tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37400035332419341082024-03-16T01:10:47.234+00:00A day in the life of....A collection of my daily thoughts, feelings and emotions, all tied up in a jumble of stories and tales from my day to day life.Michael Snasdellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09843169292529848696noreply@blogger.comBlogger782125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3740003533241934108.post-60338620952607832462024-01-21T20:41:00.000+00:002024-01-21T20:42:01.467+00:00A night shift with the Met <div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhlIrVCubaohRDzE5pBlVp2fIvAkH0IW-7ZE7AlktXqHeLCRJV2mLUTx68bDA9OyTgg--LmDLIc4d6qAL7XdlxsvYevehEmSfuM-DGbPzi183nOxJTvvI48Be4iVl0gzpdpCx7h-Eh8nI-JTWr2LXX6jaZrrLeBu70maICQ0FNLtuVxDdswU6WJYmf3Idc" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhlIrVCubaohRDzE5pBlVp2fIvAkH0IW-7ZE7AlktXqHeLCRJV2mLUTx68bDA9OyTgg--LmDLIc4d6qAL7XdlxsvYevehEmSfuM-DGbPzi183nOxJTvvI48Be4iVl0gzpdpCx7h-Eh8nI-JTWr2LXX6jaZrrLeBu70maICQ0FNLtuVxDdswU6WJYmf3Idc" width="400">
</a>
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhPTNvTrglX4j00oXYhC-Abk9CtH4pJgWA1dQMgnr7CO_EG30UwelChMfGJ3KutCf-57tEymThzMeUPdCi9ss0PJN2OIo-ffnPKSY90Mu-FGPo6xbKylaostt3Lf4Fpa-TwJapuWcPLUoLm8gKkESQwwErnAXfJsako2SljTZBNADDbgHH8-dNtuL1o8lY" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhPTNvTrglX4j00oXYhC-Abk9CtH4pJgWA1dQMgnr7CO_EG30UwelChMfGJ3KutCf-57tEymThzMeUPdCi9ss0PJN2OIo-ffnPKSY90Mu-FGPo6xbKylaostt3Lf4Fpa-TwJapuWcPLUoLm8gKkESQwwErnAXfJsako2SljTZBNADDbgHH8-dNtuL1o8lY" width="400">
</a>
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiOkwnTD7eOR7FAx4-29CU9nuPHroubAWd6fTaH5VRRHQ5iuUZkKk0uyaoiOwUMzR9Io3tFf09poAAnL4z-lcu13rJqztlT-v8ZO66F8IATIVCuYd7K2Q4uiu5NzyLnk9FylBOvENzJeCa8mX8Kmt68HPhqALTkvdbFIWQNz3DcmGSS-RlBg6cKxEkzrNE" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiOkwnTD7eOR7FAx4-29CU9nuPHroubAWd6fTaH5VRRHQ5iuUZkKk0uyaoiOwUMzR9Io3tFf09poAAnL4z-lcu13rJqztlT-v8ZO66F8IATIVCuYd7K2Q4uiu5NzyLnk9FylBOvENzJeCa8mX8Kmt68HPhqALTkvdbFIWQNz3DcmGSS-RlBg6cKxEkzrNE" width="400">
</a>
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiifbX7HBiP7TP9yfwViR0fIyObMNsfR021NfTvOsx7m2rN8pJufvvB1z4sArb0KeEzJdhA3k9TxaUFtnBgywaAUpSApmOzDcRMuSId8EKMhIIlYhU5HJmIzi8v8WKojtn9yYLa232bHB_RObT3KkhxGWS2dQ4PhR4Bcfg1qOQL3_O6mcPpxqqE1l-AaiU" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiifbX7HBiP7TP9yfwViR0fIyObMNsfR021NfTvOsx7m2rN8pJufvvB1z4sArb0KeEzJdhA3k9TxaUFtnBgywaAUpSApmOzDcRMuSId8EKMhIIlYhU5HJmIzi8v8WKojtn9yYLa232bHB_RObT3KkhxGWS2dQ4PhR4Bcfg1qOQL3_O6mcPpxqqE1l-AaiU" width="400">
</a>
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEipByZ1pyj7unCWPAWz-xmj7JU4Mku8qdiPYTpqjnrhWDaQ714Uyoqj3oZweH20oXVJd_WyxiXWcP_Gr-n1kzzzsryn3fouI9CAm_L1FBeczoKY6IiP67CAehB0627PwOUQVZCXtKc3RKRqGn80oaAkhESjEnOZ9nh34fmZhYAGQw6rdU_IVo5HjUi1fe8" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEipByZ1pyj7unCWPAWz-xmj7JU4Mku8qdiPYTpqjnrhWDaQ714Uyoqj3oZweH20oXVJd_WyxiXWcP_Gr-n1kzzzsryn3fouI9CAm_L1FBeczoKY6IiP67CAehB0627PwOUQVZCXtKc3RKRqGn80oaAkhESjEnOZ9nh34fmZhYAGQw6rdU_IVo5HjUi1fe8" width="400">
</a>
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjbWLizb1wqpeStY9008TDPZ58yAG0XoFRdDlrUr6ytBgwCcBORSgEk82bhOYwqWYgqOSlrZ0Y5_0u6pTlpi37jm7z_PA_IAwfjestP-ePGUHuPWi0mIz7veKKm1Py6olZe651MsM97NCU9hpOGpUXLkBy9B_IRNCE_NB403now5EjdhTpcBqIIPheeJng" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjbWLizb1wqpeStY9008TDPZ58yAG0XoFRdDlrUr6ytBgwCcBORSgEk82bhOYwqWYgqOSlrZ0Y5_0u6pTlpi37jm7z_PA_IAwfjestP-ePGUHuPWi0mIz7veKKm1Py6olZe651MsM97NCU9hpOGpUXLkBy9B_IRNCE_NB403now5EjdhTpcBqIIPheeJng" width="400">
</a>
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhhEn6F3m2WhdaQBWx8Ug6LTIyzKxBSjhCNlofdTS0PKdeu-_-Ktv39gJ-jEc89QcMw84psYKDw8ItI5LyA9Cy6kKr7bo-bCapD6ykAKCFEZso81lbaqUjdk1CcuIsgvoXlvlW56L-n3pXYVDby6pixxUdBjFSUBMJD_C5GVXzjrYqMJpScI-WjJO6W2T8" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhhEn6F3m2WhdaQBWx8Ug6LTIyzKxBSjhCNlofdTS0PKdeu-_-Ktv39gJ-jEc89QcMw84psYKDw8ItI5LyA9Cy6kKr7bo-bCapD6ykAKCFEZso81lbaqUjdk1CcuIsgvoXlvlW56L-n3pXYVDby6pixxUdBjFSUBMJD_C5GVXzjrYqMJpScI-WjJO6W2T8" width="400">
</a>
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhmGstqmU0HT_LFngvNhyXIHdut65dYQBSbrv3qhXsF1CiblxX1creitRbe2IOV2V3uzumv19uN14Qgjgp9BK0Ql2rJEkCh9A8iebz9iBJa4VQ2ZRvFssURqjLJTKLa4yp5lzJONJHWSFFCPUjZmZ7QnXUHykQR9gN8xEwe4umXGumJ-e0iKtzoxiA4-RU" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhmGstqmU0HT_LFngvNhyXIHdut65dYQBSbrv3qhXsF1CiblxX1creitRbe2IOV2V3uzumv19uN14Qgjgp9BK0Ql2rJEkCh9A8iebz9iBJa4VQ2ZRvFssURqjLJTKLa4yp5lzJONJHWSFFCPUjZmZ7QnXUHykQR9gN8xEwe4umXGumJ-e0iKtzoxiA4-RU" width="400">
</a>
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhbq1aZtjZuY9MGX4NFg9ZESO1dTWHQ_3mkyGPCQAWbk2qYVDBpx0vJfjyidERKpWLLiqIfntWqUInHJLWIxlV-wnuBDXtdHaQYy7SXXPELFORCjpsDxcX0yFBwHP6IKu_-xwz6uAAzXVL1y2xpb4-QMEaQV3VklAGw3FMmP5azV139kMNmeJZN8iVDSQA" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhbq1aZtjZuY9MGX4NFg9ZESO1dTWHQ_3mkyGPCQAWbk2qYVDBpx0vJfjyidERKpWLLiqIfntWqUInHJLWIxlV-wnuBDXtdHaQYy7SXXPELFORCjpsDxcX0yFBwHP6IKu_-xwz6uAAzXVL1y2xpb4-QMEaQV3VklAGw3FMmP5azV139kMNmeJZN8iVDSQA" width="400">
</a>
</div><br></div><div><br></div><div>So last night....</div><div>I went for a ride along with a response unit from Lewisham Police to get a look behind the curtains of what the job takes.</div><div>Shakey start with the front desk not knowing about the arrangement but after one of the sergeants running about a bit I was assigned to 2 officers for the night.</div><div>Quiet start to the shift, leaving the station just before 11pm. A bit of a look around the patch, nothing much happening.</div><div>Just before 1am we got our first chance to run on blues to reports of a fight. After a 5 mile blue light run, with some absolute terrible driving by members of the public, we arrived with other units, to find it had been stood down as a play fight.</div><div><br></div><div>Shortly after assigned to another call, not i-grade. Encountered some more interesting driving along the way, with words of wisdom offered to them for their poor driving.</div><div><br></div><div>Just before 2am the officers suggested food at 2.30..</div><div>Obviously at 2.20 a car came onto our radar, and after a couple of short bursts of speed, and what seemed it was going to be a fail to stop, a car was stopped. Extra units called for, good quick show of numbers, resulting to one being taken into custody.</div><div><br></div><div>To complete the experience I was then permitted to go to custody to see how the processing of someone who has been arrested works. Having seen it all on TV, I was shocked to see just how much longer the process is. Not in a bad way, but it's really not like you see it on TV. Very thorough indeed.</div><div><br></div><div>Even seeing the evidential breathalyser machine being used is nowhere near as swift as they show on TV. Just the process of leading up to taking a sample takes a while.</div><div><br></div><div>Once the person was safely in a cell, it was time for the paperwork. That is where the real surprises came in. A large pool of hot desks for officers to do their "paperwork" at. A very detailed and long winded system to get everything on record in body cam footage.</div><div><br></div><div>Obviously I realise this is VERY important and needs to be done properly, but seeing so many officers at desks having to get all the paperwork done before returning to the streets really highlights how much time is spent on this process. To add insult to injury, after almost 2 hours of doing the report, inc time taken to grab some food, the system decided to crash and the whole report was lost.</div><div><br></div><div>As he started it all again, the sergeant came over and suggested it might be a good time to call it a night. I would be lying if I said I wasn't relieved.</div><div><br></div><div>It was a real eye opener, and something I would love to do again one day. I would genuinely recommend it to anyone, especially those who have questions about policing and how it works.</div><div><br></div><div>Huge thanks to the officers I spent the shift with for answering all my questions and giving me a genuine view of how the streets are policed. And the challenges the police face. </div>Michael Snasdellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09843169292529848696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3740003533241934108.post-41729447522221434302023-11-19T19:56:00.001+00:002023-11-19T19:56:31.121+00:00How are you? Thought it was about time I posted something on this blog. It's been forever.<div>So I thought I would as, "how are you?" </div><div>In our busy lives we only manage to touch base a with a small handful of people day to day. Now matter how hard we try, we never manage to speak with everyone we care about, and I don't know about you, but it makes me feel bad at times.</div><div><br></div><div>Sometimes by the time you realise someone you care about is struggling or needs that chat, it can be too late, and they can already be fighting to keep their head above the water. </div><div><br></div><div>I have done a post like this in the past I know, but as the darker evenings and shorter days draw in, I wanted to repeat myself and reiterate my message. I'm here and happy to chat. Of course that comes with caveats, and hopefully anyone who knows me well enough to want to talk to me and open up, knows what they are too.</div><div><br></div><div>Recently I have been reminded that so many people live their lives with the appearance of a duck on water.... Above the surface, the public persona, all is beautiful and well. While under the surface they are struggling to stay afloat. Dealing with all sorts of dramas and dilemmas, but because no-one can see the struggle, there is no lifeline, no help, no conversation. And for the sake of saving face, even when the question is asked "are you OK", the stiff upper lip appears and you lie through your teeth. </div><div><br></div><div>So.... How are you? </div><div>If you are not great, let's talk. If you are great, that's great, I still care. </div><div><br></div><div>If you know me, please never feel uncomfortable speaking openly. The worst that can happen is I write a blog about it and publish it to the world lol. </div>Michael Snasdellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09843169292529848696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3740003533241934108.post-22602247640546120632023-08-31T09:55:00.000+01:002023-08-31T09:55:01.983+01:00A day in the health care system. Didn't see this coming, and to be honest had never known what they do in here until today.<div>I have felt occasionally and rapidly short of breath for the past few weeks now. Since getting back from Florida I have felt lethargic and every now and then just can't breath. Like there is pressure on my neck and chest. Inhalers don't work. </div><div>It can last from a few seconds to a few mins at a time, yet I am pretty much able to train as normal. Unless of course a wave hits me in the moment. </div><div><br></div><div>I called my GP this morning to see if I could get an appointment, got through just after 8am.</div><div>Received the triage texts shortly after that. </div><div>Around 10am I got a call from the surgery saying the GP would call between 11 and 12.</div><div>About 15 mins later I got a text from the GP saying she wanted to see me in the next 90 mins of possible. </div><div><br></div><div>I 'hurried' to the surgery and saw the doctor after a short wait. Thankfully it was a GP I have a history with, so she listened while I explained. The confusion grew as I described what was happening with me. After a few checks and asking me if I thought there was anything it might be, she said she wanted to get something checked. </div><div><br></div><div>It seemed like because I had flown recently, and because I had been in contact with someone who tested positive for Covid, she wanted to be sure it was not DVT or PE. She then made a call to Lewisham Hospital to get some advice, and after five mins of chatting, came off the phone and asked me to go straight to Ambulatory Care at Lewisham Hospital. They would run some tests to rule out Pulmonary Embolism as a diagnosis. </div><div><br></div><div>So here I sit now. </div><div>Having only ever seen signs for it before, and having no idea what it was, I have since found out that it is an all in one department that runs a barrage of tests, gets all the results back in the same day. Rapid diagnosis you might call it. </div><div><br></div><div>So far within 30 mins of getting here I have had AN ECG, blood pressure test, temp, SATS, and finally bloods. The bloods have been sent off and as I write this, I am waiting on the results. Just to be clear, I'm in no rush to get them, I am massively thankful for their care here today.</div><div><br></div><div>The wait time is approx two hours so I am told, which is fine with me. </div><div><br></div><div>In the meantime a barrage of messages have been sent by me to loved ones and work, making sure everyone is in the loop. </div><div><br></div><div>First world problems time.. </div><div>My phone battery is at 29%, not helped by me writing this..</div><div>I'm a little hungry now and that leads to a bit of a nauseating feeling.</div><div>And I would love a drink right now. </div><div>All that said, all is well, I feel OK other than a shortage of breath occasionally.</div><div><br></div><div>Oh and I read my GP notes, and saw "Dyspnoea" definition.. " awareness of the sensation of shortness of breath. It may be pathological, psychological or social in origin."</div><div><br></div><div>I shall add to this post as and when I get my results. I am expecting to be told I am good to go. But if that is NOT the case, the next step is xray and scans.</div><div><br></div><div>Oh and side note, when taking my SATS the nurse kept asking me to breathe deep..... Deeper..... DEEPER.. before saying "that's fine." So I am going to assume they were low lol</div><div><br></div><div>In the end the bloods took about three and a half hours to come back. In which time I was moved to a comfier seat in a booth, which was a nice touch. </div><div>In the meantime a consultant came to see me to get some back story and try and work out what was going on. We chatted for about 10 mins, talking health history, recent travel, changes in health recently etc. </div><div><br></div><div>The outcome " quite unremarkable". Said with a smile, and reassuring tone, he said with all the info he already had, he was quite sure that there was nothing drastic going on, but obviously something was happening or I would not be there. </div><div><br></div><div>All my bloods were back with exception to the one he wanted, the D-dimer for micro clots or PE. In the meantime, to cover all bases he sent me for an x-ray. With a parting explanation that the xray would just confirm whatever the bloods were saying. </div><div>There would be two outcomes. </div><div>1/ D-dimer registered something, in which case start treatment. </div><div>2/ D-dimer clear, so would want to run a 24hr at home ECG, to check for arrhythmia which MIGHT... at a stretch cause short spells of breathlessness. Unlikely but only right to rule out. </div><div><br></div><div>10 mins later, x-ray done, results came back, all clear. D-dimer came back registering absolutely nothing, so all clear for PE. Big stuff out of the way, that was a relief. </div><div><br></div><div>So next I will be contacted by cardiology for an appointment to go and get the ECG fitted, then removed the next day. And in the meantime, I am to follow up with my GP for further investigations and explore other routes to treat. </div><div><br></div><div>The breathlessness continues as sporadically as it always has. I have returned to using my new inhaler, and am pleased to report I slept a little better last night. </div><div><br></div><div>So watch this space, who knows what it is, but the thing I do know for sure is it's frickin annoying. </div><div><br></div><div>Thanks for reading and thanks everyone for their concerns.... Mainly about who gets my bikes, but.. 😂</div><div><br></div>Michael Snasdellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09843169292529848696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3740003533241934108.post-46682778988465821852023-07-18T15:58:00.001+01:002023-07-18T15:58:34.513+01:00What a load of Greenwash bollox<div>Usually greenwashing is when something bad for the environment is painted as being friendly. This time we have something which was never good for the environment, was badly planned, or carefully planned depending on your view on it, to ultimately raise revenue, but being touted as a great clean solution for all. Rather than the shambolic load of shit it actually is. </div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div>Not content with the ULEZ extension, now this little gem.</div><div>The Silvertown Tunnel touted as a solution for all, which was designed and built with no pedestrian or cycle passage available is now having a consultation on a dedicated bicycle service through the tunnel.</div><div>Some of the quotes from the piece are cringe worthy.</div><div><br></div><div>"These cross-river cycling proposals are a key part of our commitment to ensuring that the Silvertown Tunnel supports growth in cross-river cycling use."</div><div>A key part would have been considered at the planning stage, not when it's 3/4 built.</div><div><br></div><div>"TfL said the bike bus was under consideration because it would be “unsafe” to allow cyclists to ride through the £2bn tunnel"</div><div><br></div><div>Years in planning, £2bn, but no provision for "free passage".</div><div>A brand new tunnel is "unsafe" for pedestrians and cycles, yet the Rotherhithe Tunnel is for all to use, with only the tiniest of kerbs separating the road from the "pavement" Cars passing within inches of pedestrians.</div><div><br></div><div>"Will Norman, the mayor’s walking and cycling commissioner, said: “These plans will mean that cyclists will benefit from easier travel between the Greenwich Peninsula and Silvertown, enabling more people to make the switch to active travel and helping to build a better, greener London.”</div><div><br></div><div>Sure thing Will. Using a bus to carry bikes through a brand new tunnel, waiting 10 mins between buses for a ride that would take a couple of minutes. That's a real benefit.</div><div><br></div><div>"The consultation will also help to determine whether the service should be free.</div><div><br></div><div>A TfL spokesman said no decision had yet been taken on whether to charge cyclists to use the bike bus. “That forms part of the consultation to help understand whether a charge would impact customers’ decision to use the service or not,” he said."</div><div><br></div><div>Aaah now we have it... So, design a tunnel for toll use, then make sure EVERYONE who uses it can be charged. Too dangerous for Pedestrians and cyclists just screams piss poor designing and initial consultation.</div><div>Declare it unsafe for such use, even though the tiny Rotherhithe Tunnel is "safe", then provide a bus "service" which may or may NOT be free, probably the latter. So now anyone using the crossing will be charged in one way or another. Smart!</div><div><br></div><div>All quotes are taken from this article. </div><div>https://www.standard.co.uk/news/transport/london-cyclists-silvertown-thames-tunnel-bicycle-bus-proposal-tfl-consultation-b1094751.html<br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div>Michael Snasdellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09843169292529848696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3740003533241934108.post-91384938894607873132023-04-03T16:45:00.001+01:002023-04-03T16:45:07.757+01:00The problem with cyclists is... ..... the same thing that is wrong with motorists, pedestrians, and all other people regardless of their mode of transport. They are human beings!<div><br></div><div>Sure there are cases of right and wrong, and many variables which all contribute towards the outside perception of whatever group you belong to, but the biggest issue is people and their sense of entitlement. Not to mention those who wear rose tinted glasses for their cause and refuse to see things any other way. </div><div><br></div><div>Cars and motorists. The enemy of all except for themselves. Doers of most harm, the biggest threat to cyclists and pedestrians alike. When the driver of a car has a moment of entitlement, the result can be catastrophic. Of course there is the question of if an act was malicious or ignorant. Trying to cause harm, or just poor judgement or a lapse of concentration. (not always mobile phone related)</div><div>On the flip side it could be argued that they are also the group held most accountable. Vehicles require legal checks, drivers "should" be insured. Cameras to catch any wrong doing, and a whole road traffic act to abide by. That is not to say that any or all the above are any kind of certainty. </div><div>The stats prove that motorists are indeed a mixed bag, with tens of thousands of convictions annually for speeding, red light jumping, and other seriously entitled and dangerous behaviours. The consequences of which can be catastrophic and tragic. </div><div><br></div><div>Then there are cyclists. The majority being well meaning people, using bicycles to commute, stay fit or just simply have some time to themselves. Many are considerate of others, be they cyclists, pedestrians or even motorists. Maintaining their bikes, riding with caution, and following the rules of the road. </div><div>Then of course there are those who don't. A minority I would say. Red lights mean nothing, pedestrians can get out of their damn way. Just like the motorists, no consideration for those around them, not even their own tribe.</div><div><br></div><div>This is where things seem to differ though. All sorts of reasons and justifications can be given as to why the one way street doesn't apply, the red light was dangerous to stop at, or the pedestrians should wait for them to pass through crossings, even though the highway code demands they stop. </div><div>Sadly there are some who feel cyclists simply cannot be in the wrong. Jump a light and hit a car, car should have been looking out for them. Distracted on their phone for the next delivery, hit a pedestrian, just trying to make a living </div><div><br></div><div>To me, these people are as bad as those who complain about cyclists not paying "road tax", or that assume all cyclists are the same as the one that cut them off in traffic, then called them a wanker. </div><div><br></div><div>Both groups have many members, the majority by far who do everything right, by the rule, and try to be considerate of everyone around them, but sadly there are a few who don't, and they are the ones always used as the examples for opposing groups. </div><div><br></div><div>Of course there are pedestrians who are a whole different kettle of fish. The different groups all have their quirks. School kids too busy messing about to look before crossing. Commuters, faces in their phones, bumping into each other, pavement furniture, and walking into the road without looking. Tourists, most of us have been one. Confused about which way to look before stepping out, or simply being unaware they are walking in a bike lane. </div><div><br></div><div>The common factors are as I said. We are all humans, we all have our own believes and occasionally exercise a sense of entitlement, or a false sense of safely. However the consequences can be very different. </div><div>But let's not kid ourselves. If all 100kg of me runs into a pensioner or small child while out for a run, I can cause serious harm to them as they slam into the ground. </div><div>If a pedestrian walks into a cycle lane or the road while I am hurtling along at 18-20mph, I am likely to do even more harm. It's simple physics. Just as a car can cause harm when striking a pedestrian, a bike or pedestrian can cause harm to each other in a collision too. </div><div>What usually comes up here is "but cars kill people"... Well statistically so do cyclists and so do human beings. The liklihood is far higher for a car (sorry that should be car DRIVER) vs other, and a driver is unlikely to be injured if a cyclist or pedestrian collide with their vehicle. The statistics of course support the fact that the car /other vehicles/ motorist will be most likely to case harm or death. But that isn't an excuse to run or ride around like an entitled idiot.</div><div><br></div><div>To simply claim that bikes DO NOT cause harm or pose a risk to anyone is ignorant. But for some it is the belief they hold, and regardless of what happens the cyclist will NEVER be in the wrong. Should you try to make the case that they were, you are an entitled motorist. If you are a cyclist and call a cyclist out, either you should not be riding a bike, or you are NOT a cyclist but merely someone who uses a bicycle. Yet somehow this separation is never suggested with motorists. They are just all the same.</div><div><br></div><div>One thing that has recently caught my attention is the argument of how cargo bikes can replace lots of van journeys. In general I agree, there is certainly a place for it, and we are seeing more and more cargo bikes out there. </div><div>But I have questions. </div><div>Now that the cargo bike is articulated, 25ft long and 250kg (quarter of a ton) can we agree they are likely to cause significant harm in a collision? </div><div>As the definition of a cargo bike now includes e-bike 4 wheeled mini van style vehicles, should they be using the cycleways, shared pedestrian and cycle spaces etc? </div><div>As much as I love the idea that we can cut vehicle use and make the air cleaner for all, and the roads safer, I also appreciate that we live in the UK and the weather is unpredictable at best and abysmal at worst. So it is not always practical to use cargo bikes etc. There are certainly certain situations were the owner of property would not want their items carried by bike. </div><div><br></div><div>If we do reach this utopian ideal that 70% of last mile deliveries are done by cargo bikes, 4 wheel e-bike vans, articulated cargo bikes etc.... What do the roads then look like? Would such users be happy to have some form of ID on their vehicle to allow for accountability? </div><div><br></div><div>I'm all for the transport revolution, but I am also very aware of the realities of human behaviour too. </div><div><br></div><div>If people from ALL groups could just take a moment to recognise that there are those among you who do a disservice to your cause, and are the precise reason you hopes and dreams cannot become reality, then maybe one day there is hope. </div><div><br></div><div>In the meantime, we continue to act with entitlement and ignorance, dismiss that there are issues to be over come, and most of all, blame someone else for the problems, rather than taking a look closer to home and calling people put for their poor behaviour. </div>Michael Snasdellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09843169292529848696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3740003533241934108.post-67383229183333328802023-02-02T14:35:00.003+00:002023-02-02T14:35:45.823+00:00I need to write more!<p> Just putting this out there, that I really need to write more on my blogs. Since splitting them into me in general, and my mental health one, I have stopped writing as much, and that needs to change. </p><p>The less I write, the more thoughts that continue to swirl round and round in my head. Anything from petty queries, to full blown issues that bother me. Writing is my vent, my way of getting it moved from the holding and dwelling area of my brain, to the practical part where I can actually process things, and move on from them.</p><p>Expect to see a lot of weird and random rambling posts coming soon for sure. I have a lot of crap to get out of my head. Between here and snazy.co.uk I hope to get a lot of writing done soon. </p><p>So there it is, my promise to myself, and threat / promise to anyone unfortunate enough to read it all. </p>Michael Snasdellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09843169292529848696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3740003533241934108.post-73536464426524316282023-02-02T14:28:00.001+00:002023-02-02T14:28:12.906+00:00The Older Generation<p> It's a phrase I have used many times over the years. Sometimes to show some respect and understanding of how things have changed over time, and other times to acknowledge my status in the pecking order of life. </p><p>While I was laying in bed last night, mulling over ideas for blogs, processing the day, and coming to terms with the celebration (of which there will not be one) of my impending milestone of half a century on this planet, it dawned on me... </p><p>I AM the older generation! With all older generational members of my family now passed away, me and my sister are now "the elders". God help the younger ones with us to look up to for advice and wisdom.<br />The same can probably be said for quite a few of my friends also. Although with some of them at least, the younger ones have a better example to look up to. </p><p>I am of course in the process now of researching what my duties are as "the older generation", and how it will impact my cool rating. Do I need to change the language I use, should my wardrobe be updated for this position of responsibility and power, and more importantly, do I need to grow up now? I bloody hope not!</p><p>There was never a pass of the baton from mum, and I am yet to discover an "elders handbook" for reference, so right now I am clutching at straws. All I can say is I will give it my best shot, and try not to be regarded in the same light my generation saw the "older generation" in growing up.<br /><br />OMG I'M OLD !!!👴</p><p><br /></p>Michael Snasdellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09843169292529848696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3740003533241934108.post-15058268815438166142022-12-31T19:20:00.001+00:002022-12-31T19:25:27.180+00:00My 2022....<p> Well, it's that time of year again when everyone goes mad looking back over the past 12 months. Vowing to change things in 2023, healthier, happier, richer and all the usual bullshit. Scouring the internet for gym memberships, diet plans, as well as New Years Sales bargains. Bombarded by all the social media platforms, encouraging us to share our best moments of the year, and give us one last chance to outshine someone else. I talk about it like its a negative and something I don't subscribe to, but I would be a liar if I said I didn't have a streak of egomaniac running through me, or didn't spend most of my year making everything look like it was amazing and perfect. </p><p>That said, anyone who reads my blogs will also know that it is not all a bed of roses. On my other blog, www.snazy.co.uk I have shared some reall highs and lows from this year. Logging into this blog, I can see the last time I wrote anything was a few days before I went off to France for a bike ride with friends, but I will come back to that. So immediately I am drawn to the idea of making more of an effort next year to write more general entries like this one. That of course depends on how things go on the mental side of things.</p><p>The year started off "badly", by deciding it was my year to start doing regular Park Runs, to get more involved, social, and active. New Years Day, I did the Dulwich Park run, the next week Crystal Palace, and the week after back to Dulwich, where I caught Covid-19. Two years avoiding it, and thanks to a dirty spitter on the run, caught it trying to stay healthy. The irony!<br>Over the next two weeks I learned about using services like Woosh to get shopping delivered as Ann caught Covid from me, so we both had to isolate. Keeping active during the isolation was important to me, so lots of Zwift runs and rides. <br></p><p>As the days passed, the tests kept coming up positive, heading towards Feb, still testing positive. With our return trip to Svalbard being just a couple of weeks away, it became a bit of a worry if we would test clear in time. Thankfully we did, and off we went for another epic adventure to the most beautiful place on earth. It's a bit of a journey to get there, and with a layover in Oslo, we arrived in Longyearbyen the next day. NO snow mobiles this time for us, just a lovely adventure. I am sure meeting Grim followed by Cecilia would be Anns highlight, next up would be her proposal to me I reckon. <br><br>A magicial time was had, and after meeting Grim, Christoffer and Cecilia, exploring the wilderness, and taking 2 million photos we came back to the UK. Oh, I turned 49 there too.</p><p>By March my fitness was in full swing, returning to longer runs, getting in loads of rides, especially before work thanks to the continuation of WFH. Sadly however the being active would come to an abrupt halt with me tearing my calf during a 10 mile run. Resorting to getting the train home was devastating, but the right thing to do. Thankfully I had spent the last year and a half carrying a mask and contactless card with me "just in case". The next month consisted of cycling mainly, as each time I tried to run, the calf would give out again. </p><p>After a month of mainly cycling, and having not really run for about six weeks, suddenly it was time for the London Landmarks Half Marathon, which I had agreed to run with Amy months before, so off to Central London we went. A great atmosphere for sure, and I was sure I was well rested and repaired. Mile two of 13, TWANG, my calf went. Of course I finished the run, but with a crap time and very uncomfortable. Time to rest again, as in a couple of months I had a big trip to do on the bike.</p><p>Later in April, now planning for July, I decided I needed a new bike, so got the new one ordered, and sold the old one shortly after it arrived. I spent the next few weeks getting aquainted with the new bike, and got a lot of miles in on both bikes. As the weather warmed up, so the rides got longer and longer.</p><p>All the while, behind the scenes the discussion of returning to the office was becoming more and more of a thing. With a new manager at work, and not being sure what his take on WFH was, tensions were growing. For over two years now we had worked fine from home, but as time ticked by, it started to sound more and more likely that they would ask us to return to the office. With the company releasing guidance on hybrid working, we had gone from positive, to uncertain in a short space of time. However, no news was good news, so we plodded on.</p><p>In May, about a month after my last big run, it was the Vitality London 10k. A year ago, the idea of a 10k was cute. Cheeky one hour run taking in some sights. However with my calf still refusing to behave this was going to be a struggle, and it was. My calf pulled, the run was pretty miserable, but I got to the end and got a medal. Positives, right!</p><p>The end of May arrived, and it was now time for Ride London 100, using the new Essex route. Weather was looking good, I had been riding plenty on the run up to it, and the calf was behaving on the bike, so finally an event I could sink my teeth into, and that I did. Lapping up the miles, grinning from ear to ear, and sprinting for the finish. Not to mention riding home after the event. Finally things were looking good.<br></p><p>Now into June and it was time to head North to Sunderland to see Ed Sheeran at the Stadium of Light. Thanks to a wonderful couple I had met 17 years ago in Tunisia, then not seen since, but stayed in touch on Facebook, we were put up for the duration of our stay, and introduced to one of the most perfect children I have ever met. River, what a lovely little guy. Scott and Julie were the perfect hosts, and for the next few days we explored the North East, with me managing a 10 mile run (I think) and a lovely ride from South Shields to Newcastle Upon Tyne. What a stunning place. <br>The concert itself was amazing, other than having a rather large lady next to me practically sitting on my lap for the entire concert.</p><p>Back home, it was time for the final preparation from "the trip". Me, Jason and Scott going to France. But wait, life has a surprise for you Michael.<br>Work have made their decision on the future of Work From Home, and ... It's NOT for you! Nope, my group had for some reason been chosen to return to the office, we would be given 30 days notice when they were ready. My mind popped, I lost it, and my anxiety went through the roof. I won't go into detail here, as there are lots of entries about this on my other blog, but it threw a spanner in the works for sure. An appeal from group AND personal level were launched immediately. </p><p>The very end of June me and Ann headed to Wembley Arena for another chance to see Ed Sheeran, this time with no one sitting on my lap, something that completely changed the experience. A fantastic show, a great distraction, and great to have a moment of feeling normal while surrounded by thousands of people. Something that would usually have me in a state. </p><p><br>Mid July we packed ourselves and our bikes into the Yeti, and headed off for the French Alps. For some reason I had thought it might be a fun idea to ride up Alpe D'Huez. Not only that, but between us we had decided that a 30 mile trip there, then a 30 mile trip back to Grenoble on the bikes would be a good warm up and cool down. As it turns out, warming up wasn't a problem. In the midst of a heatwave, with temperatures hitting 40c, warming up was not hard, cooling down however....</p><p>Arriving to 35c in the afternoon sun the day before the big ride, it was glorious yet overwhelming. With the recent news from work still weighing heavily on me, the heat and over thinking resulted in about 2 hours sleep. This was after a 28 hour trip from London to the Alps, where I managed 0 hours of sleep. Deciding for the earliest start possible, we got up way before sunrise and it was beautiful but already 27c. I will do another blog all about it soon. By the time we reached the town of Huez, it was in the low 30's and around 10am. A few hours later we made it to the top, and I can honestly say standing there with two amazing friends, in glorious sunshine, surrounded by the beauty of the mountains, was one of the best moments of my life, and I can't think of two better people to share the moment with .</p><div class="separator"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSK3ZgOZ7f-UelAx53u9y33dcFnBneixdVeOMZFy0C2u7EKDufBJjqMLRWhEI1j__KHyqWv532wnmcwytvX0J-1AsUpqy5if1a9Nfcj27igwjX8Y3wpB4-EjRJexPTEeALluSoo72baEpbMwHUoMfyHBFL9XLlUOnEeamVmwr34F2d5H3QGT6nnQup/s3648/alpe.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSK3ZgOZ7f-UelAx53u9y33dcFnBneixdVeOMZFy0C2u7EKDufBJjqMLRWhEI1j__KHyqWv532wnmcwytvX0J-1AsUpqy5if1a9Nfcj27igwjX8Y3wpB4-EjRJexPTEeALluSoo72baEpbMwHUoMfyHBFL9XLlUOnEeamVmwr34F2d5H3QGT6nnQup/s320/alpe.jpg" width="320"></a></div><p><br></p><p>In August the amazing weather was still with us, and many more adventures were had. Spending time at the weekends with Ann, getting to places like Victoria Park to enjoy the sunshine and food market. Lots of little trips exploring new places, braving public transport, and making the most of the weather, and time together. Of course I still did a lot of solo riding in this time too, but not so much in the way of running. BBQ and water butts also became a thing, with the hosepipe ban, and continued sunny weather. Crystal Palace Lake dried up, people begun to act like the world was about to end. Then it rained, and the world calmed down again.</p><p>In the meantime, with still no word from work as to what was happening, and my stress levels rising, I decided I would speak to work about it, and tell them how bad it was getting for me. Speaking to my manager and HR I was asked to see Occupational Health, which I did a couple of weeks later. Things were well there, and I hoped that the report would come soon, and everything could be sorted out at work swiftly. I was wrong. </p><p>At the end of August we travelled to North Wales for the first time this year, long over due, but much needed trip, we tried an Air BnB for the first time, and it was delightful. Arriving the day before the Rhyl Airshow, which we didn't even know was happening. Heading off to Sports Direct to get a baseball cap to stop my rapidly balding head from burning. We spent the afternoon on the prom watching a fantastic air show. The following day I went for a long ride in the morning and arrived home just as the second day of the air show started. Only to spot a Red Arrow limping back to the airfield with its smoke on. A bird strike had shattered the canopy! Wow!</p><p>September and it was time to try running again, this time the Big Half in London. Choosing to "Jeff" for the first time while running the run with Nikki. I can honestly say it was the worst Half Marathon of my life, and Jeff is NOT my friend. Never again. However on a positive note, the trips to London for the runs were good practise for me getting on public transport. I had changed my mind many times about doing this run, but in the end thought what the hell, and did it. </p><p>A week later and something happened that the world would ripple from. Queen Elizabeth II passed away, marking a truly historic moment for all to remember. The country, and in fact world responded with the greatest of humility, and the show of emotion by millions was truly touching. </p><p>A couple of weeks later, and still no word from work about what was happening, and I had reached boiling point. Sleep affected and genrally in a dark place, I spoke with the GP who signed me off immediately for a few weeks. Prescribing medication, and referring me for CBT. I started the CBT a couple of weeks later, and the meds shortly after that.</p><p>October, and still off sick, something I was now dreading had arrived. The London Marathon! Unsure if I was fit enough to even run, let alone try and run a distance like that, I decided I would give it a go, and round off one hell of a year with a bang. Given the lack of training and running fitness I was happy to just finish, and finish I did. Walking a huge chunk of it, it was not the way I had imagined doing it, but I finished and could still walk, so that's a win in my books. </p><p>Next up it was time for a trip to Lytham St Annes, for Ann to have a tattoo she had long dreamed of having done. A great drive up there, and checking in to another Air BnB. Dropping Ann to the studio in the morning, I then headed off on the bike for a ride along the coast to Blackpool. Lucky me, a massive headwind the whole way there, which thankfully equated to a tailwind the whole way home again. Another lovely ride and another streak on my Strava heatmap. Doing as much as I could to keep my head straight, this trip was another step on the roads to recovery</p><p>Mid October I took an adventurous little ride along the A13 to Thurrock to see the protesters high above the QE2 Bridge in Dartford, seeing the chaos 2 people were causing was stunning. Thankfully it didn't affect me being on a bike. Smug moment for sure. </p><p>By the end of Oct, early Nov, heavy rains had arrived, washing away the memories of the drought and heatwave, it was time for Covid boosters, and time to try out Community Fibre. Not to mention a slight reconfiguration of the home office. Having waited long enough to get an answer from work, I had now given up and was doing what was best for me. This continues to be the case now, with all communication with my manager and HR being non existent. Something I aim to address in 2023.</p><p>The rest of the year has been a bit of a blur to be honest. Lots going on in the world, weather going crazy, riding as much as I could, and giving up on running for the rest of the year. Spending the rest of the year adjusting to the change in weather on the bike, buying myself clothing etc to get me through the winter on the bike, and completing my CBT sessions, with the 12th being the other week. <br></p><p>I end this year, and go into 2023 knowing I have resilience, have fought back again my mental health struggles of the year, which I have not experienced for a number of years now, and with a idea in mind how I want to proceed. Happy with my achievements physically, and the place I am in mentally now, I can look forward to the excitement of getting married in 2023, turning 50, and whatever else life wants to throw at me. <br>My plan is to relax and enjoy my cycling a bit more, remain goal free with regards to cycling and running for another year. No big challenges, no epics in mind. Just get back to running, improve my fitness and tighten up a bit. While dealing wth things at work with some gusto, and considering if I go and have an ASD assessment done. It is something I have wondered about for a while now, and am pretty sure I want to get it done, as it could just answer a lot of questions for me. </p><p>Right,...... Happy New Year, or should I say, have a great Sunday.</p><p><br></p>
<!-- /wp:tadv/classic-paragraph -->Michael Snasdellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09843169292529848696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3740003533241934108.post-11884405584277226492022-07-05T13:38:00.001+01:002022-07-05T13:39:51.222+01:009 Days til Alpe d'Huez trip.<p> Well hello again blog. Turns out it has been one calendar year since I last wrote anything on this blog, and boy does my brain know it. It's good to be back typing away, and getting things back on here.</p><p>I will do a catch up entry soon, but for now, I am focusing on the title. The Alpe d'Huez !</p><p>A few months back, I had a fantastic idea to invite a couple of friends on a trip to the French Alps to take on the mighty Alpe d'Huez (AdH). As first seen by me on Zwift on the Alpe du Zwift (AdZ), it was a mighty battle for me to get up, and continues to be a much harder ride on there than some of the other mountain routes. So why not do it for real I thought.</p><p>Like idiots, Jason and Scott agreed it was a good idea too, and now here we are. 9 days out from the biggest ride of our lives. Of course we have had months to think it through. But with less than 2 weeks to go, NOW the planning has really started, with people questioning their gearing choices. I should point out I bought a complete bike for this trip!! So I am not included in the "people", although I still wonder if the gearing is low enough 30/36 should do, right!!</p><p>To say I am anxious and over thinking the whole trip would be an understatement. Logging on to Amazon and Wiggle, looking through to see if I have ordered everything I need. Checking policy documents to see I am covered for eventualities. Insurances and so much more. At the end of the day, we are staying in Grenoble, so plenty of things around us if we forget anything. But still that niggling thought keeps me awake for a while at night. </p><p>The plan is quite a simple one. Late Thursday night, head for Dover in the car with the bikes. 2AM ferry over to Calais and then drive down into Grenoble. Hopefully no issues as we get closer as there is something called the TdF on around that point of the week too. Have an afternoon in Grenoble, get settled in the hotel, and maybe have a quick spin on the bikes to get a feel for it all. There is a nice mountain range a couple of miles from the hotel, so that might be nice. </p><p>Friday AM, crack of dawn, get out and head to Le Bourg which is 30 or so miles away, then onwards up AdH all being well. Then once up, eventually, somehow!! Grab some brunch, take in some sights, have a little roll around on the bikes, then head back down, and towards the hotel. </p><p>The weather for the trip is only just starting to be forecast, but right now it's 10 days straight of 30+c so it will either be crazy hot, or the weather will break and it will be pissing down. We shall have to wait and see, but thanks to overthinking minds, we have great contingencies planned for almost all eventualities.</p><p>I have to say, the excitement for this is huge. Especially if we can get a few more fun moments crammed in before heading back for the ferry on Sunday. It's a shame the trip is so short, but it is a great way of seeing how these kinds of trips can work, and if all goes well, who knows what we can do next and where we can go. Stelvio or Southern Spain and the Sierra Nevada are on my radar. </p><p>So that is that for now, a quick look at whats coming next. I shall do a boring catch up entry soon, just as soon as my writing head is back on.</p><p><br></p><p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjusupyQv7VlQl8WpkKwYsP43w8sOT4Cv40wLkd0S0rRg3Fw0zfWO9NhorH__X5LHSbrbzx840pC1CNLrtQzmDHLwK6rXZpsV2Va8OavAhV84nWiXSrJTMa3jUIQrqprJ2J-E8_9wH1tBg/s1600/1657024787093581-0.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjusupyQv7VlQl8WpkKwYsP43w8sOT4Cv40wLkd0S0rRg3Fw0zfWO9NhorH__X5LHSbrbzx840pC1CNLrtQzmDHLwK6rXZpsV2Va8OavAhV84nWiXSrJTMa3jUIQrqprJ2J-E8_9wH1tBg/s1600/1657024787093581-0.png" width="400">
</a>
</div><br></p>Michael Snasdellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09843169292529848696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3740003533241934108.post-35813627721051164772021-07-07T12:56:00.000+01:002021-07-07T12:57:57.430+01:00A health scare! A few weeks ago I noticed a sharp pain in my chest, lasting only a few seconds, seemingly brought on by nothing in particular, but painful all the same. In the side of my chest tissue, it was immediately an alarming thing to have, given the family history of breast cancer.<div>Noticing that there was soreness and tenderness around the same area most of the time. Made worse by running or other physical activities. </div><div><br></div><div>I gave it a week incase it was an injury from a dog jumping or something, but a week later it was still the same. So the journey began.</div><div><br></div><div>Contacting the GP first, and being asked to come in for a physical examination very quickly. </div><div>She had found the same little sore lump as I had. And was also concerned by the tenderness of the skin at the surface. </div><div><br></div><div>She soon decided to refer me to the Breast Clinic for further investigation. Waiting for an appointment became a stressful situation very quickly. Less concerned about what may be, and more consumed by the idea of the unknown. In Monday afternoon I called the hospital to see if they had set a date yet, and was called back within the hour asking me to come to Guys Hospital on Wednesday, which is where I am now.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5IY9ZY_0_aAXu_jKTNJsCRT90YpCzXReKhfZTAdzCpiByGbvDsiv-fOD0EhH2GOdzvKMkIMwjfhiryVmCGZzI5Im5RC3GG1EwqiSqW71eu_NA5QLnCXRd8YOV0Jui9hjfJ8FRbrHxWPc/s1600/1625658987901654-0.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5IY9ZY_0_aAXu_jKTNJsCRT90YpCzXReKhfZTAdzCpiByGbvDsiv-fOD0EhH2GOdzvKMkIMwjfhiryVmCGZzI5Im5RC3GG1EwqiSqW71eu_NA5QLnCXRd8YOV0Jui9hjfJ8FRbrHxWPc/s1600/1625658987901654-0.png" width="400">
</a>
</div>Not having a mammogram. My moobs aren't THAT big! </div><div><br></div><div>Having had the physical exam now, they are quite confident that it is just Costochondritis, which is an inflammation of the cartilage of the ribs. Which is great to hear, although still bloody painful.</div><div><br></div><div>As I sit and write, I am sitting in the Breast Imaging department, awaiting an ultrasound to confirm there is nothing nasty going on that has gone unnoticed in the exam. </div><div><br></div><div>Having spent time here before with my mum, it is hard to not be slightly overwhelmed by the waiting room. People constantly coming and going, and a group of those people will leave today with the knowledge they have a life changing condition. So for me sitting here with a provisional diagnosis of sore cartilage, I feel humbled to say the least. </div><div><br></div><div>Obviously, a clear ultrasound is one thing, but I will still be blighted with soreness for many weeks to come, which is a pain in the arse, but on the grand scheme of things, bugger all to complain about. Having seen first hand what breast cancer does, I can be nothing but grateful. (clear imaging pending) </div><div><br></div><div>It's been one heck of a week, and one I can't wait to draw a line under. Thank you to those who I burdened with the information early on for their support. </div><div><br></div><div>Edit.. </div><div>Imaging done, nothing to see, so have the all clear. Wow, what a relief! </div><div><br></div>Michael Snasdellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09843169292529848696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3740003533241934108.post-30557249854686559912020-12-31T19:40:00.003+00:002020-12-31T19:41:34.283+00:00Dear 2020...<p>Well....... What can you say? What a year, so many things have happened, but first and foremost I want to pay my respects to the ones we have lost this year. Like any other year, we all know someone who has lost someone dear to them. Some of us have even lost someone who was special to them. This year I want to give a mention to Barbara. A beautiful lady who dedicated her life to caring for others, who sadly paid the ultimate price after contracting Covid-19. I remember early morning coffees with her, sitting in the kitchen while her daughter Donna got herself straight after a night out.</p><p>Looking back over the rest of the year, it has been a bit of a bitch, but at the same time it was a good one in other ways.</p><p>In January images of a massive building site in Wuhan, China went viral. Fighting a new virus, they were building a mega hospital to treat all the patients. Lots of comments about how it would fall down, mixed in with comments of awe at how fast they were building, nothing much more. </p><p>In Feb we travelled to Svalbard for the adventure of a lifetime... Yup, it was that and more. No one thought for one minute that we would end the trip in a SAR Super Puma Helicopter, flying over the baron frozen expanse in the arctic circle, on the way to Longyearbyen Hospital, with Ann having fallen (thrown herself) from a snowmobile, and broken her patella tendon, and patella. </p><p>After an adventure just getting back home, it was time for hospitals, surgery, and the start of a long journey. I took a couple of weeks off work to help at Ann at home, before returning for a week or so. </p><p>When I returned to the office in March, I was there for about a week, the week it all changed. Talk of cases of the new Covid-19 virus starting to spread, the governments of the world all in a spin about what to do. Internal discussions at work soon started, and the letters WFH popped on to the radar of the office based masses for the first time. A week later, a few things moved around, and my home office had popped up. </p><p>It was around this time that daily government press conferences started on TV, and I am sure we were not alone in sitting glued to the TV at 5pm daily to see just how crazy the world was getting.<br />In April shit was real, numbers sky rocketing. Stay Home, Save Lives, Protect the NHS became the phrase on the tip of everyones tongues.<br />Determined I was going to end the year fitter than I started it, I begun a health drive.... Didn't last long. Towards the end of April, with the weather improving and Ann back on her feet just about, we decided to get the back garden done. </p><p>As May started, glorious weather arrived, and I for the first time missed being outdoors. I had not ridden a bike outside in forever, but was quite paranoid about coming into contact with people. With that said, the garden work begun, and we met some amazing people, and are very grateful for the work they did. <br />I learned how to look after a lawn, and fell in love with cordless garden power tools, and for ready to sell one of my bikes. Marco himself, the original roadie! Went to a great home though.<br /></p><p>By June, I finally ventured out on the bike, properly, getting some real miles in. First real ride of my new gravel bike I had bought at the end of 2019. We got a weather station for the back garden, so we could nerd out about the weather, like you do. And finally received the new shed for the back garden, delayed since April due to Covid. June also saw the front garden get a make over too, and the parking for the cars sorted out once and for all. <br />Unrest in Central London as protesters clashed with the police, fed up with the whole "lockdown" situation. <br />June was a landmark month, as I sold Bertie the BMW, and waved him off for the last time. 10 years of ownership came to an end, very sad.<br /><br />July and the weather was still lovely, so more time was spent out on the bike, early morning rides, and some weekends too. I also discovered Step One boxer shorts for the first time, after Ann saw an ad on the TV for them. Masks became a big thing too. For a long time there had been a shortage of the blue disposable ones we are used to seeing in hospitals, but by July many companies were selling all sorts of masks online, and the prices suddenly were not stupid anymore. The must have fashion accessory became.... masks!<br /><br />In August, I sold my Tacx Neo trainer, what a nightmare that turned out to be, but as a side note, I got to see Jason who I had not seen for months. A socially distanced morning coffee, and it was lovely to do. A cheeky trip to the seaside as restrictions relaxed a little, and "eat out to help out" became a thing. Definitely realised around this time how much I dislike people (and always have done). We also managed a trip to Wales, a little R&R, but all very different with masks and distancing very much the thing now. We got to watch the RNLI lifeboats launch from Rhyl a couple of times. Anya also caught a squirrel, and killed it (from shock). Bad dog !<br />Oh, and I got an iPhone 7 !! Told you I would!</p><p>September saw Gregg get some new speakers, and while it was being done, me and Ann went for a wander in London, what a ghost town. Last weekend of the summer holidays, and hardly anyone around. Much the same as I had seen a couple of months before whilst riding in town. Bertie was also written off in September, thankfully saving his drivers life in the process. Ann finally started private physio for her knee, and started to see great improvements (Kelly rocks!). And I decided to start a health drive AGAIN!! This time I stuck to it!<br />More early morning rides into town, and physical exhaustion set in.<br />I also decided to go full on with a home office set up, as talk started about WFH remaining in place til March/April 2021</p><p>By October, the weather was still good, and I was fully submerged in my life of cleaner eating, and working out regularly, trying to find the balance between training and rest. We also decided it was a good time to get the bathroom redone, and did a Facebook consultation to find the most hated colour possible, before choosing to go with it. Poor Lewis had a hell of a week at the plumbing supply shop, as plans changed daily.<br />I also decided that it was time to get back into running, so started Couch to 5K again, while still following a training regime with the one and only Joe Wickes.<br /><br />November arrived, and so did the colder mornings, along with an inability to sleep properly. I decided that whatever time I woke up, I would run. Preferring early mornings as less people around, but that became ridiculous, eventually running sometimes at 2am. That said, I got better, and faster, and fell in love with running again. I was losing weight, fast!<br />Another rare trip into public, this time with Kallik for his jabs, going to the vets was a whole new thing, with distancing, new vet rules etc. Can't say it went well!!<br />New running trainers, an online session with the RCGP, my first experience with Zoom, and my new wheels from Hunt arriving AT LAST!</p><p>And here we are, December. Covid is still very much a thing, I can run properly, and am down to a reasonable weight. Outdoor riding has stopped for now, after one last epic ride in town, and the New Year is upon us, just hours away. Oh and I almost forgot, Ann ordered an electric car!!</p><p>So, my take aways from 2020.</p><p>1/ Didn't see that coming!<br />2/ Being anti social is the new normal, I am now "normal"<br />3/ I love working from home, and am both more flexible and productive.<br />4/ I still don't like people, but I don't have to see them anymore either, so yay!<br />5/ 2021 is just a number, more so than most years are "just a new number"</p><p>Moving into 2021, I expect very little to change, until at least Spring time, and then will be a very telling time. My main interest is how working will change, or not as my preference would be. I really do like working from home these days. Not only does it make every day life easier, it makes work more bearable from a mental health perspective. I have never thrived in an office, struggle some days being around people, so WFH has been a game changer for me. <br />I know it is not for everyone, but sincerely hope that the talk of "the new normal" does indeed include the option to remain working from home. </p><p>Other than that, I really do hope that the world gets a grip on Covid, and those who crave normality, get some sense of that back again. It is not easy for most, being away from the ones they love. I have heard some horror stories of people I know spending months apart from each other, that cannot be easy.<br />I hope the new normal includes some cleaner incentives. Cycling has blown up around the world this year, roads transformed over night, bikes selling out globally. I never thought there would be a global shortage of bicycles! With supply not expected to return to normal til 2022! Mad, but cool too!</p><p>I am not going to end this with Happy New Year, as that is completely unrealistic. Instead I will say what I have said for months now, here's to 2022.. The year things might actually feel a bit more normal again. <br /><br />Whatever your take on 2020, try and keep positive, dig through your photos and memories, as I have done for this, and look at the good things, remember the laughter, the silly memes you shared. You were not alone in your anguish, and worry of how things were going. For those of us that made it through the year, lets say thank you to all those who made it possible. The essential workers who kept us moving, fed, healthy, and so much more.</p><p>So much that has happened didn't make it into this blog. Those unmentioned are not forgotton. <br />Thank you to the small circle of friends who have kept me sane over the past 10 months, with phone calls, socially distanced meetings, and a million lines of messages via WhatsApp etc. Thank you all, I am proud and humbled to call you my friends. </p><p>Happy Friday 1st Jan everyone. Same shit, different date! </p>Michael Snasdellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09843169292529848696noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3740003533241934108.post-65059553736002212522020-10-27T12:43:00.001+00:002020-10-27T13:59:08.336+00:00A year of delay, let downs, and disappointments!<p> As if the year could not be enough of an arsehole already with Covid, it has also decided to be a year of waiting, and being left disappointed.</p><p>But let's start with the positives, WFH. In the summer I posted saying that there were many good causes and reasons that WFH should be here to stay, for those who can and want to of course. And it would appear my prayers have been answered, for now at least. So, it's not all bad. The past 7-8 months have been delightful to say the least, work wise anyway. But that's not what this blog is about.</p><p>Without further ado, let's get on with the whining.</p><p>If there is one thing I can't stand, it is being left hanging. Maybe I expect too much, maybe (definitely) I am a little impatient at times. Either way, there is a certain point where waiting for a product or a response from a business becomes unacceptable. We all live busy lives, we all wrestle with time, trying to balance personal and work time. Trying to make time for ourselves, whilst making sure we don't forget the ones that matter to us. Be it supporting our business, or our loved ones. </p><p>This year seems to have been a waiting game on all fronts when it comes to businesses. I appreciate that we are living in difficult and uncertain times, but there is a point where you have to say enough is enough, and vent your frustrations. </p><p>Be it services rendered, or products supplied, delays can sometimes be unforeseen, and completely unavoidable. I am totally on board with that. Just like anything, just let me know, and we can move on. </p><p>For example, I am in the middle of getting a tattoo planned. With lockdown measures changing nationally on a weekly basis, traveling to another part of the UK is awkward, and planning it has been challenging. Thankfully, as the situation changed, I was contacted by the studio, given options, offered cancellation and refund of deposit, or reschedule, all very quickly. The conversation has been fluid, and the resolutions have been agreeable. Sadly this is not always the case. Now rescheduled for later in Nov, we shall see what happens, but either way, I am grateful for the professionalism of the studio.</p><p>On the flip side, back in the summer I decided to buy a new set of wheels for one of the bikes, looking on the Hunt website, I saw the wheels I wanted were on back order for early October. Happy to wait, I placed the order and required deposit, as well as adding some other bits to the order which needed paying for in advance. Sadly in Sept I received an email from Hunt saying the delivery date had to be pushed back an extra week. Not the end of the world, as Oct was always going to be late in the year to be using "good wheels".</p><p>The scheduled delivery date was 2 weeks ago. No updated delivery date has been received, no bulk email communication. I emailed them and asked them what was happening, and was told that they were expecting the wheels in that week and would be QC'ed and sent out ASAP. So should received them very soon. Very soon was last week, still nothing, and since then, no updates either. </p><p>As I say, I appreciate what it is like to work with a full plate, but communication is king! </p><p>There are other instances where discussion for a service has begun, but then fallen quiet, sometimes with a satisfactory outcome, other times with a dreadful outcome, some even ongoing. Don't want to do business, a simple "no" or even "fuck off" will suffice. Don't have much to update, at least respond to any queries, even with a simple "it's all good", but don't just forget or ignore people. It makes them do mean things, even write blogs angrily! lol</p><p>This sort of thing makes me reluctant to do certain things now, like order things online which don't have an immediate delivery available. Certainly lead to concerns with ordering parts for the bathroom recently. If there is one thing that would have caused mayhem, it is any delay in receiving parts. Thankfully this all went relatively smoothly, with only minor hiccups.</p><p>When you struggle with anxiety at the best of times, being left hanging really messes with your mind, and petty as it seems to some, can lead to sleepless nights, days full of stress and worry, not to mention constant overthinking and playing things out in your mind, of just how bad the situation is. </p><p>I guess the summary of this is, if you provide a service or product, keep in touch, don't take a shit in the hand that feeds you, and consider the impact your tardiness can have on others. </p><p>I guess I should add the first monumental cluster-fuck of the year. Dealing with Skoda Guildford. From Day 1, a frickin nightmare, which was finally resolved about 8 months later. Live and learn eh, but that's another story all together. </p><p>I will leave it there... for now!</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Michael Snasdellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09843169292529848696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3740003533241934108.post-89991001483454763022020-07-22T16:24:00.000+01:002020-07-22T17:10:47.948+01:00My case to remain working from home.It's been a strange time for the past four or five months. I have been tempted many times to write a blog about my feelings on it all, but that would just turn into a foul mouthed rant, screaming about my frustrations at those who just don't seem to get it. So instead I have saved myself for a more grounded entry, full of deep thoughts and considerations to the Work From Home world that we rapidly morphed into in March 2020.<br />
<br />
Since March, I like many many other people in the UK, and indeed around the world, have been working from home. Blessed with an office based job, and a flexible (within reason) company, once the word Covid became common place, a massive effort was made to get everyone who could work from home, set up at home and working as smoothly as possible. I played my little part in the early efforts, getting the machines in our office compliant and set up, spending evenings searching for Wi-Fi dongles for everyone to use, and helping trouble shoot for other teams getting up and running.<br />
<br />
<br />
From the moment I got set up at home, it was a whole new world for me, for a number of reasons. Setting myself up at home meant I could use other equipment I already had at home, so a two screen set up instead of one, better keyboard and mouse, and dare I say a much better internet connection. But there are other benefits too, some people will already know some of them, so lets get into it, and run through the pros and cons of WFH.<br />
<br />
<b><u>Travel</u></b><br />
Firstly, no commuting. For someone who once commuted by train, I know the misery of it. Bad weather, delays, crowded carriages, not to mention interactions with a 1,001 annoying, rude, miserable, arrogant people. And yes, I am sure I fit into some of those categories for some too. In the summer, it's hot and stuffy, not to mention over crowded, and a guaranteed face full of armpit on any busy train. In the winter, it's cold, wet and miserable, not to mention even more crowded, with the increase in numbers due to most not wanting to walk or cycle.<br />
Add to that mix a healthy dose of anxiety, and on some days, it's a simple non starter. The idea of being tightly packed into a train, with people looking at you, some wanting to speak to you, send shivers down my spine just thinking about it to write this, brrrr!!<br />
<br />
Of course you can drive! Simple solution, no weather effects, run to your own timetable so long as you plan for delays on the road, sorted! But... There are a few downsides to this too. Parking for starters, not everyone has good parking near their place of work, and the residents near large businesses suffer badly from mass parking on their residential streets. Then there is theft from your vehicle. Parked away from home, out of sight, I have fallen victim to theft from my car twice now. Of course that can happen anywhere, but if it puts your car out of use, you are stuck back with the train or bus.<br />
But lets touch on the real one here, environment! If the lockdown as taught us anything, it is that without commuters on the road, and a heavily reduced school run, the roads are empty, the air is cleaner, and the world is a happier place, well, so to speak!<br />
<br />
Having cycled in town for the past few weeks, even with numbers of vehicles on the road starting to climb again, the roads are a much happier place. When walking or cycling, if you take a moment, you notice a serious lack of irritated and stressed people. The sound of a car horn is a rare thing right now, as people are not stuck in long traffic jams, no-one is taking the piss cutting in, and the number of serious carseholes (see what I did there!) is rock bottom. Surely that is a good status quo, and one we want to keep?<br />
<br />
I know it isn't practical for everyone who is working from home to stay working from home, but even if those who could, and want to, were able to, that would cut down on the number of people on the move in the rush-hour. That's a good thing, right? Reducing the number of vehicles on the roads, and passenger numbers on public transport, is a massive improvement for those who HAVE to use these methods. There has long been a push to reduce car journeys, increase bicycle usage, make public transport more bearable for those using it. But we never had a way, or should I say there was never a way that most companies would consider.<br />
<br />
Six months ago, if most office based employees had approached their companies, either their line manager, or a senior director, the idea of allowing people to work from home would have been sneered at, and written off as too expensive, not viable, and a million and one other stonewall reasons. Yet here we are.<br />
When Covid popped up, it forced the hand of many major companies, as well as a lot of smaller ones, to find ways to continue operating, but also to follow government guidelines on safe work environments, and social distancing. Suddenly, WFH was a reality, and who'd a thunk it, not as bad as most companies and employees had thought it might be. Amazing what can be done when it benefits a business!<br />
<br />
Since that time, systems like Teams and Zoom have become common place, acronyms like WFH, VPN have become second nature, and a whole new world has been born. The phrase, "the new normal" gets used a lot now, and for me, personally, WFH is the new norm. Or at least I hope and pray it can be.<br />
<br />
But before I carry on pleading to remain working from home, let me continue to delve into the mystical world of working from home, and share some of my reasons it's a positive thing, sometimes on a purely selfish and personal level.<br />
<br />
<b><u>Environment</u></b><br />
Imagine for a moment, if we DON'T go back to normal. If say even 25% of the traffic never returns to the rush-hour. If 25% less people are crammed into train carriages and buses during peak times. If some of those, even maybe a larger number choose to use bicycles to get to work, using the less congested, less dangerous roads, and some of the wonderful cycling infrastructure which is appearing. Those who can work from home do so, while those who NEED to go to their place of work, have the space to arrive fresher, calmer, and ready to work. Rather than stressed, and needing 10 mins to compose themselves, before shutting down mentally 30 mins before the end of the day, as they begin to contemplate the nightmare journey home.<br />
<br />
Add to this, the environmental impact, and the green credentials for businesses. Lets be honest here, we are becoming more and more environmentally aware these days, and businesses want to be able to proudly boast about how they have reduced their carbon footprint. You don't have to be a transport company, or a heavy industry to be responsible for your carbon footprint. Any business, especially one which requires large volumes of people to travel daily to a common office space to work as an individual. Call centres for example, that requirement, as a business demands hundreds if not thousands of people to travel daily, by all means. Each one, another footprint in the sand.<br />
If your record as a company was recorded as footprints in the sand, would you want your image to be a beach in Marbella in the middle of the school holidays, or a Caribbean paradise, with a few solitary footprints disappearing into the sunset? OK that was a bit weird I know, but you get my gist.<br />
Every movement of employees counts, even if you as a company do not use vehicles for business .<br />
<br />
<b><u>School holidays</u></b><br />
The peak time for people to book time off work. Lots of families using almost all their annual leave to make sure there is someone home for the kids during school holidays. With a school year being about 39-40 weeks a year, that means some families struggle to make sure there is care for their children for 12 weeks of the year. Imagine being able to be home, working, but able to be sure the kids are safe. Being able to book a few days off during the school term so you can recharge, and have some time to yourselves while the kids are safely at school. Wouldn't that be nice.<br />
It is something that most families will never have been able to consider, a break from the mad school run, then dash to work, then rush home to make sure you are home when they get back from after school club. Heck, what if they didn't need after school club, and could come straight home. Save another few quid a day right there.<br />
<br />
<b><u>Sickness / Attendance</u></b><br />
Next up is attendance, and of course this is something which directly affects and benefits the companies. I don't know about the teams you work in, but the bigger the team, the more frequent it is that there is a sickness, or short notice absence due to home matters. Be it a sickness which just makes travel and being in a social space un-viable, or a burst water pipe, and having to wait home for an emergency plumber. Oh or childcare, mustn't forget childcare emergencies!<br />
Whatever the case, absence of any sort is disruptive on a number of levels. Increased workload on the team, unable to participate in group meetings to name a couple. With work from home, most emergencies or cases of sickness still allow the employee to participate, even at a slightly lesser level, rather than be out of the business.<br />
For me personally, the team I work in, has had ONE sickness since March, and that was the employee who was still choosing to work from a company office and not home. And of course, not to mention timekeeping. No more "the train was late" or "my car broke down", you wake up at work!<br />
<br />
<u><b>Flexibility</b></u><br />
Then of course there is flexibility. A good example for me in my role is, the other night, after I had finished work there was a problem. Under normal circumstances I would be at home with no access to company systems, but with the PC at home I was able to log in and help resolve the matter, hours after I would usually have been able to help. I am sure this sort of thing could apply to others too. Also under the banner of flexibility, is being able to change working hours, attend online team meetings, and work later if required. All things I am happy to do now, and continue to keep doing moving forward. If this was an office based environment, my decisions on being able to be this flexible would depend on travel, prior arrangements at home etc.<br />
I for one, if at home out of work hours, and asked to perform a task, help with a matter or do something else work related, would be more than happy to do what I needed to, if the situation permitted it. Which lets face it, if you are home, the chances are you can.<br />
<br />
<b><u>Mental Health</u></b><br />
There are two sides to every coin, and mental health is no different. For some like myself, we struggle on a daily basis with issues like anxiety of the environment we work in, being around too many people, interactions with others in a busy work environment. This isn't to say its impossible, but the past few months for me, even with the added uncertainty of everyday life, have been far easier mentally. Once of course I got out of the routine of being housebound. As an avid cyclist, being cooped up indoors for weeks on end finally took its toll on me. However now I am getting out for my fix of air daily, in the form of rides and walks, all is well. In fact, all is amazing!<br />
And again, in a more generalised view, people with mental health conditions are commonly adverse to getting public transport as I mentioned earlier. Enclosed, uncertainty etc. Either way, mental health deserves a look in here for sure, especially as over recent months there has been a sharp inline in people struggling.<br />
<br />
It would be ignorant of me at this point not to mention that the other side of the coin is those who have struggled without the social interactions of the work place environment. This group also needs careful consideration, and how both groups can achieve their highest working output, while being taken care of on a mental level. It is all well and good for me to bang the drum of isolation and WFH, but I totally get that some want and need the complete opposite. I am sure with some careful consideration a happy compromise can be reached, while the company benefits also financially from the changes.<br />
<br />
<u><b>Covid-19</b></u><br />
It is hard to write a piece on the benefits of WFH and not mention it in its own right. Covid-19 at this point in time is still the enemy, no known treatment or vaccine for it, and still not much known about transmission of it. With that in mind, some people in society, a shrinking number at a worrying rate, as considerate of contracting and passing on the virus. So with this in mind, the responsible among us are still observing social distancing, minimising interactions with others, and keeping a heightened sense of personal hygiene. Of course, companies also have a responsibility to be "Covid compliant" and make adaptations to working environments to protect against transmission, which costs money. The bigger the company, the bigger the outlay, so obviously it would make sense to allow people to remain working in their own bubbles.<br />
In time we will get a handle on Covid I am sure, be it vaccine or a herd immunity, but the road map that it has set out for businesses and how we work will remain deeply embossed in the work environment.<br />
<br />
Just like they say a war drives the greatest leaps and advancements in technology, so Covid, a global pandemic will go down in history in changing the way some people work, and businesses operate forever. A genuinely momentous time for many I am sure.<br />
<br />
So as a quick overview and to add a few more points into the mix, let me summarise my thoughts so far.<br />
<br />
So long as those working from home are as productive as they are at work, if not more so, are willing to attend the workplace when requested to do so, for a meeting, a day at the office, or other work related matters, and behave in a way that is fitting with the requirements of their employer, there is initially no immediate reason from a productivity standpoint that WFH should not be viable moving forward.<br />
There is an element of "hands off" for managers, which I would expect is a concern for some places. When the boss is away and all that. However, as grown-ups, we as employees should be respectful of the length of rope we have been given, and not try to take more, but instead appreciate the freedoms it allows us. Not abuse them to a point that it will all be reconsidered and taken away again. For some roles there will never be a spare moment to try and take liberties, for others, they will no doubt find a way to make it work to their advantage.<br />
<br />
I would completely expect any company to exercise the right to check up on staff, be it home visits, check calls, or video calls to ensure you are present and correct. Any violation of that, in my opinion should be treated as gross misconduct. I would not expect any permanent WFH scheme to come without terms, and am pretty much onboard with anything I can imagine those terms might be.<br />
<br />
I hear from a few friends now that some of the large businesses they work for are taking huge strides towards changing in the long term to WFH. Global companies with large swathes of their workforce being offered WFH permanently, or simply told there will be no offices to return to when the pandemic subsides, instead their roles are now WFH.<br />
<br />
Some people I know have questioned the cost of working from home. Who pays for the electricity, are there insurance implications, what about equipment for use at home. For me, I have the space, an office already set up, and a good broadband connection, so I am good to go. I would happily pay for some of my own equipment for my home office if the role were to change to a work from home role for sure. Standing desk for starters! I don't expect this is the situation for everyone, and would not for a second expect everyone to be of the same mindset as me, but would encourage careful consideration of how life changing working from home is.<br />
Sickness reduced, no commuting, ability to deal with unforeseen circumstances, always home for deliveries, closer to your health care providers for appointments, control of your preferred working environment including temperate, background noise, lighting etc. Whats not to love!<br />
<br />
OK for some it is probably the perfect storm, stuck at home with family all day, constant interruptions, no space or alone time. All things that some strive for daily. Something for both employers and employees to consider. Either way, the past four months have been both a trial period, and a snapshot and sneak peek into the future, hopefully!<br />
<br />
Can you tell I am pro Work From Home yet?<br />
<br />
I will leave it there for now.<br />
I am sure I have left loads out, but having thought about writing this for a long time now, I thought I would at least make a start on it, I am sure there is more to follow soon.<br />
<br />
Good for businesses, saves running costs on buildings, reduces the sick leave, improves timekeeping and flexibility to name a few highlights.<br />
Bad for business of course could be not being able to keep an eye on tricky staff members (simple solution for that). Raises questions over work space management, and wellbeing.<br />
<br />
Good for workers, no commuting, reduced travel time/costs, ability to work when not feeling great, more free time, own work environment.<br />
Bad for workers, questions over expenses, not everyone has space long term, losing "away" time from home.<br />
<br />
So what is YOUR take on work from home? Would you if you were offered it long term (only where applicable to your job), do you have concerns over costs, and long term effect? What percentage of the working week would you want to split between office and home?<br />
<br />
Here's to all the companies who can accommodate this new way of working, doing so, and may it work to the advantage of everyone involved, not just a few.<br />
<br />
<br />
Once I have read this through again, I am sure I will find things I missed, and write another blog to cover that too. Sorry in advance.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Michael Snasdellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09843169292529848696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3740003533241934108.post-80251717313078284822020-06-10T18:02:00.000+01:002020-06-10T18:02:46.540+01:00Just my opinion...We all have opinions, some of us choose to share them, some act upon them, but the majority as a whole stay silent. Just from time to time making a brief statement which is driven by their opinions and beliefs on a certain matter.<br />
<br />
Right now the world is a pretty troubled place. The fight for climate change raged throughout last year, rightly so, changes need to happen. Something I will get back to in a bit.<br />
Then of course Covid-19 struck the world hard at the start of the year. Most of the world is still squirming trying to get a hand on the matter. While conspiracies deny it's existence, the main focus lays at the feet of the governments who globally have acted too hard /soft, fast/slow and whatever other variations you can dream up. Everyone is an expert. Which brings me to now... BLM.<br />
<br />
George Floyd, and the unlawful death which triggered massive uprisings in the USA and UK, not to mention other countries who have reacted to this death in a way which can only be described as the straw that broke the camels back. A brutality, observed and filmed very clearly on the streets of Minneapolis, then shared globally caused what I can only describe as near unified outrage. Regardless of creed or colour, more people in the civilised world saw this or heard the story, and were truly disgusted to hear such a thing could happen in 2020 in public, in the West, during such an incident.<br />
<br />
I am going to blissfully ignore Mr Floyds background, and any incident which lead up to the events, and just focus on the gross and totally unacceptable level of force used against him for such a prolonged duration. This part is the part that needs to be paid attention to. Arguments will be made about Mr Floyds background, I hear them, and agree if true, it paints a picture of a very unsavoury man. However, regardless of history, once subdued and controlled, he becomes a normal citizen again. Posing no threat, there is no longer any need for use of force. From the moment he was cuffed and controlled, the situation should have been scaled back.<br />
<br />
So there is it, the single part of the action which triggered an uprising of people around the world to say enough is enough. People took to the streets, so social media, and to television to name a few platforms to show their support and solidarity to the movement. But that was just the beginning.<br />
From peaceful protests, it started to turn nasty, and like most events like this, a small minority took it upon themselves to turn things nasty. As has happened in the past at other protests and rallies, groups of people, the majority of whom are fundamentally not interested in the cause whatsoever, joined in. Setting fire to cars, damaging public property, and eventually spiraling down to behaviours such as looting, or violence against the police and other people who they felt did not support their actions.<br />
<br />
I am all for peaceful protest, and by this I do not mean silent. Hell no, I mean people able to voice their opinions, speak their minds and share their stories. Chant, sing, scream, be heard, for this is a message which needs to be heard, and spread to everyone.<br />
We as a society will NOT tolerate mistreatment of people by the authorities.<br />
We the people will NOT tolerate unfair treatment of any person or group based on their appearance, beliefs or cultures.<br />
We the people DEMAND accountability of those in the public domain.<br />
We the people INSIST on equality for all those who participate in a fair society.<br />
<br />
But its not that simple is it?<br />Years of behaviours by many parties has led us to what has until now been an impasse. Authorities who has behaved irresponsibly and unfairly, without being held to account. A society who has decided that violence and criminal behaviour is the right way to react and retaliate. And a majority of the population who have stood by idle claiming they are not a part of the problem, so therefore cannot be part of the solution. Until now.....<br />
<br />
Now is the time. A population already in an empathetic mindset from all that is going on with Covid-19 is watching and acting on what they see. A sedate society, suddenly able to hear and see what is happening, and actually afford it enough time and thought to appreciate the injustices that occur. The people stand united against the continuation of this behaviour.<br />
<br />
To be clear, my perspective, which I appreciate is that of a while male in his 40's, so will differ to others who have different experiences, is that there is not this not a common occurrence. Certainly not in the UK anyway. The stories we here of BAME individuals fearing for their lives when they go out to work each day, the knowledge of one simple encounter with the police could result in their death, and living in fear of blue lights in the rear view mirror are spectacularly over played. In my opinion.<br />
<br />
Please remember this phrase "in my opinion". If it differs from yours, I make no apology. Opinions are part of discussion, which itself is part of a wider debate. To have a different opinion is a healthy thing, and helping others understand how you reached that opinion is both interesting, and an important part of change.<div><br /></div><div>Right now we are starting to hear stories from the people, from A-list celebrities, some of whom have stayed quiet about their experiences until now, and others who have championed this cause for a long time now. Right through to every day people finally feeling their have a platform and a voice to be heard with. The ones the resonate with me the strongest are those who have faced battles to achieve the simplest of goals. To be accepted into the popular group in the work place, or just to achieve a dream of having a certain job. I struggle more with the plight of the A-list celeb who has made it, and quickly forgotten their struggles as they now enjoy the highlife. Only to return to their stories when the cause gets momentum, and there is popularity to be found in once again supporting it. </div><div><br /></div><div>Seeing young ladies run in front of crowds of grown men who are trying to mob the police, putting themselves in the line of fire. So passionate about the cause they are marching for, that they will put themselves in harms way to protect the message, and make sure their voices are not lost in the clouds of mindless violence. Those are the voices I want to hear, these are the people I will listen to, and try to understand what their goals are. They are the people who will carry this movement to the next level.</div><div>Whilst I am on the subject of this, I think it only fair to mention there were men doing this too, including one confronting the mob with the simple but clear message "come on man, you are fuckin this up for us bro". Pleading with them to stop the stupidity, and keep the protest peaceful and on message.</div><div><br /></div><div>I feel right now like I have woken from a bit of a daydream, walking in ignorance, and now finally seeing what is happening, and what else needs to happen from here on in.</div><div><br /></div><div>The "I'm not racist, so I can't be part of the solution" approach is a very common one, and one I am certainly guilty of. That is not to say I will not call out and speak up against racism if I see it, and feel I can make a difference. Not long after changing jobs some years back I went on a training course with a colleague. During the time we spent out on road with the instructor it became obvious to us that he had some very blinkered views, and he made some outrageous racist comments about our surroundings and the people around us. On returning to work, I formally reported this behaviour, and he was dealt with accordingly, and never used by the company again. I don't mean this as my "token anti racist gesture" by all means. There have been many other occasions where I have openly spoken my mind about behaviours and conversations being had. This is just "that one" where I decided to escalate the situation to its conclusion. </div><div><br /></div><div>The message now is, "Its not good enough to not be racist, we must instead be actively ANTI-racist". Something that took me a moment to get my head around, daft I know, but now I hear it properly, I get it, and I am on board. Does being anti-racist mean going to rallies, signing petitions etc. Well, to me, like most things, it is about doing what YOU can do in your situation. The circles you mix in, the workplace, friends etc. Not everyone can just get up and march, for a multitude of reasons. But everyone can be a part of the uprising. Everyone has a voice in one shape or form. It might not be over a megaphone, but even taking the time to support movements for even the smallest of changes can be of use. </div><div><br /></div><div>Sign petitions, but please, choose your battles wisely. At times like this there is a lot of passion and fire, and messages are easily lost with either a poor choice of words, or a misguided attempt to fast track change. Demands of government must be clear, with good reason, and achievable. Be it local or national government, the approach needs to be the same. A 3 line petition demanding equality, an end to prejudice, and other such "simple to achieve" goals, while well intentioned, will gain no momentum. The key here is the agenda.</div><div><br /></div><div>To make change, there has to be a plan, solid goals, and an agenda to achieve them by. We are too used to seeing popular politics at play. Pledges to have sweeping reform to appease the disgruntled, and quiet the crowds. Dispersal tactics, not true change. This NEEDS change, and now is the time, so the approach must be measured and considered. Taking to the streets and being heard gets attention, the masses can play a part in that. But once a committee of people representing all walks of life is assembled, it is down the the voices chosen to speak for the masses who we rely on to move forward, and discuss what changes must happen, and how. </div><div><br /></div><div>There are plenty of loudly spoken "leaders" out there. Some able to fire up a crowd, some able to pacify and negotiate with those angered and upset by what is happening. But choose wisely, and make sure your voice carries far enough to help guide who is put forth to speak on your behalf. You only have to look on social media to see how many variations of the message are out there. Some seriously hard hitting social influencers have posted their own takes on what change is needed. And the range of messages swings wildly from one extreme to the next. I think the key here is the work "extreme". Nothing to either end of the spectrum is the answer here. Violence is NOT the solution, but then neither is sitting by idle, and allowing the momentum to be lost, and the voices to once again fall silent. </div><div><br /></div><div>Another key here is region. While this whole thing was really triggered with the death of George Floyd in the USA, it is important to remember that I/we do NOT live in the United States. Regardless of what hype some choose to believe, no matter how many stories are told of living in fear of the police every day, the UK simply does not have the same ingrained problem as the USA. Most of our officers are not armed, most roadside stops are not made at gunpoint, and most officers attempting to apprehend someone, rightly or wrongly, do not have the ability to use lethal force. This is not to say harm has not come to people in police custody, or at the hands of the police on the streets, of course it has. As this is what we are fighting against. The unlawful treatment of persons at the hands of the police, and force used above and beyond acceptable and necessary levels. Slogans such as "hands up, don't shoot" have far less relevance in the UK than they do in the USA.</div><div><br /></div><div>There is of course a flip side to all of this, and that is behaviour of the public, which triggers reactions of the police. Speaking to a friend recently we touched on the "expected behaviours". Those behaviours which have become expected by our peer groups, should an encounter with the police occur. Over the years, as tensions have risen between ethnic groups and the police, somewhat driven by the treatment of their members, it has become more and more common to become aggressive and combative from the start of any encounter. Immediately becoming defensive and non compliant with the requests. These are the cases where we generally see mobile phone footage emerging from, showing what appears to be unnecessary physical conflicts between officers and members of the public. </div><div>The part to remember here is both parties feed from the behaviour of the other. If a man doesn't wish to comply with a police officer, the officer will respond accordingly, attempting to detain the person. </div><div>If the action of the person is to immediately become combative, then it is likely the officer before instigating such a challenge will request more support. Immediately we have a situation which appears at face value to be heavy handed and some sort of power show. But in fact, the numbers of officers present is driven by the assumed response to the attempt to speak with the person. </div><div><br /></div><div>It is a vicious circle now, and I mean that both figuratively and literally. With more and more peer pressure to not tolerate being stopped by the police in any way whatsoever, and the police unwilling to deal with such stops without more officers being available "just in case", we have reached an impasse. But one which requires work from both sides to move forward. There have without any doubt been some appalling incidents involving police offices and unprovoked hands on approaches, not to mention unreasonable levels of force.</div><div>That said, it would be unfair and stupid to ignore the fact that simple stops, be they roadside stops, or stop and searches, have turned ugly for no apparent reason, with attacks being made on the officers simply for daring to stop someone they wish to speak to. And of course, not forgetting that some of the time, the stop has clearly been justifiable on its conclusion.</div><div><br /></div><div>Sadly there are those out there, who even when presented with facts, will argue them for the sake of it. Say for example a black male is stopped and searched by the police, and found to be in possession of a knife, and after a struggle is arrested. Some would argue still that the male was unfairly targeted and searched by the police in the first place. Rather than focus on the positive that a knife was taken off the streets. Of course the argument is partially valid. What was the reason for choosing that male in the first place. Why was he targeted by the police. And this is where awkward statistics come into play.</div><div><br /></div><div>Many years back, when it can be argued that there was far greater undertones of racial inequality, and strands of racism running through the police force. When the UK was still seriously ignorant towards any form of equality, there was without a doubt an unfair bias towards black and minority groups. </div><div>Statistically for every 10 people stopped by the police, lets say 8 were BAME. If 10 out of every 100 stops resulted in an arrest, statistics would point towards BAME individuals being 4 times more likely to be committing some sort of offence than a white person. </div><div>When you skew the statistics like that, even when you move on from such levels of racism, and start to have a more intelligence led approach to matters, you still have statistics that lead you to stop more BAME individuals than white. Is it right, heavens no! Does it start to explain the imbalance, possibly?</div><div><br /></div><div>Unfortunately the situation we are now in is generations after the inequality first really started to become obvious to people, but the situation appears to be getting worse. But why?</div><div>This is where dialogue is important. To understand exactly why a black youth seems more likely to be stopped by the police than a white youth. And for the police to understand why it affects the BAME communities to seemingly be targeted this way.</div><div>At the same time, it is also important for behaviours on both sides to change, and for those from BAME communities to understand that the majority of police officers have no axe to grind, and are genuinely there to try and make our streets safer for us all. It is hard to shake beliefs which have followed you through life, especially when you are of an age where you can personally recall such times and inequality. But it is important for our future generations to break free from these beliefs and ideals, and take a new approach. </div><div><br /></div><div>I am spending too much time on this one issue, time to move on. It's a key part of the situation, however I know my comments and observations will not match those of others, so shall not dwell. This is part of the key discussions which need to be had at a much higher level, by a respected group of representatives. Obviously the biggest issue here is sometimes once opinions start to differ, our trust and belief in someone we once chose to speak for us changes. You only have to look at the outcry against people who have spoken out against some of the actions of "protesters". </div><div><br /></div><div>When damage to public property started to become a thing, key figures from the BAME community spoke out. Some seeming to support the violence as some sort of extension of peoples voices. Others were very much opposed to it, and said it needed to stop. The same has happened with the swathe of public apologies for past behaviours by some celebrities, with some coming out to defend their actions, and others agree that an apology was called for. Leigh Francis for example, aka Keith Lemon. He made a video apologising for his representations of black celebrities in his show Bo Selecta. Driven clearly by the rising support for some equality and balance for all, his message was clearly well intended. Some said too little too late, some applauded the apology, and some questioned why it was ever necessary, and that no harm had ever been intended. We will all have our own opinions on such things, I am not going to try and change that. </div><div>However the interesting thing to observe here is that some black celebs who have come out in support of Leigh, and the characters portrayed in the show, have come under fire from others for being "racist" or perpetuating the racism in the entertainment industry. Some of these people have faced racism themselves in their day in the spotlight. So who is right? </div><div><br /></div><div>Is it impossible to agree to disagree where the blurry line is, and should we focus on defining once and for all what does and does not constitute racism? Is that even possible to do so, without needing to look to each situation for context? Can you make a stand against things such as the "n" word, while people in some high profile walks of BAME society continue to use it, in a "justifiable" way?</div><div>Can you justify the use of a racial slur because you are from a certain group in society? How do you then define who can and cannot use that slur, and when they can. Surely it is easier to identify something as harmful and derogatory and simply say enough is enough, EVERYONE? Or is that some form of censorship and oppression in itself?</div><div><br /></div><div>In a recent conversation with a friend on the above matter, he had the following to say.<br /><br />" I hate the use of the word and the legitimisation of it in certain circles...It shouldn't use it in any context end of..Why would people who have had to suffer its use toward them think that by calling each other by that word diminish it's continued harm throughout the world on a daily basis...Can't have it both ways ...Why do black people use these words amongst themselves..other nations and races wouldn't dream of it...Never heard a Jew call another Jew a yid....Never heard another Asian call themselves paki...So on and so on."</div><div><br /></div><div>I am inclined to agree.</div><div><br /></div><div>However I know that if I were to have the same conversation with other friends I would be told that it is the black mans right to use the word, and that within their own social groups it's meaning and context is far less offensive. That is unless of course it is being used purposely as a derogatory term, in which case again it's fine, as it is still within the community, so its context is different once again. Surely this is an impossible matter in itself, and this is just one word! But then what do you do with popular music, accessible by all, which uses the term? Is it wrong for any non black person to recite the lyrics to these songs? All very confusing indeed. Yet one of the most frequently used racist words unfortunate enough to be in English language. </div><div><br /></div><div>Time and time again we reach these points of disagreement. Not only across the broad scope of the population, but within the BAME communities themselves. Are those slightly more liberal than others somehow letting the side down, or betraying their own communities by having a lighter take on some parts of the situation? I don't think so, in fact I find it refreshing that in the midst of such times, with so much pressure being put on certain social groups to stick together, stand as one and be heard, that the individual voices are still audible,</div><div><br /></div><div>During another conversation, discussing peoples stances on the protests, and how some were not only starting to turn ugly, but also starting to go off message, I was somewhat saddened to learn that the daughter of a friend from within the BAME community questioned her perception and beliefs on the situation. Asking if she was somehow out of touch, and wrong for not understanding some of the extreme anger and hatred being demonstrated by some on the marches. To hear that someone who should be supported by such a community felt they did not belong, so to speak, is very sad indeed, and just goes to show how deep the divide really goes.</div><div><br /></div><div>This divide, some would say is part of a plan, to divide the BAME communities, to weaken them, forcing them to accept a second tier existence. Others like myself, would simply argue that there are rifts between those who stand fast in their timeless beliefs. Beliefs such as that the white man is the oppressor. And will always demand that there has been no change in the situation for decades. While other more progressive minds will see change can and has occurred, and with the right pressure, support and direction, can continue to do so until we reach complete equality. Hopefully, in my mind at least, the latter group of progressives will be the ones to lead the way ahead during this uprising in public support for change. The rational and constructive trains of thought can plough on with progress, and make a change that this generation can be proud of.</div><div><br /></div><div>Whilst writing this piece, a few days have passed, many more conversations and discussions have been had, and a number of events have continued to unfold. Some I am totally comfortable with, others I am less enthusiastic about.</div><div><br /></div><div>The toppling of the Edward Colston statue in Bristol a few days ago for example, was a true eye opener. Whilst I have been familiar with the situation in the USA for years now, and the open resentment towards the confederate flag, once popularised by the roof of the General Lee in the Dukes of Hazard, I have blissfully been unaware of the history of other similar subjects in my own country. The subject of statues. It is easy to ignorantly follow suit and just assume that statues are good, and represent positive things in our countrys past. However the falling of the Colston statue taught me otherwise. The celebration of an oppressor and slave trader, certainly not something that has a place in the modern UK.</div><div><br /></div><div>Now, before I continue, I have to say this.... Is it right for the public to take matters into their own hands, and remove such objects?... Under normal circumstances, certainly not. However, in this situation, the removal of this single statue has kickstarted and fast tracked the discussion about other statues, which I must confess is a good thing, especially with others with questionable messages remaining. But there is an issue, and again it falls to opinion... Whilst some see a single action of a person depicted in such a statue as reason enough to have it removed, others will disagree strongly. Churchill for example.... Some insist that his actions in the 20's were that of a racist, power hungry white man. While others will point out that he was the leader who was at the helm of the country when we defeated unquestionably one of the racist people of recent history. Tough one there... And I am sure many other such examples exist where opinion is split.</div><div><br /></div><div>In such matters, is compromise acceptable? Or should all demands be met without challenge or consideration. In times like this it is far too easy to swing wildly from one side to the other, without consideration of the future consequences. </div><div><br /></div><div>This brings me onto the next matter. Stop and search. As I touched on earlier there are some questions to be answered about the methods and mindsets behind stop and search. Recently we have seen a massive increase in the use of Section 60's following any marge events of unrest, or in situations which are building towards unrest. The demonstrations in London recently for example. I think most are familiar with what a Sec 60 is these days, however here is a quick link to the exact wording of what one is, straight from the Met Police Website. <a href="#" id="Sec 60" name="Sec 60">Met Police Section 60</a></div><div><br /></div><div>In short....<br /><br /><blockquote>Section 60 Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994 (s.60) gives police the right to
search people in a defined area during a specific time period when they believe, with
good reason, that: serious violence will take place and it is necessary to use this power
to prevent such violence; or that a person is carrying a dangerous object or offensive
weapon; or that an incident involving serious violence has taken place and a dangerous
instrument or offensive weapon used in the incident is being carried in the locality.</blockquote></div><div><br /></div><div>These have often been seen as a method of pushing out mass unjustified Stop and Search purges, often targeting black youths. On the flip side, it can be argued that such occurrences often result in removal of weapons from the streets. I have been stopped numerous times by the police myself. Spoken to like an idiot by over keen officers determined to find something wrong. Both on foot and in the car. The most notable times of recent was on a High St after a serious car crash, which had somehow resulted in a 20 on 20 running battle between a group of Turkish men and a group of black men. </div><div><br /></div><div>I arrived shortly after this disorder had been dispersed, and was completely ignorant to its occurrence. The road was still closed, and I walked across slowly, as at the time I was dealing with an injury. A bus which had been stationary started to move off, and sounded its horn at me, before coming to a stop as it was blocked. I approached the bus and using some strong profanity suggested the bus driver open the doors and talk to me about what he had just done. Within seconds I had 3 or 4 police officers running up on me, surrounding me and getting in my face. Complete overkill, this was just an argument. </div><div><br /></div><div>On speaking to a senior officer the following day, and becoming aware of what had actually happened, I penned an apology for my actions. One way to look at it is the officers should have been more professional, it was something separate, and I should have been dealt with accordingly. The other is to appreciate the incident they had just dealt with, and understand the duress they would have been under a short while before. Seeing tempers flaring again, their reaction, to me, in hindsight, was understandable.</div><div><br /></div><div>So, back to Stop and Search. Today it has been announced that there is consideration to stop doing it. Now if this means entirely, I see problems ahead. If it means address how it is conducted, and as I have discussed before, make officers more accountable for it, then I am all for it.</div><div><br /></div><div>Being stopped isn't nice at all, especially in certain circumstances. At night in the car, you have a police car behind you, lights flashing, bringing the worlds attention to your situation. As you stand at the roadside giving details, the world looks on in judgement.</div><div>On foot, in some circumstances, even for a simple non aggressive stop, the person being stopped may be cuffed "for theirs and the officers safety". It's a strange phrase, and most would observe someone in cuffs and consider them as detained for committing an offence. Because it doesn't happen every time, sometimes it is considered a removal of freedom, and a precursor to actual arrest. </div><div>In fact the phrase is a valid one, and the reasoning for the cuffing is also understandable, and in most cases in no way to try and remove someones dignity or make them look like a criminal.</div><div><br /></div><div>We hear stories of people be taken to ground, tased, or even shot, for making a movement which made the officer make a snap decision, sometimes rightly, sometimes wrongly, and inflicting harm on the individual they have stopped. By cuffing the person, the liklihood of making a movement which is innocent in nature, but perceived as threatening, is far less likely. That is where the "for your protection" comes into it. Obviously the "for my" part is based on those who would intend on causing harm to the officer.</div><div><br /></div><div>Maybe the answer here is to place anyone in cuffs for the duration of a stop. Many people willingly get into the back of a police car when stopped in a vehicle, but don't see this in the same light as being placed in cuffs. From my own perspective, if this were normal procedure, I would be far less inclined to be upset by being cuffed, than if it were an optional and discretionary choice by the officer. Maybe this change would help remove the stigma from the cuffing part of stop and search. A conversation just now with a friend pointed out that in most videos of black people stopped which have gone viral in the UK, the person is cuffed or being physically detained when crowds start to gather and get upset. Unlawful detention is how it is seen, rather than a standard roadside stop.</div><div><br /></div><div>Stop and search is certainly not without its issues. Simply giving people the power to stop and search someone based on probable cause is a risky things at times. And if you give this power to an individual or a group of people with an agenda, things can get out of hand. A short while ago I watched a video which recalled the time when the founder of the Black Cycling Network was stopped by the police while out cycling with friends, and was stopped at a red light. First he was accused of jumping the light, then detained for a search under the misuse of drugs act as the officer claimed he could "smell cannabis" and it appeared to be coming from Mani's person. The whole thing was filmed and published, and was a clear display of misuse of power, not cannabis. It is situations like this that we as a society need to be vocal about. Demand the matter is reviewed, and that the officer(s) are held accountable.</div><div><br /></div><div>And there we are, full circle. Accountability is the key to all of this, along with society and its 60 million strong voice (in the UK). While we demand change from our leaders, insist on legislation to push through reforms in how certain groups of people are treated in society, it is important to remember that we should also demand better from one another. </div><div>Call out racism, point out discrimination. One of the things this outpouring of emotions has shown us is that we are not alone. The majority see the need for change, and want to do what they can to make it happen. We do this by speaking up when things are wrong. Supporting someone we see in a bad situation. But not with anger and violence, but in a measured and controlled way. </div><div><br /></div><div>If you see someone being mistreated, get names, get numbers, check on the welfare of the individual, and make sure you see the matter through to the end. Injustice can be painful, embarrassing , or simply inconvenient, but the one thing it should never be is repeated. By standing together, speaking up and using a rational combined voice, it is time to be heard, and it is time for there to be channels to be heard through, rather than hoping a video goes viral and people show their disgust. </div><div><br /></div><div>I have dragged on with this for long enough, so thank you for taking the time to get this far... To coin a phrase "you are free to go". </div><div><br /></div><div>I hope if nothing else, this has caused you to form your own opinions on what I have touched on. I don't expect everyone to agree, I hope some completely disagree, its part of the process. But I do hope anyone with a moment of time will give some consideration to what comes next, and how we move forward.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>
<br />
<br /></div>Michael Snasdellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09843169292529848696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3740003533241934108.post-88038108578833361822019-10-28T16:01:00.000+00:002019-10-28T16:01:38.314+00:00Poor sleep.. the penny drops! For as long as I can remember now I have had trouble sleeping. Getting to the morning and feeling worse than I did before going to bed in the first place on some days. Waking throughout the night at the slightest sound, it has gone on for years.<br />
Since the arrival of my first sleep app, or activity tracker / sleep monitor , I have seen on screen just how bad and disrupted my sleep actually is. As the devices have gotten smarter, so the numbers have become more depressing. If I spend 8 hours in bed, 45 mins will usually be deep sleep, the rest of the time its splatters of REM, or light sleep, complete with some time spent awake. It is as regular as clockwork.<br />
<br />
When you look at the breakdown further, a pattern appears. After laying around for a while I will eventually drop off, usually falling into deep sleep quite quickly. 30-40 mins, and it is all over. I am usually awake again, or at very least drifting in and out of light sleep.<br />
It is quite common for me to be awake and sometimes up by 1am, trying to get my mind to settle, and get back off to sleep, even if it is light.<br />
<br />
For a long time now I have put this down to anxiety, and my own periods of depression and anxiety. With the disturbed sleep becoming the norm now, even when not in a dip. However... Last night, during one of my waking moments, the penny finally dropped. When I lay there and put two and two together, the answer was finally, without doubt, four!<br />
<br />
Thinking back to even 6 months ago when Tuvaaq was still with us, I would wake and hear him walking up and down the hallway. Not making a lot of noise, just the tippy tap of his claws on the flooring would get my attention. Eventually when he settled, I would drift back off to sleep. Even now, the slightest sound wakes me, and gets me focusing on it til I know what it is, and it passes. But why? When did this start.<br />
<br />
Well, as I worked out last night (early hours of this morning), it was about 2008.<br />
<br />
Finally, I remembered. After being diagnosed with COPD a good few years before her initial cancer, mum had breathing difficulties. With the onset of the cancer, and the meds affecting her health, her breathing became much worse, and all quite suddenly. If I woke in the middle of the night to go to the loo, I would hear her coughing away, borderline choking. Eventually she would clear her chest, and go back to sleep as quickly as she had woken. Sleep was never an issue for her.<br />
<br />
However, on coming home from work one day, and finding her already in bed, curiosity got the better of me, and I went to check on her to see why she had gone to bed so early. It turns out that was a good move, as I found her cold, and non responsive. Barely breathing. Ambulance called, rushed into hospital, and things were sorted. Back home a few days later, and "back to normal". Or so I thought.<br />
<br />
Turns out, from that day on, or should I say night, I have never slept properly since. Thinking back, I can now clearly recall waking up each time she was coughing, listening out to hear the right sequence of sounds to know she was OK, and not going back to sleep, or even trying to, until she was safely back asleep. Regularly I would go in to check on her to make sure she was breathing after an episode.<br />
<br />
So THAT is where the light sleeping began. Over the few years she was at home, in the different rooms of the house, depending on her needs, the process remained the same. When she finally moved into the lounge with her hospital bed, I think the listening intensified. Now with carers coming in 4 times a day, starting first thing, I had to be on my A game to make sure they made it into the house OK, that she was not being awkward or combative, and that indeed they were doing their job properly. Given some of the interactions with the carers, I was thankful I was home, and sometimes wondered how they would have coped had I not been there to help or refer to.<br />
<br />
After a few years of living like that, I guess it is only natural it has become routine for me now. However, given than mum passed over eight years ago now, I would really love to get back into a routine of better sleep. It was kinda handy being that alert as Tuvaaq got to the end of his days, but now, I would really love a good nights sleep.<br />
<br />
So what is the next step? The doctor mentioned to me a while back that CBT was one of the things they use when treating sleep issues. Trying to overcome the over thinking of the anxious mind etc. I guess that is one option. In fact, dealing with how my mind works, and perceives the "risks" of falling into deep sleep, is the only way to overcome things. I don't particularly think it is a physical issue, and now that I have recollection of how and when it started, it all makes more sense to me.<br />
<br />
Maybe I will book an appointment with the GP anyway, and see what they can come up with, then go from there. Yoga, mindfulness and relaxation certainly play their part in a settled bedtime routine for me.<br />
<br />
If there is one positive to take from this, it is that I can officially separate the sleep issues from the anxiety I struggle with at times. I know now that when my mind is behaving, the issue remains because of the long-term routine I established a long time ago.<br />
<br />
One less mystery in my life... Phew!Michael Snasdellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09843169292529848696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3740003533241934108.post-46902113908194414802019-10-21T17:34:00.000+01:002019-10-21T17:34:18.863+01:00Comfort zone, or mental prison?We are all guilty of living within our comfort zone at times. It is something which comes naturally to most, and be it a conscious or sub-conscious decision, at some point we will find ourselves settling for what we know.<br />
<br />
Be it a regular dish at a restaurant, or a job, the idea of doing something different, and changing from the norm can be a bit of a worry. Just the thought process behind making a change for some can be more than the change itself is worth. At least that is how it can feel at times.<br />
<br />
Why change my car, I have been so lucky with this one, over 10 years, no major repairs, high miles and still plugging on. I know people who have had almost brand new cars go wrong. I should stick with this one.<br />
I really like the sound of that twice cooked pork, in sauce with noodles at the Chinese, but I know I like the chicken fried rice. I will stick to what I know, I would not want to waste money, and go hungry.<br />
I'm getting really bored at work, but they have been really good to me over the years, with everything that has happened. What if I changed jobs and I don't like the new place? I should be grateful and stick with what I know!<br /><br />There is a real pattern there, and it is a familiar one for many people, whether they realise it or not. I speak to so many people who have such dilemmas, but choose not to tempt fate, or rock the boat. That said, I know many people who have reached a point where change is the only logical option, like for Ann (my other half) who was recently almost (well no, actually) forced into looking for another job, after things went against her at her last job.<br />
Sometimes, it is that shove that we need to force our hand, and in a lot of cases, things actually turn out OK.<br />
<br />
I say sometimes, but I guess I mean, most times to be honest, especially when our hand is forced. After all, to be in a pinch in the first place suggests something is not right, and change is needed.<br />
<br />
For some people, like me for example, the idea of change is simply terrifying. So much uncertainty, so much unknown. Why would you throw yourself into a chasm of fear, for the sake of possible improvements. Are things in your current situation REALLY that bad? The wheels start turning, the head starts spinning, and you struggle to find a way to ground yourself. Before you know it, you are back to safety, and reject the idea of putting yourself through that again. Case closed.<br />
<br />
However sometimes the lid of the box keeps popping open, the the doubt of your happiness in that comfort zone gets questioned more and more. Are you actually happy, or just trapped in a routine of known quantity? This is a common thing with relationships for sure, and most people will confess to having been in at least one like that. Been there, done that, won't be doing that again! But while you are there, all seems OK.<br />
<br />
I would say that recognising situations similar those which have happened in the past, is a good way to move forward, and question your current comfort zone on contention. Weigh things up rationally, and remove the fear factor for as long as you can. It is going to come calling at some point, but in the meantime, get as much thought done as possible, rationalise things the best you can, and consider the genuine pros and cons without the terror of the "what if's".<br />
<br />
For people who over think, worry, and spend their whole life taking only the most calculated of decisions, with the most certain outcomes, life can be really dull. But which do you choose? Dull and controlled, or exciting and chaotic? A mixture is ideal, but for some, with chaos comes confusion, and with confusion comes panic and instability.<br />
<br />
CBT teaches a process in which you are able to try and have the rational thought process, while avoiding the spiral of doom and gloom. Keeping away from the edge by reminding yourself of positive outcomes of similar situations. Something as simple as going out to the shops during anxious times can be terrifying. Thinking about the scary things which could happen if you venture out, immediately makes it a bad idea. However reminding yourself of the good experiences which have happened when you have taken that little leap, can bring the rewards to the forefront of your mind, and in some way tempt and nurture your curiosity into make the decision to once again leap.<br />
<br />
This same process can be applied to the cycle of the unknown outcome in the over thinkers mind. 10 years ago when I bought the car, I was worried, but look at me now. Now it has become the benchmark<br />
When I tried that dish the first time I went to the new restaurant, I wasn't sure, but now I love it.<br />
Sometimes things work out well, even when we have literally set ourselves up to prepare for failure of the worst kind. You just have to look back to the right experiences, and realise that sometimes, most of the time, nearly all the time.... things work out OK after all.<br />
<br />
I guess in summary, there is nothing wrong with the comfort zone. As long as you can take a look from the outside, and say you are honestly happy. I could eat chicken, rice and veg all the time. But is change from that nice... Sure it is!<br />
I could aspire to live in a hot country, with loads of space and all the free time in the world. But would I be happy? Probably not, my mind needs feeding regularly.<br />
<br />
There is something safe and usually satisfying about being in your comfort zone, however, there is also something exciting about venturing outside it once in a while. The frequency is the key here, and from time to time, you just have to leap....<br />
For the thought of any sort of change to have even entered your mind, there must be something to is, right? It isn't a random out of the blue thought. It is not a pipe dream being sold to you by a con man. It is an opportunity which has presented itself to you in a rational way, makes sense, and is worth a shot. So why let it worry you?<br />
<br />
You know what Michael, I think you might be right!<br />
<br />
Welcome to my thought process. The easiest way for me to see things like this is to say them, out loud, to the blog. Then read back, and hear it in my mind as a conversation. Break everything down into a format I can understand and process, and run through it again.<br />
<br />
Maybe I am in a prison after all, maybe it is time to leap!!!<br />
<br />
Watch this space....<br />
<br />Michael Snasdellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09843169292529848696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3740003533241934108.post-31751186798090214782019-09-27T17:29:00.000+01:002019-09-27T17:42:18.886+01:00What is a "cyclist"A question which seems to be getting asked a lot lately, so I thought I would have a go at answering the question. So lets give it a go...<br />
<br />
<div class="WI9k4c" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; display: table; font-family: Roboto, arial, sans-serif; font-size: small; word-break: break-word;">
<div class="GgmXif jY7QFf" style="font-size: 28px; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; min-height: 36px;">
<div class="DgZBFd" style="line-height: 36px; vertical-align: top;">
<span data-dobid="hdw">cy·clist</span></div>
</div>
<div class="S23sjd" style="color: #70757a; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16px;">
<span class="XpoqFe">/ˈsīkləst/</span></div>
<div class="K6GhFd" data-is-bilingual="false" jsaction="BtuVOb:V46pce" jscontroller="AImii" style="max-height: 0px; opacity: 0; pointer-events: none; transition: max-height 0.3s ease 0s, opacity 0.3s ease 0s;">
<div class="b8aKlc" style="padding: 8px 0px 6px;">
<a href="https://www.google.com/search?rlz=1C1GCEA_enUS845US849&sxsrf=ACYBGNS6_FpkGnVArbTDEeo0kSa8NJD7XQ:1569581290458&q=how+to+pronounce+cyclist&stick=H4sIAAAAAAAAAOMIfcRoyS3w8sc9YSmDSWtOXmPU4uINKMrPK81LzkwsyczPExLmYglJLcoV4pbi5GJPrkzOySwusWJRYkrN41nEKpGRX65Qkq9QANSSD9STqgBVAQA1cEqyWQAAAA&pron_lang=en&pron_country=us&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiW4I366fDkAhVoh-AKHbOfB68Q3eEDMAB6BAgAEAg" style="color: #660099; cursor: pointer; text-decoration-line: none;"></a><br />
<div class="S5TwIf" style="border-radius: 6px; box-shadow: rgb(223, 225, 229) 0px 0px 0px 1px inset; display: inline-block; overflow: hidden; padding-right: 12px; vertical-align: top;">
<a href="https://www.google.com/search?rlz=1C1GCEA_enUS845US849&sxsrf=ACYBGNS6_FpkGnVArbTDEeo0kSa8NJD7XQ:1569581290458&q=how+to+pronounce+cyclist&stick=H4sIAAAAAAAAAOMIfcRoyS3w8sc9YSmDSWtOXmPU4uINKMrPK81LzkwsyczPExLmYglJLcoV4pbi5GJPrkzOySwusWJRYkrN41nEKpGRX65Qkq9QANSSD9STqgBVAQA1cEqyWQAAAA&pron_lang=en&pron_country=us&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiW4I366fDkAhVoh-AKHbOfB68Q3eEDMAB6BAgAEAg" style="color: #660099; cursor: pointer; text-decoration-line: none;"><g-img class="FamOtd" style="display: inline-block; vertical-align: middle;"><img alt="" class="rISBZc M4dUYb" data-atf="1" height="32" id="dimg_2" src="data:image/svg+xml;base64,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" style="border: 0px; display: block; position: relative;" width="32" /></g-img><span class="fe69if" style="color: #3c4043; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0px; margin-left: 10px; vertical-align: middle;">Learn to pronounce</span></a></div>
<a href="https://www.google.com/search?rlz=1C1GCEA_enUS845US849&sxsrf=ACYBGNS6_FpkGnVArbTDEeo0kSa8NJD7XQ:1569581290458&q=how+to+pronounce+cyclist&stick=H4sIAAAAAAAAAOMIfcRoyS3w8sc9YSmDSWtOXmPU4uINKMrPK81LzkwsyczPExLmYglJLcoV4pbi5GJPrkzOySwusWJRYkrN41nEKpGRX65Qkq9QANSSD9STqgBVAQA1cEqyWQAAAA&pron_lang=en&pron_country=us&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiW4I366fDkAhVoh-AKHbOfB68Q3eEDMAB6BAgAEAg" style="color: #660099; cursor: pointer; text-decoration-line: none;">
</a></div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="vmod" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Roboto, arial, sans-serif; font-size: small;">
<div class="vmod" data-topic="" jsname="r5Nvmf">
<div class="vpx4Fd" style="display: table; font-size: 14px;">
<div class="pgRvse vdBwhd" style="height: 20px; padding-top: 10px;">
<i>noun</i></div>
<div aria-hidden="true" class="xpdxpnd vk_gy" data-mh="-1" style="color: rgb(135, 135, 135) !important; max-height: 0px; overflow: hidden; transition: max-height 0.3s ease 0s;">
<b></b><b></b></div>
</div>
<ol class="eQJLDd" style="border: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 0px 20px;">
<li jsname="gskXhf" style="border: 0px; list-style: none; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><div class="vmod">
<div class="thODed Uekwlc XpoqFe" style="font-size: 14px; font-weight: lighter !important; padding-top: 10px;">
<div data-topic="cycling" jsname="cJAsRb">
<div style="margin-left: 20px;">
<div class="QIclbb XpoqFe" style="font-size: small; margin-left: -20px;">
<div data-dobid="dfn" style="display: inline;">
a person who rides a bicycle.</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</li>
</ol>
</div>
</div>
<br />
There you go, debate over. If someone who rides a bike is referred to as a cyclist, regardless of what they are doing, or what context the statement was made in... A cyclist is a person who ride a bicycle.<br />
<br />
OK, I know it isn't really that clear cut, certainly not for some.<br />
<br />
Recently a lot of offence seems to have been taken by the masses about the generic term "cyclist". A favourite of the media, with headlines such as "cyclist headbutts pedestrian", "cyclists causing mayhem on the roads" etc. As generalisations go, I don't personally see "cyclist" as a negative term, and am happy to be called one, even while the idiots wheelieing into oncoming traffic are also referred to as cyclists. After all, we both ride bicycles.<br />
<br />
The term motorist of course is acceptable to many, especially when using it in a derogatory fashion. "Selfish motorists", "entitled motorists" etc. Terms batted about daily by the hardcore on social media.<br />
<br />
The terms I have more issue with are "pro-cycling". I tend to read this as those in support of cycling, however the status of the term appears to have been elevated to one meaning more fanatical, than supportive of. Over the past few years, mainly due to the anonymity of social media, and the safety blanket of screens and keyboards, there are those who have sprung out of the woodwork to let the world know what is right, and what is wrong.<br />
The general breakdown of this is, cyclist is right, motorist is wrong. What they say is right, what you say (even if you say the same thing in different words), is wrong.<br />
<br />
Now to be clear here, before the bitching starts, and the frantic spreading and misquoting / mis-representation of what I am saying begins, I am a cyclist. I am someone who regularly uses a bicycle on London's roads, commuting and for leisure. In rush-hour and in the early hours of the morning. In the enclosed spaces of Richmond Park, or the closed roads of Ride London.. I think you get the picture, I am a cyclist.<br />
<br />
There have been a few examples of these new extremes people go to, all in order to make their point, and be right.<br />
A year or so ago I posted a picture of a jacket I use for commuting in the winter, made by Proviz. Nice reflective panels for standing out clearly with the smallest source of light shining on it. I posted a comparison picture of it next to a black jersey I have, using the flash to create a light source to demonstrate its reflective qualities.<br />
The internet lost its shit!<br />
<br />
I was empowering arrogant motorists, suggesting cyclists are solely responsible for their own safety, and somehow freeing motorists of their responsibility to look out for cyclists and other road users. I was demanding that cyclists spend their hard earned money, dress like the tin man or a robot, to save the entitled motorists from having to watch out for vulnerable road uses.<br />
In fact my point was, (and still is) there is no harm in wearing a sensible choice of clothing in the darker months, to make yourself visible to motorists, with the view of the sooner they see you, the sooner they can start to give you space.<br />
<br />
One of the examples I was given was, when you see a cyclist at the last minute, and question what they are wearing and why they were so hard to pick out, "you saw them didn't you"! Yup simple as that, seeing someone at the last moment is good enough, and if you actually make the effort, and look hard enough, you WILL see them, eventually.<br />
A secondary argument offered was, if cyclists should wear hi-vis, all cars be painted in hi-vis colours. Well, I suppose if you want to be stupid about it, having the roads filled with reflective cars would indeed make them more visible. But that isn't the point that we are trying to get to here. The idea is to make the cyclist visible to the motorist. After all, the cyclist is the vulnerable one in this story, and on a free moving road, is also generally the slower moving vehicle, so more likely to be approached at speed.<br />
<br />
After a while the animosity towards me grew to such a point, I did something I rarely do, and muted the topic. The post was being retweeted with all sorts of stupid headlines about what I was demanding cyclists did. Lots of tweets from complete strangers questioning my mental capacity, my ability to use the roads on a bike or in a car, and my attitude towards cyclists. Somehow I was anti-cycling, while riding 5-7,000 miles on the roads a year. Go figure! A danger to other road users, sending the wrong message, blah, blah, blah. All this from people who claim to be "pro-cycling" and standing up for the rights of the cyclist. Well if that is how you speak to strangers, with such anger and vitriol, then please do not claim to speak for me.<br />
<br />
Going back to the whole title of this blog for a minute, the term "cyclist". It is strange how the title is OK to use when it is by someone speaking about cycling to a motorist, or someone else who is being berated by a "pro-cyclist" on social media. "Cyclists are vulnerable", "give cyclists space"... etc. But if a motorist makes a comment about a cyclist jumping a red light, pulling into their path or something similar, it is a sweeping generalisation, and should not be used that way. How dare a motorist make such a statement about a person riding a bike. It is all very confusing to me, especially as both a cyclist and motorist. More the former than the latter these days, but quite experienced at both.<br />
<br />
Which brings me to another example of how cyclists can turn on one another (a bit like you could say I am doing here actually) about something that is of mutual benefit. Especially when simply asking a question about something you saw on the road. Cycling home the other night I saw a cyclist come into conflict with a motorist. From what I can tell, the cyclist, who had been riding behind me, decided to pass me, moving out wide of me, at the same time as a car was beginning to pass him. For me, the suggestion to avoid this would be the cyclist checking his shoulder before moving out.<br />
However finding himself along side the car, and about 4-6 ft from the kerb, the cyclist decided to express his disapproval at the motorist, by remaining along side, gesturing to the motorist, before banging on the front wing of the car.<br />
Personally, finding myself this close to a car, my first reaction would be to move away, followed by making my feelings known. If the opportunity arose to speak to the driver, I would do so.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B2mmRq6HevB/">https://www.instagram.com/p/B2mmRq6HevB/</a><br />
<br />
So I posted a clip from my Cycliq on Instagram, and asked "<span style="background-color: white; color: #262626; font-family: , "blinkmacsystemfont" , "segoe ui" , "roboto" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Close pass or taking the piss? Was the car too close? Was the cyclist right to hit the car?</span>"<br />
<br />
Simple question, no statement or assumptions, just asking other peoples opinions of what I had seen.<br />
Of course, someone always comes along and takes things out of context. I was asking a question, so getting replies like these irritates me somewhat.<br />
"<span style="background-color: white; color: #262626; font-family: , "blinkmacsystemfont" , "segoe ui" , "roboto" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">You're showing a serious and dangerous driving offence and asking if it's ok. I seriously hope you don't drive a car."<br />"</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #262626; font-family: , "blinkmacsystemfont" , "segoe ui" , "roboto" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">You just saw the driver of a ton of metal threaten flesh and blood and you're asking if hitting the car was appropriate? Driving like that is an offence for a reason.</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #262626; font-family: , "blinkmacsystemfont" , "segoe ui" , "roboto" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">"</span><br />
<br />
No, actually Judge frickin Judy, I am just throwing it out there. But for some reason, for asking opinions of others, I am a danger on the roads, don't know the law, and should be ashamed of myself.<br />
Like the Proviz jacket tweet, sometimes a general comment seems to set off a reaction in the brains of some people, who's instant response is to openly and viciously attack the person making the comment. This certainly seems to be the trend at the moment.<br />
<br />
Take a moment scan through social media, and you will find posts and tweets from people who almost seem to have nothing better to do that trawl through Twitter, searching "cyclist" and getting offended about how the term is too much of a generalisation, and suggests all cyclists are the same. When in most cases, if you take a second to digest what has been written, that is not the case at all.<br />
In a lot of cases the tweets which receive the attention of these people has never mentioned the person, or anyone they follow. Instead it has been selected after some careful trawling, and singled out for a multi pronged attack. Re-tweeting the post, with an alarmist comment, it is open season for the "pro-cycling" people out there. A simple "grrr cyclists, one rode straight out in front of me" is turned into "all cyclists should be banned from the road with immediate effect".<br />
<br />
Now I have to say, this is very two sided and a very broad scope. There are plenty of anti-cycling motorists out there too. Those who want to see cyclists off their roads, stating all sorts of rubbish about road tax, etc. We know they are out there, they pop up all the time, and are full of negativity. Many pro-cyclists will tell you that these people have no right to be on the road, should be banned, and are a danger. The latter I am inclined to agree with. Bad attitudes towards a collective group of people, regardless of how similar or dissimilar is a bad thing. Both ways! Negative Nancy's like these are the biggest issue within the whole conversation between road users.<br />
<br />
It is all a bloody nightmare. Those with the loudest voices also seem to be those with the most extreme views. Such is the feeling on social media these days, those with the voices of reason are quickly shouted down ( I mean people like you and I Paul !!! lol). Once you have been set upon by these cretins once or twice, you actually become reluctant to have your say. And so the voice of reason fades away, and only the shouty angry ones get a say anymore.<br />
From an outside perspective, with no knowledge of how these things wear away at the more reasonable people out there, it appears that all cyclists have a bad attitude towards motorists, make unreasonable demands such as "ban cars", and are aggressive towards anyone who tries to question them.<br />
<br />
While writing this I have popped onto Twitter, seen quite an amusing post about a pedestrian thanking a cyclist for stopping at a crossing, started to type a jovial reply, then deleted it, as it would no doubt have caused controversy for some unknown reason. Silenced by my own people, beaten down by "cyclists". It's a shame really, I like a positive discussion, but when the conversation is guaranteed to turn nasty within a few replies, I am not even going to both.<br />
<br />
A few more weeks ago, I posted a video of a lovely lady cycling across a crossing, into the stationary traffic, between vehicles, and pop straight out in my path. Only to throw me a dirty look.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B1Lq8TXHAzH/">https://www.instagram.com/p/B1Lq8TXHAzH/</a><br />
<br />
Posting it on Instagram, saying that riding like this, and attitudes like this are what give cyclists a bad name, I was once again set upon on Twitter. Promoting hatred towards cyclists, generalising etc.<br />
The thing I was generalising about was how people who do not particularly like cyclists react to one bad experience. Almost in a single move, explaining why some feel the generalisation of the term "cyclist" is so hated by some. Used only as a description of the mode of transport the person in the incident was using, much like pedestrian, motorist, motorcyclist etc, it is somehow taken as a derogatory term, rather than a descriptive term. Not wishing in this instance to be associated with people who ride bicycles in a stupid and dangerous manner, offence is expressed at daring to use the term. They are simply a person using a bicycle. Huh! so a cyclist then?<br />
<br />
So to recap... Cyclist - a person who rides a bicycle (like a pro, or like a twat)<br />
Not a derogatory term, just a description of how that person was travelling at the time of your interaction or observation.<br />
<br />
To all you brave little keyboard warriors out there who have taken it upon yourselves to speak on other cyclists (or what ever you identify as), if your first response is to call names, rally the troops, and stir up hatred towards a complete stranger on the internet, you are an idiot, and you do not represent me in any way whatsoever.<br />
If you want to be constructive, listen, give balanced and polite responses, don't feel you have the right to judge someone because you disagree with their opinions. If you really don't like their opinions, say your bit, and leave it.<br />
<br />
As things stand, road infrastructure is poor, but slowly improving in some places. Cars are not about to be banned from the roads any time soon, and we have certain areas where we will be in close proximity with other road users. Don't try and be a hero.<br />
<br />
Like anything in life, the summary of this entry is simple, a small number of people ruin it for the masses. That small number of people also have the loudest voices, and create a negative attitude towards the rest of the group. It seems that it is human nature to be caught up in this destructive cycle, and appears that is not about to change any time soon.<br />
<br />
PS<br />
Quick footnote to add...<br />
If you think that someone pulling a wheelie on a busy road, into oncoming traffic isn't stupid or dangerous, our opinions differ vastly. If you think having someone like this pull into your path, and cause you to take action, is OK, again, we have a different view of OK.<br />
<br />
Reading a tweet the other day, someone suggested that a pushbike doing a wheelie into the path of an oncoming car causing it to swerve or brake hard was no big deal, and the "poor motorist" would "just have to brake".. Yet I am sure if a car turned into the path of such a person, causing them to brake on their bicycle, the situation would be very different. Dangerous driving, aggressive motorist etc.<br />
<br />
How does that work? You can't have one set of rules in one direction and them be polar opposites for situations in the other direction. There are small exceptions to this of course, but in general, any road user causing any other road user to take sudden action, be it change of speed or direction is in the wrong, period.<br />
<br />
Using the excuses that "they are only kids, its better than then being stuck indoors on an X-Box, or out on a street corner" is just plain stupid. If they were playing chicken, running across busy roads, would that be OK too? After all, its physical activity, even if it does cause accidents.<br />
<br />
Right I have rambled enough, and totally lost my way, I'm done here.<br />
<br />Michael Snasdellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09843169292529848696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3740003533241934108.post-32803850028414689582019-09-27T00:00:00.002+01:002019-09-27T00:02:02.534+01:00Out of the blue... Today 27th September, marks one year to the day of me coming across one of the most horrific accident scenes I have seen in years. It was already an hour or more after the accident, but the scene was still pretty chaotic. Those involved in the accident itself had been transported away, but the scene was very fresh, and the investigation in its very early stages.<br />
<br />
Heading to the doctors that morning, I had seen on social media that there were reports of an accident right by the surgery, so I decided to walk. On arriving at the junction of Kirkdale and Wells Park Road, I couldn't believe my eyes. The completely mangled remains of a motorcycle, and a damaged van, mid way into the side road. The collision had clearly been a heavy one.<br />
<br />
Standing around while I was waiting for the doctors appointment time to come around, I saw the officers trying to get an ID on the motorcyclist, and then make contact with their place of work, and with friends or family. A naturally hard time for all.<br />
<br />
Being my usual self, I took a number of pictures of the scene, trying to avoid anything which would cause alarm or distress to anyone, and not wishing to be gorish. Posting one on social media, and stating where the accident was, the image was soon picked up by local media. Used as part of their story, I followed the updates on the situation to see if there was any news about the motorcyclist.<br />
<br />
Early reports suggested very serious injuries, broken legs and arms and all sorts of speciation. A media report a little later stated a serious condition but nothing much more.<br />
<br />
As with most things, the media soon dropped the story, nothing more was said.<br />
<br />
So, a year later and its today, Friday 27th September 2019. Late last night (actually now but by the time I publish this will be the 27th) I received a Facebook message request. Anyone using social media will know, getting a random request is nothing unusual. Usually you just read it, block and delete, but this one seemed genuine. Reading the message, it was from a lady by the name of Alessandra. Complete with a link to a media story about an accident. At first glance I wasn't sure I remembered it, but reading on, it was one of the stories written using my image.<br />
<br />
Now I know some will be thinking, "you people who take pictures of accidents sicken me", and to a degree I agree, it can be a horrible thing to do, but bear with me on this...<br />
<br />
Alessandra was asking if it was me who took the picture and if I witnessed it or had any more information on the matter. Obviously I had not witnessed it but had more pictures, thanks to cloud back-up on Google Photos. Scrolling back through my history, there they were.<br />
<br />
It turns out Alessandra was the lady riding the motorcycle that day, and was trying to piece together what had happened that day. Having spent ten days in a coma after the accident, she has very little recollection of that day at all, let alone any idea what happened or what the scene looked like. So was trying to get more images and info to piece things together a little better.<br />
<br />
My first reaction was to be embarrassed and apologetic about taking pictures of the scene. However I soon realised she was happy to see them, so that was a relief. On speaking a little more, it appears she has had one heck of a year. Spending months in hospital, having a number of surgeries, and healing from multiple broken bones. I can't imagine for a second what that must be like.<br />
<br />
It is one of those strange moments in my life where I feel my actions actually had a purpose that day, and I really hope that they have helped her in even the smallest possible way.<br />
<br />
I wish you a great recovery Alessandra, and thank you for not being mad at me for taking the pictures. Thank you for reaching out to me.<br />
<br />
If anyone else has any images or memories of that accident that they wish to share with Alessandra, please get in touch and I will be sure to pass them on to her, or put you in touch.<br />
<br />
The world is a weird and wonderful place at times, and today I am feeling so happy to have heard from her, and know that she made it through.<br />
<br />
The images below are some of the images shared with Alessandra. I have her permission to post this information and these images. Please be aware one of the images shows the wreckage of the bike. I hope this doesn't cause anyone any upset.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-jmB7YW5-GJuLVQLT8eTtm_rJ-Ru-O-tMr42Xw_a_GHDpg9NegMYLQjghCDM__To_2LTlIhx6iC0kM6ma9yJcu_TkQv0MG5dcnoYXNL5GWmothMvWhm5YQndpbD4OdaS0oypY6IGNsHc/s1600/IMG_20180927_085459.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-jmB7YW5-GJuLVQLT8eTtm_rJ-Ru-O-tMr42Xw_a_GHDpg9NegMYLQjghCDM__To_2LTlIhx6iC0kM6ma9yJcu_TkQv0MG5dcnoYXNL5GWmothMvWhm5YQndpbD4OdaS0oypY6IGNsHc/s320/IMG_20180927_085459.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguxAMSmGPcNf5uBuk2ceh7lTZIcABkizXZSEbLncilyEznugDy2RQL9yjGx5x8cYnro0iI1jOqrzlQfRlCqWrsdBsyJwqyVXz1f9vDA7nhcGKxPGBGlF0E1e6FggpJc2xYgaCJmWocCa4/s1600/IMG_20180927_090052.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguxAMSmGPcNf5uBuk2ceh7lTZIcABkizXZSEbLncilyEznugDy2RQL9yjGx5x8cYnro0iI1jOqrzlQfRlCqWrsdBsyJwqyVXz1f9vDA7nhcGKxPGBGlF0E1e6FggpJc2xYgaCJmWocCa4/s320/IMG_20180927_090052.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAlPd3lRGKWjd5npLbDJBvOf1Nn2-VIgEigf5bJb1WDMkDHDLmRGAihiZ4esxoBccnsmAdMV7KG6iktr5KivMAb1aHNmEPlw_N0E4CQHwwWbbFa9StPcCL9FaUXfI94uMwvJam9Qf-7Ec/s1600/IMG_20180927_085414.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAlPd3lRGKWjd5npLbDJBvOf1Nn2-VIgEigf5bJb1WDMkDHDLmRGAihiZ4esxoBccnsmAdMV7KG6iktr5KivMAb1aHNmEPlw_N0E4CQHwwWbbFa9StPcCL9FaUXfI94uMwvJam9Qf-7Ec/s320/IMG_20180927_085414.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbE3QkR6zQKuD7-qKcXLsL8D6EL2xKClHTmIux8vcqcEG0KEusEQgZiyfdlt9ciOMnrqMpLwUGs1Yn4BU153bGt-BZn-LUk3ow0Mxsakd5a1Bf-NtT0_dDfW6ng_Y4IlkXTi0cEYR5uDs/s1600/IMG_20180927_085258.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbE3QkR6zQKuD7-qKcXLsL8D6EL2xKClHTmIux8vcqcEG0KEusEQgZiyfdlt9ciOMnrqMpLwUGs1Yn4BU153bGt-BZn-LUk3ow0Mxsakd5a1Bf-NtT0_dDfW6ng_Y4IlkXTi0cEYR5uDs/s320/IMG_20180927_085258.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIuOGrfiVRmBkrl4aqDRe8N3PuwDHJSgvd3QzcAttiNmvbwUse95s5ydGK3hBtnpuZQ5GJlNvASgI43IsJHNp1d3tfpLmJXq3Fexb4oBpS3KkYkU6WnzHlydseDnrLemLYZaKca1mIFDc/s1600/IMG_20180927_085355.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1198" data-original-width="1600" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIuOGrfiVRmBkrl4aqDRe8N3PuwDHJSgvd3QzcAttiNmvbwUse95s5ydGK3hBtnpuZQ5GJlNvASgI43IsJHNp1d3tfpLmJXq3Fexb4oBpS3KkYkU6WnzHlydseDnrLemLYZaKca1mIFDc/s320/IMG_20180927_085355.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Michael Snasdellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09843169292529848696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3740003533241934108.post-3623474190679009042019-07-30T15:10:00.002+01:002019-07-30T17:07:53.186+01:00Liar, liar, pants on fire.The only thing worse than being caught with your pants down, mid lie, it to lie more to get out of it. Once you reach the stage or having to lie to cover your lies, it's all going to go very wrong! And there is no better current example of this than the goings on on a local community forum.<br />
<br />
There is no hiding the fact that I have had my fair share of run-ins with the forum, or more precisely, its admin. No love lost there, but then walking away from the site and not looking back has been one of the best things I have done for my mental health in years. For others, stepping away while their name is being defamed has been a little harder.<br />
<br />
Recently a local lady, who I must say does a heck of a lot for the community in her own right, took matters into her own hands.<br />
<br />
Having had running battles with the admin for a couple of years now, with back and forth of comments on social media about each others behaviour, things reached a head. The admin of the forum has a habit of making up fake or sock-puppet accounts in order to troll, attack, and stalk people who have blocked him from seeing their accounts on his other 20 or so Twitter accounts etc.<br />
<br />
This blog actually got some attention from him a little while ago. Comments made on a couple of entries by "Mateo C" and "Dennis" were indeed without a doubt his work. Strangely, once called out on it, outed on social media, it stopped. Albeit after a little denial and mocking by him.<br />
<br />
Comments like this are really appreciated, especially when struggling mentally, and knowing the person posting them knows full well the damage they are doing.<br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;">"We are go" sounded pretty exciting... until I read further and discovered another self-obsessed, cringeworthy and boring post. </span><br />
<br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;">Where do you find all this time to write such mundane and repetitive noise, for the benefit of your eleven followers? </span><br />
<br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;">And there's so much pent-up spite and bitterness in everything you write about your area. If you hate the people around you, why not do them a favour and move on to somewhere that has the drab food and drink chains you crave. Basically, any low-rent, undesirable town, anywhere in the country would offer everything you need from life (or so it seems from reading your crappy monologues)</span></blockquote>
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://michaelsnasdell.blogspot.com/2018/10/the-worm-has-turned.html?showComment=1541663533527#c7420433430585793260">Dennis abuse</a><br />
<a href="http://michaelsnasdell.blogspot.com/2018/10/we-are-go-for-throttle-back.html?showComment=1539381408267#c1946575369321785712">Mateo C abuse</a><br />
<br />
So as you can see, there are no lengths the man will not go to, to cause hurt and upset, and in some cases, going further to try and damage peoples names. Mentioning you in tweets about things he doesn't like, telling others to contact you to air their anger or disappointment at something as mundane as a Costa Coffee opening locally. Yup, really! Using the social media accounts of the forum to reach a wider audience, to make sure at least some upset parties read it and get in touch, even if he can't because he is blocked.<br />
Belittling efforts made to be healthier and fitter, suggesting you are overweight and its funny to see you try and do something about it.<br />
And this is just the tip of the iceberg of my experiences.<br />
<br />
One person, dozens of stories of mistreatment, mis-use of the forum, it's social media accounts and its following. All for personal satisfaction, and maintaining a little control over things.<br />
<br />
So in the latest episode, the admin started up another twitter account, with the intent of getting accepted as a follower, in order to read the tweets on the local ladies account. Not just Dave1947 or something, no no that would be too simple. Instead making up a fake West Indian Bakery, calling it Flava Baker. Complete with images of patties, a bio, use of Patios, following other similar businesses, and following the local forum. Then for authenticity, having a conversation with themselves between the admin account and the Flava Baker account, and putting a post on the forum welcoming the business to the area. Those are some extraordinary lengths to go to, to simply get to see the tweets of someone who doesn't want you reading them. Private means private. Unless you mean private messages on a forum, but that is another matter!<br />
<br />
Wise to this behaviour, the local lady became suspicious of the new follower, and started asking questions. These were mainly about the accounts claim that there was a dispute between the business owner and the webmaster. Another elaborate storyline to draw people into believing it was a real thing. After a bit of back and forth, she was now convinced that is was the admin of the local forum, so in a strange, powerful, and rather far reaching move, she collated a load of information about the forum admin, and sent it in an email to the email address of Flava Baker, confident it was actually the forum admin. Keeping up?? Phew!<br />
<br />
This email contained a collection of pieces of information and pictures taken from the admins very open and public social media accounts. Nothing found by means of deception or stalking (as has been suggested). The way it was put together was a little questionable, and for the brief moment it was made public, some felt it was very threatening, although no threats were made in the email.<br />
<br />
Now I mention it being made public, this is the strange part. Up until this point, information had been taken from a public internet space, collated and sent to one individual, believed to be the owner of the information, which it indeed turned out to be. It contained no identifying information, first names at best, and no mention of the forum admin<br />
In a very strange move, the admin took the email, pretended that Flava Baker had forwarded it to him, and then posted it publicly on the most open part of the forum. Along with a very damaging statement about the local lady, complete with full names, and a lot of accusatory language. Interestingly, the claim that it had been sent to him by Flava Baker didn't add up. How had they worked out who to sent it to?<br />
After the outrage started on the forum, the victim status now well established, the lies continued. Going on to say that Flava Baker had reached out to him with the information, and allowed him access to their email and social media in order for him to put together a complaint if needed. Many of the posts on the forum suggested he go to the police with the information. However in what appeared to be an act of compassion, and one that was spelled out very clearly for maximum effect, he stated he didn't want to hurt her or her family by filing a report.<br />
<br />
Very quickly it became talk of social media, as well as questions being asked on the forum thread itself. Until one local well respected gent called the admin out on the story, and picked a few holes in it publicly.<br />
<br />
From this point on, the lies to cover the lies really got going.<br />
In an unexpected act of honesty, the forum admin posted a tell all statement, admitting he was indeed the owner of the Flava Baker account, and had used the account to try and get access to the private tweets of the local lady. Stating that it was to defend himself again the hurt and defamation he believed she was posting. Initially this was welcomed, and he was wooed with compliments for his openness and honesty, and how terrible it must be to "live in fear" of such a person. However that didn't last for long.<br />
<br />
Questions about his honesty and integrity soon started to appear. So in a regular move, a mod moved in and stated the thread would be closed as it had served its purpose. Again, this was met with resistance, and people demanded it stay public and open. To prove their point, mods posted a poll asking what they should do with the thread. Within hours the votes were not going their way, so it was moved to another part of the forum, which while visible, allowed far less people to interact with the thread and the poll. 24 hours later and a vast percentage had voted to keep the thread open and visible to all.<br />
<br />
Shortly thereafter, it was announced that a police investigation had been launched, so the thread needed to be locked, and moved from public view, so not to influence or interfere with the "ongoing inquiry". Convenient?<br />
<br />
Meanwhile on a neighbouring community forum all hell was breaking loose, and people were free to express their thoughts on the man and the matter, without being moderated, or told off for doing so.<br />
<br />
That thread is here.... <a href="https://www.sydenham.org.uk/forum/viewtopic.php?f=9&t=19646&sid=d54be41dbd5a4df76c9f83d783b8669f">Open and free discussion</a><br />
<br />
Statements were posted on the local forum asking for people to stop discussing the matter, and not to mention it again on the forum, all for the sake of the police investigation.<br />
Now it is worth noting that when asked for proof of this investigation, namely in the form of a Crime Reference Number, everyone from the forum declined to provide one, simply stating that they had seen it, and were satisfied that it was genuine. When asked to name the people named on it, and confirm that the local lady who had sent the email, and was therefore involved in the thread which had been moved to protect the investigation, was the subject of the police report. Again, this request was denied, and a statement saying, no names would be given, was made.<br />
<br />
Now anyone who watches CrimeWatch, the local news, reads the local papers, or follows Police on Twitter, will know a Crime Reference Number is a simple code which can be used by people to offer information to ongoing investigations. It identifies no-one, mentions no names, indicates nothing about a crime, and only means something to anyone directly involved. If you approached the Police with the number and had no relation to the case, you would be left none the wiser. However in this case it is a crucial and secret piece of information. Or is it.<br />
<br />
My theory is that while this CRN may or may not exist at all, the speculation about it is being used by the admin to continue his abusive control over the local lady. Much as he was happy to make deeply hurtful comments to me while I was low, he feels this is his the only thing he has left to try and maintain some control over her. Occasionally mentioning it when the opportunity to gather some pity and support presents itself, like recently on Twitter.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyXL4ic-xvGpTWsn-9to_ljqhHB_r3Cl1XdeYRrirgVtDxw2dYd0EQFbEp0QN7cevTv5r0CP4_je_J80ImGh5eR9IuAjNH2I5baM92DV7FNKkTfCl3Zf5KplTICEPvRaAducqKnTdtA_c/s1600/twit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="599" data-original-width="352" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyXL4ic-xvGpTWsn-9to_ljqhHB_r3Cl1XdeYRrirgVtDxw2dYd0EQFbEp0QN7cevTv5r0CP4_je_J80ImGh5eR9IuAjNH2I5baM92DV7FNKkTfCl3Zf5KplTICEPvRaAducqKnTdtA_c/s320/twit.jpg" width="188" /></a></div>
<br />
The above was posted recently, strangely, discussing matters which are apparently not to be mentioned in public as they are part of an ongoing investigation, so some would have you believe.<br />
<br />
Up until now, the entire moderation team of the forum have stood behind his statements of desperation driving him to use the Flava Baker account, and that this is the only time he has used sock-puppet accounts to attack someone like this. Dozens of other people would say otherwise. The same group of people who are slowly coming together, sharing stories of how they have feared repercussions for speaking out or against the admin and his ways. Sadly, it is all very convincing from his side of things, or at least in the very controlled way information is allowed to be exchanged. In favour, all is well, speak up. Against or questioning, shut your filthy mouth!<br />
<br />
As the weeks go on, the appetite for the topic is fading, but the questions remain. Still unwilling to part with the CRN, even though a number of parties have made inquiries with a number of police forces, and come up with nothing after extensive checks against many parameters. However the appetite for speaking out against this treatment is growing, fast!<br />
<br />
From all this we can see that the admin is of questionable integrity, happy to hurt people for his own personal gain. So much so that he has apparently decided not to moderate the forum any longer. However keeps being seen active on the forum. A couple of previously low profile accounts have suddenly assumed a very high profile presence, and almost become a moderator in their own right, strangely using very similar language, and having very similar tells to the admin himself. Strange!<br />
<br />
What will become of all this, what will happen next, well that is anyones guess. But one thing is for sure. In the process of all this, the interest and trust in the local forum has been damaged, and if the apparent love for the local forum is really what drives the admin, he will do something to let things recover. Step away? People fear this is not possible from a technical standpoint. But how can trust return with someone lacking in integrity at the helm?<br />
<br />
As I say, we will all have to wait and see, but all I can take away from this is, the whole thing was caused by himself, dragging mods into the whole situation by asking them to manage the forum in favour of his side of the story. So if anything should become of it, the whole admin and mod team will be in the line of fire for action and inaction.<br />
<br />
<br />
PS, I should add, the irony value of any sock-puppet account being used to comment on this will be priceless.<br />
<br />Michael Snasdellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09843169292529848696noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3740003533241934108.post-87228764027421748752019-07-02T13:13:00.000+01:002019-07-03T12:21:44.166+01:00#L2A2019 London to Amsterdam #AmsterdoneCould not decide on the title, so went with them all in the end, for the best I think.<br />
<br />
So where do I even start with this!! Five days of travelling with an amazing group of people. All with one common goal, which was to raise as much money as possible for <a href="https://www.stchristophers.org.uk/">St Christopher's Hospice.</a> To help them fund, and continue to provide a much needed, and well known and respected asset in the local community. To date, this trip has raised in excess of £165,000 , which is quite frankly amazing. Although that said, from the data collected on money spent on alcohol consumption on the trip, if that had been donated instead of drunk, I reckon we would be nearer £200k. Just kidding 😆<br />
<br />
So back to the trip, so much to say! I guess the logical starting point is... Day1 !<br />
<br />
<u><b>Day 1 - Sydenham to Calais</b></u><br />
<u><b><br /></b></u>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUye4vt45951F8x-OJ6MQTtEL5bKfNZgPuP1CXxTc4ugz5-U9zSyXNP_96uPxSEOQawCx88gS40VvJGRHummi00yxyyNSIMdc5w-t3mpNOJ-v1lbPhwl1SqYSAJeOou5PYp-f22CluXZo/s1600/Screenshot_20190702-122647_Strava.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="937" data-original-width="957" height="312" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUye4vt45951F8x-OJ6MQTtEL5bKfNZgPuP1CXxTc4ugz5-U9zSyXNP_96uPxSEOQawCx88gS40VvJGRHummi00yxyyNSIMdc5w-t3mpNOJ-v1lbPhwl1SqYSAJeOou5PYp-f22CluXZo/s320/Screenshot_20190702-122647_Strava.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<u><b><br /></b></u>
<u><b><br /></b></u>
An early start for all, getting to the hospice for 6.15 to get registered and ready to go. A stressful time for me, I don't do crowds very well at the best of times, let alone when preparing to ride through four countries. All the same, I got on with it. Some badly timed banter from someone I didn't yet know started things off badly for me, but I won't dwell.<br />
Once riding, we all got into our stride, and headed into the morning rush-hour to escape London. After a bit if a battle we were heading out through Biggin Hill, clearer air and roads awaited.<br />
A group of us decided to blow through the first water stop, early in the day, just wanting to get the miles to the lunch stop done.<br />
Ploughing on it was soon lunchtime, and we stopped at a lovely little pub.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAvYWBkOsJgLZFTPpz4srCqcC85lZIIb1qm4-Rsm4bSvEOQYaHM8FlB2mxthoiFzFsLqckXZ2WhgnJeZg0wCDsOLNflhl3wJhjlTHuMAPWSz-tqjCR8BhMoxPGywJeKCT49_GrqMi6ckw/s1600/20190626_105124.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAvYWBkOsJgLZFTPpz4srCqcC85lZIIb1qm4-Rsm4bSvEOQYaHM8FlB2mxthoiFzFsLqckXZ2WhgnJeZg0wCDsOLNflhl3wJhjlTHuMAPWSz-tqjCR8BhMoxPGywJeKCT49_GrqMi6ckw/s320/20190626_105124.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUDBtizsXx6ZfHcJjdQYQXNtSsllxH89B0-oP7jd-4RbeQCWDKZ-u1RYiT8gzv2h7SOW1uemXOq_UOx65f-QDNbndIKCgaLwoiHM4xvfS1NSPlPKVIA16hYgrMAzMdLyh6_KX0EWmRfEQ/s1600/20190626_104955.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUDBtizsXx6ZfHcJjdQYQXNtSsllxH89B0-oP7jd-4RbeQCWDKZ-u1RYiT8gzv2h7SOW1uemXOq_UOx65f-QDNbndIKCgaLwoiHM4xvfS1NSPlPKVIA16hYgrMAzMdLyh6_KX0EWmRfEQ/s320/20190626_104955.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
First fall of the trip went to Darren, who unlike everyone else, had decided to take a closer look at the banking next to a pond full of bright green pond weed. Everyone knew the exact spot. Well done Darren, glad you were OK.<br />
Lunch however turned into a bit of a stressful mess, with early arrivers ordering their food, only for it to be taken by those arriving later, leaving those of us who got their first, last to eat, then dash.<br />
<br />
Back on the bike, and hills starting to appear, it was not long before not taking on enough fluids started to take it's toll, and my quads started to cramp up. Eventually choosing to get off and walk up a couple of the hills. But not before having to squat at the roadside, as standing was impossible! Making a phone call as I walked up the hill, I charged up my mental an physical batteries once more.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvZ3-TKxFk7rwPi0QL5sRDvJInwxlQK4TG0jhYAmPzTZjxWuCD_93UVZn_v87gw9FBeUmzKkmeiUsAusKKyBI1jpIklWb2mAR58Jo1ibvSlZNvTyB247LrlySV1gw-vFR68CcDdU4ZiHg/s1600/20190626_142201.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvZ3-TKxFk7rwPi0QL5sRDvJInwxlQK4TG0jhYAmPzTZjxWuCD_93UVZn_v87gw9FBeUmzKkmeiUsAusKKyBI1jpIklWb2mAR58Jo1ibvSlZNvTyB247LrlySV1gw-vFR68CcDdU4ZiHg/s320/20190626_142201.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgozPWFrAe9txQ4aPXXLYMK4dxGXsZzNLrvs04YUlRBBlHfSDJRPiP0sbPQbRRHSeIbeR60nNmlEnv7XBk4_FkpEcgXDdbnnUxv1ezpXVt23K5XCNkGh6Ope-fIGuYldVEH06qdJ2uViOc/s1600/20190626_153042.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgozPWFrAe9txQ4aPXXLYMK4dxGXsZzNLrvs04YUlRBBlHfSDJRPiP0sbPQbRRHSeIbeR60nNmlEnv7XBk4_FkpEcgXDdbnnUxv1ezpXVt23K5XCNkGh6Ope-fIGuYldVEH06qdJ2uViOc/s320/20190626_153042.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
From the top of the last hill, it was not long before the wonderful sights of the signs for Dover appeared, and the day started to wrap itself up a bit. Sadly, arriving in what was now coming on for evening school run and rush hour, progress through town to the port was a little slow, but I was in no rush, we had made good time for sure. Rolling along the prom towards the meeting point, there was relief in my mind for sure. As well as a little trepidation.<br />
To ease this, I decided to take a quick ride up and down the prom on the cycle path, and take in the scenery. It was now getting quite windy, so the ride along the jetty/pier was fun to say the least.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTjUjUACXX0FgPRGbsIdRZXB-nVNRDzeH0L6BhDBhFctMse40v3Ju2qDHudWfj3OT0JyfdjXZzDHXQJThCVARGpfBQZ6y52vYAYzaWUldP8u4_92giGGVz6nw2XBCXMS4to9RB7SW6o8Q/s1600/20190626_154455.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTjUjUACXX0FgPRGbsIdRZXB-nVNRDzeH0L6BhDBhFctMse40v3Ju2qDHudWfj3OT0JyfdjXZzDHXQJThCVARGpfBQZ6y52vYAYzaWUldP8u4_92giGGVz6nw2XBCXMS4to9RB7SW6o8Q/s320/20190626_154455.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeBihkTFXoqh7GN7-Yr_sbDa84uKzEyR8RQFFbdcOjbMNdoez2RbdIRFQkv7KtZC_80NP-QGtyOsLm_ldSldpnEKzWv_OBDuATExbS7AUIpaFrRPkkGz4ppN6IldqLZi3I3u7SX7YprxY/s1600/20190626_154852.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeBihkTFXoqh7GN7-Yr_sbDa84uKzEyR8RQFFbdcOjbMNdoez2RbdIRFQkv7KtZC_80NP-QGtyOsLm_ldSldpnEKzWv_OBDuATExbS7AUIpaFrRPkkGz4ppN6IldqLZi3I3u7SX7YprxY/s320/20190626_154852.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Now back to the group, just in time to move off into the port itself, and get ready for the ferry trip over. How much fun was that! Riding into the port, then being escorted by official vehicles through to the holding point before boarding the ferry. Must have been a sight for sore eyes. Or a PITA to be sat behind while trying to make your ferry. Either way... I think we all enjoyed it. On to the ferry, bikes stowed, time to get some food. For me, fish and chips was the obvious choice.<br />
Choosing to sit alone, and have some me time, I relaxed for a while, updated social media, and got some rest (not sleep, just rest!)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMiyp9uH4tGqCMzSEM4XcbdIFXJ0y-1-8a-AhYsnHUYtCTUAYtijCeavcTSU2OR7tN8tuOkweRe8b4XqxzE6xt5SXgiWE7l-LWgz8xMZEn1umfeEDmIRAE3sigMDMFU0p0UTqvNs9mi-8/s1600/20190626_164347.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMiyp9uH4tGqCMzSEM4XcbdIFXJ0y-1-8a-AhYsnHUYtCTUAYtijCeavcTSU2OR7tN8tuOkweRe8b4XqxzE6xt5SXgiWE7l-LWgz8xMZEn1umfeEDmIRAE3sigMDMFU0p0UTqvNs9mi-8/s320/20190626_164347.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgue5sjRYM19TubH1g4TLtQ_8fOpevkpAsTl4ry-zGL6u6YGg5BUxQTv8mmSGlL-F7UeOBgLxQu2n5ylkpP9oaCv8bbNYia9tvTIxtC5yvijdHxVfMspyk4oIju71zRrmGcY8PsRJbx7pw/s1600/20190626_171345.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgue5sjRYM19TubH1g4TLtQ_8fOpevkpAsTl4ry-zGL6u6YGg5BUxQTv8mmSGlL-F7UeOBgLxQu2n5ylkpP9oaCv8bbNYia9tvTIxtC5yvijdHxVfMspyk4oIju71zRrmGcY8PsRJbx7pw/s320/20190626_171345.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5QxbeM7VUKu7AH7ox0uQhoVv7lQymnZcTaB-Fg3OvH2f8e5Rp9Mx1xFTIHK_4LGGHdGDCStKCp_iT2FupwL09S5xHWaMK9E_a_bAV7k6-TySebCIzFMvAlNgOkUGhda2WZmfgCTo_D9I/s1600/20190626_172304.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5QxbeM7VUKu7AH7ox0uQhoVv7lQymnZcTaB-Fg3OvH2f8e5Rp9Mx1xFTIHK_4LGGHdGDCStKCp_iT2FupwL09S5xHWaMK9E_a_bAV7k6-TySebCIzFMvAlNgOkUGhda2WZmfgCTo_D9I/s320/20190626_172304.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhidhkEOwxE5MUVRcxdz5JDqiWaTITSHqGHX27BlMPeZgIgviBrO8XbEQbZQeam3F_pL8L_hvgU_QrOBkBOopH5q-7MFdmFQY2ftPZyk5CmicJ8uBHxvwuGZBTbba71ICwymflPsHQGoTY/s1600/20190626_180326.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhidhkEOwxE5MUVRcxdz5JDqiWaTITSHqGHX27BlMPeZgIgviBrO8XbEQbZQeam3F_pL8L_hvgU_QrOBkBOopH5q-7MFdmFQY2ftPZyk5CmicJ8uBHxvwuGZBTbba71ICwymflPsHQGoTY/s320/20190626_180326.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
Before we knew it, we had arrived at Calais, quick briefing of what would happen next, which actually turned out to be quite the farce, but not dwelling....!! And we were off, riding through the port looking for the exit. Finally found, we made our way to the hotel for the night. As soon as I had my room key, and knew the plan for the morning, I was missing! Some time on my own, time to unwind, and prepare myself for the next three days of riding.<br />
It was a lovely room, and I have to say here a MASSIVE thanks to Jo from St Chris, who arranged three out of the four nights to be single room for me. Not having that would really have changed how the trip went. It was enough of a struggle as you will see, but this was a blessing.<br />
So room, prep, pics, rest!!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNzH0qTffuTvDRHGTNO36-6aNhuyB_FW4p-CsKyuF8_HMhujk3tQi2c87hJRpXziau4MdM3CUnlwKlqTyUazkw94Wq7CEaruZUCulDxZIkXPXUAILsJdetnIFyEvNyUEj_XBCk48GYRo0/s1600/20190626_201813.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNzH0qTffuTvDRHGTNO36-6aNhuyB_FW4p-CsKyuF8_HMhujk3tQi2c87hJRpXziau4MdM3CUnlwKlqTyUazkw94Wq7CEaruZUCulDxZIkXPXUAILsJdetnIFyEvNyUEj_XBCk48GYRo0/s320/20190626_201813.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRhsZmM4to4J2Zz441KxAM7QeDSqR1zo0Tr_gq2VvuC0J_K_SuTID-sF7NLS9OqoABFLhFMQgsEzHDJZCiUu8lYdOCEZRJ3RUTkpr6GKz4PZ3Y_pIA-MTOEudxcX7CvqDBYPZ-KZMlcN8/s1600/20190626_205737.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRhsZmM4to4J2Zz441KxAM7QeDSqR1zo0Tr_gq2VvuC0J_K_SuTID-sF7NLS9OqoABFLhFMQgsEzHDJZCiUu8lYdOCEZRJ3RUTkpr6GKz4PZ3Y_pIA-MTOEudxcX7CvqDBYPZ-KZMlcN8/s320/20190626_205737.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinKiXBWfNfYZP2E5NS_NTbV5J5XtWpsHVS-tIE5AOhA-PWwP1xPclzqojuVu8zM5JYKKEa3WfAFfP0yNxRT4HU4VZ82DprnI80jA12tOYKCDnhUuhK9npO29okdZgb_XR8bUrkAWBE7jI/s1600/20190626_205747.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinKiXBWfNfYZP2E5NS_NTbV5J5XtWpsHVS-tIE5AOhA-PWwP1xPclzqojuVu8zM5JYKKEa3WfAFfP0yNxRT4HU4VZ82DprnI80jA12tOYKCDnhUuhK9npO29okdZgb_XR8bUrkAWBE7jI/s320/20190626_205747.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<b><u>Day 2 - Calais to Brugge</u></b><br />
<b><u><br /></u></b>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnPST6dPdQNbcZSTrsrnvThqyLcMaOd8BJvAtNyATPz17ovoATIXQYu0fN43keyZvabbFjpC7XYQIfeVAk7zmKW0bvSFCvPzSTi50gfarHwUAHJOV_7TmYehlOxddQCTcPBXdxqMNB4Yo/s1600/Screenshot_20190702-122718_Strava.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="959" data-original-width="939" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnPST6dPdQNbcZSTrsrnvThqyLcMaOd8BJvAtNyATPz17ovoATIXQYu0fN43keyZvabbFjpC7XYQIfeVAk7zmKW0bvSFCvPzSTi50gfarHwUAHJOV_7TmYehlOxddQCTcPBXdxqMNB4Yo/s320/Screenshot_20190702-122718_Strava.jpg" width="313" /></a></div>
<b><u><br /></u></b>
<b><u><br /></u></b>
The fun was about to really begin. After changing forecasts over the past week, the weather which finally arrived was far from ideal 20-30mph headwinds, across flat, open farmland. GREAT!<br />
<br />
Downstairs, the breakfast room was already buzzing. A bit much for my comfort, but I grabbed some food and a single table. Eating before rides is not something I do in general. In fact eating in the mornings isn't my favourite at all. But taking the advice of the many, get some brekkie in you they said, so I did. Fluids were aplenty, keen not to get cramps like Day 1. That much at least worked. Although the heavy fluid intake the night before came back to bite about an hour into the ride!!<br />
Out the back to put bags on vans, and hear the morning briefing. After the briefing I had my first glimpse into the realisation that I was not the only one dreading the day ahead, mentally unprepared.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkVP4kqMiT5OytanW6m6iO4CumW002DHKWzIuYKyEAjaOCVSW0E_0slts0ucvz0Gm6u53TavhdYWgLacr2sBvXO64T4RC7FKmluWWcZenPTq65awVcCxxJ3TJzldhAcYbvacwL9Z3ry4c/s1600/20190627_061818.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkVP4kqMiT5OytanW6m6iO4CumW002DHKWzIuYKyEAjaOCVSW0E_0slts0ucvz0Gm6u53TavhdYWgLacr2sBvXO64T4RC7FKmluWWcZenPTq65awVcCxxJ3TJzldhAcYbvacwL9Z3ry4c/s320/20190627_061818.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaElvXuw6FiZftYfAKB1m2Mr6kIb8ZxC0vQDKbjTS9EHK1Oce_dCkOFechzFhNIUgKZqzbkwlcMCrVWOUfXsK1poL7d6KAt1ovRhmgtL_vm3pwlZd-uQO5gnRxAjN3gyPk2huYqzJFviI/s1600/20190627_071051.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaElvXuw6FiZftYfAKB1m2Mr6kIb8ZxC0vQDKbjTS9EHK1Oce_dCkOFechzFhNIUgKZqzbkwlcMCrVWOUfXsK1poL7d6KAt1ovRhmgtL_vm3pwlZd-uQO5gnRxAjN3gyPk2huYqzJFviI/s320/20190627_071051.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Before long, we were out into the streets of Calais, and heading to the outskirts. Sadly within a few hundred metres of the start the first accidents happened. Thankfully people more shaken than actually hurt. Hope everyone is OK now.<br />
On a calmer day I am sure I would have really appreciated the scenery more, but riding into a headwind, and struggling to maintain even 10mph, well that gets boring and tiring very quickly. 250w being used to achieve a speed that would see the day taking 8-9 hours in the saddle. Nope, that isn't the one!<br />
<br />
Open fields, mile after mile, occasionally heading into the shelter of a small town or a tree lined area, the mind was already playing games with me. Full of self doubt, I plodded on, riding alone most of the time, so not to be a burden on any groups, and allowing me to stop as and when I pleased. Something I discovered a few other men in the group doing also. Nice to not be the only one having that mindset.<br />
The first water stop seemed to take an eternity to reach, but we finally made it, having joined Stewart and Hannah for the last few miles. Loveliest of lovely company for sure, and a pair I would spend more time with throughout the trip.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgajT_J83tXesdsuJyFfgfQ-AHx_wtAolcP3uUixV4L185whgcJnJrx9NR0Vsz5Wb_7ZBUzuNqnpLnXN_47IYd4LzzrCfKExr2hMul3ylWmnX_TRW4FVNvK5Sl2q2GzHFSSGWkObRIC9EM/s1600/20190627_080445.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgajT_J83tXesdsuJyFfgfQ-AHx_wtAolcP3uUixV4L185whgcJnJrx9NR0Vsz5Wb_7ZBUzuNqnpLnXN_47IYd4LzzrCfKExr2hMul3ylWmnX_TRW4FVNvK5Sl2q2GzHFSSGWkObRIC9EM/s320/20190627_080445.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3aqkvRJD0odqoVFyc6A_a4lgde03Yxih6UA39GWnqCAilnzQAeh_V_KWxafV6Gl3j5h9MkYIaxHi5yRnAGUw1GvgadhYRj6nWNqGkboUmVUCW8vKJD0xnKQAJwQCUGeyjPHbzTjVK6sA/s1600/20190627_091624.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3aqkvRJD0odqoVFyc6A_a4lgde03Yxih6UA39GWnqCAilnzQAeh_V_KWxafV6Gl3j5h9MkYIaxHi5yRnAGUw1GvgadhYRj6nWNqGkboUmVUCW8vKJD0xnKQAJwQCUGeyjPHbzTjVK6sA/s320/20190627_091624.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8VGjsLkqoFyWK1ayoq0fDR4lV9mHmX7kNKrNstN1z5yxJg4pN3ycm3HveOVyLh9EKI-GwpmDcdWoWEiyJ1VmYNHyyJ6a_SBAHCDCRh_Bndmyr7F88kDy8scW5mo2hZHnqKqOZ7_tGWeA/s1600/20190627_092510.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8VGjsLkqoFyWK1ayoq0fDR4lV9mHmX7kNKrNstN1z5yxJg4pN3ycm3HveOVyLh9EKI-GwpmDcdWoWEiyJ1VmYNHyyJ6a_SBAHCDCRh_Bndmyr7F88kDy8scW5mo2hZHnqKqOZ7_tGWeA/s320/20190627_092510.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY-HZnJAmmToopJhN_l4JnPSTcgixHgxwP_51-tpLCtsX71V2sQnUlku4IydcLk0bOhWjKafhzU9Aw_AKkI_cR8FZAaUJC0L-xz77sQZi5li8F-yxCnPOeKaGs9K_IdHLh7GxcDCu8A8E/s1600/20190627_085627.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY-HZnJAmmToopJhN_l4JnPSTcgixHgxwP_51-tpLCtsX71V2sQnUlku4IydcLk0bOhWjKafhzU9Aw_AKkI_cR8FZAaUJC0L-xz77sQZi5li8F-yxCnPOeKaGs9K_IdHLh7GxcDCu8A8E/s320/20190627_085627.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Next stop, lunch. But not before many more miles of unrelenting headwinds. Whenever you rode with others, the topic was very much about the wind. Not that there was much time for conversation, all energy was being used just to keep the bikes moving, However, the skies did start to clear, and at least we were now starting to get some sunshine, even if it was in a headwind. So I guess I could go so far as to say that the scenery was starting to improve. Small towns and villages, open roads, all had quite a rough road surface, which really did start to wear on my hands and wrists after a while.<br />
Deciding to use a single ear pod to give a little music and distraction, I managed to get into a stride after while.<br />
<br />
Stopping from time to time, to stretch, and take photos, I was having severe highs and lows. Sometimes hoping the van would pass, and suggest I got in. Playing the conversations over in my head of what would be said etc. The quitter in me was hard at work.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTF8pTeVmt4ooSypmKwE5KHtmke98dP9NrXLTAuayNzQrr8oqsHit9b5DTF1X_zOvfHaPRT2xfyZgp6x9-D8LnwIwcjsxmOXGD19nDwkIxZHIceTmiVZSSwPbuyH5CF5l1U2l-XekfvAs/s1600/20190627_092701.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTF8pTeVmt4ooSypmKwE5KHtmke98dP9NrXLTAuayNzQrr8oqsHit9b5DTF1X_zOvfHaPRT2xfyZgp6x9-D8LnwIwcjsxmOXGD19nDwkIxZHIceTmiVZSSwPbuyH5CF5l1U2l-XekfvAs/s320/20190627_092701.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgho9vJTy5I96lHP0g4JUQRknF6l_XfZH38bsj9RdzGLn2RTrjScDX32DqcEfFesHdPVbxAXUJIp-lsAUDUn806kCjmM0a8AoJD7T1Bz8RBit2qeu8raR86R0FAIauGdTUsPnd6kCd3T9I/s1600/20190627_093313.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgho9vJTy5I96lHP0g4JUQRknF6l_XfZH38bsj9RdzGLn2RTrjScDX32DqcEfFesHdPVbxAXUJIp-lsAUDUn806kCjmM0a8AoJD7T1Bz8RBit2qeu8raR86R0FAIauGdTUsPnd6kCd3T9I/s320/20190627_093313.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEa7ExyjZzHoDR5vBrzyBKVgzy7a-it9oOFucq2YUbicNaD6iQfbskNdCJySQPpliQq6LKXxJzK8r8HGF1AoeaXw90uiqU00UpqTYmA7So9Sdhz5PTLr15_IocL94zaR5Nf35cTk8iu4A/s1600/20190627_093835.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEa7ExyjZzHoDR5vBrzyBKVgzy7a-it9oOFucq2YUbicNaD6iQfbskNdCJySQPpliQq6LKXxJzK8r8HGF1AoeaXw90uiqU00UpqTYmA7So9Sdhz5PTLr15_IocL94zaR5Nf35cTk8iu4A/s320/20190627_093835.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
After my earpod dropped from my ear, and spending 5 mins searching before finally finding it, I was done with lows, for the time being at least, and it was time to get to the lunch stop. Catching the wheel of a couple of kind souls, I at least got some respite from the gruelling headwinds for a while. Before being dropped once again. Or should I say, letting myself be dropped. Pushing too hard to hold the wheel in front is almost as soul destroying as watching it pull away from you as you finally let go!<br />
Lunch must be near now, right!<br />
Riding solo now, deep in my train of thought, I turned onto another long road. As I pedalled I heard a whistle, looking round I saw a local walking along. Turning back I muttered "arsehole" to myself and carried on... Another whistle, this time I look harder. It's the group, set back from the road. I had almost just missed lunch!!<br />
<br />
Off the the bike, time to get some blood back in the rear end, and hands. Lunch was at a beautiful little place. At the morning briefing we had been told that the idea was to push on early for the day. Our destination for the day, Brugge, a beautiful place that we should arrive at in good time for a fun evening of exploring. Sadly the restaurant had other ideas. Arriving in good time, I was there for about 10.50am, with lunch not til 11.30, or at least that was the plan. All seated on time, we sat and waited. We were told it was a three course lunch, a little excessive for a cycling group who wanted protein and carbs, a quick break then get going.<br />
Starters came out by about 12.15, with pause then for about another 45 mins before mains showed up. By the time everyone was done eating their chicken leg and rice (underwhelming for such a long wait), it was gone 1pm. So much for pressing on.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkdlOQm13LgwL43kTFKdeKcGw5a4p9_pufC9uSiEWAPOSFmoQd47TRtV2uDwvRV65sDWrmY1Zt2MphTXdG0F280q1ERRKcYsOb5L346FR1t-rc3bmCgtXzragxoRfO-XQkKy-sWZMl29M/s1600/20190627_105238.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkdlOQm13LgwL43kTFKdeKcGw5a4p9_pufC9uSiEWAPOSFmoQd47TRtV2uDwvRV65sDWrmY1Zt2MphTXdG0F280q1ERRKcYsOb5L346FR1t-rc3bmCgtXzragxoRfO-XQkKy-sWZMl29M/s320/20190627_105238.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfllJYmdunn7ovIoMOtJpk3AZEqYLCcbh-w3E8AQccj_CC8-iZ4cPltCJYdPB1U0ZBokInrLoUFTiCdwqw6yJy2_Frvz4Pz1OoH_ftyO1OaHGBChxqDmRnRPfEDRfAPBXZ7Nf4zQJIcEA/s1600/20190627_110003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfllJYmdunn7ovIoMOtJpk3AZEqYLCcbh-w3E8AQccj_CC8-iZ4cPltCJYdPB1U0ZBokInrLoUFTiCdwqw6yJy2_Frvz4Pz1OoH_ftyO1OaHGBChxqDmRnRPfEDRfAPBXZ7Nf4zQJIcEA/s320/20190627_110003.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeYe9AiHNjO181OWpNURwj5eErtgD8Z0UUfhrOjp5jet3S-U_jSe3Ch-hMuS3QjU_RCK_YcLUvft9kkt56F3gqDhpOa7T0W7hZNFlb3lunrT2sC5Muvcpv0VVNYNE8EjVQM4E3Cz5hdfM/s1600/20190627_113012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeYe9AiHNjO181OWpNURwj5eErtgD8Z0UUfhrOjp5jet3S-U_jSe3Ch-hMuS3QjU_RCK_YcLUvft9kkt56F3gqDhpOa7T0W7hZNFlb3lunrT2sC5Muvcpv0VVNYNE8EjVQM4E3Cz5hdfM/s320/20190627_113012.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Now in the midday sun, plus a little weighed down from lunch, and still fighting the wind, the afternoon was a chore. Finally reaching the borders of Belgium, the cobbles appeared. Beautiful to look at, undesirable to ride on for sure! How they do the Paris Roubaix I do not know, and quite frankly, don't ever want to know how it feels! None the less it was nice to finally be in the next country, so it felt like progress was being made. The roads, now of mainly brick and cobble were not fun to ride a road bike on. My decision not to take the CX bike with nice 32c tyres was revisited in my mind a number of times.<br />
Stunning scenery just kept coming, and my first thoughts of "I really must come back here" came into my mind. If only the wind would give us a bit of a break. Wasn't going to happen, well not for long anyway.<br />
Riding alongside the canals was stunning. Quite a few stops for pictures had to be made, it would have felt like a wasted opportunity to just ride past it all, all for the sake of a more constant pace. It was not like I was right at the back anyway, so no drama. Soak it up and keep the mind occupied.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLzvb14b-9Gxlo0TUZ4Ps8ilnQM7AHEsk5QbYkDOg94i7vGWQQGXwwEej55AQUCi1x1oxDXd5linJCCptsiJSkIBGr6uERtmWAJW5IwpI0QxqzYAsJH9wKCSb0S6psmS9US2YgERYSgcQ/s1600/20190627_130525.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLzvb14b-9Gxlo0TUZ4Ps8ilnQM7AHEsk5QbYkDOg94i7vGWQQGXwwEej55AQUCi1x1oxDXd5linJCCptsiJSkIBGr6uERtmWAJW5IwpI0QxqzYAsJH9wKCSb0S6psmS9US2YgERYSgcQ/s320/20190627_130525.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp0H7rzsX1YzmyQLztoX2I7TDzAQ7Suuw9oh1EzbfrgjNxmOYiD34wT9GocwJA7U7gPQFDi0PZPEr2mzzjcGl-bGB1lQIKKd_YAIWdeb4mqJnaXgRoAkwZED-45rF-iB7Mqnlj5b3VnWI/s1600/20190627_135239.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp0H7rzsX1YzmyQLztoX2I7TDzAQ7Suuw9oh1EzbfrgjNxmOYiD34wT9GocwJA7U7gPQFDi0PZPEr2mzzjcGl-bGB1lQIKKd_YAIWdeb4mqJnaXgRoAkwZED-45rF-iB7Mqnlj5b3VnWI/s320/20190627_135239.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhud_ENYxIGX76P-EGOQ6xdS_baCNhyphenhyphen-j4nd2X7WfO5jV5PALtIuIG1el60Xg1BKKH7MlUuIAxZUbXzvXFfFKXu6ZLKgWcjlOiLpGtopkrgUDyfOL63L9s4AJItCaz4s6ky6-4x51Jf2E8/s1600/20190627_141720.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhud_ENYxIGX76P-EGOQ6xdS_baCNhyphenhyphen-j4nd2X7WfO5jV5PALtIuIG1el60Xg1BKKH7MlUuIAxZUbXzvXFfFKXu6ZLKgWcjlOiLpGtopkrgUDyfOL63L9s4AJItCaz4s6ky6-4x51Jf2E8/s320/20190627_141720.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCS8ybQEpKmPt5N21sFbl3yEr9Lzi9H5PI3Sxgm7FAAHBtNYotQlXmEr6Y04czluXMO84gtP__s7BCkmgIoKTQTYzJUN_YvBgylWvG0SUxHvvLD9sHdCa67ApIdTWlDxOUeARVboB5jiM/s1600/20190627_151108.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCS8ybQEpKmPt5N21sFbl3yEr9Lzi9H5PI3Sxgm7FAAHBtNYotQlXmEr6Y04czluXMO84gtP__s7BCkmgIoKTQTYzJUN_YvBgylWvG0SUxHvvLD9sHdCa67ApIdTWlDxOUeARVboB5jiM/s320/20190627_151108.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
A short water break later, much needed by this point as the temperatures were really starting to climb, and it was off onto the final leg of the day. Longer smoother roads now for the best part of the rest of the journey. With many more bike paths starting to appear, segregated from the roads. However one thing I discovered to my amazement was that mopeds are allowed to use them. Makes sense once you are aware of them popping up, but certainly a surprise when the first one appeared. Stops every five miles was now the arrangement I had with myself. Stay fresh, rest frequently, and drink plenty. It was also a good opportunity to get some more pictures. More staged ones, rather than rolling roads. From here on in, it was going to be enjoyable and memorable I decided, and soon the city limits appeared.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgobjLDoKe9lMs-AkzAwIrpib930HfRWroLX80bEsOjy0SPet1UwbTcFaNqj5xZbNLNZJwVeIBpWJKnxq_IdK7PejvTmvs1U0HaWD5HL1siWyqsre1QClsyRfpJczkicgjVbNII9AVsO34/s1600/20190627_151621.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgobjLDoKe9lMs-AkzAwIrpib930HfRWroLX80bEsOjy0SPet1UwbTcFaNqj5xZbNLNZJwVeIBpWJKnxq_IdK7PejvTmvs1U0HaWD5HL1siWyqsre1QClsyRfpJczkicgjVbNII9AVsO34/s320/20190627_151621.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhER3cjUwHV3LXyqeqwTXJn3WC48UUN2ZuWdWKnHFLbXeSdeZQ-zm9YyekQeIFRslkMP9dr80GmAt4bEc3QYcbXn6eHy4JPeMVPd6BvZc-hwZvKh_zZZ8D6pcdd1RIHyDzc8tUb0mvNUbA/s1600/20190627_153408.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhER3cjUwHV3LXyqeqwTXJn3WC48UUN2ZuWdWKnHFLbXeSdeZQ-zm9YyekQeIFRslkMP9dr80GmAt4bEc3QYcbXn6eHy4JPeMVPd6BvZc-hwZvKh_zZZ8D6pcdd1RIHyDzc8tUb0mvNUbA/s320/20190627_153408.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjnC4wT5Ps-EODF9KoHkAjfXUAEaSgt0PMsLxaXZq3XvHuItZpCjptGmCXzafaJHYaC5tEDdk4qn_YvFtubUbRD6nTfxH4bb0K8tyiht8TuLxKVFpmrdt-N6rgnInKdm_EeYUS0W-YVYE/s1600/20190627_162117.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjnC4wT5Ps-EODF9KoHkAjfXUAEaSgt0PMsLxaXZq3XvHuItZpCjptGmCXzafaJHYaC5tEDdk4qn_YvFtubUbRD6nTfxH4bb0K8tyiht8TuLxKVFpmrdt-N6rgnInKdm_EeYUS0W-YVYE/s320/20190627_162117.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuCqM40yGT37s4XR1Mg0zLcDTmcdsXy9KDHl8XfHfbd4Eqda4mz4wZwS5tGoPHpVMVIBqnFIz6d6Loy0t0MUKdxuSXdHhnosDewjK9pY-yvcwZkQjnNgSvh1RDZ6BhkVLIy0fMypH2Va8/s1600/20190627_165423.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuCqM40yGT37s4XR1Mg0zLcDTmcdsXy9KDHl8XfHfbd4Eqda4mz4wZwS5tGoPHpVMVIBqnFIz6d6Loy0t0MUKdxuSXdHhnosDewjK9pY-yvcwZkQjnNgSvh1RDZ6BhkVLIy0fMypH2Va8/s320/20190627_165423.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Arriving at the old city walls, the trail of orange guide arrows seemed to dry up, and Garmin was relied upon to find our way in to the final finishing spot. Arriving solo, I was soon a little lost, so just rode back to the main road, from where we all rode to the hotel together. What a relief it was to be with others. First time I had really thought that since the start. On arrival we realised we were actually one of the first groups to the hotel, so checked in and kicked back with a drink for a while.<br />
<br />
For the second night I was sharing a room, sorry Bill! A prolific snorer and bad sleeper, I would not wish myself on anyone, so the whole evening and night was spent on edge.<br />
Dinner was lovely, again I found myself with a great group on the table, Jan, Morgan, Jo, Fiona, John and more. Conversation was great, now all I had to do was get through the night of sharing. Back to the room, which I must say had a lovely view if nothing else, I just wanted sleep. My day was done.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7FUOR3VxAhNFeQSyD1LBd_TkoSilngKVnCZJIEmuY8QupoROSpWAMVxbNA94hrJi-w3JAjxhL4MIAPLq3VTds-_y02Z5H9au5shxtiKhNKn1gXjsmaIQJ0GeSo0IL7xTDHQVMrubZjLM/s1600/20190627_173227.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7FUOR3VxAhNFeQSyD1LBd_TkoSilngKVnCZJIEmuY8QupoROSpWAMVxbNA94hrJi-w3JAjxhL4MIAPLq3VTds-_y02Z5H9au5shxtiKhNKn1gXjsmaIQJ0GeSo0IL7xTDHQVMrubZjLM/s320/20190627_173227.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmy5ltrmLhPp_7_WjGQILIaDOA-TLnli00wxWTAm5ALGnFzOnNrHcA7WI64UQyYNYo7gBfaj5bRuuE8GGtKSMr7z74Pu8nUfT29DJrGvkQrG6rp182idwZRFPKoLSyWY-97G7N70Ia0Vs/s1600/20190627_184254.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmy5ltrmLhPp_7_WjGQILIaDOA-TLnli00wxWTAm5ALGnFzOnNrHcA7WI64UQyYNYo7gBfaj5bRuuE8GGtKSMr7z74Pu8nUfT29DJrGvkQrG6rp182idwZRFPKoLSyWY-97G7N70Ia0Vs/s320/20190627_184254.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTWzZxBv_O1o-zFRt2VSxaVNEaxp6TZ9o01ABwKcSJt7A_GvSqY8JON1l17hhmWWRwjdZrZsHMUKN-EPfHDfyFRNF-9qaHRCe5-N_1Ch0u-GajSMB3GMucnmJbxBU1tKwmQBOPBe5HiYE/s1600/20190627_201458.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTWzZxBv_O1o-zFRt2VSxaVNEaxp6TZ9o01ABwKcSJt7A_GvSqY8JON1l17hhmWWRwjdZrZsHMUKN-EPfHDfyFRNF-9qaHRCe5-N_1Ch0u-GajSMB3GMucnmJbxBU1tKwmQBOPBe5HiYE/s320/20190627_201458.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I should add here, stewed beef, with chips, I can handle. But add stewed apples to the plate and I get confused. First of a few strange combos.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbSgYOKLnFWA_Rkmg43dbraq2uJlxYUeil4MBLKdNhTS5oF7F3_V_aFx50WeInXrNN9tIu5nLp1-6rSa8NZpA-u2HRX-EHMikINwWIw-Q40lPJFk6bLgBvPIY1URsOqSZfJAdDUXJAzKk/s1600/20190627_204733.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbSgYOKLnFWA_Rkmg43dbraq2uJlxYUeil4MBLKdNhTS5oF7F3_V_aFx50WeInXrNN9tIu5nLp1-6rSa8NZpA-u2HRX-EHMikINwWIw-Q40lPJFk6bLgBvPIY1URsOqSZfJAdDUXJAzKk/s320/20190627_204733.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<b><u>Day 3 - Brugge to Breda</u></b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfq6B-RH3b1xFrLSqCzqQnl-HL0BPrST5Gl8r8R5QiVY94fuEIbpfsUTDna0_wtjpg0t1s8Godu8pl0NogdWdI7z-UEoE6nl-w9gZ4roBW8yvfwU4UdgCPtgl_eS5098OC4B1JRb_sqdE/s1600/Screenshot_20190702-122751_Strava.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="952" data-original-width="944" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfq6B-RH3b1xFrLSqCzqQnl-HL0BPrST5Gl8r8R5QiVY94fuEIbpfsUTDna0_wtjpg0t1s8Godu8pl0NogdWdI7z-UEoE6nl-w9gZ4roBW8yvfwU4UdgCPtgl_eS5098OC4B1JRb_sqdE/s320/Screenshot_20190702-122751_Strava.jpg" width="317" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Less wind forecast, but clear skies and high temps, Day 3 was set to be the nicest so far. Most of the day would be spent on cycle paths as we were now deep into the cycling centre of Europe. Hopefully this would be the first of the days I had expected when I signed up for the ride.<br />
Setting off after the briefing, it was already clear that the pace was right up there. Riding in a decent group, we were making good ground to get to the ferry for 9.40am.. Because that when the first ferry was, right... Nope. 10.15 was the first ferry we could get, so arriving just around 9.30, we had 45 mins of downtime, snack time, and stretch the legs. Not a bad thing, and at least we had all found our legs at last.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtd2-myYmE07F4EPY4B8IgOHXPKgacXjxDV9e9UIkQhKhfXRfy9FcEoN6zERJTYg7Twg9IU7RcY1ZaawyMz1blHovUZpUTGCLCJa1k72onxG6pegzh8XkTILiMIJqF5bwN3FOmd7Ogt1Y/s1600/20190628_081549.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtd2-myYmE07F4EPY4B8IgOHXPKgacXjxDV9e9UIkQhKhfXRfy9FcEoN6zERJTYg7Twg9IU7RcY1ZaawyMz1blHovUZpUTGCLCJa1k72onxG6pegzh8XkTILiMIJqF5bwN3FOmd7Ogt1Y/s320/20190628_081549.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbeSKO3SxMIHYDKaNyp1pIbewYoyDXZL2RWvWkhXpAfQk_egy5ivaPu6n-1POtHujkoFl7vXKrBRMfChheJy_2jpMgXwDLxhAqdaBveL9XzkIHTVYRLqfExZVUy3JV34y0fPYBBhbT_JA/s1600/20190628_082626.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbeSKO3SxMIHYDKaNyp1pIbewYoyDXZL2RWvWkhXpAfQk_egy5ivaPu6n-1POtHujkoFl7vXKrBRMfChheJy_2jpMgXwDLxhAqdaBveL9XzkIHTVYRLqfExZVUy3JV34y0fPYBBhbT_JA/s320/20190628_082626.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmx4nTuWLcN4z82WKh8KQ9Lg_rAIjygMclmQ2TFgT6dl0bAKbB2WbIFo9aYHyuvt9kfZiqnsn3-11SPXMe-atBi0dZtuRcrWyHpuc0VTae15o4u1j_49GH2E1-oF9i6KqfRfunfj6Zrfk/s1600/20190628_083812.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmx4nTuWLcN4z82WKh8KQ9Lg_rAIjygMclmQ2TFgT6dl0bAKbB2WbIFo9aYHyuvt9kfZiqnsn3-11SPXMe-atBi0dZtuRcrWyHpuc0VTae15o4u1j_49GH2E1-oF9i6KqfRfunfj6Zrfk/s320/20190628_083812.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjngoBBPeyuvZNuZHe2yMj7VQ0dpQr9kSYikMn_mEvmKKR67OMtiZakVV-jDObIiSorE19z_lV6dWb82xfrPba0zqumxiMWYRR9AV5gZIBK61I-uvl3-NclZbATrBUBph8RSqinHAX-CsI/s1600/20190628_094703.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjngoBBPeyuvZNuZHe2yMj7VQ0dpQr9kSYikMn_mEvmKKR67OMtiZakVV-jDObIiSorE19z_lV6dWb82xfrPba0zqumxiMWYRR9AV5gZIBK61I-uvl3-NclZbATrBUBph8RSqinHAX-CsI/s320/20190628_094703.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
After the ferry crossing, which I had again isolated myself from the others for some R&R, it was a strange old route out of the terminal, but soon onto amazing roads, now fast heading for lunch. Back running with the pack, the miles flew by, a couple of little stops along the way for photos and nature breaks, we were really making up for lost time. The sort of pace that we would have benefited from on Day 2. Getting to know new people once again, Matt, Toby, Jezz and more, it really helped my spirits riding along chatting to people that interested me. Sharing stories, having a laugh, group cycling (in tiny groups) isn't so bad after all!<br />
Steaming along, we almost missed the lunch stop, with a quick glance though, it was in our sights, and it was a much needed rest from the sun which was really getting going now.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ_PUEnV8qWkkS0y53SRt2Xn5sqCDCabqNhDp8Ex5OvjXFTKD7LiBTPoqPFENkZbIwzK5BrZU02GcibAXKUmGLCXJkwOFnmjX1Pu8DbM1EKFvPfDUqzy4YVXCMhxKwOTifyZOpEDDz5Y8/s1600/20190628_112036.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ_PUEnV8qWkkS0y53SRt2Xn5sqCDCabqNhDp8Ex5OvjXFTKD7LiBTPoqPFENkZbIwzK5BrZU02GcibAXKUmGLCXJkwOFnmjX1Pu8DbM1EKFvPfDUqzy4YVXCMhxKwOTifyZOpEDDz5Y8/s320/20190628_112036.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguyQ_xZXhyphenhyphenaPsZ6VnkgtPhR6gSeNRMbYNCte1vfH-Xtg1sntL4JLoj8MBBL-AyVKYCC3ad9swou6ixxTkOqTzkw7PAibF9jp8HdT4QIiIkKGBTJ-A3tBN1IIPeSzk6ht_azv62Ozj5O2o/s1600/20190628_115134.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguyQ_xZXhyphenhyphenaPsZ6VnkgtPhR6gSeNRMbYNCte1vfH-Xtg1sntL4JLoj8MBBL-AyVKYCC3ad9swou6ixxTkOqTzkw7PAibF9jp8HdT4QIiIkKGBTJ-A3tBN1IIPeSzk6ht_azv62Ozj5O2o/s320/20190628_115134.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXlynCtdHp_5i0ru6vjx3OLTShWHjrp40vTwq3CtfsbeDEBqhDlWq0SdKz9k8VJONTt00iTPERJHHeA11xjGVUAhk6D1Mdvlwt454M_dT58wKFz5cqgs1G5sRjb9unmwXiVrCBkOTEprA/s1600/20190628_120636.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXlynCtdHp_5i0ru6vjx3OLTShWHjrp40vTwq3CtfsbeDEBqhDlWq0SdKz9k8VJONTt00iTPERJHHeA11xjGVUAhk6D1Mdvlwt454M_dT58wKFz5cqgs1G5sRjb9unmwXiVrCBkOTEprA/s320/20190628_120636.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-uBhTaEWmw1fJ-U5962Hfp40zSJOOiA9kKPZW_PprZP2ucxS5vbJ3Cjvi9mzfVFcXuFmPQ59YNqEjo4-hP4B5750DbbowYzFq7iYHi0dI9NpxxSHkGRN2lMvI_s0EE_F0c1fK_NLheVM/s1600/20190628_124055.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-uBhTaEWmw1fJ-U5962Hfp40zSJOOiA9kKPZW_PprZP2ucxS5vbJ3Cjvi9mzfVFcXuFmPQ59YNqEjo4-hP4B5750DbbowYzFq7iYHi0dI9NpxxSHkGRN2lMvI_s0EE_F0c1fK_NLheVM/s320/20190628_124055.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Lunch was a loud affair, but pleasant too. Another slightly strange meal, but better than the lunch the day before. Fed and watered we were under way again quite soon, into the midday melt. This was the stop where poor Mario (my bike) got his first and only injuries, with mean Andy moving his bike... lol. I'm just messing, **it happens right!<br />
Lunch was followed by mile after mile of glorious cycle paths. By this point I was really starting to understand why so many people cycle here. I should point out, that we had been in the Netherlands for the majority of the ride.<br />
The next little twist came in the confusion as to how far the next water stop was. Confidence was high that it could not possibly be too far, as it was a hot and long day. Wrong!<br />
26-29 miles later we arrived at it, after passing through a sketchy housing estate, losing sight of the arrows, it was Garmin's time to save the day again.<br />
<br />
Choosing to roll with a slightly slower group for the remainder of the ride, the pace was still plenty fast for me. In no time at all we were getting into Breda. Again, the afternoon had been spent with a variety of people, really helping break the day up a bit.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2F30DMKLuJBhlJTAxVhSmuA3uVQ-R1ZS2XhpQQMsNoGGOpbtcrEjo8SO7zuqDQDqEkVP0sfZmJ_61FoQPfTp7WGvWSlB8dORGJRrjiqGo75lva16XEWDzez-yIaPeOJcOnVrh9D3X0aM/s1600/20190628_150528.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2F30DMKLuJBhlJTAxVhSmuA3uVQ-R1ZS2XhpQQMsNoGGOpbtcrEjo8SO7zuqDQDqEkVP0sfZmJ_61FoQPfTp7WGvWSlB8dORGJRrjiqGo75lva16XEWDzez-yIaPeOJcOnVrh9D3X0aM/s320/20190628_150528.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggKln-HnkixATgsuQACFJeuhcCbMvecSuBvArmgHj3YFpfvufId8vn-5cXFhuJlwTiCcWdvpo_IFGIfjX5ytwrvFdKXY37siOjS547_JxX6AqOtdw0-i-ESLZhMAJnIAiTOrqrrg-UwOQ/s1600/20190628_162603.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggKln-HnkixATgsuQACFJeuhcCbMvecSuBvArmgHj3YFpfvufId8vn-5cXFhuJlwTiCcWdvpo_IFGIfjX5ytwrvFdKXY37siOjS547_JxX6AqOtdw0-i-ESLZhMAJnIAiTOrqrrg-UwOQ/s320/20190628_162603.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKsV_tte5tngzqeLT_uifv2W5aH3nzrbTpcezetUgjDvhIK3xj1njr8GAewbg8eLFCeUH8HDiAKh2kz6kfcvInhaBwVxSQ_EHJ882TYfZSxpQdi2dEaO8eIJ5wPyprPXrTLDbtoK43l1E/s1600/20190628_170453.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKsV_tte5tngzqeLT_uifv2W5aH3nzrbTpcezetUgjDvhIK3xj1njr8GAewbg8eLFCeUH8HDiAKh2kz6kfcvInhaBwVxSQ_EHJ882TYfZSxpQdi2dEaO8eIJ5wPyprPXrTLDbtoK43l1E/s320/20190628_170453.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm2bhHRa5N2d03GQacxZWMyCjjVq9YXFQ5yUsfazmVjGMfGQJHYx7qkIw2t0T5sqe8iw43A3EtGvqTVPadlSrSsqEL04plCpP-_68GecN05I-7o8uGslulWtvwWSEQ4oQX92jn2ywM_PA/s1600/20190628_172854.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm2bhHRa5N2d03GQacxZWMyCjjVq9YXFQ5yUsfazmVjGMfGQJHYx7qkIw2t0T5sqe8iw43A3EtGvqTVPadlSrSsqEL04plCpP-_68GecN05I-7o8uGslulWtvwWSEQ4oQX92jn2ywM_PA/s320/20190628_172854.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Hotel time! Hurrah. A loud rowdy reception awaited us there, which was a welcome sight for the first time. Lovely looking hotel, wasting no time I got in an checked in, stowing the bike away. While doing so, it was a good time to chat, and everyones spirits were SO much higher than the day before. Exhausted by ecstatic to have all had such a great day in the saddle, spirits were high.<br />
Off to the room for me, a nice shower, get everything on charge, and back downstairs for a drink (of Pepsi) with the gang from the day. Again blessed with a single room, my hopes were high for a nice sleep. The room was stunning, I would happily book back in there to stay in the future.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8CfxjCQrkT0QdMVtuQdYA6ypTtpcy2s-FlvA6RMc2Q80v6gSfkbxZieX73XCIhBoBvU3IKlR3A42usY_loxu3PJFG5_nQOv1QoW6CfkZpDVAOeQiAVawJBLasrFCLwZ12fFMlhC0rICM/s1600/20190628_175935.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8CfxjCQrkT0QdMVtuQdYA6ypTtpcy2s-FlvA6RMc2Q80v6gSfkbxZieX73XCIhBoBvU3IKlR3A42usY_loxu3PJFG5_nQOv1QoW6CfkZpDVAOeQiAVawJBLasrFCLwZ12fFMlhC0rICM/s320/20190628_175935.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9tmNLPv6OZaoa9emsmClFxdoZlLNbaEDDcc8tEUtUfcTM4vys0Lmq1Yf8S2GZP4hTlwHMcu8605_-DS-airZLLaH1rn5AuADH-m94nzXmLw_-MvySLlDQ9B11mJE61RAablJ9x1JqCWg/s1600/20190628_175944.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9tmNLPv6OZaoa9emsmClFxdoZlLNbaEDDcc8tEUtUfcTM4vys0Lmq1Yf8S2GZP4hTlwHMcu8605_-DS-airZLLaH1rn5AuADH-m94nzXmLw_-MvySLlDQ9B11mJE61RAablJ9x1JqCWg/s320/20190628_175944.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Dinner time came round fast, but with some people still arriving way into the starters of the meal, it soon became apparent just how hard we had pushed that day. Knowledge of that was very rewarding to say the least.<br />
So dinner, bread arrived first, a lovely selection. followed by soup 10 mins later. Now I am not sure if it was hunger or actual flavour, but it tasted amazing. Something me and Hannah would discuss for the remainder of the trip. Bit strange having the bread and soup as separate courses but hey, it was tasty!<br />
The choice of main was chicken or fish (salmon on this day) much like the other days, which is fine. I went with the chicken.<br />
The salmon was served with new potatoes.. the chicken was served with........ Well, look for yourself!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhURejxX4-nadABF7G3mvTwei63JZeVLM-sfO3JeOhe2BHoJcWWZBGO5m_Nd5hqIzsp2-jnZMKJCI6UpuqryDKmN34elSWfv9aAu6u_xIbz-RPlMA2vOn9q738VnFq_b5gtxHvDyGS05Mc/s1600/20190628_212644.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhURejxX4-nadABF7G3mvTwei63JZeVLM-sfO3JeOhe2BHoJcWWZBGO5m_Nd5hqIzsp2-jnZMKJCI6UpuqryDKmN34elSWfv9aAu6u_xIbz-RPlMA2vOn9q738VnFq_b5gtxHvDyGS05Mc/s320/20190628_212644.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Yup, that is sweet popcorn!<br />
Anyway, the food was good, the combinations just a bit strange. The strange theme continued with chips being served 10 mins after the mains. I personally would have preferred the chips with the chicken and the popcorn with dessert, but then I can't cook, so what do I know.<br />
Off to bed once dinner was down, completely forgetting to find out the plans for the morning. Thank heavens for Facebook groups. Info secured, I was off to sleep.<br />
<br />
<b><u>Day 4 - Breda to Amsterdam</u></b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi68YHTHNOsmlxfUfos2tXV48WWt49NLjUELk300ElkKseXdmlJ8uOZqi3lHc3ZdK6ohOtF-JOoG5qspkK82HHYhw1EW5b_DCf_z4_KMshHgb5pRdNYZ3QKiD9dBU_tvyEe0Sm44lkqMbs/s1600/Screenshot_20190702-122826_Strava.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="943" data-original-width="944" height="319" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi68YHTHNOsmlxfUfos2tXV48WWt49NLjUELk300ElkKseXdmlJ8uOZqi3lHc3ZdK6ohOtF-JOoG5qspkK82HHYhw1EW5b_DCf_z4_KMshHgb5pRdNYZ3QKiD9dBU_tvyEe0Sm44lkqMbs/s320/Screenshot_20190702-122826_Strava.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Time for the final push. Now aware of how much food my stomach could cope with before a ride, I decided to take things a little easier on the final day. So imagine my sadness on seeing the best spread to date, and a huge bowl of lovely crispy bacon!! If only I was not riding, but alas! Breakfast tucked away, bottles full, briefing done, we were off. Best day by far, weather, spirit, everything.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik5eaNexqKC6cP3d8MQKpD71aX0KQOGlFpFp4Jdvkxwro6Ly-7-dnvNxOrxB7U1VeeeHC2UqlZ3hqn9y2AcTZ9K_-7-ZbJgyoaE37Knqj9MldlHNCOuQlgvttJXmNq-sT9v106qN0ntSc/s1600/20190629_073527.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik5eaNexqKC6cP3d8MQKpD71aX0KQOGlFpFp4Jdvkxwro6Ly-7-dnvNxOrxB7U1VeeeHC2UqlZ3hqn9y2AcTZ9K_-7-ZbJgyoaE37Knqj9MldlHNCOuQlgvttJXmNq-sT9v106qN0ntSc/s320/20190629_073527.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwbJDqkyTkHkGh0OVwDNffQQ_3cs9ciYJJXTI_6LaHfxUOG51PdXnbcW4u3pJqoFSVbsLpXStoi43Z8letAdXtVGFTCUUrvu7m8pbOKzqAHq-S3ido8RKstB8IzGcId4gzKEqS-nkJ3eM/s1600/20190629_074006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwbJDqkyTkHkGh0OVwDNffQQ_3cs9ciYJJXTI_6LaHfxUOG51PdXnbcW4u3pJqoFSVbsLpXStoi43Z8letAdXtVGFTCUUrvu7m8pbOKzqAHq-S3ido8RKstB8IzGcId4gzKEqS-nkJ3eM/s320/20190629_074006.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWc3JMeqU1iCvIi95OLqSV_qkzuKWvGzpU20Zc7hFtGSATbdCzgLKAoj0i6MwjICexe4YHFL35M7arwxvGbyZbtAM-S8RtEaoneuH5nO1u1vHlOaneKYMpjYrLtTe_d0T7qJCVWr3QuBo/s1600/20190629_081231.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWc3JMeqU1iCvIi95OLqSV_qkzuKWvGzpU20Zc7hFtGSATbdCzgLKAoj0i6MwjICexe4YHFL35M7arwxvGbyZbtAM-S8RtEaoneuH5nO1u1vHlOaneKYMpjYrLtTe_d0T7qJCVWr3QuBo/s320/20190629_081231.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Out the doors, straight into amazing sunshine, gentle breeze, and onto mind-blowing cycle lanes.<br />
I won't put all the picutres on here, as there are hundreds, but will instead put a link <b><a href="https://photos.app.goo.gl/gGfs1osPj5nnPBoPA">HERE</a></b> for the full album, and just share a few of my favourites (as I have done for other days too). If there is one section of the whole ride to ride again, it would be this one. The paths, scenery, road users, places, everything is amazing. I will return here one day for sure.<br />
So, breakfast to waterstop 1.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCaIhM21SJnDUHeJGFRvBeIeVSPWG08IbQ0xBpLUT7vT7KpK6l6YYKCAi5iSKP2CCsLUYb7PEwLRDkFwDLDmuCXAwrNmhTyZ6GsCYhdnXYVPMBqMdgW4HT1ikIae_h3hrmgPoByfJM6EM/s1600/20190629_082046.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCaIhM21SJnDUHeJGFRvBeIeVSPWG08IbQ0xBpLUT7vT7KpK6l6YYKCAi5iSKP2CCsLUYb7PEwLRDkFwDLDmuCXAwrNmhTyZ6GsCYhdnXYVPMBqMdgW4HT1ikIae_h3hrmgPoByfJM6EM/s320/20190629_082046.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOc9GPdPqgRLM6uO9s9ssR282mpe17SoRhdJfn0Zn_o6QJLBf2UKppyqBDca7VedlFHh-trb1ScD3QQ2B4p6CdtPu_RESq4AQFnjrKBfNXqUA5WlobzyWbYZqrArXeoITXR86QDmkg9gc/s1600/20190629_084140.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOc9GPdPqgRLM6uO9s9ssR282mpe17SoRhdJfn0Zn_o6QJLBf2UKppyqBDca7VedlFHh-trb1ScD3QQ2B4p6CdtPu_RESq4AQFnjrKBfNXqUA5WlobzyWbYZqrArXeoITXR86QDmkg9gc/s320/20190629_084140.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdpUGTnSoXTyZ4HqKAU7IuWHDtBkrTuotr8og5tBF7D8QQKdewBPxvEDZWS3PGfwMCg9LUTuQsEsJOCo2rKXzefQ6lgSI9PFTg6KnnFJNXJdwkSvHBjaZ3_6XvoEteESnRj9EBGWwmGJc/s1600/20190629_091203.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdpUGTnSoXTyZ4HqKAU7IuWHDtBkrTuotr8og5tBF7D8QQKdewBPxvEDZWS3PGfwMCg9LUTuQsEsJOCo2rKXzefQ6lgSI9PFTg6KnnFJNXJdwkSvHBjaZ3_6XvoEteESnRj9EBGWwmGJc/s320/20190629_091203.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitTiqq4VJROuAxCKhDTsh4zCZcGmej37xPRqyYF8dWBC_ywEUKRlXKFZ-CF0LbFtrDaiY7ecGFS_9hGPoLcXIfvHRz6tGBBYi71W9XuAdnfUpP9BCwRtztP4Vh75XPndi81g98ld93Vn0/s1600/20190629_093454.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitTiqq4VJROuAxCKhDTsh4zCZcGmej37xPRqyYF8dWBC_ywEUKRlXKFZ-CF0LbFtrDaiY7ecGFS_9hGPoLcXIfvHRz6tGBBYi71W9XuAdnfUpP9BCwRtztP4Vh75XPndi81g98ld93Vn0/s320/20190629_093454.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpaitK7-342T92rMFLy44mROM0k69Q961BW6KLHjahbe6syhYYyGLI_3nSnv4hurliiZ4SITtOfpSQzfvt9UX1FGmlUU9wdbfKyJKcJIY-yPvUn8R1JHLkd1XB7TI1dl4AmVO4BlvMltA/s1600/20190629_100534.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpaitK7-342T92rMFLy44mROM0k69Q961BW6KLHjahbe6syhYYyGLI_3nSnv4hurliiZ4SITtOfpSQzfvt9UX1FGmlUU9wdbfKyJKcJIY-yPvUn8R1JHLkd1XB7TI1dl4AmVO4BlvMltA/s320/20190629_100534.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4Fh8NmibOzHYKJyfhnQGbJkfcuGRSWyeeZ-x1UzSWas6fIHFwvBqPlq6MGnSMcxqsyUItRJe8ANNBhkdQo24tTu9cnKuJOzbRc_HWezlm0G52qaRG-VP0G96ncfiGX4S-GcTezo4dIPE/s1600/20190629_101729.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4Fh8NmibOzHYKJyfhnQGbJkfcuGRSWyeeZ-x1UzSWas6fIHFwvBqPlq6MGnSMcxqsyUItRJe8ANNBhkdQo24tTu9cnKuJOzbRc_HWezlm0G52qaRG-VP0G96ncfiGX4S-GcTezo4dIPE/s320/20190629_101729.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
There isn't much more I can say, other than I loved every second of the first leg of the day. What's not to love! Great company great roads, nice pace!<br />
Off to lunch stop.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqT7P1EoDitueCDdDE85rug50m934uON0ZxPUneBj0918JKobVRnr7XXJIrWWj9peIuk7NFaiirvix2bevm4RAZmTi7EFNzKXw6FkO4mA38Q47fjjnJg7zLqL8Wg1WlXM1hxdCAroH1wY/s1600/20190629_104016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqT7P1EoDitueCDdDE85rug50m934uON0ZxPUneBj0918JKobVRnr7XXJIrWWj9peIuk7NFaiirvix2bevm4RAZmTi7EFNzKXw6FkO4mA38Q47fjjnJg7zLqL8Wg1WlXM1hxdCAroH1wY/s320/20190629_104016.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf1DTxJ-BqMN3iYmmiPBj8nqL7fL-5cYp2z1S1d5v6ruCF2Rpiac6hxGkQ6DowRfbgi0vs3a9_-iWokJEfgB7D7xBJiIVSPBg4z6MMrlFpzhkaGMxjEM4TgWM5fXm9coU1NUmY6NE2mBU/s1600/20190629_110513.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf1DTxJ-BqMN3iYmmiPBj8nqL7fL-5cYp2z1S1d5v6ruCF2Rpiac6hxGkQ6DowRfbgi0vs3a9_-iWokJEfgB7D7xBJiIVSPBg4z6MMrlFpzhkaGMxjEM4TgWM5fXm9coU1NUmY6NE2mBU/s320/20190629_110513.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNWS0yL_8fD8v9r7uQaRgN9U1MFxKL2gg2JJK3TgsI-ZUqtY7t4FXppUonUMJNhItuyvK8flRkBpZSPDvLdBdtHmTII5N5QuJhAmuFn5eo-4Wtwrs_DQQ89md00IX5pO-tkdGLaYKHGIM/s1600/20190629_110515.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNWS0yL_8fD8v9r7uQaRgN9U1MFxKL2gg2JJK3TgsI-ZUqtY7t4FXppUonUMJNhItuyvK8flRkBpZSPDvLdBdtHmTII5N5QuJhAmuFn5eo-4Wtwrs_DQQ89md00IX5pO-tkdGLaYKHGIM/s320/20190629_110515.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMiib0o_ahBa0Zouff6syR0Y_ARcoSsMplY57m2mSy_AIPx_OgeibbybrN5rr6J1s4P8cBlYsmUUGVmilTmICl_sfoqP_BTCC4WM6NyGLHpovUcdVGkzrGE9ciHNTkKtWSn4NvbnL5UZU/s1600/20190629_111551.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMiib0o_ahBa0Zouff6syR0Y_ARcoSsMplY57m2mSy_AIPx_OgeibbybrN5rr6J1s4P8cBlYsmUUGVmilTmICl_sfoqP_BTCC4WM6NyGLHpovUcdVGkzrGE9ciHNTkKtWSn4NvbnL5UZU/s320/20190629_111551.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8-E8pAAptoi8o66zxZBkBGlyJ_2bIiRmF11PmHAv3c7zKafZRuSz-dfqujwHpWl4h_bwj6bNV3AnUkp0E-HFlDgyutpXPecebOB4HjIDouQktKr1MGapSzynEMZ2f615jHRn_epn44Ug/s1600/20190629_112242.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8-E8pAAptoi8o66zxZBkBGlyJ_2bIiRmF11PmHAv3c7zKafZRuSz-dfqujwHpWl4h_bwj6bNV3AnUkp0E-HFlDgyutpXPecebOB4HjIDouQktKr1MGapSzynEMZ2f615jHRn_epn44Ug/s320/20190629_112242.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJh7JvHKOt1X0_iA3MAKhN0FcAgqtxuldN7vZk0Us6CXeRJKEogaXZdV7jCfr0gP-36779zvrivmFaRtr5V4bB_8PZjG28RwLJeLZXX_uqrD2T_nyYWzsBryxzJ4B1GWCEyNCQZo-odc0/s1600/20190629_112514.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJh7JvHKOt1X0_iA3MAKhN0FcAgqtxuldN7vZk0Us6CXeRJKEogaXZdV7jCfr0gP-36779zvrivmFaRtr5V4bB_8PZjG28RwLJeLZXX_uqrD2T_nyYWzsBryxzJ4B1GWCEyNCQZo-odc0/s320/20190629_112514.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Temps now into the 30's, getting out the sun for a while was a blessing for sure. Relaxing lunch with a few of the bunch. Once again presented with foods that I would not ordinarily choose. Dishwater with floating veg pieces! Ham and egg on lightly toasted bread. All a but strange but wow it hit the spot.<br />
Going back outside after lunch, we suddenly realised how hot it was. Picking my group wisely, I stayed with Stewart and Hannah, steady pace, conversation but not too much, perfection.<br />
We rode along some lovely roads, high above the houses, looking down over rivers etc. Again, stunning scenery, and the time simply flew by.<br />
<br />
Last official waterstop was soon upon us, and much needed too. Not far to go as such, but some were really starting to run low on fluids.<br />
<br />
From here, the afternoon flew by, and soon I was back riding with Toby, Darren, Mark and more, getting ever closer to the outskirts of Amsterdam. Frequent stops to take shelter from the sun for a bit, and rest tired legs.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZKdJQVExMqNaA974hvHQiMPhFI5Rj12808CynH_YJo3q0vdIMXeiE48sCFHQNPGN92qxbcaAfqAWjbM0q7CeJOGnbClQEnm2o8CuuMygJ2SgNxjjoUiVU7SFUiFwj85xGemP20ZQaWws/s1600/20190629_124456.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZKdJQVExMqNaA974hvHQiMPhFI5Rj12808CynH_YJo3q0vdIMXeiE48sCFHQNPGN92qxbcaAfqAWjbM0q7CeJOGnbClQEnm2o8CuuMygJ2SgNxjjoUiVU7SFUiFwj85xGemP20ZQaWws/s320/20190629_124456.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuUbWNyLGFaRNWWCOrOcPenAUUTDIKwetaeC3KMt5wZF3-3fz88hnzOdaWXYj8VhEVjcxoLPRdDRtWKdfujYNseNDMK79UgehC7YfKx64msSCDMCMH4VqtWAJCHvKfx3wIIu1-FxTFfZs/s1600/20190629_125520.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuUbWNyLGFaRNWWCOrOcPenAUUTDIKwetaeC3KMt5wZF3-3fz88hnzOdaWXYj8VhEVjcxoLPRdDRtWKdfujYNseNDMK79UgehC7YfKx64msSCDMCMH4VqtWAJCHvKfx3wIIu1-FxTFfZs/s320/20190629_125520.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxyPQyrRQ62jzkGtTKtOKDRPxSAKfUcFqFGPPlGlA_r5gsGuwijN0zzlIuFaUoWPKWZWi7PRasaIj5jf-ghw-l2K1BvSlt1ZtWJHwttGz6vyfT9ePKZP6g6Q9TUz5D3Fu-LpPAWhKJWHA/s1600/20190629_125834.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxyPQyrRQ62jzkGtTKtOKDRPxSAKfUcFqFGPPlGlA_r5gsGuwijN0zzlIuFaUoWPKWZWi7PRasaIj5jf-ghw-l2K1BvSlt1ZtWJHwttGz6vyfT9ePKZP6g6Q9TUz5D3Fu-LpPAWhKJWHA/s320/20190629_125834.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxI1PPgZcUZp63EQT593nWu5HD6n8MBhG3XmWkDERbiZba3uy4eiKv8_W-zAd7ftFL_1PuvGXJgbAmdit282SnrkN8YsvS96eF6QGQxNQ1XgJSerwQpGhURowqZaFUEBjfYPT7zhyY6RU/s1600/20190629_135541.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxI1PPgZcUZp63EQT593nWu5HD6n8MBhG3XmWkDERbiZba3uy4eiKv8_W-zAd7ftFL_1PuvGXJgbAmdit282SnrkN8YsvS96eF6QGQxNQ1XgJSerwQpGhURowqZaFUEBjfYPT7zhyY6RU/s320/20190629_135541.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwWx6fEyyP6G34j1YE82p5MYO46Ua7yNwn5CM7s3HUjYwWhuVA0V796r4b7BbVaC4RZdfH-gD7ZFR1VXjXorPIOXKl7eat74Cwe4oxBDYa6EzyLC43YDblq35rfzgNWIHXmS8yE5xMo74/s1600/20190629_135956.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwWx6fEyyP6G34j1YE82p5MYO46Ua7yNwn5CM7s3HUjYwWhuVA0V796r4b7BbVaC4RZdfH-gD7ZFR1VXjXorPIOXKl7eat74Cwe4oxBDYa6EzyLC43YDblq35rfzgNWIHXmS8yE5xMo74/s320/20190629_135956.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtjIRPXsVSNMhBmM4_NO041tCYRDLpdJwWXi_E4c43BIiyRwUdCZBp98bgr4r7brnptBQeRSVJT5wLeEt-oVICqU14qK_Ws_bJiKHy8tV_nkOZBiSKjcjK27sg5P45pyhumbzyT5QYL-M/s1600/20190629_145827.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtjIRPXsVSNMhBmM4_NO041tCYRDLpdJwWXi_E4c43BIiyRwUdCZBp98bgr4r7brnptBQeRSVJT5wLeEt-oVICqU14qK_Ws_bJiKHy8tV_nkOZBiSKjcjK27sg5P45pyhumbzyT5QYL-M/s320/20190629_145827.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHGeR9AuW8BtmkBZDqIy57OwXTo6K4Qbwv1EUacDWk09oiTYEe2IvTwrzgYkvyC5g3y8o4qAut66-GNNeLg68jTtKbt5IAomf0HD2IKV4dzh51QanIg1LadIspU7HDmuA_mYdzSgUGKYo/s1600/20190629_150055.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHGeR9AuW8BtmkBZDqIy57OwXTo6K4Qbwv1EUacDWk09oiTYEe2IvTwrzgYkvyC5g3y8o4qAut66-GNNeLg68jTtKbt5IAomf0HD2IKV4dzh51QanIg1LadIspU7HDmuA_mYdzSgUGKYo/s320/20190629_150055.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Told there would be "holding points" for everyone to regroup at, arriving at HP1, it was simply a bar in town just away from the canal. Not in the mood to stop while everyone sat in the sun and drank beer, I decided to move on to HP2, which I was told " a few of the faster ones" had moved on to. Steady pace, on my own, it was perfect. Able to enjoy the scenery on a glorious weekend Amsterdam day, I really got a feel for what life there is like when unwinding. In awe of how many people simply put their swimming clothes on and rode to the river and park.<br />
<br />
The last 6 miles to HP2 at the park were stunning, again, a few pics below.<br />
On arriving at HP2 it was apparent that only 8-10 of us at most had made it. With the "grand departure" for the group arrival at the museum scheduled for about 4pm, it was not looking good. 4.20pm I checked with Hamish (one of the guides) who was as baffled as I was as to where people were.<br />
I popped off to Subway to get some food returning just before 5. How many more had now arrived.... None!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgox8JhPYO7f5g_ET_9e9SdhM6Eyy7Zhx8IU0R_fBVYJQYQtqnNg0Pspid2PvUZBtEEPvS49Xfl87m_8ZSwfHUMsw-6HIYhdLQNNaVp6YvGmjEiHVB0ujlCMDgXh-gNSmDsPJdI2ot7dDA/s1600/20190629_154036.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgox8JhPYO7f5g_ET_9e9SdhM6Eyy7Zhx8IU0R_fBVYJQYQtqnNg0Pspid2PvUZBtEEPvS49Xfl87m_8ZSwfHUMsw-6HIYhdLQNNaVp6YvGmjEiHVB0ujlCMDgXh-gNSmDsPJdI2ot7dDA/s320/20190629_154036.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmHom1WKbKj1BIKofTEIAp5-nIXjzMYsyL15KyxddXXHMqt2x4psC2OMEuPGmlob7Mcyne-BG2-RF6a_CSvB1mVNcCntSinXZwZmUFZpGItM7f6zBer74vx0HFcXcke35B1y7c0yzPQ9o/s1600/20190629_161146.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmHom1WKbKj1BIKofTEIAp5-nIXjzMYsyL15KyxddXXHMqt2x4psC2OMEuPGmlob7Mcyne-BG2-RF6a_CSvB1mVNcCntSinXZwZmUFZpGItM7f6zBer74vx0HFcXcke35B1y7c0yzPQ9o/s320/20190629_161146.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS7JULueRm9MDU7wryYnurKa_FkERwWBmPypoIx6lpNispkSIVmGpxYnlRcwCD7XJrMKwJHYVfJNcqhIq_1e7DvFNMXfQK5qyqP9Enaoo9F-tQVtnqtAksUTKWBI7pc_9i-ftlxC7EZZU/s1600/20190629_161214.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS7JULueRm9MDU7wryYnurKa_FkERwWBmPypoIx6lpNispkSIVmGpxYnlRcwCD7XJrMKwJHYVfJNcqhIq_1e7DvFNMXfQK5qyqP9Enaoo9F-tQVtnqtAksUTKWBI7pc_9i-ftlxC7EZZU/s320/20190629_161214.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeJkzLbLv4RqaXjav6sdP7UBqh5tdGOgipTxZT2Xg-3CKqDwz_YZXeDJQNzvK1bSgOdQejAoCwYLACXq6CkqAZRl9nVbwyTqtmMwRBQizzKfRUm4aQDbzo3BadjAdB-dGoptniMIcGico/s1600/20190629_161943.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeJkzLbLv4RqaXjav6sdP7UBqh5tdGOgipTxZT2Xg-3CKqDwz_YZXeDJQNzvK1bSgOdQejAoCwYLACXq6CkqAZRl9nVbwyTqtmMwRBQizzKfRUm4aQDbzo3BadjAdB-dGoptniMIcGico/s320/20190629_161943.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx4tDiLXg86rRZM7cnJpze7lBrb5aBUziBHkjxv-ailaDAccqTAYKMn4-kphIeF1GCMgWvlkwdVL25g2pDSiOFcgHYis7cwYGYs8UuZGytU84S7EXm8ZDpm4XpqE77SA2ELf4pMfVS1DA/s1600/20190629_163710.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx4tDiLXg86rRZM7cnJpze7lBrb5aBUziBHkjxv-ailaDAccqTAYKMn4-kphIeF1GCMgWvlkwdVL25g2pDSiOFcgHYis7cwYGYs8UuZGytU84S7EXm8ZDpm4XpqE77SA2ELf4pMfVS1DA/s320/20190629_163710.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh9pNSeHGdcKdha7tOLtg7C0YJjycRZb0-C_gXzBNoR2Vetdl_UTGAfSEUtgl0fv71G_1oAfCsmAZX46qwD7YACPfBXLgLxA7uZTANZRBugqPELEKbtBNj95TILdkBzY-hGdLv3eMY5zA/s1600/20190629_164306.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh9pNSeHGdcKdha7tOLtg7C0YJjycRZb0-C_gXzBNoR2Vetdl_UTGAfSEUtgl0fv71G_1oAfCsmAZX46qwD7YACPfBXLgLxA7uZTANZRBugqPELEKbtBNj95TILdkBzY-hGdLv3eMY5zA/s320/20190629_164306.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK9cmOXsm2zpS6GjmFHmrnbPVw4hxZwT1pkZRcDAow0wF94j3OAcqImceNv_eIjsVbUCaNmK-LUibAJ4Tw7WFtKhFJI0xrlSKJJjGZko0F7NStqgYtNbdek1UD1Lb6Ff_FVe_XZUg1RQM/s1600/20190629_164643.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK9cmOXsm2zpS6GjmFHmrnbPVw4hxZwT1pkZRcDAow0wF94j3OAcqImceNv_eIjsVbUCaNmK-LUibAJ4Tw7WFtKhFJI0xrlSKJJjGZko0F7NStqgYtNbdek1UD1Lb6Ff_FVe_XZUg1RQM/s320/20190629_164643.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Around 6pm the masses finally started to arrive. After a final quick briefing, it was time for the worlds most scattered group ride into the Museum.<br />
WE MADE IT!!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBfcVDwaNFxtoRTLfm8YmVoHAl_I24THMiHvaw9PnePcfwWeRRF7q0qDmHz9v2Nxlb22S2UQ04BrwCg45zSjqeI9XApyL8eSTcHHDULurH8NxN00QlUVH7gdcVkvmgL1IjJbhu1odb_78/s1600/20190629_182515.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBfcVDwaNFxtoRTLfm8YmVoHAl_I24THMiHvaw9PnePcfwWeRRF7q0qDmHz9v2Nxlb22S2UQ04BrwCg45zSjqeI9XApyL8eSTcHHDULurH8NxN00QlUVH7gdcVkvmgL1IjJbhu1odb_78/s320/20190629_182515.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdlBmaAmm0xdvP7s49JSGoU7_prHMzudplWrqtnMZ_n7u4uZhR5Rbt3iW854VXGLzPadCKYJttFhrOdhbsrbheLA7KZZDm7OfoGDoiHLu41YF7h-XburJ9xFwV9nMlFe9WCn0QEx09Srg/s1600/20190629_184431.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdlBmaAmm0xdvP7s49JSGoU7_prHMzudplWrqtnMZ_n7u4uZhR5Rbt3iW854VXGLzPadCKYJttFhrOdhbsrbheLA7KZZDm7OfoGDoiHLu41YF7h-XburJ9xFwV9nMlFe9WCn0QEx09Srg/s320/20190629_184431.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Once there, I have to say I was feeling rather anti social, so went off to do my own little celebration, before waiting quietly to head off to the hotel<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJfEhhKmoytu9R9Mdi_VU-V83atSGoEqHtzH6ZDEI30U9LySbIq-zF7mLzvRbpCQ4aa6tv4SIv-MWeyON5BDJ7QTWEkzXh-ePNvxznDVKxM68Y-iqvoW3lOGmsylPO4xOUB4obe8sckjo/s1600/20190629_183345.mp4" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJfEhhKmoytu9R9Mdi_VU-V83atSGoEqHtzH6ZDEI30U9LySbIq-zF7mLzvRbpCQ4aa6tv4SIv-MWeyON5BDJ7QTWEkzXh-ePNvxznDVKxM68Y-iqvoW3lOGmsylPO4xOUB4obe8sckjo/s320/20190629_183345.mp4" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
The final leg to the hotel was fun for all, soaked from sitting in the fountain. But again, fab roads and a perfect opportunity to see what was left in the legs, with a sprint for the lights. Max 1261w, with a 10 second 1000w sprint before the road ran out.<br />
Finally, the hotel was in sight, get in, get stripped, get a shower. Aaah<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdnaahVZjVc9HYkuCwhj2JTDn0A_WdFfhsh_LFA6je4_Q0TP6o7uoqtHgOph9rOr-0nd6f1DN2fM22Vo2uV_32V9HX-OR4hPdILukEF1ZqlzVtbE61zcsfktGzWup64TYfE2w4cN_gRCs/s1600/20190629_192355.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdnaahVZjVc9HYkuCwhj2JTDn0A_WdFfhsh_LFA6je4_Q0TP6o7uoqtHgOph9rOr-0nd6f1DN2fM22Vo2uV_32V9HX-OR4hPdILukEF1ZqlzVtbE61zcsfktGzWup64TYfE2w4cN_gRCs/s320/20190629_192355.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1vK42D7lizfHcsdB0kWfViVYCB9YYCd0jyXS6Zlu8UoGQTFJ8TFUHlR7iSvDeUzKueJzgDY7Ep0phgBLOYcRvcex2QPvk0BeQoHr2rkRqI1uHfrdz_aaD93Oge0ispbxyLICvYZPSams/s1600/20190629_193704.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1vK42D7lizfHcsdB0kWfViVYCB9YYCd0jyXS6Zlu8UoGQTFJ8TFUHlR7iSvDeUzKueJzgDY7Ep0phgBLOYcRvcex2QPvk0BeQoHr2rkRqI1uHfrdz_aaD93Oge0ispbxyLICvYZPSams/s320/20190629_193704.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-HlGpjMgJWYGJIRUS3L1-AgFZf2DhqSrJDeXmX8T5aM3asb6Y8EFInHWN4LxPP2xEBziaTX4bRlktjL4wW7mrmnbDp2MJ-detecbVtBCWRD388WSRWDSKmVGhKOt_7f7M5shnOY0TSDg/s1600/20190629_193723.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-HlGpjMgJWYGJIRUS3L1-AgFZf2DhqSrJDeXmX8T5aM3asb6Y8EFInHWN4LxPP2xEBziaTX4bRlktjL4wW7mrmnbDp2MJ-detecbVtBCWRD388WSRWDSKmVGhKOt_7f7M5shnOY0TSDg/s320/20190629_193723.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoB74t_HyRA7FK2v4AHLPNVtB0hyphenhyphenLsnIzMsd6tqmMf3xvem_Uev5y-fPQ1h5eCZGMKiCmHJIB0WHrUGpe8eA0KcMt8-fBdkWwb6zYPIJva_cbJelKvSup-PPY8UgLqhFY7lB7Sr-VG8hQ/s1600/20190629_194551.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoB74t_HyRA7FK2v4AHLPNVtB0hyphenhyphenLsnIzMsd6tqmMf3xvem_Uev5y-fPQ1h5eCZGMKiCmHJIB0WHrUGpe8eA0KcMt8-fBdkWwb6zYPIJva_cbJelKvSup-PPY8UgLqhFY7lB7Sr-VG8hQ/s320/20190629_194551.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvQ_537Os1MuN6-_NuFdpb3zSr3DNr5S-hNtPaK54vEmnNfbrDS0_NVCoCYa4wIkUa03KwMYVHQQAxYNwAWpQs502FW5B6O7FtQu_8QvVLLNQv0Gbmhk9Ij-Lb8p3w4ewpA_NiPzuvu6Y/s1600/20190629_195232.mp4" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvQ_537Os1MuN6-_NuFdpb3zSr3DNr5S-hNtPaK54vEmnNfbrDS0_NVCoCYa4wIkUa03KwMYVHQQAxYNwAWpQs502FW5B6O7FtQu_8QvVLLNQv0Gbmhk9Ij-Lb8p3w4ewpA_NiPzuvu6Y/s320/20190629_195232.mp4" width="180" /></a></div>
<br />
All that was left was the celebration dinner, and sleep!<br />
Burger and chips was not what I was expecting for the celebration meal, but it hit the spot.<br />
Speeches were beautiful, it was lovely to all be wearing our finishers t-shirts and be awarded our medals.<br />
After that, it was bedtime.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7zMByHoZZmriUdNKK-qyFXTybrS0tyBkqGuIoLcWfHVe62BtzGZP1hhFxyB5IXlUDVXoQsBZ9maP27hC7AMbjRsnFjnw_vdJXMNkG9ehrhE4F6ZsJUE5_L5uX5_rnLVkyrmXxwDBVF58/s1600/20190629_205427.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7zMByHoZZmriUdNKK-qyFXTybrS0tyBkqGuIoLcWfHVe62BtzGZP1hhFxyB5IXlUDVXoQsBZ9maP27hC7AMbjRsnFjnw_vdJXMNkG9ehrhE4F6ZsJUE5_L5uX5_rnLVkyrmXxwDBVF58/s320/20190629_205427.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNVCVAeVGa9mxzq9YDXemfK5QNB7gi77p7rMTOIYtW_bAC183uXjPoTfx1jYv5JtI4CNlDiNyyn8YxH_nZtHudvUKSSExuwBxbmHu0xXNzvMx79vA77laDq7ZjilhRsZJiAfPRv1otPwQ/s1600/20190629_212512.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNVCVAeVGa9mxzq9YDXemfK5QNB7gi77p7rMTOIYtW_bAC183uXjPoTfx1jYv5JtI4CNlDiNyyn8YxH_nZtHudvUKSSExuwBxbmHu0xXNzvMx79vA77laDq7ZjilhRsZJiAfPRv1otPwQ/s320/20190629_212512.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRaUN4w4QJUfR4ru3RnGmFd1lyn5wZ4AE18cl4pWTsxknoOqNT10I5UyPKXjRm-XhWIuP6rJBtMAGW-d1d_xMxrpYtQu_AWfJdrdD6gPskEU6zN4fs3O7c_d03Dq-9q9kLNoO0I-30EZA/s1600/20190629_221609.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRaUN4w4QJUfR4ru3RnGmFd1lyn5wZ4AE18cl4pWTsxknoOqNT10I5UyPKXjRm-XhWIuP6rJBtMAGW-d1d_xMxrpYtQu_AWfJdrdD6gPskEU6zN4fs3O7c_d03Dq-9q9kLNoO0I-30EZA/s320/20190629_221609.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaSbHtvZ_uqUECsWelzG1GqHJm8hc-FcUgKQJJjOCuQOOMZ9Vsq-V_d6nh57iIbBsA9Lg7eF6MSVW4FUvhB1iW2BSToJ6bGcoQh5dJG8cr4CGMBWRzjxfv8MUFLWvIVXixeXIu_T3Eyhc/s1600/20190629_221714.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaSbHtvZ_uqUECsWelzG1GqHJm8hc-FcUgKQJJjOCuQOOMZ9Vsq-V_d6nh57iIbBsA9Lg7eF6MSVW4FUvhB1iW2BSToJ6bGcoQh5dJG8cr4CGMBWRzjxfv8MUFLWvIVXixeXIu_T3Eyhc/s320/20190629_221714.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Night night Amsterdam !<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCT-GPxqCky1NGEMIGHCg7mv4cUmJKrh8pU84jgOMFnKRfAICuSUjllPyR54svx30JJXsyFe_sVHeDDeusjqRc-kCRsHsX2D0CXWtyFi04rS0-GlPfkWsBUB0BZodSVR2HCofgzMmTuto/s1600/20190629_225842.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCT-GPxqCky1NGEMIGHCg7mv4cUmJKrh8pU84jgOMFnKRfAICuSUjllPyR54svx30JJXsyFe_sVHeDDeusjqRc-kCRsHsX2D0CXWtyFi04rS0-GlPfkWsBUB0BZodSVR2HCofgzMmTuto/s320/20190629_225842.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The whole journey from start to finish was amazing, and so worth while. Even with the mental highs and lows, I would do it all again in a heartbeat.<br />
I can't express my gratitude enough to certain members of the group. All I will say is, if you took the time to chat with me, and ask if I was OK when I was low, thank you, you made a huge difference. If we spoke at any length during the trip, I like and respect you, and that is big coming from me, honestly, so again, thank you for your company.<br />
<br />
I have to put this last bit out there...<br />
I am SO close to my £2,000 goal now, thanks to some amazing donations before and during the ride.<br />
If you have not yet donated, and wish to, please feel free to visit my Just Giving at <a href="http://www.l2a.snazy.co.uk/">www.l2a.snazy.co.uk</a><br />
<br />
Total to date...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPqqDUliNPvwRBNxBBHPYQ8_kTqCpdRexRMV6Dk3wzcf_QCDb3A4mIrJmqL3TGK7pG81xAKAqueQvA-zUa6b07_KpX2ZzGXvqpmAMNG2ZMyi-VVKmq9lshwoTkpiV4jns0zZgB4CAcz7o/s1600/Screenshot_20190702-130928_Chrome.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1063" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPqqDUliNPvwRBNxBBHPYQ8_kTqCpdRexRMV6Dk3wzcf_QCDb3A4mIrJmqL3TGK7pG81xAKAqueQvA-zUa6b07_KpX2ZzGXvqpmAMNG2ZMyi-VVKmq9lshwoTkpiV4jns0zZgB4CAcz7o/s320/Screenshot_20190702-130928_Chrome.jpg" width="212" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Thanks for reading.<br />
Remember the full #L2A2019 album is here<br />
https://photos.app.goo.gl/gGfs1osPj5nnPBoPA<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Michael Snasdellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09843169292529848696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3740003533241934108.post-38744055467342552722019-06-25T13:05:00.000+01:002019-06-25T13:06:14.565+01:00Almost go time, and nervous as hell!It has been a long time in the making, and tomorrow is the day. In under 24 hours time (18 hours 23 mins at time of writing), I will join 50+ other cyclists at <a href="https://www.stchristophers.org.uk/" target="_blank">St Christopher's Hospice</a> in Sydenham, to begin a 350 mile, four day cycle to Amsterdam. Stopping off in Calais, Bruge, and Breda along the way, for some rest, refreshments, and recharge the batteries. The physical ones that is, no e-bikes here!<br />
<br />
Bags are packed with what I think I will need, clothing, supplies, and some snacks, courtesy of <a href="http://seachellesbakehouse.co.uk/" target="_blank">Seachelles Bakehouse</a>, bike is serviced and ready to go thanks to <a href="https://www.finchesemporium.com/finches-bike-shop/" target="_blank">Finches</a> in Forest Hill. So as far as bike, and prep goes, I am ready to go.<br />
<br />
Mentally and physically however, well that is a slight other story. Physically my lungs are not back to 100% from a recent sniffle I had, so that is a bit of a challenge. Added to hayfever and high humidity, and physically I know I have to pace myself. Was never about getting there fast, but this is all the more reason to take it a bit easier. My power meter on the bike has decided it doesn't want to work now, so rather than watching the watts, I will have to watch the BPM's. Good thing I am familiar with doing that.<br />
<br />
Mentally, well the past few weeks have not been kind, and recent conversations and interactions have not exactly done much to alleviate the nerves of being around so many strangers. My mindset at the moment is pretty much wanting to zone out, get each ride day done, and find my own space in the evenings. Hopefully that will change as the barriers drop as the miles go by. However I am being realistic about things, so got to keep it in mind. I am sure it will be OK whatever happens.<br />
<br />
So, tomorrow I get up early, get ready, hop on the bike and go for a nice little chill out, leg stretch ride, before heading to St Christopher's, shake out the nerves and the cobwebs. From the morning I an doing a Social Media takeover on St Christopher's Twitter and Instagram accounts. I am also hoping to do a few little sessions on Facebook Live to keep the juices flowing, and show people their pennies were not donated in vain.<br />
<br />
I think once we get moving, I am just going to slip into my usual quite relaxed feeling of riding. Looking forwards to getting over the hills on the way to Dover, as that will realistically be the hard work for the whole ride done. Again, just got to watch those BPM's and not over cook things.<br />
<br />
Can you tell I am anxious yet? Already over thinking things. Will my phone battery last. Will the battery pack recharge fast enough to use daily? Will I be able to sleep ( I struggle at the best of times)? It is all going on in my head right now. So much so, that I am currently in the middle of a physical slump, exhausted. An hour on Zwift, nope, didn't wake me up. A walk to the shops, just made me realise how humid it is right now, and worried me more about riding in it. Just need to get the cogs on the bike spinning, to stop the ones in my head!!<br />
<br />
Right, I better get back to the sofa, and worrying myself silly about riding a bike!!<br />
<br />
Thanks for reading.<br />
<br />
If you wish to donate, the page will remain open for the next couple of months <a href="http://www.l2a.snazy.co.uk/">HERE</a> That is the link to my Just Giving. Please feel free to share this page.<br />
For more info on my reasons for doing this etc, you can find info at <a href="http://www.snazy.co.uk/l2a">www.snazy.co.uk/l2a</a><br />
<br />
Once again, thanks for reading.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><u><a href="http://www.l2a.snazy.co.uk/">DONATE NOW !!</a></u></b></span></div>
<br />
<br />
PS, as ever, thanks to everyone who has helped or donated in any way.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.provizsports.com/">www.provizsports.com</a><br />
<a href="http://www.wiggle.co.uk/">www.wiggle.co.uk</a>Michael Snasdellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09843169292529848696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3740003533241934108.post-78868395055688365902018-12-07T14:33:00.002+00:002018-12-07T15:22:18.048+00:00Amazing students! After a bit of a wobbly morning, and a nice long 3 or so mile walk at lunch, it was time for the afternoon session.<br />
I have been trying to drip feed the info a bit more this time around, as the first time I was here, I felt I was giving it all away a little too easily<br />
Morning sessions were all positive, great interaction with each of the students doing their differential. However this afternoon, I have just come out of the first session and am genuinely blown away by the approach professionalism and thoroughness of the first student.<br />
Her approach was spot on, as if she has done this 100 times already, however it turns out it is just her first time doing mental health this week. Calm, interactive, patient led and compassionate. You can't teach that sort of persona.<br />
This is not to detract from the other brilliant students I have interacted with already today. Each one of them is fantastic in their own right. Simply for being in the line of education they are in, they get my full respect. Not to mention how each one has been brilliant in diagnosis and patient interaction<br />
But sometimes one person really stands out, and this was the one this time around.<br />
<br />
<b>*Edit*</b><br />
<b>Just come out of the second session, and again, amazing! Empathy in gallons, understanding, and all the right questions and replies. </b><br />
<br />
<br />
Going back to me for a bit. This morning was a little draining. Feeling situational anxiety I think would be the right way to put it. As expected, the slight drain on my energy levels of late has had an impact However it has also taught me something about myself too.<br />
Situational anxiety, is not the same as general clinical anxiety. They may present the same, but bounce back from situational is instant, where as being clinically anxious and going through a full on episode is completely different thank heavens! I can understand more now when people say they feel anxious for a moment, and can better relate to what they mean by it. I have felt it many times before but this is an eye opener for me, and I can now feel the difference.<br />
Similar with depression really, although my feelings of genuine depression are a whole lot lower than when I feel, what I call "down". But I can understand when people call it being depressed about something all the same.<br />
I do love a situation where everyone is coming away with new knowledge, and today is certainly one of those times. Last time I said I thought I felt anxious about talking about anxiety, and presenting with the symptoms again. I can confirm this is the case again. Reliving the visits to the doctors really does bring things to the front of your mind and can start to feel really real. However I won't stress as I know how it passed last time, and will again this time.Michael Snasdellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09843169292529848696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3740003533241934108.post-71619792557587893032018-12-03T16:54:00.000+00:002018-12-03T16:54:21.000+00:00RCGP session two!The clock is ticking down on my next session at the Royal College of General Practitioners on Friday, and I have to say the suspense and stress is building. It will be my second rush-hour trip to Central London in the week, which never bodes well with me even at the best of times.<br />
<br />
The first session I did was a real eye opener, and while it was fun, it was quite draining too. That was starting from a nice high spot in my mental cycle. This time around I am somewhat lower than I was before, so it will be interesting to see what impact that has. Whatever the cost to me, the important thing is being able to help the students understand the presentation of anxiety and depression.<br />
<br />
On the plus side, the whole day is a known thing now, it is not full of surprises and uncertainty, so that will help enormously I am sure. I will just get there nice and early again, missing the majority of the morning rush, and have a little wind down walk before getting started.<br />
<br />
I will have to put some thought into the scenario for this time too. I am quite happy with the original, but it is good to mix things up a bit. As much for my sanity as theirs. Really is quite draining mentally, recalling events from your life, and playing them out in a scenario over and over for a day. By the end of the day you are mentally exhausted. I kind of envy the actors who also participate in these events. Surely it is much easier to pretend to suffer with something you don't already struggle with. Maybe I am wrong, who knows.<br />
<br />
Either way, as I say, the main thing is the students come away from it all with a better understanding. I really do want to have more time to answer questions, and help in any way I can. With so much work being done to raise awareness of mental health issues, it is only right to make sure it can be identified and caught nice and early, so help can be given before the issue worsens for the patient.<br />
<br />
Which reminds me actually, I have got to read back through my emails, and do a submission to the BMJ as suggested by Niki. It may come to nothing, it may be the beginnings of being able to do something more positive, time will tell. Not like I don't like writing now is it!<br />
<br />
Right, better get my head in gear and thinking cap on, ready for the (next) big day.<br />
<br />
Thanks for reading.<br />
<br />
PS, students, you can now find all my MH writings on my new website www.snazy.co.uk (if you are not already reading this entry there)Michael Snasdellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09843169292529848696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3740003533241934108.post-52666251707056590842018-12-03T14:01:00.000+00:002018-12-03T14:01:08.165+00:00Back down the rabbit holeI guess the time of year doesn't help much with things, and a lot of people are heading in the same direction right now. Back down the rabbit hole in preparation for the short days, more time spent in darkness, and the gloominess of winter. Not to mention the stresses and strains associated with the "festive season".<br />
<br />
So at least if nothing else, I don't feel surprised or alone as I pace in circles at the entrance to the rabbit hole.<br />
<br />
Lots going on in life as usual for me, some putting a little extra strain on my mind, other self inflicted things weighing heavily on me both physically and mentally. At the start of the year, setting myself a realistic distance goal on the bike was a good idea. However as the year has progressed, the self imposed stresses have started to show through. Passing my preset goal much earlier than expected led me to aim higher, and higher... To the point where although officially I have passed my goals massively, I am still coaxing myself to push harder. Physically it's taken its toll, mentally I am starting to beat myself up a bit to achieve every mini-goal I have set since then.<br />
<br />
Mid way through the year I had the energy and get up and go to do some running too, but soon realised I was spreading myself a bit thin. That said, I had avoided injury up until this point, so it made sense to back off from the running, and focus on wellness and the initial goals. Now later in the year, I am missing running, but lacking the energy to run too. So I am really looking forward to the new year, and new beginnings. Less riding, more running, more stretching, and more about looking after myself, rather than beating the hell out of myself day in day out.<br />
<br />
Physical battering aside, my mind is starting to feel the strain of day to day life. Getting up later, having less energy or inclination to do anything other than what is officially on my agenda. Things that need doing can wait, non urgent things can just be forgotten about. Even getting out of bed for trainer rides in the morning is becoming a bit of a chore. Sleep is shocking, with about 45 mins a night of deep sleep. Only the first hour of sleep I get nightly seems to be worth it. Once I have woken at 1-2am, I may as well get up, as it is all downhill from there on.<br />
<br />
Nothing is on my mind really. Life is busy, has it's challenges, and a few boulders have been thrown in the road recently, but in general, life is good. A far cry to years gone by where I would have struggled to tell you anything positive about my life. But still I find myself loitering at the entrance to the damn rabbit hole.<br />
<br />
Focus is needed, a reboot too, and hopefully that is what the time off over Xmas, the trip to Wales, and the start of a new year will give me. Time and space to hit the reset, recharge a little, and get to grips with what I need to do to get the right results for myself for 2019.<br />
<br />
A few ideas, some new goals, a new project or two. All sounds good, now I just need to put pen to paper, draw up the proper plans.<br />
<br />
One of the key things for me is physical well-being. I know my body has taken a bit of a beating this year, so next year will be different. More running, or should that just be running, given how little I have done this year. A focus on stretching, recovery, and maintenance is also on the cards, with a return to yoga, and getting muscles like my Psoas recovered and back to full flexibility. Pain pain go away!<br />
On top of that, I want to get back to a daily morning routine, be it floor, gym, HIIT or bike trainer. I remember back to the days of my first round of P90X, and remember feeling supercharged every day. Starting out with some physical activity is really a great way to get the body and mind into the right place. And I think that is the balance I am looking for here.<br />
<br />
Physical activity equates to a stronger mind. Be it the endorphins released from the buzz of the training, to the positive feelings and state of mind from being active, and feeling good about yourself. For me it works a treat, so as we progress back towards Spring 2019, I want to arrive fresh, and fully charged in both mind and body.<br />
<br />
Until then I just need to make sure I check in with myself regularly, and stay on the level. I know I am vulnerable, but I also know I can stay in control, and do what is needed to stay out of that rabbit hole this year.<br />
<br />
I know there are others out there circling too, and would urge them to stay positive, keep active, don't lock those feelings away, and make sure you speak to someone (or the internet like me). Bringing all the thoughts to forefront of your mind, and processing them openly is a great way to rationalise what you are feeling, and breaking the cycle of doom and gloom which shows its face so quickly at times like this.<br />
<br />
Take care all :)<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Michael Snasdellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09843169292529848696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3740003533241934108.post-43765342426965393082018-11-21T13:38:00.000+00:002018-11-21T13:38:37.401+00:00The pitfalls of social media. <div dir="ltr">
The draw of social media to someone who starves themselves of contact with people is huge. The opportunity to communicate with others, without the need for actual personal interactions is hard to resist at times. But it is not without its risks. </div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
From time to time I find myself withdrawing from face to face interactions with people, as it is just how I feel at the time. At times like this I like to keep in touch with the world, current affairs, and friends from the comfort and security of my own home. As any regular reader of the blog will know, keeping in touch is important to me, even if it is a boring monologue at times. Either way, for those important to me, it is a way of letting them know all is well, I am just having "a moment".</div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
Unfortunately, as I have found over recent months, during various encounters, it can also be a bit of a lions den at times too. Speaking your mind is a tough one, as exercising your freedom to do so, also reminds you that others have the same right to do so. So taking offence simply at someones stance on something is not really on, and it is a case of sucking it up. Pretty much the rules of social media and the WWW really. </div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
Of course, there is expressing your opinion on something, then there is actively trolling, and trying to cause offence. That is a little bit different. I am no stranger to speaking my mind, and causing upset on my blog, I have been doing it for years, sometimes even to family and loved ones, and I don't see that changing any time soon. Speaking my mind is one thing I feel strongly about, and feel that everyone should express themselves, as long as it is in a factual and fair way.</div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
What I take sincere offence to, is when someone repeatedly targets someone in such a way that it protects their identity, while trying to damage the reputation of the target. Slanderous and unfounded comments, posted in irrelevant and opportunistic places to maximise its audience and effect on the person. </div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
For me, I will honestly say that recent such attacks have caused me great upset. Not by what has been said, but because of the targeted way it has been carried out, and the justifications given when questioned on their actions. Before any one person gets too carried away, and their ego starts to inflate, this is not about ONE person, nor ONE comment. This is me speaking out against ANYONE who feels they are within their rights to attack someone online with no foundation. Facts are fine. And I mean facts, not opinions. But opinions tainted with spite are not facts, and should not be expressed, and certainly not in a manner in which its only intention is to cause upset, and in my case, instability in mental wellbeing. </div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
Mental health is not a laughing matter, not a joke, nor an excuse for poor behaviour. I would not, and will not use my condition as an excuse to say anything I say. If I make a comment, write a blog, or express my opinion in the moment, it will be done openly, in my own name, and not forced upon others by spreading it out of context. I like to feel that any comments I have made in the past about ANY person, has been able to be justified, and backed up by hard facts, usually in the form of written comments, messages or other such communications. </div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
I will wrap this up by saying, I am not against people expressing their opinions about me, god only knows how many people have done just that. All I would ask is that it is done honestly, openly, and not done to simply try and damage my mental state. </div>
<div dir="ltr">
Sitting up all night, running scenarios through your head is not a nice existence. And the less people who have to go through that because of the spiteful and vindictive actions of another, knowing they are having that exact effect, the better. </div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
Michael Snasdellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09843169292529848696noreply@blogger.com0