with you.

The really cool thing is that you can ask questions too and play games with your speaker. What time is it Alexa and she tells you. She can tell you news headlines, the weather, how tall an actor is all by asking and if you link your diary she can inform you of upcoming events. She can even help you order stuff via the amazon store.

I think every home should have one.

The Amazon Echo has certainly changed my life for the good and has encouraged my love of music back into my life. There are other ones like Google Home, Sonos and maybe the new Samsung one but all do roughly the same thing.

Not cheap at around £150 but when one factors in how much a single track costs to download, let alone an album, and the other things that can be achieved then I feel this is great value for money. Lets face it a reasonable bluetooth speaker comes in at around a similar price.

There you are; I love them and have been very impressed; give one a go and see for yourselves.

Hobbies, interests, R and R, call it what you want, come in many and varied forms.

Do we need them and why?

For most of us looking after the house, caring for pets, working and keeping the family entertained is more than enough, and often too much at times, to occupy our days. Retirement seems an age away and having an abundance of spare time is unimaginable. This is true but all of a sudden the realisation becomes a reality or a very close one.

Not having to work may appeal to start with but I am sure (as I can only imagine at present as I still have to work being only 50yrs of age) it becomes monotonous and boring once the novelty has worn off and all the little jobs have been completed.

I think it is so important to have something to do in life as it keeps the mind and body healthy for longer and can lead to some very productive and rewarding results, even a new lease of life.

However, the biggest set-back is finding what is best. A massive amount of issues will influence what hobby one takes up.

Money (the rot and root of most evil), space, ability, location and interest being some of the biggest factors.

There are those who will disagree but I cannot contemplate getting up, watching television, tootling off for a lunch time pint, sleeping for the remainder of the afternoon, pubbing it again for the evening and then repeating seven days a week.

The problem is that apart from cycling, walking and reading I am finding it hard to be drawn towards any other hobbies and my fear is that through age and fitness things like cycling and walking will become painful and less enjoyable.

It’s a very similar situation when one is faced with a career choice on leaving school. I still have no idea about that so settle with being a postie.

I don’t want my retirement to be that way though so I feel it important to think of how to fill my latter years. Why I hear some of you cry, you may be dead before then? Well the short answer is that it won’t matter then but the chances are I may not so being prepared is the better option.

So what do I choose?

I hate fishing. I’m no daredevil. I have very little room and lack pots of cash.

Mmmmm…… I see a big pull towards having to learn something new. Drawing, writing, a history degree, playing an instrument properly, bird-watching or photography. Maybe collecting “stuff” but small enough “stuff” to fit in my small abode. I’d say cooking and baking but for me that would be a very dangerous endeavour as I would eat it all and become a bloater like “Monty Python’s Mr. Creosote”.

The thing is thinking about it now is fraught with problems and the main ones are time and energy. What I mean is that trying to engage in a hobby now is difficult due to working full-time and being constantly drained from doing that and all the daily chores incurred in day-to-day living. Yes, yes, yes I know that’s a feeble excuse but trying to research and learn for a history degree when tired is not what I would call fun and that is exactly what a hobby should be.

My original questions were do we need a hobby and why and the simple response is yes we do for reasons of sanity and enjoyment as the majority of people have spent years doing work they hate or find too demanding.

The other question I have yet to ask is when to embark or take up a hobby and there is no right or wrong time. Fill your spare time doing what you like and if you get into a position where work becomes less or a thing of the past then increase in the areas that take your interests.

Speak to any doctor and they will say that retirement without an interest or hobby will be short-lived.

However, this year has proved different and I have experienced new things I wouldn’t have entertained a few years ago or until now. There are a number of reasons for this and I shall be happy to tell you even if you don’t want to hear or read them.

Women. They can be a pain but in fact they are very good most of the time. Mad? Well of course and they do things strangely but they compliment men (who are normal and do things strangely too) and help iron out the conscious mind.

Am I mad, eccentric, strange or just misunderstood? I have no idea but I have been in a dark place for some considerable time and Lucy (my long-suffering partner) has helped me out by drip feeding me concerns and paths to find a way out of the pit of despair. Jony was my first port of call and then the doctor and finally drugs and self help.

A massive weight has begun to lift (it’s still there but gradually becoming lighter as though gravity has a less stronger pull downwards) and there is such a thing as fun. so this has been the first factor.

The second is my new little car which I can’t stop banging on about but believe me when I say its been a brilliant discovery and a massive bag of joy. I so love it that trips are now becoming an excuse to do not ones to avoid.

I guess my third enlightenment has been that friends and family have stood by and waited for me to get better which is an enormous gift; so thanks to all involved there.

Finally, being able to set unimportant crap free from the mind has also got me thinking that certain things don’t matter and does one have to give a flying …. about them?

So armed with this, seemingly, new outlook on life I was pleased to accept two invitations. One to visit my Bruv, Sis, Mivver and Bonnie at their new home in Bawdrip and the second to attend a gathering for my old friend Duncan, Charlie, Blades, Curnow at Chelwood House also in Somerset. To top the cake with cream was travelling down in my new little car.

Both visits were brilliant in their own ways even though they were totally different.

I saw old and vintage cars at Haynes Museum, listened to birds and relaxed in a beautiful garden and drank beer and ate sumptuous food with my brother. Did a bit of work, walked and helped mantle a flat pack chair. I even received Two Easter Eggs; fantastic.

Next came my biggest fear. Crowds of people and the dreaded children….How wrong and unfounded those thoughts were. The complete opposite and I don’t think I would have changed a thing. Everthing was balanced perfectly. The most astonishing aspect was that it was more saddening to return home not to have the kids and folk about. I shall adjust though. But write to me those who read this, please especially you kids.

The greatest gift to give an old friend at 50.

To top my week off was to see the faces, on the motorway, of the people (mostly men and their big car egos) who saw my little car burble passed with ease and to watch the shock and horror of being left standing at lights and junctions when I decided to give my stead it’s head and put my foot down (all within the confines of the law officer, I asure you).

Home now seems happier and more relaxed and I even partook in a couple of beers in the garden at home which I haven’t done in decades and bought some mixed nuts and dried fruits.

I’m even listening to music now thanks to The Amazon Echo Speaker and have discovered bands, tracks and styles I never knew existed. What fun.

None of what I have written would have been or seemed possible without Lucy insisting on getting help and the support of Jack the dog and the trip would have just been an academic thought if not for the kind sacrifice Lucy made in staying at home to look after Jack the Spack dog.

SO THANK YOU LUCY.