Best bits: reunited with friends
Worst bits: cleaning!
Distance: rest day
Days to the finish: 1
After yesterday’s mammoth 22-mile effort, I promised myself a well-earned lie-in. My body, however, had other plans. I was wide awake by 7:30 a.m., tossing and turning in the hope of drifting back to sleep. Eventually, I gave in and got up around 9:30 a.m. Today was destined to be a day of cleaning and tidying — a different kind of exertion!
Will even found the energy to jet wash the steps, which had become quite slippery. He was rightly worried someone might take a tumble, so they got a thorough scrubbing before our guests arrived. Despite our best efforts, time slipped away from us, and we had to accept that “good enough” would have to do.
Guests began to arrive almost simultaneously, despite having travelled from all sorts of places. It was so lovely to see everyone together again, catching up and sharing stories. After the inevitable rounds of teas and coffees, it was time to move on to something a little more celebratory.
The first bottle to be opened was a very special one — Champagne kindly sent by Claire. Thank you, Claire — it was delicious! I raised a toast to Angela; after all, this entire adventure has been for her, and she would have loved the fizz and the laughter that filled the room.
Danny arrived just in time to join the fun and the feast, while Heather and Janette appeared with an incredible cake made by Jane. It was a true work of art, complete with handmade decorations of me, Poppy, Priscilla, and even a little finish line. It tasted every bit as good as it looked — not a crumb remained by the end of the evening.
Poppy, of course, was in her element, sneaking a few snake-like strikes at unguarded snack bowls whenever she thought no one was looking!
Today felt like the start of the finish, if that makes sense — a moment to pause, celebrate, and reflect. Sharing stories, laughter, and memories with the people who’ve supported me along the way made me realise how far we’ve all come together.
By the time the last plates were cleared and the house had quietened, I was ready for bed — and for whatever tomorrow might bring. It may be a short walk ahead, but something tells me it’s going to be a very long and emotional day.
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