February

So this month's challenge is a charitable one. I am completing the 2,800 squat challenge for Maggie's. This charity is close to my heart. We recently lost my mother-in-law in 2021. She lost her battle with cancer, we lost a really inspiration women who had sacrificed so much for her family and friends. Kerry was incredible, she worked hard but loved hard. She was profoundly positive and the matriarch of our geordie family. Tragically, Kerry wasn't able to be there at our wedding and she'll be missed at many more major milestones in my husband's life. But we know we aren't the only family that is struggle with cancer. Where we can shine a light on the brilliant charities that can help cancer patients we will.

Maggie’s is a national cancer support charity

In honour of her memory we have tried to support Maggie's house charity as much as possible. So it felt right to complete my first challenge for them ❤️. Maggie's support people both managing their cancer and the families around them. From social support to practical help with medications or new wigs, Maggie's help people every step of the way. Kerry relied on them so much throughout her treatment. They made a difficult time more manageable and even put a smile on her face. We live away Newcastle so it was comforting to know that Kerry was in good hands. She spoke of them often and with high regards. So if I can help a little I am happy to lean in. See my fundraiser page below ⬇️

https://www.facebook.com/donate/429153792673547/?fundraiser_source=external_url

I've pledged to complete 100 squats a day (2,800 total) throughout February and for an exercise-a-phobe like me it's been a learning curve. Here's what I've learned so far ...

Consistency is key - there's been a few days that I didn't hit my target and making up for lost squats is no easy task. Having to do extra on other days was really difficult. That said I can see the results from my squats so far! I'm feeling stronger and have more stamina for more steps.

It's better to start early - far better to get up and get completed at the start of the day! Nothing worse than having a really busy day then realising I need to get my squats done. Also, having an easy win at the beginning of the day makes you feel good.

Fundraising is hard - even with the power of social media, shouting about sponsorship is hard. Being confident about your convictions is difficult. I've felt bashful about asking for money, even though it's for a brilliant cause. I have a new found respect for charity fundraisers and anyone trying to raise cash in general. (see link above to donate).

I have terrible form - yeh ... I thought squats would be easy but I suck at them. From stance to pace I was all over the shop. It was really hard practicing in front of the mirror but it helped. Pushing past feeling uncomfortable (like watching yourself in the mirror) actually made for better results. I'm sure any self reflection is much the same. It's really hard to exam yourself but it actually helps!!

I am going to update when I've got all my squats in the bag !! So watch this space.