2008 - June

[El Gordo]

What a difficult decision you just made EG. Obviously your heart and body are not in the running mode right now. Maybe with time off it will change, maybe not. But do continue to participate in the Forum as I really enjoy your insights.

Speaking of Liverpool; I just found out a close friend of mine lived next door to Pete Best in Liverpool for a few years. They used to practice in his house and drive her parents and grandparents crazy. I do believe her grandfather put an end to that - after catching people using his fence as a bathroom. Interesting story I thought.

Suzie

Not that difficult at all, Suzie, but I appreciate the sentiment. You're right -- the appetite (not to mention an injury-free capability) may or may not return. I suspect that if I manage to get fitter and lose a few pounds, the desire will come back. At the moment, running doesn't feel like the right activity so I just need to try some other things and can always drift back when I'm ready. For some reason, I've always found hot weather running very uncomfortable, so possibly it's no more than that. Maybe a summer of gym work and cycling for pleasure will give me the physical and mental strength to get going again in autumn. But I'll still be around here for sure.

Nice story about Pete Best. In Lennon's home, there's a small enclosed porch that Lennon and McCartney were forced to confine themselves to practise, and sing the hits of the day, as it was relatively soundproof. While the people I was with were elsewhere, it was impossible to avoid the temptation to shut myself in there and croon a few bars of Blue Moon, just to say that... well, you'know. The whole thing was a tremendous experience, if you like that sort of thing.

http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/w-v...w-mendips/

http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/w-v...dallerton/