I've had a real flashback kind of week.  I saw someone on Wednesday who I last saw 20 years ago - we used to hang at Sixth Form, causing havoc.  We did stay in touch via the email and he moved to Oz.  He hadn't changed although he was a bit fatter.  I think he was a bit shocked by the way I look, I imagine he thought we'd both grow old disgracefully but it was really good to see him - I hope we keep in touch...

So back to Nottingham, luckily I could reside at my Mum's for the duration of my stay and was treated like a king.  I did spend an hour or so driving around the city centre, Bridgford and Hyson Green looking for Gels - couldn't score them bro until I found a Tesco.  I had to drop all my principles and I am sorry.  I purchased them but I felt dirty. I had the best night's sleep ever and the hot water bottle for my knee really helped - thanks Mum...

A big bowl of Gluten Free porridge, a couple of coffees and some Lucozade Sport followed by a little bit of vomit - I was okay, it was excitement - it was just liquid and off to face the day.  Got a lift in with my Brother-in-Law in the van (say it like a Cockney) and arrived, not too early, not too late.  We passed the QMC where I lost my Dad – that made me feel very sad.  It had that big race feeling but there were only about 5000 people there.  It was slick and well organised (more later)...

I saw Donna - it made my day.  People run for many reasons and she does it from the heart.  I admire her drive and determination. - totally top....

After freezing for 30 minutes (that is my gripe about organisation) with a couple of loo visits - I made a mate from Scotland and I love it how he called me Pal (great bloke) in every sentence - we got started.  I felt really good - up for it and refreshed.  Quick first 5km but them my right knee started to grate and became very painful.  Thought about stopping - you still got a medal but decide to pop some pills and just see how far I could go.  5 miles around, 42 minutes, 10km in around 52 minutes, ten miles around 1:20-25, 13 miles around 2 hours.  Finished around 2:27 with a sprint and a laugh with a guy from Fetch - I saw that hideous red and yellow top, felt disgusted (joking) and challenged him to a sprint.  We had a dead heat but he did try to barge me (in good humour of course).  We kissed after the finish - we didn't but had a laugh...

Really good day, loads of low fives, new friends and fun.  Back to Nottingham on a bus, I got off at the Broadmarsh and walked (hobbled) through town back to my Mum's.  Nottingham has changed - the Broadmarsh Centre makes Stretford Mall look like Selfridges - but I get the impression that everyone is trying their best to do the best they can.  I really loved being back in Nottingham - it felt nostalgic and I loved seeing the places I grew up in, the places that made me...

Well done to Donna, Tina and Amy - I kiss you all...

Well done to anyone who took the easier option at Silverstone (only joking - hang on, I'm not) - I hope it's all going well?

Me?  I am having trouble walking but I'm really happy.  I'd also like to say thank you to Mick for his donation.  All the donations mean the world to me (yes that was sincere not X-factorish) but Mick's is special because of what he's done with his running and because of the great man he is.  I love you Mick - in a man way of course (how Chuck Norris maybe loves Clint).  Thank you...

The only downside was it ending in Derby (it's like the Liverpool & Manchester thing) - I got out as soon as.  But it was a special thing today for me.  Vin always used to moan when I did a race, “Why pay when you could run for free?” But there was always a look of pride when I put the medal in his hand.  One for my Mum on Mother’s day and 4Vin...