Long Training Walk

Woke up around 5.45am, got sorted and then drove out to Christmas Common. Parked up around the corner because the National Trust car park only took cash, but it worked out fine. That said, when we got back there were more cars there and one of them had the rear passenger window smashed in. Most likely they'd left something valuable on display, but what a shame – and out there of all places. I'd be absolutely gutted if that happened to us. Thankfully we'd left nothing in the car, but it's definitely put me off taking Vinnie out there.

We set off and walked (and walked). In the end it was just over 10 miles, mostly up and down hills, although it felt like more downhill than uphill so we'll need to go back and do it in reverse one day. It took us a little over four hours and was really enjoyable. Lovely countryside, some great views and hardly any need to stop. We only paused once for a drink and some sandwiches, so we put in a decent shift and weren't actually too tired by the end of it.

Back home and I was absolutely knackered. The previous couple of nights definitely caught up with me, so I had a bath and then went to bed for an hour or so. Tash headed out with Lucie for Afternoon Tea as part of her 60th birthday celebrations, which left me with the house to myself and a chance to crack on with a few jobs that needed doing.

Didn't do a great deal in the evening. Just took it easy, pottered about, and then headed off to bed fairly early.

I really hope we've been doing enough training for the Alps hike – it's only four weeks away now and suddenly feels very close indeed.

End of day summary

A productive and active day centred around a 10-mile hike from Christmas Common. The walk took over four hours and provided some lovely scenery, good exercise and another useful step towards preparing for the Alps. A smashed car window in the parking area was a reminder to be careful where valuables are left, but thankfully it wasn't our problem. The afternoon was spent recovering from a busy few days, catching up on jobs around the house and enjoying a quiet evening. A good balance of exercise, productivity and recovery – and another reminder that the Alps are coming around very quickly.