Walking up Box Hill on Sunday with Hilary, Tom and my dear old dog Scamp in the September sunshine all I could think is ‘why haven’t I done this many many times before?’  It was such a lovely way to spend a Sunday morning – walking, chatting, taking in the views – as well as being laughed at while I tested my trusty hiking poles out – it really made me appreciate why it is such a good thing to have a challenge to focus on. I wouldn’t have been there otherwise. I’m doing the same walk with my family next week (the request was met with raised eyes from my 20 year old twins!) but the promise of a pub lunch at the end has won them over – and I know we will have a lovely day – all in the good cause of my Kili training!

The most challenging day of my training so far was a 10 mile hike in the Peak District. 

The good old weather of northern England threw everything at us that day – torrential rain, winds and hot sunshine. One minute we were all hot and stripping to T shirts and shorts – and then the rain clouds gathered and we scrambled for our waterproofs. The good news is all of my kit worked a treat – and underneath it all I was dry – even my feet – which meant it was still possible to enjoy the stunning scenery even in wild conditions.

What I’ve learnt. 

It is not possible to look good when hiking. Also you do not care a jot after 10kms. There will be no mirrors on Kilimanjaro. I hope my colleagues will be kind – and that the wind will be blowing in the right direction.