Over the previous few days the tide had played a big part in my progress and had been major the factor which determined how many miles I would make each day.  I knew this would be the case for much of the east coast so making the right decisions and accurate reading of the tides would be crucial over the […]

The South and West coast were all somewhat familiar to me and I was always in close range to friends or family.  When I moved into the northwest I had expected to be isolated and lonely and have to admit this section of the coast was one that made me nervous. So far though Donegal had treated me well, friendly […]

Being awakened by rain on the tent is one thing, being awakened by rain on you face is an entirely other.  But that is the joy of bivvying, at about 04:30 I woke to drops of rain on my face and slid deep into my sleeping bag sealing the bivvy bag over my head with a small air hole to […]

After a hectic few days which has included a few hundred miles on the roads around Ireland and the small matter of my little brothers wedding, which was a magical affair and a special way to finish off the family weddings, 8 down! But now it is time to relax and enjoy the comforts of home as it my last […]

Last night I had to practice the skills I hope not to have to use on the trip around Ireland.  Since I bought the boat people especially those who do a little bit of kayaking keep asking, “is it easy to roll?” my answer up until yesterday was I don’t know.  I have spent years perfecting the art of staying […]

This time 2 weeks it will be the eve of the start and there will be no more time to train or prepare.  And for that reason the next 2 weeks will be crazy!!! I have now assembled almost all of my kit and the final piece of the puzzle, the food, is ordered and on the way so by […]

Definition of PONDER transitive verb 1 : to weigh in the mind : appraise <pondered their chances of success> 2 : to think about : reflect on <pondered the events of the day> intransitive verb : to think or consider especially quietly, soberly, and deeply Yesterday I had my first chance to get out on the coast in my new […]

Today marks the one month to go for the start of my next big adventure and the biggest solo expedition of my life.  I have been planning expeditions and adventures for years so  I have a good idea of what needs to be done in advance but somehow whenever the final month comes around the days appear to be cut […]