Today I walked into town and gave my 40th pint of blood. I’ve had a few messages from the blood transfusion teams / NHS that they’re in need of my blood (A+) and today worked out for me as a good day to go give blood.

In the last couple of weeks I’ve managed to get myself into a good routine; getting good sleeps, and exercising regularly. With a main focus on strength work, swimming or walking.

I’ve done one run back in mid September and will get back to it soon. But I’m enjoying what I’m doing and getting plenty of rest too.

I also did the Loch Lomond 5km event at the start of September (and came 4th lady!) in about 1:30… and then two weeks later enjoyed Loch Morlich 5km swim, a little slower, and colder… in 1:34 and about 5th lady. (I say about as it seemed a couple of people maybe only did one lap of two?).

I’ve recovered from them and been taking it easy. Sleep, rest, relaxation and routine has been my main focus.

Here’s what I’ve been up to exercise wise for the last fortnight:

And here’s my plan for the next couple of weeks:

I may not do all of the planned exercise though, but there is a gym and a pool where I’m going so we will see.

After that, I’d like to get into more regular swimming, up to 3 times a week (Wed Fri Sun), and 2-3 strength sessions (Mon Thu Sat). With maybe a run on a Tuesday.

I’ve been reading and relaxing more. Less naps but good long sleeps so far in October. My Garmin is good for showing ‘sleep score’ and ‘body battery’. Here’s the sleep score.. and hours.

The sleep score was 55 the week before above (the week before my Dad passed away and I was up there), then 45, then 60 the week after… and really not great. That all had a big impact on me. These last two weeks have been a lot better thankfully.

Here’s the body battery measures… in the floor in August because of unfortunate events… and stress…it was rock bottom and I was struggling to recover, even though I was trying.

But now, thankfully, it’s a lot better – particularly in the last fortnight:

They’re all just measures, and I don’t focus on them too much. But it’s good to see them improving, and a good way for me to see how well I am recovering from a tough time. Good to see the progress.

Now hopefully me giving blood will help some people. And I’ll take it easy over the next few days / week.

I’ve been feeling a lot more myself, and I’m reminding myself to be me, and stay original. Onwards and upwards! I liked this sign when I passed it today.

Thanks to everyone who has reached out to listen or be here for me, it is much appreciated.

After an early start, a strength session and 8km walking today, along with giving blood and the tunnocks teacake (and breakfast lunch and dinner), I should sleep well tonight.

Looking forward to what the rest of October and the rest of the year brings x