GoodBye -2012 - A Vintage Year (Blog)

Well here we are on the last day of another year, how has it been for you. I always read about new years resolutions but as mine don't get by mid January it's not worth it... - So I make a top 5 achievement list for the forthcoming year. Done that ! (See earlier blog).

2012 has been a good year here, with some cracking highlights. Back in Feb we celebrated Maryann's parents ruby wedding with a memorable weekend at Auchrannie on Arran, where I also cycled round raising +£900 for the Vanessa Riddle Appeal, and that would raise to over £1200 later in the year with various other cycles. A bug had developed.

In March we done a tour of the Scottish main castles at Euan's request for his 7th birthday. - This was brilliant bolting around the deep dark areas of Stirling and Edinburgh Castles, soaking up a great atmosphere... and gaining some great historical education.

Then the biggy in April - 4 Days in 1 of my favourite cities London over the Easter Weekend. - Took in almost EVER major attraction during 4 full +14hr filled days. Kids had a ball and an amazing trip that finished with a trip to Legoland Windsor.

I've done plenty of hill walking as well this year. - Some great walks during the better months of April, May and June. - Ben Lomond, Arran - OMG What Views! and then Ben Nevis on the Diamond Jubilee Bank Holiday monday enjoying snow at the top !  amongst others ..




Summer holiday was to Salou in August where a well deserved chilling holiday was had. This involved a trip to Barcelona and the Nou Camp where the kids had a great time.

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During 2012, Ive certainly done a few runs on the bike, which has seen me gradually increase my mileage stamina. From a 56m run around Arran in Feb, highlights have been Glasgow to Edinburgh and Back, Loch27- Tarbet and back, a 90 Mile coast to coast, then my best achievement of 2012- the 102 Mile cycle from Fort William to Glasgow on 11th of November (My birthday). I was on Cloud 9 at my achievement was an understatement.

  In October we had a 1500 Mile road trip in 1 week. Off to Leicester to see Deacon Blue with our friends Scott and Karyn, then the following saturday a the wedding of Maryann's cousin, Kathrine and Justin in Farnham in Surrey. - Offt what a weekend that was.!

Looking back its been a great year, with some pretty good acomplishments, especially on the cycling front, but my last mention must go to the new addition to the Clan that joined us back in August our Springer Spaniel pup -Cassie. As I write this blog shes nipping at my feet to go a walk, and is now nearly 6 months old. Doing well she has been a great addtion and I look forward to many years of doggy happiness in the near future !.

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So, in Summary- 2012 has been a 'gid, yin'- and I hope that 2013 is the same. - May I take this oppotunity to wish you all a Happy New Year, be safe , have fun and most importantly enjoy LIFE- You only get 1 go at it !

Oh - And Maryann Turned 40 in December, had a great couple days in Glasgow, but Shes doesnt like being reminded of her AGE. (So Ive sneeked it in at the end..)

Alex

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