Jennie's London Marathon 2010 Blog

May 4th

2010-05-04T14:49:00.000-07:00

Well got the boys off to school, Eric even remebered to take his French books. Alec was less than pleased and decided that he might have a headache and tummy ache. I asked him if he felt well enough to play DS after school. He got the hint and grabbed his reading folder... little monkey.

After work I went to the bicycle shop and purchased a helmet. Now I haven't owned one for years not because I was making any statement or trying to protect my hair... I just hadn't got round to it. I need a helmet now as I will be cycling 10 miles tomorrow with the merry band that will be cycling from Fleet to Bath. Yes I'm mad... but I'm not alone: )

I also put my name in for the London Marathon 2011 ballot... well I have to put my money where my mouth is and proove that I can run 4 hours 30... right?

May 3rd

2010-05-04T14:41:00.000-07:00

Monday brought more of a bounce to my step. The first port of call was to start work on the Dalek. I charged Eric with making evenly sized rings from wrapping paper tubes... an ideal job for someone who is obsessed with details. Alec busily sorted out bits to make the Dalek's eye and suction cup. and together we created: )

Managed to catch up with my friend Laura and had a lovely 7 mile run round Fleet and Fleet Pond. I must say I felt more relaxed than I had felt all week when got back home. The boys and I finished off the Dalek and watched old Doctor Who episodes all afternoon. Now we just have to wait for it to dry before we spray paint it gold: )

Week Starting April 26th

2010-05-04T13:42:00.000-07:00

Well needless to say the day after the marathon I was in a world of hurt. Stairs were not my friend as I crabbed walked to get up and bumped down the stairs on my derriere to get back down. Elegant I was not and quite frankly I didn't care... I had run and more to the point survived the London Marathon... I was an athlete... sorta. Kevin had booked me a massage for that evening and I must say it was ectasty and searing pain all mixed together: )

Tuesday my range of motion had improved slightly and I was able to hobble less pathetically up the stairs whilst chatting to the MD of my company. I say less pathetic but that is only in comparasion to the day before... it was pretty pathetic. Still I think the flip flops matched with my business attire was quite fetching; )

Wednesday Beaver Day... flip flops and far more flexibility... I was even able to walk up the stairs normally. Coming downstairs was easier too... slow... uncomfortable but no crawling. YAY!!!

Thursday I was feeling much much better and I spent the afternoon talking with the boys about running. Both boys want to do the London Mini Marathon so I have explained that they can when they are 11. I am looking into getting Eric involved with our local running club, running is a sport that Eric could do and enjoy because it is so focused. I think I will take him down in June once we have caught up on all the stuff we have put off over the last few months. I spent the evening making cheese and ricotta bites for the company mufti day I was running on the Friday. Kevin did a great job helping me wrap the Filo pastry into little samosa's.

Friday I could move normally again whch was useul as I had a lot of walking to do round the company to raise money for my NAS mufti day. The 50/50 draw went down well as did the raffle and the food that seemed to just dissapear in the hour or so round lunchtime. All told I raised £313.01 through this one event. I think this may be one of the most successful mufti days so far!!! With this and the money I have already raised the total raised is now a staggering £2000!!!!

Saturday morning was spent at the market and gathering up raffle prizes from local businessess who have pledged to help out with my fundraising campaign. The prizes will be used in a raffle at my charity BBQ that I will be holding at the Black Horse Pub in Crookham Village. We spent the afternoon at Alec's Rugby Club celebrating the end of the seson with a club BBQ and Award ceremony. Somehow I have managed to volunteer myself for the role of Child Welfare Officer for the club... not sure what this role entails exactly but if my instincts are right it may well be the most boring role in the club; ) woo hoo

Sunday RAIN RAIN RAIN RAIN It rained so much that Michelle called from the Black Horse and we agreed to reschedule the BBQ for May 16th. Gutted??? You have no idea... I broke down and cried before calling friends to advise them of the change of plans. I cried not because of the BBQ per se but because I had vewed this as the final hurdle my last kick at the charity tin before hanging up my marathon shoes and taking on my next challenge. For this date to be suddenly put back two weeks was a bit of a blow. Still had to go down to the pub though as I didn't have a number for the Fleet News and Mail Photographer to advise him of the change of plans.

When we got home I turned my energy and attention to Alec's 7th Birthday Party. He has requested a Doctor Who inspired party, so what better way to do that than by building a Dalek Pinata. 2 balloons, 4 newspapers, flour, salt and water and voila we had a basic Dalek shape... just need to add the details now

April 25th - Marathon Day

2010-04-10T14:34:00.005-07:00

Kevin gave me a 6am wakeup call so between that and my mobile going off I was wide awake. It was quite surreal waking up and realizing that Marathon Day had finally arrived. It was like being a kid again and waking up to realize it was Christmas day. Butterflies doesn't begin to describe the fuzzy feeling I felt and the knots in my stomach were so big it was difficult to eat my porridge. I managed to finish it though and had a cuppa before heading off on my great marathon adventure. Kings Cross Tube station was empty apart from a handful of runners dragging Red Virgin London Marathon kit bags. Everyone was too farking solemn for my liking so I had to pipe up and say "well this is embarrassing us all showing up here with the same bag". Well I got a few stares but managed to meet a merry bunch from Aberdeen who shared in my morning wit merry making. We chatted ideally and think we all put each other at ease as we made our way to Greenwich.

At Greenwich I was immediately taken by the scale of the thing. I caught site of the red blimp hovering above the trees with RED START written along it's sides before I reached the holding pen. The holding pen itself was something else... it was like voluntarily becoming an exhibit at the zoo complete with bars on the outside. All that was missing were the signs saying don't feed the runners. As I walked through the gate a man dressed in a full replica suit of armour clumped past me. I had to do a double take...things were starting to take on a surreal edge... was I entering bat country? I managed to get my kit bag checked in and proceeded to wander around before it started to rain. It was at this point I started kicking myself or not bringing my NAS rain poncho and stood shivering waiting for the start. I made a big mistake then and went to get a cup of tea to warm me up... this was something I would regret in within the first mile.

When I made my way to the start line I found myself surrounded people dressed as donkeys, scuba divers, fire men, Rhinos, Storm Troopers et al with the occasional celebrity thrown in. At this moment in this place we were all the same... marathon runners. To say I was nervous would be an understatement...

As the claxon sounded I shuffled - inching towards the start line with a 2 man camel costumed running duo directly behind me... they later became my nemesis. It took 23 minutes to cross the start line and this is when I began to regret the tea I had earlier. So after a 15 minute wait I rejoined the marathon with my music blaring and feeling great. The heat wasn't too bad the humidity was a bit stifling but I battled on through Greenwich past jubilant crowds in the surreal back drop of industrial units. As I ran through Deptford my preconceived ideas of the neighbourhood melted away as I was taken by the sense of community spirit. I gratefully accepted candy from strangers as I enjoyed the occasional jelly babies along the route. I was amazed how quickly time seemed to have gone as suddenly there in front of me was Tower Bridge, running across this iconic structure was unbelievable. At mile 14 I started to look out for the NAS cheering point. I knew that the cheering point would be big but I didn't realise just how big. I am not afraid to admit I was a bit disappointed that I could only see Eric and he wasn't looking in my direction. I kept on running knowing I would have a 2nd opportunity at 21 and 1/2 miles. Through Canary Wharf I got caught behind the Royal Caterpillar and my pace slowed, I tried to get past them but it was fairly congested at this point and I just couldn't get past. I became increasingly frustrated as this tangle of people started to walk for 5 minutes before running again. So what I am trying to say is I may have sworn at them a little... under my breath... I didn't have the energy to be any louder. (I would like to point out that I didn't realise who these people were at the time not that this would have made a great deal of difference... I was on a mission). I eventually managed to get past and continued to cruise on to mile 21 1/2. Sadly I again missed my cheering team at the NAS cheering point but I was uplifted by the support as Nikki from the events team yelled my name over the loud speaker. Things still ticked along fairly well till I hit 22 1/2 miles. Now I have heard about the wall before and even thought that I had experienced it in the past... I hadn't but I did then. My toes and finger tips started to tingle and my running shoes somehow had been swapped for deep sea diving boots. I kept going willing my body forward bribing it with the promise of MacDonalds Fries, Krispie Kreme donuts, massages and beer. My brain told my mind that the conditions of the contract were insufficient and it would now be terminating by bid to complete the marathon by turning off my body. My body told my brain that if we stopped that would be it we would not be going anywhere. My concious mind was negotiating and acting as mediator trying to get both to cooperate with me on the final push. 23 miles my fingers tips started to turn white and I was getting black spots in front of my eyes, I noticed the runners had thinned out significantly and what appeared to be running wounded were moving towards the finish line. 23 1/2 miles my attempt to pacify my brain and run was failing as my running became more of a shuffling. Coop another NAS runner tapped my arm... I immediately realised we were going through the same experience. Together we managed to support each other to the final 400 meters... then like a scene out of a old bad war movie he told me to go on... then I saw it the Mall... the Finish line. As I ran forward this strange hallucination of the finish line moving further away the more I ran forward. That last stretch felt like the first 20 miles in concentrate then as I finally saw reached the finish. It was at this point the ruddy 2 people camel came charging past me... bastard camel!!!!! The emotion became too much as I burst into tears I made my way through the finely oiled machine that is the VLM Finsh area team. I was handed my goodie bag, picture taken with medal, and handed my kit bag with such efficiency that I was left slightly bewildered by the experience. I don't really know how I got there but I made my way to the NAS meet and greet point where I was gratefully reunited with the guys and my good friend Claire. From then on I started babbling I think as my body went further into shock... the next thing I remember was scoffing sandwiches and drinking tea whilst wrapped in a foil blanket... well I do know how to party: )

The NAS post race reception was amazing words cannot describe how good it was to just sit and relax. Seeing and speaking to the other runners and applauding them as they came through was brilliant. I must say this was the most amazing days of my life. I hadn't done as well as I had hoped but 4 hours 50 minutes is an achievement I can be proud of... I completed the London Marathon and didn't die: )

Now the big question will I run another marathon... my body is for all intensive purposes is broken, I have big blisters on my feet and spent 6 months of my life cloistered away in the gym and running crazy distances... YES I'LL DO IT AGAIN IN A HEART BEAT!!!!

I will continue to write my blog on a weekly basis but for now I need to heal my body and sleep... so for now good night: )

April 24th - 1 Day

2010-04-10T14:34:00.001-07:00

The day before the big day was spent together as a family running doing out usual Saturday morning shop. Because I am spending the night in London I decided to treat the boys to a magazine each. Eric immediately gravitated to the crap magazines with the crap toys attached to the outside. He couldn't choose between them though and spent ages painstakingly weighing the pros and cons of each. Alec on the otherhand other hand immediately spotted Doctor Who magazine and his mind was made up. Eric had a momentary flicker of jealousy then went back to trying to select from the array in front of him. When I pointed out that he could have the same magazine as Alec this look of relief came across his face. He immediately grabbed a copy and scampered to the counter. Eric worked really hard to make my pre marathon day relaxing he even let the barber cut his hair!!!

Alec was busy trying everything in his power to wind Eric up and make mischief. He didn't like that 'everything' was about Mum so was seeking attention... unfortunately of the negative variety. The guys dropped me off at the train station in time to head back home to watch Doctor Who while I headed into London.

Now the night before the race was spent well mostly freaking out silently. I panicked a bit when I realised I had left my Compeed callous plasters at home. I was going to head out and try to locate replacements when Kevin insisted on coming to the rescue and drive them in. So my knight in shining armour arrived at 10pm with plasters I soaked my feet and went to sleep. I couldn't get to sleep for ages tossing and turning but when I finally did it was solid.

April 23rd - 2 Days

2010-04-10T14:33:00.002-07:00

This morning was a bit of a rush with Eric claiming that he had no school clothes to wear while his clothes from yesterday were neatly folded beside his bed... ignored. In the meantime Alec was dancing down the corridor fluffing his hair and doing everything but getting ready.

Kevin fed the boys and got them to feed and water the animals giving me time to get ready before dragging them off to school. The boys had settled down by the time it was ready to head out the door.

When I picked up the boys from school we headed to the ice cream truck and got them their first ice creams of the year. They were so lovely sitting in the garden chatting and eating: ) They weren't so lovely later on when we discovered that either one or both of them (they refused to admit or deny the facts of the case) had ripped the curtain pole down in their room. Now to set the scene, one curtain in a heap on the bed with the curtain rings strewn over the floor. The other curtain half hanging half falling from the one part of the rod that was still attached the fitting. Alec pipes up that it was an accident he was only trying to open the curtains and Eric tried to back him up. Now either Alec just doesn't realise his own strength or they are lying: ) hmmm

I have to say I am so proud of Eric today he told his teacher about the bullying and the teacher talked to the class about it. He told me that he spoke to his classmates this morning and told them that what they were saying had upset him and when they kept doing it he then spoke to Miss Hussy. He told me that he wants to sort these things out himself and that his friends helped him. This is probably one of the most mature things Eric has ever done and shows that what we have talked to him about and tried to teach him are getting in. He just not necessarily on the first time.

I was in the Fleet News and Mail again today I will scan and post the article sometime tomorrow. Stephen Lloyd, the reporter drew upon one of the most emotional Blog posts I have written so found it hard reading. However, it was good to see it in print as I hope that it will help another family know they aren't alone... there are a lot of kids on the spectrum and a lot of families who need support. That is what the money I raise will go towards. Good night

April 22nd - 3 Days

2010-04-10T14:33:00.001-07:00

Got up this morning with a little bounce in my step. I am on the home stretch now!!!! The boys were glad to see me and gave me big hugs when I came downstairs. Eric asked if he could skip Environment club this week so he could come straight home. We had a long chat about why he didn't want to go. He told me what he told Kevin yesterday; that his teacher is reading Matilda in class and one of the characters is Eric Ink who isn't very smart. He told me that the kids in his class have been asking him to spell "what" and making derogatory comments about his name. I told him that quitting going to clubs wouldn't make things any better. We talked about having real friends who help us is important and to make friends you have to be around people. For instance going to clubs. The penny seemed to have dropped and he grabbed his backpack and gardening gloves along with his drumsticks and headed off to school.

Alec, as usual, enjoyed watching Roar and Newsround on CBBC before heading off to school. Sometimes I feel guilty about the disproportionate time I spend with the boys. Poor Alec sometimes gets left out as we deal with the latest crisis. After work I cycled to the school to pick up the boys, unfortunately my brakes were on the whole way. I tried unsticking them but to no avail. Alec was pleased to see me as I was quite late in picking him up. He was sat cross legged on a chair reading a newspaper... he is old beyond his years that one!!

We went home and Alec charged up the stairs to retrieve his DS and have "a quiet time". He continued this theme when we went to collect Eric choosing to read a book rather than engage in conversation...

Tonight Eric had another meltdown surrounding the happenings at school. I will attempt to speak to Miss Hussy quietly tomorrow as this is really bothering Eric. He told me that he wants to wreak revenge upon these kids. So we had another long chat about how this would pass and how hurting these kids would hurt him far more than them. He said he understood but I am worried about how this is affecting him. His moods swings and noises seem to be increasing when he talks about it. He went off to bed well though and spent a full hour reading his book about the Ancient Egyptians. He has decided that he wants to be an Egyptologist when he grows up.

Tonight was my last training run a quick up the high street to Sainsburys and back home again. So training is now complete roll on the final phase of carb loading and sleeping... heaven: )

April 21st - 4 Days

2010-04-10T14:32:00.002-07:00

Well here it is... my number!!!! I hope that it will serve me well on the day and join me as I cross the finish line. This number and I will travel through 26.2 gruelling miles on the hottest day of the year so far. This number will be with me as I engage in the mental and physical battle to get to the finish. Together we will do it: )

And YES I have lost the plot. I had a lovely day taking the boat to Canary Wharf and then wandering round the Exhibition. I bought a replacement pair of twin skin Hilly socks and resisted the temptation of buying the official merchandise. I will look to see if they have any left after the marathon and buy it then if they still have my size.... and yes I am a cheap bastard: )

I then moved on to the NAS pasta party in Holborn and had a lovely time chatting with the other runners about the trials and tribulations of their training and fund raising. I got a huge sense of pride talking from spending the day indulging in the feeling that I can do this... I have come this far I can go all the way... and you know I think I will: )

April 20th - 5 Days

2010-04-10T14:32:00.001-07:00

Boys headed off to school this morning without too much fuss. Eric was a bit subdued which was unsurprising given yesterdays upheaval.

This evening I went a bit loopy and started panicking about my post marathon party, mufti day, post marathon party, my validation of training for Scouts, Alec's Birthday party, wine tasting, Company BBQ, Marwell 10km race... etc etc. I guess now that I have slowed down with the training I now realise the amount of stuff that I have taken on. For the most part I have organised and sorted out most of this stuff and really ought not to worry as I am generally good at prioritising and executing plans. However, I haven't run a marathon before and hadn't banked on the mental affects that tapering would bring about. The only time I have been as restless as this before was in the last month of both my pregnancies. I had everything ready and was eager to get on and meet my little men... well this time I am ready and eager to run this mad 26.2 miles. So gents if you want to know what having a baby is like train for a marathon: )

April 19th - 6 Days

2010-04-10T14:31:00.004-07:00

What a day I called the Doctors to make an appointment about the boys rashes and cystitis. Got it for 4 pm thankfully so can get these last minute medical nasties out of the way. The last thing I need is to have to run to the loo (literally) every mile during the marathon. The boys rashes are awful too... raised angry red bumps... perhaps they are allergic to volcanic ash; )

Eric was keen to get off to school and back into his normal routine so for once he was easy to get ready for school. He even volunteered to help Alec to feed and water the animals!!!! Alec was less than thrilled about the return to academia. He was resistant in putting his shorts on and even pulled the "my tummy isn't feeling good" trip. Still got out the door by 8:30am and off to school.

Picked up both boys directly after school to get them ready to go to the doctors. Oh boy am I glad that I took them... Dr Swift took one look at the bumps and made the diagnosis immediately... Scabies!!!! Ewwwwwwee *shudder*... So off he sent me with perscription of creams for boys and antibiotics for me.

We slathered the boys with the 1 application cream but the reaction was horrid. Eric doesn't like the sensation of cream at the best of times but this stuff stung where he had scratched off the tops of the rash. So he broke down completely... by the time he was covered he was shaking, barking and crying. Alec broke down too the whole experience was most unpleasant for all concerned. We gave them the prescribed antihistamine to help alleviate the itching so they don't scratch anymore.

We managed to get the boys settled down with a good reading from Winnie The Pooh: In Which Kanga and Baby Roo Come to the Forest and Piglet has a Bath. Eric regressed and started drooling and wandered off to fetch his puppets Gary Good Lizard and Rasta Crow from the dressing up chest. These puppets have been Eric's friends for years. When Eric was very young and didn't find it comfortable speaking directly to me he spoke to these puppets and shared his thoughts with them. They were Eric's gateway to communicating with this world and are treasured by him though he doesn't use them every day. He chose to bring them out tonight though which just highlighted how traumatic the whole scabie experience had been for him.

We just let him be and enjoy his puppet friends as I read the story.

Poor little boys, tomorrow morning showers for both boys and strip down their bedding to get rid of the last of them... lovely: P Have opted to do a morning run instead as think I will need it before we tackle the day...

April 18th - 7 Days

2010-04-10T14:31:00.003-07:00

Eric got up in a foul mood this morning, his noises were in full swing and he was quick to react negatively to any and all questions. He knows tomorrow he goes back to school so another change to his routine. We managed to get him fed and dressed before giving him his Ritalin. With Eric in tow we headed out the door to get Alec to his game against the Reading under 7's. Within 30 minutes Eric's noises had stopped and he had calmed back down to his normal self. He spent the 2 hours birdwatching with his binoculars and reading the Hobbit in the woods.

Alec had a great time in the joint team practice with the Reading Under 7's... he still learning to master the subtle art of the underhand throw but, is great at dodging and weaving through defensive lines and setting up 2 tries: ) The game resulted in a 4 -4 draw... and a lot of happy screaming kids. Alec was busy chatting up Charlotte one of his teamates 'she's cool cause she plays rugby and she's a Beaver Scout too'; )

In the car after rugby Eric was talking about how he would like to learn Karate when Alec piped up that he shouldn't learn karate because knowing rugby and karate would make him too fierce. Oh my...

So we headed over to Lord Wandsworth College to the Scout swimming badge examinations. Eric was so relieved to achieve his level one swimming badge after his 2nd try. I have mentioned in previous Blogs about Eric's reaction to the sensation of water. He would become so overwhelmed that he would often become non verbal and regress into infantile behaviours. Subsequently he would become a danger to himself and others. The fact that he was able to enter the water and deal with the pressurized examination situation is a huge leap that would have been impossible without Ritalin. His only reaction to the pass was telling the examiner "finally".

Alec didn't have as good a run he was unable to retrieve the object from the bottom of the pool or push off and glide without kicking. Poor Alec was gutted but Eric again showed a maturity that I didn't think was possible till a couple of months ago. He told his brother "Alec don't worry about it I didn't pass the first time and now you know what you need to do for next time. "

Kevin made a lovely roast dinner for tea tonight as I popped out to do the grocery shopping.

No training tonight but as this is the week before the marathon I shan't be doing much training at all. Tomorrow I shall be going swimming Weds I shall go for a run in the morning before heading into London to collect my Marathon number and then Thursday will be Spin class... Then Sunday will be the main event!!!!

April 17th - 8 Days

2010-04-10T14:31:00.001-07:00

Well today was the last long run before the marathon, an 8 mile jaunt in 18C. It was strange as I mapped out my route and knowing I have run 12 miles further and can easily run 10 miles further than the distance I went today. I decided to take my time and not push things with this being the warmest day have run in this year.

The boys were excited about racing me to the finish, charity HQ, The Black Horse Pub in Crookham Village http://gb.mapometer.com/en/running/route_530403.html

As usual you can set a watch by my pace... whether it be in driving rain, snow, ice, fog, mud, -10C or +18C 8 miles or 20 miles it is the same 10 minute mile... as long as I ensure I relax and rest and eat right and keep hydrated between now and the big day I hope to keep that pace through the 26.2 Miles of the London Marathon.

I know I can do it... I just want to get on with it now!!!!!

I think the boys want it over too judging by the pained? looks on their faces... I didn't realize chips could kill that quickly. Such dramatic little boys... I wonder where on earth they get that from; ) Tomorrow will be busy but not for training reasons. The boys have Scouting activities and Alec has Rugby.

April 16th - 9 Days

2010-04-10T14:30:00.003-07:00

The boys were home with Kevin again today as I had another full day at work... yay me: P So Kevin told me that they had a great day going for another long walk with the dog and judging by the pictures a great time was had by all. Suggs dog looks almost noble as he surveys the canal for wildlife to chase.

With the new toaster's arrival there was much joy and celebration from Alec. "It's got four slots because if we all want toast at the same time we can." So they ate toast and watched Lord of the Rings in the afternoon.

This evening I am going out for a friends leaving party so no training. I will also be teetotal and have opted to wear my 6 inch heels...

April 15th - 10 Days

2010-04-10T14:30:00.001-07:00

The boys were up without complaint before me... why is that kids have no problem getting up and downstairs early on the days they don't have too? I just had a cup of tea and was out the door...

Kevin had a good day with the boys taking them and the dog for a two and a half hour walk.

They met me at the office so Kevin could get to the train station in time for him to head to Reading to meet friends. So the boys and I hung out tonight and read another Winnie The Pooh story.

No training tonight I opted instead to take advantage of the quiet evening and treat myself to a mud pack and soak in the tub.... lovely: )

April 14th - 11 Days

2010-04-10T14:29:00.001-07:00

Got the boys up this morning, I must say that Alec was very slow off the starting blocks this morning, choosing to roll around on the floor instead of putting on his clothes. Eric was subdued as he gathered up the toys he wished to bring with him to his last day at Sue's.

When I picked up Eric he was very uncommunicative choosing to react to the situation by flailing and screeching. Sue told me that his day had been good but he had to remove himself from the activities a few times to calm down and centre himself.

We started to walk home when Kevin pulled up and we all went to pick up Alec. Poor little Alec hadn't had a great day. He had done a little knee surfing on the tarmac and skinned them both. Ever the amateur dramatist he walked with a limp and whimpered as we headed to the car.

To cheer the boys up we had homemade burgers for tea tonight and Kevin ran through their plans for the next couple of days.

Alec told us tat he had made a new friend who lives at number 11 in Fleet. We explained that there are lots of number 11's in Fleet. Then we had a typical Eric conversation:

Kevin: What's your phone number Eric?

Eric: I don't have a phone.

Kevin: What's our number?

Went to the gym tonight and an hour doing intervals on the stationary bike before doing my squats and planks etc.

April 13th - 12 Days

2010-04-10T14:28:00.002-07:00

Started off the day with a refreshing 4 mile run along the Basingstoke canal with the dog. The mist was rising off the water as the the sun's rays broke through the budding branches on the trees. Sugg's enjoyed sniffing the banks of the canal, they are bursting with life at the moment, new reeds breaking through the earth so rapidly you can almost imagine seeing them growing before your very eyes. I was quite taken with the brazen attitudes of the ducks, they just sat nestled along the tow path staring at Suggs as he trotted past. He was disinterested in them preferring to turn his attentions to the ducks swimming in the canal.

I felt a bit faint when I got back, think this may have a lot to do with not being used to running on empty anymore. After a nice cup of tea and jam on a slice of fresh bread I felt fine.

Alec was a bit sad this morning as this is his last day at his friends house. He is not looking forward to going to Koosa Kids tomorrow not because he doesn't like Koosa kids but he would prefer to be with his mate. Eric had a good morning and we enjoyed a nice leisurely walk along the edge of the estate. He got upset when we found a dead frog in the ditch, "Mummy was it pollution that killed it?."

Eric was his usual self when I picked him up from Sue's, he doesn't do well with transitioning and he started to make his noises and jerky movements. He knows tomorrow is his last day with Sue, which has upset him too. Sue and I spoke briefly about how Eric's autistic traits seem are becoming more noticeable as he gets older. I think as he gets older and his peer group learn to social rules and cues it certainly makes Eric stand out more. I am grateful that he has good friends (and these friends have tolerant parents). I do worry about how he will be accepted when he attends secondary school but, that isn't for a couple of years yet.

Tonight Eric went off to read the Hobbit by himself after I read the boys Winnie The Pooh and Some Bees... you can NEVER be too old for Pooh Bear Stories... even at 30: )

No training tonight as ran 4 miles first thing this morning though will get some planks, bridges and squats in before i go to bed...

April 12th - 13 Days

2010-04-10T14:28:00.001-07:00

This morning Eric was ready to go to Sue's before my feet even hit the floor. The magic 5 days to settling into a new routine has been reached. The boys will be both be home with Kevin for Thursday and Friday so I hope he transitions into that a bit better. He has been given ample warning.

Alec was keen to see his friend today and get down to the business of playing outside. So they were fully cooperative in completing their chores and getting ready. So a rather smooth morning as far as the boys are concerned.

When I picked eric up I discovered that he got a little excited today and had to be sent off to calm down for a little while. One of his friends of a similar age was staying at his childminders today and I think he may have been showing off a little bit. Still it would seem that all the kids had had a good day. Eric was a little vacant as we went home, he asked "when can I go back to school Mummy" and then promptly switched off and started repeatedly clearing his throat. When we got through the door he was far calmer and requested to go upstairs and play knights. Well knights are probably one of the most calming things for him to play. Mostly he enjoys lining them up; sorting them into legions of good guys and bad guys. He will then set up impressive battlefronts before using both arms to knock the whole lot over and restarting all the while humming the theme to Lord of the Rings.

Supper went well with Eric trying and enjoying the new fruit/vegetable of the week... the custard apple... yes it is as tasty as it sounds mmmmm

No training tonight I have decided to go for an early morning run along the canal with Suggs instead... I miss running with the dog and now that it is warmer drier and lighter I want to start running with my little buddy again especially as I wind down the miles in preparation for the big day.

April 11th - 14 Days

2010-04-10T14:26:00.000-07:00

So sitting at fundraising HQ aka the Black Horse Pub in Crookham Village typing up today's blog. I have just got in from running the smoothest 12 mile run I have ever run. The ongoing problems with blisters seem to have been resolved with the liberal use of Compeed corn plasters (thank you Kevin) combined with Compeed anti blister stick and twin skin socks. I am soooo relieved I was really panicking about the growing blisters as they were affecting every face of my training. So back on track to get through this mad marathon adventure. Only 14 days left to go before the big day so every rest day and training day are vital.

Crack support team Alpha met me at mile 6 for a mid run refuel. Eric and Alec had apparently been busy playing rugby and climbing trees. Eric was obsessed by a dead squirrel that he had found at the base of one of the trees in the park and telling me that you shouldn't touch it because it's full of fly's and diseases... charming!

The day got off to a good start too. Kevin took Alec to his away game in Petersfield with his team the Aldershot and Fleet RUFC, leaving Eric and I to hang out at the house all morning. So caught up on some house work that I have been neglecting with the training and fundraising before this afternoon's run I know I am so rock and roll...

Now we're at the pub. Eric is reading the Hobbit and and Alec is drinking lemonade and playing DS. We're just about to head home and enjoy a pesto and parmigiana pasta dish with a side salad before sending little boys to bed. All in all good end to the day.

April 10th - 15 Days

2010-04-05T13:16:00.001-07:00

Mad morning at the Donnelly's Eric had his cereal as usual but no bread for Alec's toast. Alec HATES cereal I have no idea why, he instead prefers toast and jam. This morning though he had jam on crackers and what goes well with crackers? Pickled onions!!! Yes that's right, my youngest chose a breakfast consisting of jam on crackers with pickled onions and a milk chaser. He's supposed to be neruo typical!!!!

After the interesting breakfast choice we headed off to the bi weekly NAS Hart and Rushmoor Gaming Zone. Eric was quite keen on going this time so no problem getting him into the car this time. There was a super friendly kitten outside the door of the Mayfield Community Centre. When one of the girls came to the door to let us in she said "are you still here, go away" to the kitten and Kevin jokingly said well you heard her off you go. Eric being the literal man he is started to leave so Kevin had to explain that it was a joke and he didn't mean it.

Unfortunately, all the computers were down leaving, only a few gaming consoles to be shared between a lot of children. Somehow in the madness and noise strangely there was a feeling of calm as none of the children felt the need to conform to societies norms. Eric enjoyed playing alongside and communicating with another boy on the spectrum. He's a year older than Eric but they seem to get along really well. I exchanged numbers with his Mum as when ties are made it is up to us parents to keep them communicating as left to their own devices they wouldn't. Eric requested to leave rather than break down or 'lose it' which was really good to see. Perhaps not consistently but I can slowly see him experimenting with all the skills and coping mechanisms he has been taught which makes me hopeful about his future. Alec was not so keen on leaving and decided to hide under a chair in passive resistance. Little monkey...

We spent the early afternoon running around in Fleet going to the market and the butcher. Eric decided he wanted to go to Fleet Toys. Poor Eric - the concept of money continues to elude him. He immediately wanted to buy things that were beyond his £2 budget. He eventually settled scorpion and two monster finger puppets. We then headed to Martins so Alec could make his weekly sweet purchase. Eric decided that he wanted to buy sweets too but again the concept of money became a big issue. He wanted to buy a bag of sweets that cost £1.39 with £1.20 and kept repeating that the £1.20 was enough to cover it as it was £1. We are not sure how to get Eric past this I think we'll have to post something on the NAS website to see what other parents have done.

We filed down to the pub this afternoon and watched the Grand National before heading home to watch Dr Who and then got the boys of to bed.

I was busy organising the post marathon party date and getting ideas for further fundraising tonight so no training will be doing my long run tomorrow though. BTW the party will be held on May 2nd and there will be nibbles and a disco: )

April 9th - 16 Days

2010-04-05T12:52:00.000-07:00

The boys were good this morning and managed to get out the door on time. Alec was keen to show his friend more of his rugby and DS'ing skills so he was out the door as soon as Kevin opened it. Eric packed his book bag with precision putting the books in the order that he wanted to read them. We had to walk the same way that we had walked the other day when we saw the "mad ducks on the roof". Sadly no ducks on the roof instead more respectably in the water... albeit in the ditch... they truly are mad ducks

Pub this evening with the boys looked after by our neighbor Joules. She was watching another boy on the spectrum as well but from what I understand they all got on fine. No training tonight however, did get some squats in when I got home.

April 8th - 17 Days

2010-04-05T12:51:00.002-07:00

Not much to report today, no mad ducks on the roof, in fact no ducks at all which disappointed Eric to no end. We instead talked about where they might be. He thought that because they are mad ducks they wouldn't be where normal ducks are... "they are more interesting than that Mum"

Eric and Alec both asked when they can move back in together again this evening. As with everything round here the standard reply is "after the marathon. Alec has asked if he can have a "home birthday party this year"... I am MORE than happy to accommodate this request. So must alter some games to incorporate the Dr Who theme that he would like to have (pin the plunger on the Dalek?). Hmmm ideas ideas

Another thigh burning spin class tonight. I think I will keep this on post marathon, I really enjoy how the instructor pushes us on. I haven't enjoyed a fitness class as much before.

April 7th - 18 Days

2010-04-05T12:51:00.001-07:00

Eric and Alec were up and ready to go this morning. Alec was excited to be going to his friend Aaron's house and packed a bag including his rugby ball so he could share his knowledge of the game. Eric was far more subdued checking through his bag to ensure that everything was in order. He went through his verbal checklist s we got ready to head out the door. He relaxed quite a bit as we walked along the road especially when he clocked the ducks sitting on a roof. He thought this was completely mad and could speak of nothing else the rest of the way to Sue's.

Eric was far more relaxed when I picked him up today. Sue told me that the house had been very noisy today but Eric had been very good at removing himself when he needed a break. I am very proud of Eric he is putting in place positive coping mechanisms that we and the professionals who work with him have taught him. Eric told me jokes and laughed all the way home which made me smile... He is a lovely boy.

Alec had a brilliant day too he was bursting to tell me about his day his face posistively beaming with excitement. He was very tired though as Clare had taken them to JJ's a indoor climbing place with what Alec described as a "slide of doom." I am glad that Alec is able to go to his old childminder for Easter Break because it gives him a break and her son Aaron gives Alec a positive big brotherly role model. Alec often guides Eric through the nuances of social etiquette rather than the other way round and has to deal with calming Eric. He has to deal with a lot more than a lot of little boys his age. So to see him this overjoyed makes me brim with pride....he deserves it: )

Tonight I went to the gym and started off by running on the treadmill but 30 minutes in I noticed that my left big toe started to feel hot and hurt again. I switched to the cross trainer but by the end of my hour long work out my blister had grown again. I feel so frustrated right now because I want to maintain my level of fitness as I taper my training. I think I am going to have to see if I can get an appoint to see a chiropodist to get them sorted out. Arrghhh

April 6th - 20 Days

2010-04-03T16:06:00.003-07:00

This morning went as well as I could hope for. Eric was outwardly keen to go to Sue's but dragged his feet in getting ready. He was running through his verbal check list repeatedly and each time adding a new item so that he would have to start at the beginning again. When we finally managed to get out the door and headed towards Sue's we were running late which didn't help matters as Eric does not deal well with time constraints. So I was grateful to run into Kevin as we made it to the halfway mark. Eric found this perplexing as he muttered Daddy should be at work as he had already said good bye and could not immediately compute this change to the plan.

When I picked Eric up I was happy to find that he had had a good day. Sue told me that he had gone up to the chill out den at the top of her landing when things got to much for him. I am really grateful that we have Sue in our lives, it really helps to have someone who understands Eric and instinctively knows what he needs.

Eric spent much of the evening making his noises and rocking in his room. This was not due to him being upset but rather him dealing with the change in routine. He should be fine in a couple of days once he has wrapped his brain round it.

I spent the evening doing squats, planks, side planks etc. then soaking of the feet... the dog does not trust the foot bath.

April 5th - 21 Days

2010-04-03T16:06:00.001-07:00

The boys were both really well behaved first thing this morning. I came downstairs to find them playing battleship in the living room. They told me that they they had already eaten breakfast... chocolate of course. We managed to get them to eat a brunch of star fruit and cheese and tomato sandwiches before getting them out the door for a nice walk along the canal with the dog.

Eric had a hard time and started clearing his throat a lot and making his noises. Alec found a long stick that he referred to as his "staff of power", which he brandished with great gusto and mischief. Eric got really wound up by the movement and started grabbing for the stick and asking Alec if he would like it to be upgraded. Poor Alec handed it over - I think almost expecting not to get the stick back. He did hand the stick back over after a bit but his behaviour was off. He moved in a very stilted fashion and made jerky movements as we walked through Zebon Copse nature reserve. He wasn't being bad he was just on edge the whole time. We let the boys play in the park before turning home. Eric enjoyed the swings throwing his head back in exaggerated movements as he swung higher. Alec loved the climbing wall striking poses as he scrambled up. The dog got filthy dirty by running through the mud filled ditches and hopping into the canal on the way back

As soon as we got back I showered the dog and the boys before heading off the the gym for an hour on the stationary bike and doing my squats and planks etc.

While I was at the gym Kevin made a beautiful roast chicken dinner with stuffing and homemade gravy... mmmm

The boys were pretty tired this afternoon so were easy to get to bed. Off to bed myself to now... need my energy for tomorrow morning... I'm hoping Eric is cooperative with his holiday routine tomorrow.

April 4th - 22 Days

2010-04-03T14:45:00.004-07:00

So the little boys were up bright and early this morning scouting for Easter eggs. They didn't actually move any of the eggs, they just looked for them and made arrangements to share them out equally. We overheard Alec at one point proclaiming "I like white chocolate and you like brown chocolate but that's ok we can still love each other". So after Kevin and I stopped laughing we came downstairs they sprung into action putting all the eggs into a bowl and then Eric counted them out (this my have been Eric's undoing as I believe Alec ended up with the 'larger' half.

The boys decided that they only wanted to eat chocolate for breakfast. We did manage to get them to eat a hot cross bun each and Eric had an apple too so we didn't feel like bad parents. We even persuaded them to get dressed ready to be "Crack Support Team Alpha"

I managed to get out the door at 11am ready to take on my 18 mile run. It felt good to feel the pavement beneath my feet as I took to the streets around Fleet. I met up With Kevin and the boys at mile 6 on the outskirts of Elvetham Heath feeling really good and enjoying running in the sun for once. The boys clapped to keep me moving as I entered the parking lot... I guess they have been to enough races now to know the drill: ) So, I fueled up and headed out again for my next leg. I ran into difficulties heading into mile 7 as I ran on the edge of the road beneath the motorway on the A323 road heading towards Hartley Wintney. There is a large puddle under the bridge at the moment due to the heavy showers we've been getting. Unfortunately as I was passing under the bridge a car drove through the puddle and splashed me getting my feet wet. I kept going hoping for the best. I was still running smoothly as I came through Hartfordbrige and to the A30 near Hares Lane. As I approached Hartley Wintney my feet were rubbing in the arches and at the ends of my toes. Kevin stopped me as I approached the green in Hartley Wintney to let me know that part of my route had been closed due to flooding. Now if I had been sane I should have probably got out a pair of dry socks from the bag and applied another liberal dose of anti blister stick. I didn't and I am kicking myself for it now because I know this is why I had to abandon my efforts less than 3 miles later. I agreed to meet Kevin near the Pet Crematorium on Odiham Road. By then my gait had changed and Kevin commented on how I didn't look like I was running as smoothly as usual. At this point I was still hoping a change of socks and liberal application of anti blister stick would get me on my way. As soon as I pulled back my sock on my right foot I could see that things were worse than I thought and Kevin immediately questioned if there would be any benefit to me running my planned 18 miles. I argued that I should put the miles in but mostly I was arguing because I hate admitting defeat and especially in situations where it could so easily have been avoided had I not been cocky. I ended up crying after I admitted that I had to give up. http://gb.mapometer.com/en/running/route_499849.html

We still went to the pub for the boys promised Easter lunch, the lamb roast and crumble helped lift my spirits... I probably inhaled as many calories as I expended on my run: )

Eric was having as bad a time as me this afternoon he was very quiet and withdrawn. He told me at the pub that he liked sitting on the bench in the corner because he can see what is going on. He was sitting to the point where he was almost lying down playing his DS so no one could see him. He told me his head felt fuzzy, he ate his lunch without saying very much at all.

The rest of the afternoon was spent flaking... the boys watching Monty Python and the Holy Grail.

I plan on going to the gym tomorrow and spending an hour on the stationary bike to make myself feel a little better.

April 3rd - 23 Days

2010-04-03T14:45:00.003-07:00

Got up this morning to find Eric up and dressed and ready to go into town and get the next copy of his Xenox magazine. Eric has saved 2 weeks pocket money so he could purchase this. So once we were all dressed and fed we headed out the door buoyed by Eric's enthusiasm. Thank fully we were able to get the bulk of the shopping done before it came time to go to News Agents. Eric was incredibly upset that there was no new edition of his magazine. Now I didn't realize until then that the magazine he had bought is not a magazine at all but a starter pack for a card and figurine collection. We have always steered Eric away from these types of things because of his compulsion to collect the whole set and his frustration becomes disproportionate to the situation when he can't keep up. So we there we were with a non communicative and aggressive Eric at the News Agents. We managed to talk him off the ledge by promising him a trip to the toy shop so he could look at the knights. He was still not fully communicative and started in on his noises and swinging his arms wildly as we walked.

Eric's reception year teacher and the lady who helped us find the doctor who ultimately diagnosed him happened to be there with her autistic son. Eric by this time was having quite a bad time of it, but I was able to handle this public display because she understands this behavior better than anyone else I know. I held him and stroked his back as his body pulsed with emotion that he just couldn't channel correctly.

He stayed in this state pretty much all the way home with a couple of moments where he went to bite me not out of spite but out of impulse and inner pain. We managed to get him home and calmed down but he was pretty tired by then so he requested a movie and relaxed on the sofa. When I see him like that, to know he is hurting so badly inside and can't express it in any other way I feel like crying. I don't because I know I need to be strong for him and so remain outwardly calm but, this is what a tearing your hair out moment is like for me. It isn't tear stained or spent screaming and yelling it is controlled quiet and far more painful. I am looking forward to my run tomorrow so I can release all that pain and hurt into 18 miles of pavement. This is why I started running and continue to... people have said I must be mad to be running a marathon. I counter that statement as without it I wouldn't be able to cope and I would go mad... it is my arm flailing and noises and emotion release valve... it allows me to be the best mum possible for both my boys.

April 2nd - 24 Days

2010-04-03T14:45:00.001-07:00

Well today was Eric's promised go nowhere day. A day of pajamas movies, books and knights. Eric is now on a Ritalin vacation for the Easter Break as per his doctor's orders. In order for Ritalin to keep working at the low dose he's on he needs to come off it for weekends and holidays. I like that he has these breaks as we can see him putting the self calming techniques he is learning into action.

Alec quite enjoyed "lounging too" and spent a good amount of the day just hanging out and chatting to us. All in all it was quite pleasant day!

Not a do nothing day for me though I spent 2 hours at the gym. An hour on the treadmill doing interval training ranging from incline 2% at the lowest points and up to 4.5% at the highest. Then on to squats and planks etc... On top of a great training session I came back to a lovely clean house: )

Much of the day I must say was spent hitting the update button on the Al Jazeerah website for the story... still no story by 6pm so Kevin and I made arrangements to go to the pub for a couple of hours. I sipped my lime and soda in a state of nervousness. So as soon as I got home I was on the computer... I need not have been nervous at all Pascale and Ben did such a wonderful job sharing not only my story but, my feelings. I hope you enjoy it and please share the link with anyone you know who might be interested, http://english.aljazeera.net/news/europe/2010/04/201042171612764354.html

April 1st - 25 Days

2010-03-24T15:05:00.001-07:00

Woke up this morning feeling awful; however, in a moment of insanity (the April fool?) I decided I wasn't too sick to go to work and dragged myself into the office. As soon as I got there I had to admit defeat and after an hour (15 minutes of which were spent in the ladies getting my stomach turned inside out). So spent the rest of the day burrowed under the duvet with the dog and cat in a semi conscious state. By 3 o'clock I felt well enough to collect the boys.

Alec was so excited about it being the beginning of Easter break the words poured out of his mouth in a jumble of disjointed thoughts and ideas. Bedlam: ) When I picked Eric up from environment club the mood was far more subdued. You could sense his stress immediately, his first question had little to do with the holiday and far more to do with what the schedule was and reassurance he would still be going to Sue's next week.

I managed to sooth him and relax him enough that he was actually quite keen on picking a movie when we got home - a definite deviation from the norm. He selected 22,000 Leagues Under the Sea, closed the blinds and sat watching the movie in the dark. I am so glad I introduced Eric to the old sci fi and adventure movies, he really enjoys them. I think in part because they are low tech so he can figure out how they were made. He can see that the monsters are made from clay and that the people look "colored in": )

I was meant to go spin class this evening but opted to take the saner option tonight and vegged on the sofa. I spent the evening watching Factory Girl an emotional movie about the late Edie Sedgewick Andy Warhol's famous muse a feel good movie it was not.

March 31st - 26 Days

2010-03-24T15:04:00.002-07:00

The boys got up as normal this morning but Eric was a bit more reserved. He didn't want to talk about it but I know that he was worried about the filming that was going to be going on later today. He went off to school, remembering to take his swimming stuff. Alec was very excited about a cameraman being in our house and started asking if he could do a dance for them.

Got off work a bit early today and came home to a house full of people. It was great to finally meet Andy from the NAS press office and Pascale and Ben from Al Jazeera. They were all lovely and we chatted over a cup of tea as we waited for school closing time. When I went into the school, I was able to grab Eric before the bulk of the kids came out - thereby avoiding his friends seeing the filming. This was a major concern of his and one that I think is perfectly understandable. The school is directly behind my house so filming the walk home only took a minute. Eric was stiff as a board and not happy to speak to me. I was pretty concerned that he would decide that he wouldn't want to take part after all and it would all fall apart. My worry was compounded when as soon as we got in the door he ran upstairs and shut his door. I thought I would give him some space to settle down before speaking to him. Then I heard the bathroom door lock upstairs. Now Eric knows he is not allowed to lock the bathroom door at all ever. I managed to get in with a spare key and found him sitting in the bath behind the shower curtain wearing his pyjamas. I managed to talk him off the ledge and got him to put his uniform back on. He came downstairs and hid next to the sofa for a bit not wanting to talk. Then Ben, cameraman extraordinaire cracked it. He mentioned to Eric that he was a descendent of 2 of Henry the VIII's wives. Well if you have been following my blog you will know this is Eric's current obsession.

Eric was off he ran and got his Tudor book and was away. From that I managed to get him to bring down some of his knights too and he engaged with everyone in the room. It never ceases to amaze me how quickly he can change so quickly from being on the edge to chatty and happy.

They then interviewed me... they interview was done direct to camera as in I answered questions by answering the camera directly. This was a really odd sensation a I had to fight the urge to speak to Pascale. I think I did ok - I guess the proof will be in the pudding.

Kevin had French tonight so had the boys to myself for a couple of hours. I chose to disband with homework and let the boys play. Eric was busy in his room lining up his knights in Alec's room and Alec playing on his DS at the top of the stairs. Eric was a bit off this evening so allowed him to self settle by rocking himself even if that means his bed knocks against the wall for hours (he's still up rocking now and it is 10:30, he went to bed at 8pm) . Tomorrow is the last day of school before Easter break so Eric will get a good opportunity to relax. Kevin and I have both agreed to give Eric a do nothing day on Friday and allow him to have a day of movies, cuddles and reading. We'll tell him tomorrow morning so he can prepare himself.

Tomorrow back to spin class and an hour at the gym on the cross trainer... I'm on the maintenance part of my training now in preparation for the big day!!!!!

March 30th - 27 Days

2010-03-24T15:04:00.001-07:00

Eric and Alec were busy watching Roar this morning and discussing how they they would start their own zoo when they are grown ups. Eric said that he would like to be the one to buy the animals and that they should two of every kind so they won't be lonely. Alec said he would be the animal doctor and look after them. It was really nice hearing them chat like that.

Pascale from Al Jazeera called me this afternoon. I am looking forward to meeting her. It really sounds like he idea of how she wants to film us fits with my own ethos of being natural and low pressure. I am excited that we might show people what living with a child on the Autistic Spectrum is like. That it doesn't have to be doom and gloom and that we are all constantly learning and challenging each others ideas in a positive way.

I also got an opportunity to speak to Andy from the NAS press office and again a really positive and supportive person. I look forward to meeting him to and frankly value any and all ideas this chap has because frankly 3 hours of filming seems pretty daunting to us.

Alec and I hung out in the library while we waited to pick Eric up from French club. He read me Mufaro's Beautiful Daughters, he read Nyoko the snakes part beautifully and immediately recognized to story to be similar to Cinderella. Eric beamed as he strode into the library he immediately asked me if he could be signed up for French again next term. He does like to know the plan... I agreed that this would be fine and he ran of to let Madame Fletcher know.

Eric had handed me his PE kit before he ran off, I immediately knew that it was missing something. I opened the bag and saw that his plimsolls were not present. When he returned I quietly asked him if he knew where his plimsolls were. Now this PE kit is his third this year and this will be the fourth pair of plimsolls that have gone missing. Eric looked at me vacantly, his teacher Miss Hussey informed me that they couldn't have gone far as he had them the week before when he got his shoes muddy at lunch time. Eric then face palmed and groaned, I didn't put them in the bag because it wasn't PE Mum. Well I'm sure they will turn up and at least he still has the rest of his kit this time... a huge improvement over previous terms:P

This afternoon I just got Alec to run through his spelling homework and Eric his drums and times tables before they ran off to play Lego.

Just a quick tidy up of the house tonight to put my mind at ease. Then a quick run through of squats and planks. I must say after tonight's curry that was not particularly comfortable. I think a light meal for tomorrow night... soup or salad???

March 29th - 28 Days

2010-03-24T15:03:00.004-07:00

Alec was up and ready to go this morning wanting to share stories of yesterday's adventure. By contrast, Eric was very tired this morning dragging his feet as he got ready. We managed to get out the door reasonably on time this morning and so managed to avoid stressing him out further.

Eric was in a bit of a mood when I picked him up from school as I discovered this was not because of anything that had happened but because this is their last week of school before Easter break. He spent a bit of time stressing until I reminded him that he would be going to his old child minder, Sue Thurlby, during the break. He relaxed after this and talked about the den she has promised to build him on the landing. I managed to get him to complete his homework fairly quickly this evening by telling him that he could look through his books in preparation for next week.

After homework, the boys retreated upstairs with Eric dictating a game. He wanted Alec to help him separate their toy animals into the the continents the animals are from. Since Eric was a baby he has loved categorising and sorting toys, buttons cards etc. It is a typical autistic behaviour and I suspect his way of dealing with the busy weekend that we had and the knowledge that he will not have the same routine next week.

No official workout tonight but, day 1 of a blitz on the house before the filming on Wednesday. Jennie's hot tip of the day; don't grab a brush covered in oil based paint by the brush end... very messy: )

March 28th - 29 Days

2010-03-24T15:03:00.003-07:00

We started the day at 7:00 on the new time which was 6am according to my body clock. Alec got his uniform straight away and was chomping at the bit to get out the door and be with his team at the London Irish Rugby Festival. Those of you who have followed this blog or know Eric or another child on the Spectrum will immediately realise the implications of all this hullabaloo. Eric internalised the stress and between that and the early start to the day, he vomited and started shaking - not from being sick but through nervousness about being round so many people. Eric wanted to go and support Alec. He is very proud of his little brother despite all the fights they have. So with the tension abated for the time being we all piled into the car and off we headed.

When we got there, the first thing Eric wanted to do was get a hotdog for his 2nd breakfast. He settled in fairly well after that and spent a merry couple of couple of hours exploring the trees around the park and then sitting on Kevin's back pack and cheering on Alec. He had a few meltdowns, one of which led me to take him back to the car to chill out.

He had pushed against me and beat his head rhythmically against my chest. He was overwhelmed by the movement, noise and the sheer number of people facts that he was able to verbalise once he had calmed down in the car.

Alec had a great morning, his team (made up of a mixed squad of under 7's and under 8's) were up up against true under 8 squads and still managed to score a few tries. Because of their teamwork they were awarded the Fair Play award for their year group and subsequently the chance to go on parade around the pitch during half time.

So off we headed to the Madejski Stadium to see London Irish play against the Sale Sharks. Eric stayed close to Kevin and I and was very well behaved but showed definite signs of stress but making sporadic machine gun noises and clinging to Kevin and I alternately. Alec was sooooo excited about meeting the players and getting the autographs of 'his favourites'. He beamed at me as he showed me

Topsy Ojo's signature and proclaimed "he's a real wing Mummy" he then ran back into the scrum of little boys and came out stating that "Ben (Stevenson) has nice hair like me."

Alec was positively beaming as we went into the stadium waving his autographed London Irish flag.

Eric was feeling a bit jumpy at this point and asked us a barrage of questions; how many people would be coming to see the game, would it be noisy, how long until the game would start, when would Alec be going onto the pitch etc. Eric was quite intrigued by the Digger the Irish Wolfhound though and he pointed him out to me at various times during the game.

Alec and his friend Ben gave a running commentary on the game from the seats next to me. There comments were often quite cutting... "no wonder Sale is losing they aren't supporting each other", "that's not a defensive line its a sieve" (one they heard from Chris earlier in the day: ) and my favourite "those sharks have no bite".

Alec enjoyed walking round the pitch and loved that his team won 38 -0 all in all a great day. I am so proud of Eric for being there for his little brother and Kevin and I are now trying to think of ways to reward him. Perhaps to Eric's favourite place on earth, the British Museum.

March 27th - 30 Days

2010-03-24T15:03:00.001-07:00

We started the day off by heading to The Game Zone. This is a biweekly get together for children on the spectrum and their siblings. Eric was very resistant to going as we normally go to the market first thing on a Saturday morning. Alec on the other hand was incredibly excited by the prospect of playing video games all morning.

When we arrived Eric literally vibrated with nervousness. His body was stiff as he walked in a stilted fashion into the room. I stroked his back as he surveyed the room, he relaxed almost immediately when he realised that he could be himself. There were other boys making 'his noises' and as socially awkward as him. He made his way over to a computer and started chatting to another boy as he played. The I also managed to have a long chat with Nikki about Michelle's proposal. Needless to say there was much excitement about what this could mean for the group and the children.

After the Game Zone Eric asked if we would still go the market. So back to our regular schedule.

This afternoon was not normal though. My crack support team, henceforth called support team Alpha, helped me to get round my longest run yet. I covered 20 miles today http://gb.mapometer.com/en/running/route_485417.html . No matter how you look at it 20 miles is a long way.

For the first 6 miles it chucked down and I was concerned that I would have to give up due to the growing blisters on both my feet.

My left big toe was especially painful as I came up to the car and my team. A quick application of anti blister stick and refuel helped put me back on track.

I managed to get back into my normal rhythm so that by the time I came to my 2nd refuel stop at mile 11 I felt much better. Kevin had kindly gone back home in the intervening 40 minutes so I was able to change into dry socks. I think this saved my bacon as my feet felt much better for the remaining 9 miles.

When I caught up with Support Team Alpha once again at mile 16 I felt really on the ball.

I managed to pick up speed through the remaining 4 miles and even managed to surprise Kevin and the boys as walked through the door of the Black Horse in Crookham Village. There are now sponsorship forms at the Black Horse.

Now off to bed as we have another big day tomorrow at the London Irish Rugby Festival. I have my fingers crossed for Alec who really hopes to make it to the final so he can play at half time between London Irish and Sale: )

March 26th - 31 Days

2010-03-24T15:02:00.004-07:00

Another busy morning at the Donnelly's with both the boys performing their morning tasks feeding and watering the animals generally getting ready for the school. Alec was due to have a 'sleepover' during the school day today so had to ensure that he took his blanket, teddy, and pyjamas. Eric was quite keen to get going 'so the weekend can start quicker.'

Eric was in a far happier mood when I picked him up from school. He was doing his happy chirping noises as he skipped down the path. Alec was his usual happy self and ran ahead so he could hide and 'scare me.' When we got through the door I got the boys to change into their PJ's and put Madagascar. Eric started laughing before the funny scenes even started. For him I think it is sometimes just the anticipation and the security in knowing when things are going to happen before they do that relax's him.

Poor Eric freaked out at supper about how he will spend his pocket money tomorrow. Eric gets £2 a week but he likes a magazine that costs £3.99 and said he would like to earn extra pocket money. We told him that we wouldn't double his pocket money. He said that he would only need £1 more pound cause £3.99 equals £3. This led to a lengthy discussion about numbers and how a number is just number and doesn't just magically change to another number.

I didn't do training tonight as running 20 miles tomorrow but headed down to the pub for a couple of hours for a tall glass of lime and soda: ) The Land Lady, Michelle, pulled us aside and talked to us about NAS Hart and Rushmoor being their chosen charity for this years fundraising event in August. This is big news as Hart and Rushmoor are volunteer run and done on a very short shoe string. We also discussed details for throwing a post marathon charity party in the first weekend in May. The details of which we will iron out over the next few weeks and don't worry I will post the details here: )

March 25th - 32 Days

2010-03-24T15:02:00.003-07:00

The boys had a good start to the day and we managed to get out the door in good time again. Eric is now officially back into his normal routine.

I left work early today to go to Alec's exhibition to raise money for school children in Haiti. He was so proud but very disappointed with me that I didn't bring 'enough' cash. Things took a turn for the negative as we walked through the All Saints Junior School playground. Eric came charging out the door his eyes red holding back tears. "I don't want to go to environment club today" he mumbled slinging his bag over his shoulder. I asked him what was wrong but he recoiled from me and refused to answer but shoved a plastic bag into my hands. The bag contained the swimming trunks that had gone missing the day before. Eric just kept repeating that he just wanted to go home so he could "get his homework over and done with." Homework was definitely not at the top of his list when we got back. He ran upstairs and started humming in his room. I left him to calm down hoping that he would talk to me afterwards, no such luck though. Both Alec and Eric did enjoy helping me make spinach and ricotta slices though, with Eric enjoying hitting the pulse button on the food processor repeatedly in a rhythm.

The slices are for a friend Laura's charity fund raising day at work tomorrow for the National Association for Colitis and Crohn's Disease . My colleagues at CHL are amongst some of the most generous that I have known. They have certainly supported me through this mad marathon fund-raising adventure and in getting the awareness about autism into the community beyond. So if the slices go down well then I shall be making some more to raise money for the NAS on my charity day next month.

Both boys were back on an even keel as I left for my normal Thursday spin class. Spin class was better than last week but I still opted to go to the gym afterwards and did an additional 30 minutes on the cross trainer doing intervals and then onto 250 squats, then planks, bridges etc.

Now for the big news... I received in the post today my designated running number and registration form... my number is 43234. Also, I was contacted by Andy at the NAS press office, it would appear that I will be filmed by Al Jazeera Television for a piece on autism awareness that will be broadcast around the world. There will be another family filmed in the US and another country too. The filming will likely be taking place on Monday afternoon!!!

So off to bed for me tonight...

March 24th - 33 Days

2010-03-24T15:02:00.001-07:00

Eric and Alec got up, dressed and fed and watered the animals without much fuss. Eric even managed to remember that it was swimming and Cubs today. So a great start to the day.

Poor Eric did not have a good day at school though. He was slightly weepy as he told me that he had lost his swimming trunks in the change rooms and then his "head was fuzzy". He managed to pick out a few things to entertain himself with at Beavers; Lego Club Magazine, Pencil, broken slinky and a smooth stone. While Eric was busy picking out his treasures Alec helped me make their snack. He was very good making sure each plate had the exact same number of grapes and that the 'damaged' Hob Nobs were placed back in the packet. He told me he was very big as he selected the yoghurt's and peeled back the tops.

I had a wonderful time at Beavers taking one of the lodges on a scavenger hunt round Calthorpe Park looking fr spring related items. Eric stayed in the Scout hut, preferring to read through his magazine with another cub who is dragged along. By the time it was ready to start Cubs Eric was a bit wound up again. He didn't want to talk to me in front of his friends saying "I'm 9 Mum, you're embarrassing me."

Perhaps I should have talked to him as one of the Cub leaders took me aside when I picked him up. She told me that he made a lot of noises today and wasn't listening to anything any of the leaders were saying. She said he wasn't being bad just absent but that this wound up some of the other boys and that she caught a couple of them bullying Eric as a result.

Eric didn't want to talk about this tonight. I may broach the subject tomorrow surreptitiously.

No training tonight other than planks, side planks, bridges etc. Tomorrow I plan on going the gym immediately after spin class for an additional 20 minutes on the cross trainer and further planks.

March 23nd - 34 Days

2010-03-20T14:37:00.003-07:00

So got up this morning and went for a run along the canal with the dog. It was beautiful with the sun still low in the sky burning off the mist that veiled the tow path. Suggs was busy smelling the smells whilst trying to keep up the pace with me.

I came back to find a cheery Alec wishing me a good morning as he sat on the sofa enjoying some undisturbed DS time. He was already dressed in his sports attire for Tavistock Infant School Healthy Eating week... his rugby shirt is being worn daily. One of the first things he said was Mummy we should feed Suggs, he looks hungry: ) Eric followed down shortly after grumbling about having to water the animals but his mood changed as he discovered that Alec and I had done this already...

Got Eric and Alec off to school with only one return trip for Eric's french and reading books.

After school Alec was keen to get back home and "relax." As this is one of only two days a week Alec gets to have control over the television I agreed. So he spent an hour watching CBBC before picking Eric up from French.

We could hear Eric before we saw him, he was making his noises and speaking in his stilted stressed voice. Now this voice that he puts on sounds like he's putting on a fake American accent. It isn't till you actually listen to the content that you realize he isn't actually talking so much as mimicking repeating words and phrases that he has heard from movies and television. This series of 'quotes' really makes no rhyme or reason it is filler. Luckily, I managed to get him out of the school and across the road back to the house without him having a fully fledged melt down. I got him settled by giving him a series of simple commands; take off your shoes, put them in the cupboard, go up the stairs take off your uniform and put on your pyjamas etc. By the time he came back downstairs he was much calmer, so I continued with our normal routine of homework then supper then relaxation time.

By the time I left to go on my night our he was back to his regular self. What ever it was that set him off seems to have abated.

No training tonight as out with friends and hey I ran this morning: )

March 22nd - 35 Days

2010-03-20T14:37:00.001-07:00

Eric and Alec had a good morning and for the first time in a week we managed to get out the door on time!!! Eric even remembered that he had drama after school today taking an apple for a snack. Sometimes he really catches me off guard when he acts 'normal'. Alec was in fine form running through the copse with his a stick in his outstretched hands proclaiming "I'm the greatest swordsman that ever lived." It was just a pleasant morning but, I found myself brimming with pride.

At work when I was asked about how I did at the half marathon I realised I have already decided to register for that race again next year. I know I can do better... and I will: )

I don't know what happened in the intervening hours but, the nice little boys I dropped off at school had turned into gremlins by the time I picked them up. Alec shot off into the copse and pretended he couldn't hear me when I called for him to hurry up. When we eventually got to All Saints, Eric was in a foul mood as well - partly because we were slightly late. Eric requested time to build a Lego ship before doing homework. In a serious error of judgement, I allowed him to. Eric thrives on routine and any deviation from the norm, even if he asks for it, will send him into a tailspin. Between being late in picking him up and allowing him to play before doing homework Eric wasn't able to focus when I managed to pull him away from the Lego. In the end, it took Eric 2 full hours to do his 6x and 8x tables and 6 words for spelling. We didn't bother getting him to do his reading diary comments. I think we may have been there all night if I had made him do that too. Though Kevin and I got frustrated at times, we didn't yell at him. We got him through it with persistence, consistency, and a LOT of patience.

Rest day today to allow for recovery after the half marathon. I may have to sneak in some planks, side planks and bridges before bed this evening as I am going out with friends tomorrow night... : )

March 21st - 36 Days

2010-03-20T14:35:00.001-07:00

Eric was not himself again this morning. He didn't like the idea of going to Tadley to see Alec's rugby match without me. He was also upset that he and Alec wouldn't be cheering me on at the start of the race. I managed to get Eric calmed down by getting him to put together a bag of things to entertain himself with. He selected the usual Eric fare; 2 books about aliens, 1 magazine, DS, pencil and activity book. He was much calmer about going after that and took his Ritalin.

Alec was so excited about going to his away match, he was ready to go before anyone else even got up. He sat patiently on the sofa while Eric dealt with his stuff.

So once they left I got ready for the Half Marathon. Some left over pasta for breakfast followed by a cup of tea and an energy drink then off the the starting line 13 m from my front door: ) The race started off really well but though I may have set my starting pace too fast. Between that the warm day when I took my gel (without water) at mile 9 I was feeling pretty green by mile 10. So threw up and managed to complete the race at 2 hours and 10 minutes.

I think I have learned some valuable lessons for the London Marathon though:

1) start off slower

2) take gels with fluids

3) wear something lighter on the day

I enjoyed the tastiest 99 EVER post race as Alec told me how his team beat Tadley 5 - 4. Kevin told me that during the game Eric just hung out and read. The boys and I just hung out and relaxed this afternoon while Kevin cooked one of the best roast dinners ever tonight with Yorkshire puddings the size of my fists... all in all a great day: )

March 20th - 37 Days

2010-03-20T14:34:00.001-07:00

Eric was off again today, alternating between an extremely argumentative attitude and verbal ticks. This behavior soured Alec's mood and made for a rather unpleasant start to the day. Eric's mood improved after his dose of Ritalin and we headed up to Fleet for our weekly trip to the library and market.

Eric was so excited about picking up his reserved book at the library he all but ran there. He was a bit disappointed that they only had Charlie and the Great Glass Elevator but, he still enjoyed the transaction. We took the opportunity to pay for the Spiderwick book that he had dropped in the bath a few weeks ago. Alec just wanted to hide behind the shelves and play, so we made a hasty exit.

Poor Eric was being wound up mercilessly by Alec while we selected the week's fruit and veg at the market. Sometimes Alec gets it in his head to push every button that exists and literally pokes at Eric till he gets him to make noises. We managed to salvage the situation by allowing Eric to be a big boy and 'explore' round the market (the market only consists of a few stalls so easy to track him). Alec was not best pleased by this as he believed he should be given this privilege too.

Eric was so well behaved as the Hayley at Toni and Guy trimmed my fringe; she even offered to sponsor me in the mad marathon fundraising: )

Kevin took the boys to spend their pocket money as I ran a few errands alone. Alec didn't get as much pocket money due to earlier behavior. When we asked him how much he thought he deserved he was quite remorseful and actually gave a suitable reply. Eric didn't like being being apart from me and apparently threw a tantrum as he panicked about my whereabouts. He panicked so much that Kevin ended up bringing him to me so he could see that I hadn't left him. Obviously Eric is still not settled from Kevin going to Canada. Eric was fine after he saw me and we were able to complete the shopping without any further problems.

Eric went off to his best friend's bowling birthday in the afternoon so we were able to catch up with the housework which I must admit has not been up to scratch since all this mad marathon training started. Hey something had to give... and it wasn't going to be time with the kids: )

No training tonight as tomorrow I run the Fleet Half Marathon and I am aiming to run sub 2 hours... loads of pasta again tonight!!!!

March 19th - 38 Days

2010-03-20T14:33:00.000-07:00

Eric got up this morning and got on with his jobs muttering his verbal checklist again. He managed to get ready and eat his breakfast without incident this morning which after last night was a bit of a relief.

After school we managed to get through the homework quite quickly as I had promised the boys Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and a popcorn snack. It is amazing what a little bribery can get you; )

Kevin cooked up gnocci and bolognaise sauce for my carb loading before Sunday. Then we all played Frisbee on the Wii before reading Esio Trot before sending the boys off to bed.

So a quiet night - no training as I'm giving my body a two day break before the half marathon on Sunday. I want a good time: )

March 18th - 39 Days

2010-03-18T15:21:00.001-07:00

Eric had another hard morning. It usually takes him 5 days to get used to anything new, his dad coming back after being away is no exception. He was very argumentative the whole day through and the verbal ticks were again in full force even after giving him the Ritalin.

Things did not improve much when I picked him up after school either. My friend Claire came round so that helped a bit as he does like to be good for his 'aunty.' We managed to persuade him to go upstairs and read his book to calm down. When he came back down he was much calmer and managed to complete his homework and eat his tea with no problems.

We then gave Eric and Alec permission to play sword fighting on the Wii. Eric got frustrated when he realised that Alec was beating him. He tried to persuade Alec that they "should take turns winning", in other words he wanted Alec to lose. When Alec refused he threw the Wii remote down on the sofa. Alec was so grown up and tried to persuade Eric to come back and play properly but, it had gone beyond that. Eric started yelling at Alec and at Kevin being very rude and aggressive, poor Alec was brought to tears. So Kevin turned off the Wii and we started the bedtime routine a little earlier than usual to calm them both down. Hopefully Eric will settle down a little more tomorrow. I think I will put on Charlie and the Chocolate Factory after School to help ease them into the weekend.

Tonight I went to spin class, it was a bit disappointing and much shorter than usual. Denise, the usual instructor is back in 2 weeks time.

March 17th - 40 Days

2010-03-18T14:53:00.001-07:00

Happy Saint Patrick's Day

Alec got up bright and early but, Eric was resistant as the routine had changed back as Kevin was there. Eric eventually got his uniform on and came downstairs but his verbal ticks were in full force as he struggled to "get things in the right order." He managed to get off to school only a bit later than usual so he was able to enjoy the routine of school.

Eric was in a much better mood when I picked him up. He even made the decision on what book to bring with him to Beavers swiftly; which, if you have been following my blog you will know is a minor miracle. Getting them to put their uniforms on was another matter with resistance from both boys. They wanted to go but they didn't seem to understand that there wouldn't be time to play a rousing game of soldiers before we went.

Eric did slightly better during Beavers, it helped that we were teaching the boys about symbols. Eric loves decoding messages so the code breaking wheel was a big hit with him as with the rest of the boys. Eric was fascinated and started writing coded messages with gusto. At the start of Cubs he did tell me off for trying to hug him in front of his friends "I'm too old for that Mum".

I managed to get some extra training in tonight and swam 64 lengths of the pool. This is the first time I have ever swam a mile!!!!!

The mood later in the evening was far more subdued as when I got home Kevin told me that his Grandma had passed away. Kevin's Grandma was a very special lady and will be missed by everyone who knew and loved her.

March 16th - 41 Days

2010-03-16T15:43:00.000-07:00

Got up this morning to two cheery little boys. Eric true to form had become used to the new routine 5 days in. He will now have to get used to having Daddy back later on today, so in 5 days we should be back on track: )

When I picked Alec up from school he ran all the way home and flung his arms round his Daddy saying "I could just keep hugging and hugging you forever." Bless him: ) Eric ran in too but his welcome was far more stilted. He really struggles with change I would have to describe him adapting to new situations to driving an old motor that's missing a couple of gears... and brakes!!!! His verbal ticks were out in full force tonight with the excitement of having Daddy home... the house sounded like a chicken coop and cattery rolled into one. He showed a lot of concern about his Great Grandma and pressed Kevin for answers about what was happening. He liked the idea of her sleeping and being comfortable. Alec wanted to know what the doctors were doing for her and if they had given her medicine.

Had to go over to the school tonight for Alec's parent teacher evening. He is doing really well at school except for his writing. Mrs Pinnegar put it best, neither of your sons are cut out for cursive script. She said she would prefer to be able to read his writing. So I will be doing some of the same exercises that I had to do with Eric and get him to do a bit of extra writing each week using block printing.

For my training tonight, I went off to the gym and spent an hour on the cross trainer doing interval training, then went on to do 250 squats and then planks, side planks, bridges etc.

March 15th - 42 Days

2010-03-15T14:58:00.001-07:00

The day started off great with the boys getting up and dressed of their own accord. Eric was busy muttering his verbal checklist under his breath as he went along. I didn't even need to remind them to feed and water the animals. I decided to treat them by putting sliced banana on their cereal which Eric thought was 'a bit mad' because I only do that on weekends.

When I picked the boys they were still in fine moods. Alec was excited about having learned a new song in choir about Henry the 8th. Eric is very excited about performing in the next Lower School drama cub rendition of Little Red Riding Hood later this spring.

Eric saw movie trailer for Clash of the Titans. His little face lit up he turned to me at the end and just said "WOW can we see that Mummy." Well I guess we will have to find the pennies: )

As for me I'm just wanting to get on with it!!!!!!! Only 41 more days to go... I just want to get on with it now. I am glad that I have the Fleet half marathon this week and I guess this is why they recommend that you sign up for a half marathon a month before the big event.

I am confident that I could run the marathon tomorrow without killing myself but, I am worried about the fundraising side of things. I will be asking you all for help in the last 3 weeks as I taper my training in the lead up to marathon day: )

No training to night as Kevin is still not back from Canada.

March 14th - 43 Days

2010-03-14T14:56:00.000-07:00

Another busy day today. Started off the day by hearing Alec and Eric whispering about what they should do for me for Mothers Day. Eric's plans were a little ambitious; he wanted to cook me breakfast in bed. So I did the sensible thing and yawned loudly and said "oh good morning boys". So they both piled in next to me with their lovingly chosen presents. The Primrose in the pot was a little worse for wear; (think it may have been upside down at some point: ) but it is now proudly displayed in the window sill. Alec bought me shower gel "cause you get really sweaty when you run Mummy": )

We had to dash over to rugby training as soon as the boys and I finished breakfast. Eric did not like this one bit. He does not cope well with time restraints... this was not helped by the fact that I went to the main parking lot and discovered (only when I got to the end) that the lot was full. Now when I say parking lot I mean to say it is a narrow lane with parking along the sides and no where to turn. Through careful maneuvering and biting my tongue I managed to reverse the 1/4 mile back down the lane to the entrance and pull without causing any damage or swearing... quite an achievement in my opinion!!! Drove round to the other side of the park and managed to get Alec to practice with moments to spare.

Eric wandered off with his binoculars and his current book he spent the whole 2 hours up in a tree at the edge of the pitch: )

With Eric entertaining himself I got to join in with the kids... we played a rousing game of bull dog in which, I must say, I got a little carried away and slid in the mud trying to grab one kids tags... I think I was as muddy as them by the end of it which is saying something...

Before heading home the boys and I drove along my route and cached some gels and energy drinks so I wouldn't have to carry as much during the run. The boys were quite concerned that someone might steal it; though when I explained that neither tasted very nice unless you had been running they relaxed a bit.

Laura came round and watched the boys for me while I did my mad run. I was really surprised by how fast I got round. I was expecting to be slower than last week because of the cold and the fact it is two long run weeks in a row. I managed instead to run the route a full 3 minutes faster than last week!!! http://gb.mapometer.com/en/running/route_439312.html

March 13th - 44 Days

2010-03-13T15:50:00.003-08:00

We had a busy and constructive day today I wrote Eric a list of the things we needed to do. He is not happy with Daddy not being at home so thought I would give him something else to focus on.

So first off the list a game of soldiers I moved the laundry racks (covered in towels) at intervals down the hall upstairs. Eric dressed up in his helmet and shouted orders to Alec who ran around semi crouched with his toy machine gun and crazy smirk. Eric then proceeded to hum the theme to Lord of The Rings and line up his toy soldiers in perfectly evenly spaced lines.

Next off to the Library, I was so proud of him. When he handed back the book he chose last week he actually asked if they had The Hobbit. Eric normally doesn't engage with strangers let alone ask for help, so I felt a bit gutted for him when the Librarian told him that they didn't have it in. However, Eric surprised me by asking her if they could get it in for him because he really wanted to read it. Those of you who know Eric or have a child on the spectrum know moments like this are amazing where everything seems to slot together and they are able to communicate 'normally'. But it isn't normal because it is unusual for them and that is what makes it stand out. Alec then broke the spell by loudly asking if they could get that in then could they find him the Charlie and The Great Glass Elevator. So both books are due to come into the library for next Saturday: )

We then went on the great popcorn hunt. Now I mistakenly thought that this would be an easy exercise... I was wrong. First stop Sainsburys - Nothing. Next Stop Waitrose - Nothing. Eric was getting a bit desperate by this point. He wanted his popcorn... I mean it was on the list and gosh darn it the list needed to be done in order. So we headed to Julian Graves in the shopping centre. Well I heard it before I saw it... a chap from the amateur operatic society singing snippets of tunes from Oliver. Eric quite enjoyed it and immediately attempting to imitate the trilling but in the end making noises like a squashed parrot. We found the popcorn and made a hasty exit... Out on the street Eric calmed down and we were able to get to the market with only a few minor ticks. The boys had their picnic of sausage rolls in front of the cenotaph while I got our fruit and veg for the week.

Managed to get Alec to his friends joint party a Lazer Run later in the afternoon and had a relaxing evening. The boys even managed to clean their rooms before bedtime. Shocking

No training tonight as I wanted to make sure to get enough rest to get over the cold before my 18 mile run tomorrow. My friend, the lovely Laura, has confirmed she will be able to watch the boys. So best head to bed and sleep to be ready for the big day ahead.

March 12th - 45 Days

2010-03-13T15:50:00.001-08:00

Kevin flew out today to go and give some comfort to his Grandma in Nanaimo Canada. So needless to say the mood was somewhat sombre in the house. Eric was keen not to say goodbye, so Kevin positioned himself next to the back door to make sure he could give him a hug before he slipped out.

I am still getting over my nasty cold so I made the boys my favorite comfort food scrambled eggs toast and beans for tea. I finished reading the boys Charlie and the Chocolate Factory then headed off to bed myself catch some zzzz's. I need to get well before running my 18 miles on Sunday so I'm hoping the extra rest day will put me back on track.

March 11th - 46 Days

2010-03-11T14:36:00.000-08:00

Woke up this morning with a sore throat and headache... definitely have a cold: ( Kevin and I went up to Fleet to run some errands so was able to get some Day Nurse which perked me up and got me through the day. We did not manage to locate a rhinestone belt that Alec was so desperate to have to wear for the competition. We managed to get some silver gems which I glued to a black belt that we had at home.

When we picked Alec up and showed him this cobbled together attempt at the rhinestone belt of his dreams he took a deep breath and said "Mummy I think I've changed my mind I don't want to wear a belt." He did go on to add that he was dissapointed about the size of the rhinestones... in other words it was not to his standards.

Alec and the other children from Tavistock Infant School dance group "Unity" poured their little hearts out on the stage. They did their absolute best but, they didn't receive any awards for their efforts. We brought Eric along due to the events from yesterday, and he was genuinely concerned about how Alec would feel. Alec on the other hand was over the moon that he had performed on stage saying "it's not about winning or losing it's about having fun too." He even expressed interest that he would like to join the after school dance club at All Saints Junior School in year 3.

Eric was far more relaxed this evening. He understands why Kevin will be going to Canada without him and why this has to be. He doesn't like it and is quick to shut down at the moment but, with understanding and support he will be ok over the next few days. When I asked him to hurry up to get ready for bed tonight I didn't think and told him "get your skates on." He looked at me like I had grown a third eye. "Mummy I don't have any skates"was his reply, bless him...

I went to spin class tonight and gave it my all... drippy nose and all; ) I decided to go tonight as I will take tomorrow as a rest day from training to recover from this bug.

March 10th - 47 Days

2010-03-11T14:23:00.000-08:00

Today was tough for the boys. Kevin was informed late last night that he should go to Canada and say his goodbyes to his Grandma. So a lot of scrambling to get a last minute flight and reschedule other commitments. He will be flying out on Friday so he can watch Alec's dance performance tomorrow. We waited until Cubs ended to tell Eric; he doesn't deal well with change at the best of times and this really upset him. Eric was equally distressed about losing a family member as he was about his routine being affected.

Eric did have a good time at Cubs proudly coming home with his Local History badge. So in order to help make him feel better I sewed on the badge straight away.

Now for my training; I ran 4.5 miles this morning along the canal with the dog. It was really nice to be out in daylight at 6:30am. I went and swam lengths at the pool in the evening too but felt a bit grotty afterwards think I'm coming down with a cold. My friend the lovely Laura has kindly volunteered to watch the boys when I do my long run this weekend so my training won't be affected by this turn of events.

March 9th - 48 days

2010-03-09T14:54:00.000-08:00

Eric was such a good boy this morning. He went through his verbal checklist and remembered his French book without being reminded. He had a bit of a wobble when I asked him to get his shoes on before asking Alec to turn off the TV. He just looked at me like I had grown a third eye; "Mummy you got the order wrong." Once I asked Alec to turn off the TV all was right with the world and he was able to get off to school fine.

Alec on the other and dragged his heels... he would not comb his hair or put his shoes on. We ended up getting to school but with no time to spare. So he managed to get away with me not speaking to his teacher... his plan perhaps????? His teacher had already left for the day when I picked him up from dance class so again he managed to get away with another day. I will try harder tomorrow!!!!

The dance competition is only 2 days away now and the kids look really good. They have their routine down now.

No training tonight as I'm taking my rest day. I will be running along the canal with the dog tomorrow morning.

March 8th - 49 Days

2010-03-08T15:02:00.000-08:00

Got the boys off to school with minimal fuss this morning - a rare occurrence in our house. However, things were not to remain in that way. Alec's classroom assistant also happens to run the the after school choir. She approached when I picked him up after practice at the request of his teacher inform me that I ought to speak to Alec about what he has been up to in the boys toilets. According to Alec, he has been climbing up the doors to get on top of the partition in the boys loos and looking in the cistern at the backs of the toilets to see how they work. He also said he 'maybe accidentally stopped one of the toilets from working'. I will update you all in tomorrows blog...

My friend Claire came round after work to discuss her role as one of my official cheerleaders for the London Marathon. She will be helping Kevin get both boys to and from the official National Autistic Society cheering area located at Miles 14 and 22 of the marathon route. Sounds like NAS supporters area is going to be one of the great places to watch the action. They are planning on having a BBQ and will have a Steel band playing!!!! (let me know if any of you would like join them in helping to cheer me and the other NAS runners on).

Stephen Lloyd, the nice reporter from the Fleet News and Mail, sent me the link to the article on the Get Hampshire website today. So you can all have a read;

http://www.gethampshire.co.uk/news/s/2067146_fleet_runners_cause_is_close_to_her_heart
Please feel free to forward the article on to anyone who you feel might be interested.

Tonight I went to the gym and spent an hour on the cross trainer followed by 200 squats and assorted planks, side planks, superman's and bridges.

BTW the picture of the cat and dog have been added todays blog at Eric's request as they are members of our family too: )

March 7th - 50 Days

2010-03-07T13:46:00.000-08:00

Today was a busy day at the Donnelly's. Started off the morning by heading down to watch Alec play in the under 7s Aldershot and Fleet RUFC game against Alton. The boys worked hard to hold their ground but both games were lost in the end by 1 point each.

Eric found watching the game rather tedious. He ended up wandering off to the edge of the pitches searching for wasps nests, smooth rocks and the pond. We kept an eye on him but allowed him space to explore and be himself. Other than the occasional parrot noise he was rather introspective in the morning talking about wasps nests and the like. Kevin managed to get him involved in a game of passing towards the end of the morning but Eric wasn't entirely comfortable in engaging in this activity. We decided to treat the boys to Burger King on the way home. Must say I succumbed to the call of the fries and they were good.

Headed off to the gym in the afternoon for an hour of stationary bike work. I was intending to swim and take Eric with me but he was tired from beetling about in the morning. So opted to do the intervals on a MUCH lower resistance. All in all a great recovery workout, I left feeling less stiff than I did when I got there: )

March 6th - 51 Days

2010-03-06T13:04:00.001-08:00

Walked up to Fleet this morning with Kevin and the boys. Eric had his usual problem at the library, spending an hour picking a book. When he is faced with lots of choice he becomes overwhelmed and shuts down to a degree. He keeps thinking that there might be a better book so even when he finds one he won't commit. Still not sure how to tackle this problem. We certainly don't want him to associate books or going to the library with stress, so we allow him to have this time to go through this process. We were proud of him though for approaching a librarian and explaining how he had damaged the previous book. Eric had been reading in the bath (smuggling in the book without our knowledge) and had dropped it in the tub. The poor boy was genuinely concerned that they wouldn't let him borrow books anymore.

After the library we went off to Clark's the butchers. Alec spent his time admiring all the cuts of meat and was slightly disappointed that we didn't buy the duck breasts. Eric really doesn't like the smell of the butchers but, he managed to not make a big fuss about it this time. Then back down the high-street to the market. The boys really enjoy buying the fruit and veg at the market. everything is so pleasant from the produce to the banter. We came away with a beautiful wooden box filled with beautiful small sweet oranges with the leaves still attached.

I ran 18 miles this afternoon in 3 hours 5 minutes!!!! Now I couldn't have done that with the support of my crack marathon running team. Kevin ground my insoles down this morning to prevent further friction. The insoles certainly felt much smoother afterword. I took further preventative action by liberally applying Compeed Anti blister stick to the areas where my blisters from last week are still healing. Kevin and the boys met met at the halfway point with fresh supplies of my body fuel stuff and a refresher of the anti blister stuff. Between the modified insoles and the lubricant on my feet I had no further problems this week which I think went a long way to improving my performance. Next week I will be running 18 miles again so I will see if I can maintain the great time I got today.

The only downside to the run was the protein bar afterwards. I had a Body Fuel one last week with no ill affects. Today I ate a Boots one that cost half the price; it did not sit well on my stomach. Sometimes the cheaper option is not the best option I will not repeat that mistake again: (

Tomorrow I afternoon I will be going to the pool to swim lengths.

March 5th - 52 Days

2010-03-06T13:03:00.001-08:00

Both boys were poorly so no school today.

Not much else to report as marathon rest day... gearing up for tomorrow for the long run.

So here's a picture of a sick Eric being cared for by Suggs the silly dog: )

March 4th - 53 Days

2010-03-04T14:27:00.000-08:00

Eric didn't have as good a time this morning. Kevin asked him to water the animals (his usual morning job) and apparently he lost it. Eric had decided he wanted to watch cartoons and have his breakfast in the living room. Kevin managed to calm him down by getting him back into his routine. Eric did ok after that and got off to school with all his kit on the first try today which is quite something in our house.

Alec had a good morning, he woke up feeling better the headache seemingly gone. He stayed late today to do an extra dance rehearsal his headache came back when they were doing some of their more rigorous maneuvers. So when I picked him up he was sitting over to the side wrapped up in his coat. Poor little boy, I put his pj's on him as soon as we got home. Eric didn't take well to this as not part of the routine. The first thing he asked was why Alec didn't have to do homework again. I tried to explain that Alec didn't feel very well and that he needed rest to get better but Eric just couldn't comprehend it. He shut down and started making noises and refusing to do his work to the point where he agreed that he would go to bed immediately after supper rather than do it. Alec will be kept home from school tomorrow to give him time to get better. We will have to deal with that conversation with Eric tomorrow morning...

Spin class this evening was eventful for all the wrong reasons. During the standing sprints I gave it my all - holding my upper body up using the handle bars, my legs spinning as fast as I could muster. Then, the pin holding the handlebars came loose and collapsed. As the pin spun it scraped the inside of my right thigh. I have never been a graceful creature and I am certainly not the lightest of runners so understandably my pride was also bruised. Oh well I should be growing a nice multi coloured souvenir over the next couple of days: (

March 3rd - 54 Days

2010-03-04T14:26:00.000-08:00

Eric and Alec got up bright and early this morning and were dressed with their morning chores done by the time I had come downstairs. Brilliant!!!!

After school Alec had a bad headache (he has a bad cold poor thing) and was asking if he could go to bed. So we got Eric, went home, dosed up Alec, got him into his PJ's and under a blanket on the sofa. Eric didn't like that Alec didn't have to do homework due to feeling poorly. He resisted doing his work at first till he realised that he wasn't going to get anywhere. So early night for both boys.

Due to other commitments I was unable to do training tonight but, will be working extra hard tomorrow at spin class: )

March 2nd - 55 Days

2010-03-02T14:50:00.001-08:00

Eric suddenly announced last night that he had to be dressed as a Tudor for school today. Fortunately we happen to have a Tudor costume in the dressing up cupboard (we have an amazing assortment that we have collected or made over the years). When Eric got up, being the creature of routine he is, he put on his school uniform and came downstairs. He seemed a little unsure about whether or not he was supposed to dress as a Tudor all day or not. So at this point we suggested that he look out his bedroom window and see what the other kids were wearing and then he could change if he saw other 'Tudor's' milling about outside the school gates. At 8:30 Eric rushed downstairs dis-robed and threw on his costume. Poor Eric does not deal well with changing gears which lead to him becoming slightly aggressive. For instance he decided that he couldn't wear his hat as this would make him look silly. Alec tried to smooth over the situation by allowing Eric to borrow his rugby socks to complete the outfit. Eric ended up stuffing the hat into his bag and storming out the door. So not a good start of the day.

Alec did really well at dance practice. They all wore their t-shirts and vests and looked great as they went through their routine. Alec looked so serious as he twirled and spun with the girls. The blue bruise on his nose from rugby still highly visible: ) He is such a patient little boy... but I guess that is from being Eric's little brother to some extent.

Eric continued his hard day by choosing to be oppositional about his homework. Kevin and I reminded him that the only person he was harming was himself as it was only cutting into his tv time. He calmed down a lot after this and did a great job with his drumming homework.

Now for my training. I did interval training on the stationary bikes and had a lovely view of what I think is the seniors swimming club. Man they may not look the part in the speedos but these people can shift!!!! I felt slightly inadequate so finished of the session with planks sideplanks supermans bridges and 100 ball squats over 4 sets. Not quite the same as the 200 squats I did last night but after the bike felt like double the number; )

March 1st - 56 Days

2010-03-01T10:23:00.000-08:00

Woke up this morning with a bit of a head cold, have dosed up on medicine in the hopes of keeping it at bay. Running is supposed to be a natural decongestant anyway; )

http://www.runnersworld.com/article/0,7120,s6-241-286--9082-0,00.html

So no excuses - out to the gym I go to put some miles in on the cross-trainer. The one place I know I can run where the tissues won't get soggy before I use them and on a machine that won't rip my feet to shreds; )

The boys had a good days today they both had after school clubs; Alec went to choir and Eric drama. I managed to remember to bring along the sponsor form this time so got a few of the parents to fill them in. Those who managed to dodge me today I will get over the coming weeks...

Eric did a good job practicing his drums tonight... he is pulling together all the things he has learnt and is working on a real song now!!!

February 28th - 55 Days

2010-02-28T14:55:00.000-08:00

We discovered that Eric has been systematically de-constructing his ceiling. I entered his room and initially believed a blizzard had blown of course and somehow made its way into his bedroom. When questioned he claimed it was paper then looked away and told me it was the ceiling and he had been collecting it in a pile under his pillow. I couldn't be too angry with him he had come clean but, had him vacuum up the mess and talk to us about why it was wrong to pick apart the ceiling. Kevin and I both think it was a sensory thing as he He was suitably remorseful but shut down emotionally for the rest of the day and exhibited some of his louder and jerky ticks for the rest of the day. We managed to get out swimming for an hour this afternoon but again Eric just couldn't focus and was putting himself and the other children in the pool in danger.

Alec had a GREAT day he found out he will be playing in the under 7's for Aldershot & Fleet RUFC at the London Irish Rugby Festival. The kids will get to meet the players and get pictures and autographs and then watch London Irish vs Sale in the afternoon. The 2 under 7's teams that make it to the finals will be duking it out during half time in front of 25,000 people!!!!! Alec is rightfully over the moon... So I will definitely be rescheduling March 28th as a rest day and moving my long run to the 27th.

As many of you know I lived in Vancouver Canada for years before moving back to the UK in 2004. So spent the evening watching Canada vs USA duke it out for the gold in the Olympic Hockey. Canada won in overtime with only minutes to spare brilliant game and Canada's 14th gold. I hope that can use some of that Canadian spirit as I work away to achieve my goals of not only running the London Marathon but of raising the £3000 for the National Autistic Society.

February 27th - 56 Days

2010-02-27T13:20:00.003-08:00

I had to work this morning but get time in lieu which I think I may need for additional training.

So Kevin had the boys for a few hours. Apparently Eric and Alec were less than willing to get dressed and out the door to the market. Eric freaked out for a couple of minutes because he was absorbed in his Lego. Switching gears is incredibly difficult for him. Kevin managed to coax him out of the house with the promise of working on the Spitfire model they have been building for the last two weeks.

They made it to the market and got the fruit and veg ok but Eric spent over 1 hour selecting a toy to buy with his £2 pocket money. Kevin tried to explain that he could save his money as Eric was attracted things that were out of his price limit. But Eric was convinced that he needed to spend his money then. He ended up selecting something in the end but lost interest in it the moment he got home. Poor Eric he just doesn't get money at all.

I met up with the guys in Fleet to do a Greggs run... I was to live to regret that decision (details upon request only; P).

The run:

http://gb.mapometer.com/en/running/route_399282.html

My run went well till I reached the Railway bridge on Pale Lane then the heavens opened and didn't let up till I reached the cricket club in Dogmersfield. Now I was plodding along at a fair pace with wet feet in warm runners the inevitable happened... my nemesis, friction. By the time I reached the Hart Leisure Centre, I was hurting but by that point I only had a little way to go so decided to finish my 10miles. The damage done and now on the blog for your viewing pleasure... I have ordered some anti blister lube from Boots and will be picking it up next week... in time for my 16 mile run next weekend... I know I'm insane but I'm doing it for a good cause.

February 26th - 57 Days

2010-02-27T13:20:00.001-08:00

Today was another busy day at the Donnelly's. Alec's dance troupe's waistcoats arrived much to his delight. He is rightly excited as the competition takes place at Princess Hall in Aldershot on March 11th. Just to wait for the highlighter coloured t-shirts. Don't worry I will be posting a picture of the little devils on the day. Eric had a good day at school though I suspect he may have sneaked my a packet of my post run Jelly Babies. I found one of the kitchen chairs under the cupboard where I had put them. Neither Ronnie or Reggie are admitting anything but are dropping loads of hints. Will question them separately later: )

Today I got an email from the administrator for NAS Hart and Rushmoor. They have very kindly offered to add my Blog and Just Giving link to the next news letter due out next week!!!! Thank you Nikki.

I also got a call from Andy Garner, Press Officer for the NAS. He wants to put together a press release to send out to Newspapers/Radio and Television stations. This will really help to open the doors to get the word out about my fund raising but, more importantly I hope that this will be an opportunity for more people to gain a better insight into Autism.

Now for the training... I didn't tonight as will be moving my long run to tomorrow on account of the big storm. Didn't fancy running in lashing rain and 40 mile per hour winds: )

February 25th - 58 Days

2010-02-25T14:17:00.001-08:00

Well the Ritalin is starting to become part of the morning routine. Everything has to have a rhythm to it including the morning verbalized mental check list. I still needed to remind him to take it but, that seems to be part of the routine because he does mention the medicine beforehand. Today was his first time back at Environment club since the first week in November. Funnily enough Eric just sighed and muttered that "everything is back to normal now." He had his drum lessons today too, he will be sticking with the same sheet for another week and was a bit disappointed. This lead us into a discussion about practicing slowly and methodically instead of rushing things. I think it is starting to sink in.

Alec was his usual self and requested to do his homework with me first so he could get down to the serious business of watching Raven on CBBC.

Now for marathon related activities!!!! My running vest arrived at the office this morning. Jean my manager allowed me to nip off to the Spotless Drycleaners on the high street and get my name ironed on. The chap there was brilliant and didn't charge as he realized it was for charity tres awesome in my books: )

So got the name ironed on in plenty of time for my picture taken for the paper. The photographer was a really nice chap and and me posing over by the CHL sign. Thankfully it was during one of those rare moments where it wasn't lashing down... so will have to wait and see what the article and picture are like!!!!

Spin class was good as always with Debbie pushing us along... I still hate standing sprints. I am not the lightest person in the world so get nervous when the supposedly stationary bike starts to dance about... yikes... still I seem to be able to maintain them for longer

February 24th - 59 Days

2010-02-25T14:01:00.000-08:00

Another mad Wednesday... Eric started the day by verbalizing and repeating his mental list like a mantra. " Brush my teeth, get dressed, breakfast, water animals, cartoons, medicine, go to school, go to swimming lessons... then Beavers and Cubs, supper and bed with a book"

Poor Eric lost his underpants at the pool which he said upset him and made him uncomfortable. He doesn't like things to be different so I can well imagine that this distressed him. The first thing he did when he got home was to put on some pants and then all was right with the world once again.

I am especially proud of Eric today. He volunteered to 'help out' with the Beavers. Having some responsibility really brought out the caring gentle side of Eric's character. I only had to intervene a few times to just settle him down by reminding him that he is much bigger than the Beaver Scouts. He did a great job in knowing when to leave and have a 'cool down' himself.

By the time I picked him up after Cubs the poor boy was a bit wound up... poor boy.

No training tonight as tracking fast moving Beaver Scouts is knackering enough: )

February 23rd - 60 Days

2010-02-23T14:12:00.000-08:00

First day back at school for the boys!!!! The long faces as breakfast was eaten in silence and watched CBBC mourning the loss of their holiday time... me included: (

But it wasn't all bad...

I met with Eric's teacher, Miss Hussey after school today to make up for the missed parent teacher interview (see blog dated Week Starting February 8th). Apparently he is easily distracted and has been prone to making 'parrot noises' at random intervals during class. She went on to add that for a boy with such a huge imagination and creativity and ability to retain information she finds it frustrating as she knows he can answer questions but unless the question is framed in a 'certain way' he just won't answer.

Unfortunately, this is a typical Autistic trait and one that we struggle with at home on a day to day basis. It took 2 years to stop him phonetically sounding out words he already knew how to read. He also went through a spate where he thought you had to write out the entire times table in order to answer a question like 2x3. He creates these ridged rules and protocols in his own mind and once he believes something to be true it can take an awfully long time to 'reprogram' his thought processes.

Our latest bugbear is Eric not filling in his homework diary. He told us before Half term break that if he 'forgot' his homework that meant he couldn't do it therefore he should be able to play on the Wii. Miss Hussey has agreed to work with me by personally checking his reading folder every Friday to ensure that the work is there. I am hoping by showing Eric that I do talk to his teacher that this rule he has created in his mind is incorrect. We shall see.

Now for the good news, Eric was apparently very focused at school today and the noises were no worse than that of the other children. It would appear the Ritalin in the small dose anyway is just enough for him to concentrate but not so much that it dulls his senses. Eric has even told us that he feels calmer with it.

You may be wondering about the significance of the picture of the London Skyline at the top of todays blog. It is by a leading artist an autistic savant called Stephen Wiltshire. I highly recommend clicking on the picture which will take you to his website and view his astounding drawings.

Unfortunately, my marathon training had to be cut short tonight... after 41 lengths of the pool I had to give up due to foot cramp. Tomorrow night is Beavers and Cubs so hoping the rest day will do me good. I will need my strength to get through spin class on Thursday: )

February 22nd - 61 Days

2010-02-22T05:20:00.000-08:00

How exciting I'm going to be the subject of an article for the local paper!!!! A photographer will be coming to my work to take my picture on Thursday. I guess I had better get some ironing done.

Eric and Alec have been very quiet today. I got them to do some school work to exercise their brains this morning. Unsurprisingly, it did not go down well. The snow on the otherhand did with Eric exclaiming "Mummy it's snowing that means there won't be school tomorrow". True snowflakes the size of cricket balls were falling out of the sky which lead to an interesting discussion about surface vs air temperature. Poor Alec glazed over as I started surfing the Met office website searching for the answers to Eric's barrage of questions on that topic.

Off to the gym tonight think I will use the rowing machine and give my soleus muscle a break... still finding going upstairs uncomfortable however, not crawling like I did last night.

February 21st - 62 Days

2010-02-21T08:01:00.000-08:00

Today started out a little roughly with Alec not wanting to stop his DS playing and go to rugby practice. Eric also resisted entering the great outdoors. I only managed to tempt him out with a bribe of a magazine and sweets in an effort to get my fringe trimmed.

Eric spent a couple of hours building a model Spitfire with Kevin this afternoon while I was out running. So it wasn't all torture for him.

Now the running... I officially ran further than I have ever run before!!!!! 15 Miles in 2 hours and 37 minutes.

http://gb.mapometer.com/en/running/route_413123.html

I think I may have pulled my soleus muscle on my run as having difficulty getting up the stairs: ( Just glad that my knee feels fine. The patella strap seems to be helping a lot. I have a physio appointment booked for March 1st but, hopefully it will be ok by then...

Now for the music... well I think my time speaks for itself!!!! Listening to music with 160 BPM really does help me to keep an even pace. I know that I have a habit of instinctively matching other people at races in the past which has reduced my level of performance in the race overall. Hopefully I have now found a way to overcome this for the VLM...

February 20th - 63 Days

2010-02-20T16:59:00.000-08:00

It was a bit difficult for Eric again today he was resistant to doing anything. Managed to get out to the pool for a couple of hours. Treated the boys to Chitty Chitty Bang Bang in memory of Lionel Jefferies. I pleased to report that both boys loved it, Eric especially so. I think the over exaggerated expressions help him to understand the subtle humor better. Alec just LOVED the song and dance routines and of course the scene where the children fight back.

Apart from the swimming the only marathon related activity I did today was to order my supply of Lucazade Sport and Carb Gels. They both taste like poo until you've been running for about an hour. As both of these will be handed out along the marathon route I have to get used to taking them on my longer runs.

I did some more research into listening to music during running. For my cadence and timings I learned that I need to be listening to music with BPM of 160. Thanks to feedback from several friends I will be listening to a mixture of AC/DC, Metallica, Raconteurs, Black keys, Datarock and Billy Talent (has the right beat anyway). Will let you know how I get on...

February 19th - 64 Days

2010-02-19T14:42:00.000-08:00

The second day of Eric's Ritalin trial and things are still going really well. We took him to the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard today to admire the Victory and to visit the Mary Rose Museum. We had another fantastic day out!!!! He even allowed himself to dress up in public and relax a little bit.

I had a rest day today so no gym tonight but swimming tomorrow...

February 18th - 65 Days

2010-02-19T14:32:00.000-08:00

Well where to begin... Eric was able to focus long enough to learn how to shallow dive!!!!! To give you all a bit of background Eric has always had a problem with being in water. The sensation of the water on his body has always caused him to retreat into himself. It took till this summer to teach him how to swim after 5 years of trying. So for Eric to suddenly be able to focus in this environment took us both aback... Don't get me wrong he is still Eric reciting facts and figures and obsessing about his current topic of the Tudors but just without the ticks.

Later in the afternoon he went off and unwound by building a nifty lego spaceship.

I went back to the gym in the evening for interval training and planks, supermans and the like

February 17th - 66 Days

2010-02-19T14:28:00.002-08:00

Wednesday was a big day in our house Eric has been prescribed Ritalin at his request for his twitches and involuntary noises. Dr Rossdale-Smith is hopeful that this will help with these challenges. He will be taking a very low dose on a trial basis for 2 months to see if there is any effect. I still have my trepidations about drug intervention. However, this is a decision that has been made primarily by Eric. He asked the Doctor back before Christmas if it would "stop the buzzing in my head". So we will see...

Swam 52 lengths tonight

February 16th - 67 Days

2010-02-19T14:28:00.001-08:00

Pancake day... boys wanted a quite day which suited me to a T. Poor Eric spent a lot of the day making animal noises and rocking. Sometimes he just needs to give into his autistic traits and deal with the world in his own way. Ended the day with a 45 minutes of interval training followed by planks, side planks, supermans, bridges and my nemesis squats and lunges.

February 15th - 68 Days

2010-02-19T13:52:00.000-08:00

Half term break... poor Eric does not deal well with change so breaks are always difficult for him. Started off the week by taking the boys into London to the Victoria and Albert Museum. Eric loved the Decode: Digital Design Sensations exhibition. The black and white kinetic sculpture outside this exhibit really captured his imagination. I have always been amazed with kids like Eric 'getting' art in ways that most adults can't comprehend. I learn more from him some days than I can teach him. Alec was his usual normal 6 year old self wanting to touch everything: ) Ended the day with 50 lengths of the pool... felt really good afterwards

Week starting February 8th

2010-02-19T13:45:00.000-08:00

Discovered that the reply slip for parent teacher interviews never made it to the teacher. As I spoke to his teacher he slunk away and hid behind the bookshelves in the library and made monkey noises. I am now slightly concerned and have booked an appointment to see the teacher after half term break. What is he worried about me finding out? Oh Eric!!!!

Eric informed us that as he forgot to bring his homework home that meant that he didn't have to do it and consequently he should be able to play Wii. Though impressed with this argument on one level I am by the same token unimpressed. Only managed to go for an hour walk with the dog in the sleet that evening. Spin class was again excellent I seem to be able to tolerate the inclines better. I guess my overall fitness is starting to improve. Spent Friday night at the gym swimming lengths is the pool upon the recommendation of Helen Mehrtens my Physio Therapist. I am not a strong swimmer so much splashing about was done managed to do 33 lengths but felt utterly sore afterwards. But pain is good right?

Ended the week with a gentle 10 Mile run and the first time I have ever used music during a run. Found the music really helped, I don't know why I should be surprised at this but I was. Will be digging through my MP3s for running music for my next long run.

This week I also learned that you shouldn't toast thick slices of brioche if you don't want to set fire to the toaster and set off the smoke alarm at 11pm. Oops

Week Starting February 1st

2010-02-19T13:41:00.000-08:00

Well started this week out well swam lengths at the Hart Leisure Centre Tuesday ran on the treadmill for an hour Wednesday was my usual Beaver Scouts commitment Thursday Spin Class Friday out with the girls from the office. Saturday I got to spend a day at the Gold Bond Meet the Experts Day and had a fabulous time. Learned loads about nutrition, hydration, carbohydrate gels, fund-raising and lubing bum cheeks to avoid chaffing etc all things marathon related. Even fell in love with a pair of running shoes... when I slipped them on they felt like heaven looking forward to breaking these babies in: )
Poor Eric though he said to me upon my return " wow that must have been a great party" Not realising that I had come home gone to bed and left the following morning before he had got up. Spent some time hugging and chatting to him about the Tudors his current obsession.
Finished off the week by running 13.1 miles in 2 hours 16 minutes including a brief run back to the house to change tops... I'm not used to running in frost free temperatures anymore: )

Where it started

2010-02-13T10:35:00.000-08:00

I will never forget sitting in the Paediatrician's office - that stiffness and wave of nausea that hit me when he asked if we had heard of Autisim. The only point of reference I had was the movie Rainman and though I could instantly recognize some of Dustin Hoffmans character I couldn't fully comprehend what he was saying. I remember vaguely that he drew three interlocking rings and explaining the spectrum to me but nothing sunk in during that initial shock. As soon as we got home we went on the internet and the first resource we came to was the NAS website. We have been back many times since looking for guidance and support with raising our eldest son. Eric is 9 years old now and though we struggle with communication difficulties on a daily basis he is still our special little boy.

I started running as a means of blowing off steam to reduce the stress of parenting an autistic child. Life with Eric is great, but sometimes I need a break to clear my mind and running has been that release for me.

Last April (in a moment that I can now only describe as insanity) I decided to use my passion for running to give back to the charity that had helped us so much over the last 4 years. I didn't believe I would be successful but when I received that email from the National Autistic Society confirming my gold bond place I simultaneously felt exhilarated and sick. This Blog is about my journey to prepare for the marathon whilst juggling my parental and family responsibilities I hope you can join me in supporting this charity.

http://www.justgiving.com/Jennie-Donnelly