When I started to plan this walk some months ago it seemed like it was just ages away … now it’s not, I’m getting ground rush as you would when you do a parachute Jump and the earth is coming at you fast!

I think Captain Colin, my boat skipper has been getting frustrated at my lack of urgency, but I have not intentionally been lax in my preparations, work has been somewhat all consuming this past few weeks. Still, I had plenty of time … until now! It’s fair to say though, that I do believe that people generally won’t be that interested in supporting my walk until it actually takes place or gets at least near to the event.

Captain Colin was happier today, as we almost finalised the route, made plans for our start, discussed the merits of various types of bacon (for breakfast) and both agreed on smoked streaky, so we at least concurred on something. He was pleased to see the collection boxes on the bar at the Dog & Partridge in Yateley in aid of Cancer Research UK, he got a couple of tee-shirts and the banners for the boat. We also kicked off our Easter raffle and “Guess how many eggs are in the jar” competition (397 – postscript)! So along with a few other fundraising initiatives we are finally making progress. Now he’s just got to learn how to live with me for a few days on the boat – I’ve got a few little intricacies that he might find a bit odd. Haha.

I am so thankful for the support I’ve received from Jodie & Cathy at Cancer Research UK in Oxford, good job these two know what they’re doing!

So today we also planned our overnight stops aiming to ‘park’ (I’ve know idea what boatmen call it) the boat as near to the pubs nearest the river – Colin doesn’t like to walk far, that’s one of many differences between us we will discover as the week goes on. Still, discussing pubs was good common ground for us. The pubs will provide much needed refreshment and a daily normality whilst away from home, but most importantly a place where we can rattle our tins in aid of Cancer Research UK. By the end of this week I expect to publish the route, stops and pubs!

Please do visit my Just Giving site and help by donating whatever you can. I’d also be thrilled if you’d consider joining me for part of the walk whether it be for an hour or two or for the day – your company will be much appreciated.

Cheers for your support xxx

Godstow Abbey at Wolvercote – we should reach here on day 6, God willing.