Working life

I have so many blog entries in my head its got to the point of ‘what is the point?’. Life has continued in its time honoured fashion of downhill skiing: ‘out of control and loving it!’ (but in a controlled sort of way, cos that’s the kind of guy I am).

Before I get too deep and philosophical, my marathon training is going well. May 1^st is still some time off, but not in training terms. My maximum road pace is still slower than my 18 yr old training pace, but that is to be expected; I have a head of grey hair to show for it. My tolerance for the indoor revolving rubber is 6miles, so anything beyond that is outdoors. The weather makes for a cold run, but wrap up well and you are soon warm. Two choices face me each time I venture out: 1. turn right (downhill and then uphill return) or 2. turn left (uphill and then downhill return). Two is my favoured option and I’m not complaining, yet. My mileage average is only about 20-25m per week, but I like to think that it is quality 20m. I’m focused, I’m committed. The marathon distance does not worry me, but my target time of sub 3.30 does.

My severe economic state required a drastic stimulus, so four weeks back I headed back over to Port Hardy. The town has been kind to me, for it housed and entertained me for a year in ’92, and for Natasha and I later in 2006 / 09. Worryingly, I reckoned on landing once again at their tiny airport that I have probably used this airport more times than any other in the world. Doors which I had not knocked on for a long while were opened to me, and I caught up with stories and events - some tragic, some challenging, some funny. Once again it served as a reminder that even though I feel that am continually working to keep friendship doors open, that is not to say that any are, in reality, closed. I worked and trained hard, leading a somewhat nomadic existence for two weeks but left with a warm glow in my heart knowing that I had helped a good buddy of mine out, got some money and reaffirmed old acquaintances. Thank you to all who took me in (and for the massage, Cindy!) But oh, the weather! I spent the entire time in four layers struggling to keep warm in the damp, cool winter climate whilst working with others wearing simply a T shirt. Natasha was very pleased to see me – she had become chief snow shoveler and dog walker on top of full time work.

So, back at Smiling Hills farm, Sanderman becomes Farmer Tim. We have somehow been granted farm status on the basis of my bees. I did tell them 2010 saw a 75% mortality rate and no income, but the powers that be obviously needed to keep their farm numbers up. I can now get an official ‘F’ number plate for the truck. F standing for, naturally, FARM. The B&B saw its first winter guests last weekend, three grown men heading up into the mountains for a weeks ski touring. Very jealous. I do hope for an increase in custom over this next year, and less bee kill.

The snow keeps on coming. The pile to the left of me right now is half way up our living room window. It’s fun, yet challenging. I need a machine to help clear it all and hopefully next year Farmer Tim will have his tractor. But for now, I need to sell my garden tractor snowblower, keep my brand new blower from breaking down, repair a faulty new generator, get the new fridge to work properly. To top it off, Tasky killed three chickens yesterday.  Natasha continues to find work challenging in so many ways and I need a job… need I go on? Get the drift?The grass is starting to look a little greener on the other side, but that may just be temporary. Time will tell.

So, cancel your gym memberships and use the money to get yourselves out here. There is plenty here to keep you in shape!

Natasha, the author blog - http://aliveinthekootenays.blogspot.com/

Paul, the cycling brother website - http://www.pedallingpsychology.com/

Peter, the sports photographer blog - http://www.cuetophoto.com/blog/

 Tim