9.47am 15km 1h 30m 2020 Total: 1001km / 98h 28m The biggest shock here is the 10,719m in elevation that I've run up! To put that in some perspective, Everest is only 8,848m high! 😮 Times like These - https://youtu.be/rhzmNRtIp8k I, I'm a one way motorway (it's all felt one way) I'm the one that drives away (a car would have been helpful) Then follows you back home (it was a protracted route back home today) I, I'm a street light shining (some of these runs have been by street light) I'm a wild light blinding bright (my legs have felt blindingly sore at times) Burning off alone (its been a pleasure) Thank you to all those who have given so generously, you can still donate to a worthy cause in memory of Eilidh

5.34pm 12km 1h 13m 2020 Total: 985km / 96h 57m Alive and Kicking - https://youtu.be/ljIQo1OHkTI You turn me on (ooer) You lift me up (I needed a lot of lifting today) Like the sweetest cup I'd share with you (a drink would have been good) You lift me up (where were you) Don't you ever stop, I'm here with you (I wish you'd been here) Now it's all or nothing (there was a lot of nothing in the tank) 'Cause you say you'll follow through (follow if you like) You follow me, and i, i, I follow you (not sure who I was following) Absolutely shattering, serves me right for missing 2 weeks. I'll suffer tomorrow. Final push for the 1000

3.31pm 11km 1h 6m 2020 Total: 973km / 95h 44m Superstar Tradesman - https://youtu.be/idz_8QxUJtw Superstar tradesman, stand at the bar (ran past plenty today, all pretty busy) Get a trade son you will go far (circa 11km) You have a house in the ferry and a new guitar (a house in The 'Ferry would be nice) That's never been played before and it never will (should have taken lessons) Never been played before and it never will (other than a cursory strum) I'm blaming the slow pace entire route being uphill - that's my excuse and I'm sticking to it. Fantastic views across the city and everywhere looking pretty busy. If you've saved by keeping in lockdown consider donating to this worthy cause in Eilidh's memory

3.37pm 10.2km 1h 2020 Total: 962km / 94h 37m Enjoy the Silence - https://youtu.be/aGSKrC7dGcY Words like violence (more like "why?") Break the silence (lots of silence in the countryside) Come crashing in (along with the pain) Into my little world (it's tiny) Painful to me (massively) Pierce right through me (feel like it) Can't you understand? (why I'm out here) Oh my little girl (she's back at the house) All I ever wanted (is for this to be over) All I ever needed (ditto) Is here in my arms (desperately trying to help me up this hill) Words are very unnecessary (I can barely get them out) They can only do harm (unless it's, "Can you come and get me in the car) A new route in the heat and humidity. Creeping ever closer to the 1000km

5.08pm 13.5km 1h 21m 2020 Total: 952km / 93h 37m Should I Stay or Should I Go - https://youtu.be/xMaE6toi4mk Darling, you got to let me know (I usually know I don't want to) Should I stay or should I go? (I'd love to stay but should really get out there) If you say that you are mine (the pain is mine definitely) I'll be here 'til the end of time (it takes a while definitely) So you got to let me know (I've already decided) Should I stay or should I go? (I'm off) Very warm, very slow. If you can donate I'm sure it'll speed me up 🤔😉

8.14am 10km 58m 25s Tonight Tonight - https://youtu.be/NOG3eus4ZSo Time is never time at all (feels like a long time) You can never ever leave (took a long time to leave the house) Without leaving a piece of youth (that left a long time ago) And our lives are forever changed (I'm hoping some lives are changed by my efforts and your donations) We will never be the same (I'm certainly hoping I don't feel the same way for long) The more you change, the less you feel (the more I run the less I feel that niggle in my knee) First time in a long time, hopefully burning off some calories as a huge delivery of French pastries is on it's way to the house.

10.57am 11.4km 1h 5m Give me Just a Little More Time - https://youtu.be/gzIAiyxS-nk Life's too short to make a mistake (running in this heat surely counts) Let's think of each other and hesitate (I know I'm slow but...) Young and impatient we may be (I wish) There's no need to act foolishly (too late) If we part our hearts won't forget it (thankfully I forget how painful this is quite quickly) Years from now we'll surely regret it (my knees might) Lovely day along the canal to meet with the Morgans. Much lovely food will be consumed.

7.04am 10.2km 1h All the Small Things - https://youtu.be/9Ht5RZpzPqw All the small things (no matter how small every donation helps) True care truth brings (probably not taking enough care of my aching limbs) I'll take one lift (a lift would be great) Your ride, best trip (considered a taxi on more than one occasion) Always I know (that it will be over soon enough) You'll be at my show (there is rarely anyone up when I get home) Watching, waiting (asleep) Commiserating (that's just me) Knee still giving me a bit of irritation and that's the excuse I'm sticking to.

7.41am 14km 1h 24m She's Always a Woman - https://youtu.be/Cx3QmqV2pHg She can kill with a smile, she can wound with her eyes (if the woman here is this run then yes, she's a capricious master) She can ruin your faith with her casual lies ("go for a run, it'll be fine", sure it will) And she only reveals what she wants you to see (she hides the pain just at the furthest point from home) She hides like a child but she's always a woman to me (and I keep returning)) Chilly start but perfect temperature after the first km. Full on rush hour across the suburbs of Edinburgh now, makes for interesting road crossings. Total is still creeping up and I'm forever grateful

18.2km 1h 44m H. A. P. P. Y. Radio - https://youtu.be/bwSlNUK8XtM Happy radio (Sara Cox on a Friday is always happy) An automatic alarm (not so early today) Turns my radio on (usually just a light buzz on my watch which I invariably ignore) Before my feet can hit the floor (it's usually a slow tumble trying not to wake Ali) The music's got me ready to go (takes a while) And all through the whole day (in between the seemingly never ending conf calls) I know my favorite records they'll play (sometimes my own) It helps me chase all my blues away (true) When I can hear that dj say that this is station to be honest its usually radio 2) H. A. P. P. Y. Less and longer (runs/distance) does not make for happy knees. A couple of weeks off now so hope to crack the 1000.

8.37am 14km 1h 23m Life on Mars? - https://youtu.be/AZKcl4-tcuo It's a God-awful small affair (didn't feel small) To the girl with the mousy hair (the poor love hasn't been to the hair dresser during lock down) But her mummy is yelling no (I wish someone had told me no) And her daddy has told her to go (wise) Two runs in less than 24 hours does not make for a pleasant slog. Very tough but for a worthy cause

1:30pm 11.97lm 1h 8m 2020 Total: 860.9km / 84h 38m Weekend - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YryRzOTjZTE One Friday evenin' (afternoon) What a feelin', feel like singin' (feel like stopping) Tired of workin', my mind is buzzin' (I've got to go back to work after this) Feel like dancin' yes I do (there is the occasional boogie on the run, much to the amusement of anyone seeing me) Started overcast and muggy, ended pouring rain and melting. First run in a while, was a struggle to get going but glad I did. Still collecting for the wonderful folks at Meningitis Now in memory of Eilidh, please give if you can

7.27am 10.4km 59m 2020 Total: 848km / 83h 30m Hey Ya One, two, three! (go?) My baby don't mess around (my running ability does tho) Because she loves me so (not sure I can say the same of the road) This I know fo sho! (yup) Enjoy: https://youtu.be/PWgvGjAhvIw Gorgeous day and a great start. I always set out with the best of intentions to run a long route. Within 2 km I'm wishing I was arriving back home already

4.19pm 12km 1h 7m 2020 Total: 838km / 82h 30m Piano Man It's nine o'clock on a Saturday (mid afternoon on Thursday) The regular crowd shuffles in (that's me shuffling along) There's an old man sitting next to me (c'est moi) Makin' love to his tonic and gin (that just sounds wrong) Enjoy: https://youtu.be/gxEPV4kolz0 Legs feeling tired. Started toasty but was relatively chilly by the time I got home.

Summer Breeze 12:06pm 11.97km 1h 9m 2020 Total: 926.5km / 81h 22m Summer breeze makes me feel fine (I needed a howling cold gale by the end) Blowing through the jasmine in my mind (not so much jasmine down the streets I was trudging) Summer breeze makes me feel fine (a shower and a long rest would make me feel better) Blowing through the jasmine in my mind (I wish I was fragrant as jasmine - nae chance) Enjoy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T88fbHOmvRk Started off feeling good, half way I'm melting....... its so hot and humid. Like a puddle (a slow puddle) by the end. The big push to 1000km. Massive thanks to all who have given and can give

9.25am 16.8km 1h 37m 2020 Total: 814km / 80h 13m She Bangs the Drum I can feel the earth begin to move (at my slow pace its difficult to determine if I'm moving or its just the rotation of the earth) I hear my needle hit the groove (very groovy) And spiral through another day (at least its a good start) I hear my song begin to say (they're all speaking to me) Kiss me where the sun don't shine (not at the side of the canal) The past was yours (the last few km) But the future's mine (too many still to go) You're all out of time I've plenty of time to hit 1000km) Enjoy: https://youtu.be/wD6Pq0bSMPo Overjoyed to have hit my target for Meningitis Now. Thank you to all of the overnight donations. Lovely (?!) run out along the canal for a socially distant visit with family. Fortunately Ali met me there with the kids and the car to bring me home.

2.05pm 12km 1h 8m 2020 Total: 797km / 78h 36m Midnight Train to Georgia L.a. Proved too much for the man (this run certainly is) (Too much for the man, he couldn't make it) (I'm doing my best) So he's leavin' the life he's come to know, ooh (I'm hoping I make it home) (He said he's goin') (to return) He said he's goin' back to find (some motivation) (Goin' back to find) (something at least) Ooh ooh ooh, what's left of his world (plenty of pastries) The world he left behind (some more pastries) Not so long ago (just over an hour) Enjoy: https://youtu.be/s4KZs0mLJiQ These wee wonders are donating their own pocket money (their idea) to help shove me over the line. Thank you everyone

2.64km 16m 2020 Total: 785.7km / 77h 28m The kids wanted to run home with me with the ambition of getting up to a 10k. Obviously they spend most of the time running backwards or along walls just to make me feel great as I toil along....... Please give if you can (they will be :-) )

11.16km 1h 4m 2020 Total: 783km / 77h 12m Bamboleo Este amor llega asi esta manera No tiene la culpa Caballo le ven sabana Porque muy depreciado, Por eso no te perdon de llorar Este amor llega asi esta manera No tiene la culpa, Amor de comprementa Amor del mes pasado Bebele, bembele, bembele I'm not going to even start,,,,,,,,,,, Enjoy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7qbEt_lSib4 Lovely day for a run, visiting Jen for her Birthday. Reverse route seemed a bit easier but the number of people, bikes and cars made the running a bit more awkward.

12km 1h 8m 2020 Total: 771km / 76h 7m Yes Sir, I Can Boogie Mister (yes?) Your eyes are full of hesitation (Really? Still feel full of sleep) Sure makes me wonder (go on...) If you know what you're looking for (a quick route home) Baby (eh?) I wanna keep my reputation (for struggling with any exercise?) I'm a sensation (is that sensation, pain or exhaustion?) You try me once, you'll beg for more (beg to stop maybe....) Enjoy: https://youtu.be/KGuFn0RPgaE A quick dash out between calls. Cool at the start and hot at the end. Fortunately missed the hail-stones which arrived just after I got home. Please give if you can to help me reach my target and help their team keep helping families impacted by Meningitis

11.48 16.56km 1h 31m 2020 Total: 759.8km / 74h 59m Boogie Nights Boogie nights (afternoon) Ain't no doubt, we are here to party (it never feels quite like a party) Boogie nights (afternoon) Come on now, got to get it started (I'm already moving) Enjoy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y8Rg85ZqK0o A bit of a rush towards the end to make a work call made me speed up more than my legs wanted. Started cool and drizzly, ended up warm and sunny - not sure that is the best way around. Thank you for the continued support, nearly made my target (although the km will take a little longer)

31 May 6.13am 18.42km 1h 56m 2020 Total: 743km / 73h 27m When the Sun Goes Down Said, who's that girl there? (another runner maybe) I wonder what went wrong (got out of bed too early) So that she had to roam the streets (it's a route of sorts) She don't do major credit cards (no shops open at this hour) I doubt she does receipts (how else can we claim the expenses) It's all not quite legitimate (quite) And what a scummy man (eh hold on now) Just give him half a chance (please) I bet he'll rob you if he can (only asking for donations) Can see it in his eyes, yeah (squinting in the sun) That he's got a driving ban (not currently) Amongst some other offences (nothing pending) Enjoy: https://youtu.be/EqkBRVukQmE Slow slog in the morning sun. Cool breeze and clear skies. So many runners out today, making the most of the wonderful weather. Thanks for all the donations, always appreciated

29 May 11.27am 17.06km 1h 45m 2020 Total: 724.8 km / 71h 31m Dead Ringer for Love Every night I grab some money and I go down to the bar (not these days) I got my buddies and a beer, I got a dream, I need a car (and maybe a facemask) You got me begging on my knees, c'mon and throw the dog a bone (nearly on my knees today) A man he doesn't live by rock 'n roll and brew alone (tea or coffee) Baby baby, baby baby (where are you going with this? ) Enjoy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KSTIsZULYmY Well that was brutal. Maybe it was the 30+ degree heat, maybe it was my general lack of fitness, who knows. Its certainly the closest I've come to phoning Ali to come and rescue me. Much busier crossing roads at this time of day which is a PITA. Did the "family loop" past the Bells, the Murrays and the Orrs although none came out to cheer me on (booo). First run back in the "new" trainers which had, until yesterday, been in lock-down in Bromley. Thanks as always for all of the donations and the amazing efforts from all the relay teams on Race for Eilidh. Donate to a great cause if you can, even just an ice-cream worth, it all counts

24 May 6.01am 16.5km 1h 36m 2020 Total: 707km / 69h 46m Philadelphia Freedom I used to be a rolling stone you know (I wish I was, this run might be easier) If a cause was right (this cause is definitely right!) I'd leave to find the answer on the road (I've been along many, many roads searching) I used to be a heart beating for someone (heart is pounding) But the times have changed (it's certainly early) The less I say the more my work gets done (I can barely speak) Enjoy: https://youtu.be/E8eF1Qea9n8 Today should have been the Edinburgh Marathon relay with teams from Inverleith Hockey Club all banging out the miles for Meningitis Now in memory of Eilidh. Hopefully we can all still complete our isolation miles somewhere today and make a small donation. Please donate if you can

23 May 5.20am 12.49km 1h 8m 2020 Total: 691km / 68h 9m Summertime Here it is the groove slightly transformed (not sure my groove is ever transformed) Just a bit of a break from the norm (a slight variation with a jaunt up through Morningside) Just a little somethin' to break the monotony (no monotony on this trudge) Of all that hardcore dance that has gotten to be (I don't have much hard-core on my playlist) A little bit out of control it's cool to dance (even whilst running?) But what about the groove that soothes that moves romance (indeed) Give me a soft subtle mix (soft bed would be nice) And if ain't broke then don't try to fix it (I do worry about my knees) And think of the summers of the past (cause we're not getting away this year) Adjust the base and let the alpine blast (does anyone have an Alpine in their car anymore) Pop in my CD and let me run a rhyme (more likely to stream something) And put your car on cruise and lay back cause this is summertime (didn’t feel like it at the end) Enjoy: https://youtu.be/Kr0tTbTbmVA Typical Scottish running weather started of a lovely sunny summer morning, ending in a winter storm of howling gales and horizontal rain. Nice and early start to miss the crowds.... Please give something if you can

21 May 5.52am 16.85km 1h 37m 2020 Total: 678km / 67h Hold on, I'm coming Don't you ever be sad (unless you got out of your bed early to torture yourself with a run) Lean on me, when times are bad (always ready to assist) When the day comes and you're down (try to stay positive) In a river of trouble and about to drown (get out of the river) Just hold on, I'm comin' (slowly but surely) Hold on, I'm comin' (honest, I'll be there soon) Enjoy: https://youtu.be/Fowldx4hRtI Or, for those of a certain age: https://youtu.be/Bz81ZO0qfvI A slightly different route, oddly dissatisfied as I was sure it would be much longer than it actually was. Although during the run the last thing I want is any extra distance. Lots of runners out today, must be the nice weather. Thank you for all of your generous donations, please give if you can to this worthwhile cause

17 May 6.59am 12.13km Qh 13m 2020 Total: 661km / 65h 23m Wichita Lineman I am a lineman for the county (I wish I was) And I drive the main road (occasionally to Tesco is about it these days) Searchin' in the sun for another overload (Its a bit overcast to be honest) I hear you singin' in the wire (not with the music blaring in my ears) I can hear you through the whine (again, I've got a this up too loud) And the Wichita lineman is still on the line (waiting patiently) Enjoy: https://youtu.be/4qoymGCDYzU The perpetual struggle out of bed this morning, I was pushed by the awesome donations. A worrying run after yesterday (but that's another story for another time and a few beers) which other than being slow was uneventful. Please give if you can

16 May 6.28am 16.6 km 1h 36m 2020 Total: 649km / 64h 10m Everyday People Sometimes I'm right and I can be wrong (wrong? Moi?) My own beliefs are in my song (they are powerful words to be fair) The butcher, the banker, the drummer and then (they're probably out running too) Makes no difference what group I'm in (the slow group) I am everyday people, yeah, yeah (indeed I am) Enjoy : https://youtu.be/YUUhDoCx8zc Tough run today but a slight change of scene. Tempted to stop by the bakery in Morningside on the way home although not sure if the croissants would survive the journey home. Thank you as always, please give if you can

15 May 6:17am 16.56km 1h 33m 2020 Total: 633.1 km / 62h 32m Jump Around Pack it up, pack it in, let me begin (beginning is usually a struggle) I came to win, battle me that's a sin (nothing sinful about raising money for the wonderful one at Meningitis Now) I won't ever slack up, punk you better back up (this maybe applies during awkward crossovers on the pavements as we all try to socially isolate) Try and play the role and yo the whole crew'll act up (it's mainly just me out here) Get up, stand up (c'mon!) see'mon throw your hands up (I don't really have the energy to throw my hands up) If you've got the feeling, jump across the ceiling (maybe when I get home) Enjoy: https://youtu.be/XhzpxjuwZy0 Glorious morning and a long one to kick start a very slack week. Thank you for the donations, they kicked me out of bed this morning

10 May 7.37am 16.48km 1h 38m 2020 Total : 616km / 60 h 59m Our House Father wears his Sunday best (lots of layers today due to the freezing temp) Mother's tired, she needs a rest (she's still in bed) The kids are playing up downstairs (they're asleep too) Sister's sighing in her sleep (ah) (She may be taking her morning constitutional round Victoria Park) Brother's got a date to keep, he can't hang around (he's happily married and living in Kirkliston) Enjoy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rXuvdeEC5y8 From the heat and sweat of Saturday to the winter weather today, horizontal rain and freezing temperatures made for a bracing run past Juniper Green, Currie, Balerno and Harlaw. A great welcome home from these two. Please give something if you can spare it

9 May 7.31am 13.8km 1h 23m 2020 Total : 600km / 59h 20m Why do you build me up (build me up) buttercup, baby (motivation?) Just to let me down (let me down) and mess me around? (tough love?) And then worst of all (worst of all) you never call, baby (for shame, not even a Zoom session? ) When you say you will (say you will) but I love you still (so we scheduled a call then you didn't bother... ? Cold) I need you (I need you) more than anyone, darlin' (need some energy or at least a sit down) You know that I have from the start (after the second step I need/want it to end) So build me up (build me up) buttercup, don't break my heart (come back on build me up with a donation) I'm sure the GPS was playing up this morning, pace was woeful but oddly quite fast on any dreadful climb. Very warm in the sun so spent a most of the run desperately trying to get into the shade. Please stick a few coppers in if you can

8 May 6.34am 12.07km 1h 15m 2020 Total : 586km / 57h 56m There There My Dear Dear Robin, Hope you dont mind me writing, (I ran past your house, I could have just popped in) its just that theres more than one thing I need to ask you. (I really should have just phoned) If youre so anti-fashion, why not wear flares, (they're not great for running in) instead of dressing down all the same. (I'm a slovenly soul) Its just that looking like that I can express my dissatisfaction. (harsh) Enjoy: https://youtu.be/NhjSzjoU7OQ Weather is a bit dark and foreboding this morning, it better clear up as we're planning a bbq later. A slow slog today, dunno why, just felt slow. Please help the wonderful people At Meningitis Now support all those affected

7 May 6.42am 12.21km 1h 11m 2020 Total:574km / 56h 41m Gold Thank you for coming home (all of my runs are from there just now, we're not allowed anywhere else) Sorry that the chairs are all worn (they're getting a lot of use) I left them here I could have sworn (how's does one misplace a chair?) These are my salad days (definitely not eating enough of that) Slowly being eaten away (scoffed) Just another play for today (just another run maybe) Oh, but I'm proud of you (aw thanks) But I'm proud of you (thanks again) Nothing left to make me feel small (lots to make me feel old though) Luck has left me standing so tall (I'm stooped over panting at the end of these) Enjoy: https://youtu.be/NhjSzjoU7OQ Glorious weather out there, try to get outside and enjoy what you can. Thanks for all the cash

3 May 6.49am 12.18km 1h 12m 2020 Total : 561km / 55h 29m Brand New Friend Walking in the pouring rain (a pleasant day actually) Walking with Jesus and Jane (running, and that pair need to stretch more) Jane was in her turtleneck (she needs to get herself some running gear) I was much happier then (happy when it's done) Enjoy: https://youtu.be/_KqWjNryjYA Much quieter today, maybe everyone is having a lie-in. This route, whilst longer is actually flatter did I mention that I don't like hills...? Hoping I can crack the 1000km during the summer months as I don't relish these streets in the dark, cold and rain. Please donate if you can:

2 May 6.36am 12.08km 1h 10m 2020 Total : 549km / 54h 17m Get It Right Next Time Out on the street I was talkin' to a man (perilously few people out at this time and I wasn't about to break the social isolation mantra) He said, "There's so much of this life of mine that I don't understand" (true, but it's likely not as complicated or mysterious as I think) You shouldn't worry, yes that ain't no crime (thank goodness for that) 'Cause if you get it wrong you'll get it right next time (so far so good) Next time (you mean I have to do this again) Enjoy : https://youtu.be/NhjSzjoU7OQ Managed to drag myself out of bed earlier today. Interesting route taking in the extreme class divides of Oxgangs Ave and Hermitage Drive, I know which I'd choose. Stick your hand down the back of the sofa and if you find a few coppers chuck them in here if you can

1st May 7.09am 10.3km 59m 23s 2020 Total : 537km / 53h 7m Let me Entertain You Hell is gone and heaven's here (shouldn't this be the other way round?) There's nothing left for you to fear (except the next 10km) Shake your arse come over here (there's a lot of jiggling going on) Now scream (if I had the energy I might) I'm a burning effigy (a terrible bonfire of a wet pile of leaves maybe) Of everything I used to be (still it) You're my rock of empathy, my dear (my inspiration) Enjoy: https://youtu.be/NhjSzjoU7OQ Weak attempt to get up earlier, maybe need to set a few more alarms. In my defence, the alarm is the light vibration from the watch on my wrist and I seem to be able to switch it off in my sleep.... Give if you can, thank you

7:09am 10.4km 59m 53s 2020 Total: 527.4 km / 52h 7m 9 To 5 Tumble outta bed and I stumble to the kitchen (true, although its more of a shuffle as I try to avoid all creaking floorboards so I don't wake the family) Pour myself a cup of ambition (no time for that) Yawn and stretch and try to come to life (oh yes, although even the stretching is kinda painful) Jump in the shower and the blood starts pumpin' (maybe when I get back) Out on the street the traffic starts jumpin' (oddly it appears to be increasing each day) With folks like me on the job from 9 to 5 (7ish to 8ish) Enjoy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UbxUSsFXYo4 A little earlier than usual today, I prefer the early ones - not the getting up part, just being back earlier to get showered and dressed. Thanks as always for all the amazing donations, still keeping going, a bit like my slow shuffles across the hills of Edinburgh

Sunday 26th April Life of Riley 7.26am 10.26km 59m 51s 2020 Total : 517km / 51h 7m (is it just me or does that look odd? ) Lost in the Milky Way, (the side streets of Edinburgh Smile at the empty sky and wait for The moment a million chances may all collide. (I'm pretty much staring at the road all the way, cursing every inch) I'll be the guiding light, (I know where I'm going is about the most I can say) Swim to me through stars that shine down, And call to the sleeping world as they fall to Earth. (everybody appeared to be asleep this morning) Enjoy : https://youtu.be/WCm3bS6wXvk Family+ route today, nobody appeared to be up at the Bell's, the Orr's, the Murray's or the Cann's. If they had been they'd have spotted my ruddy complexion toiling past their respective homes Get out in the sun today and give if you can

7:23am 10.5km 1h 2020 Total: 506.7 km (half-way, whoop!) / 50h 8m Weapon of Choice Don't be shocked by tone of my voice (its more heavy breathing than voice) Check out my new weapon, weapon of choice (I need to get my hands on my new runners but they're locked down in Bromley with little chance of getting them back) Don't be shocked by tone of my voice (it can be a little grumpy at those who don't at least make an effort to move over on the pavements/roads) Check out my new weapon, weapon of choice yeah (see previous) Enjoy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wCDIYvFmgW8 Glorious weather, getting very warm, may need to ditch another layer. Just past the half-way point to 1000km before the first half of the year – happy days! Thanks as always to those who have given already and those who are planning to #foreilidh

7.26am 10.1km 1h 1m 2020 Total: 496.2km / 49h 7m So Far Away Here I am again in this mean old town (its actually very nice in Edinburgh, although pounding its roads is a less pleasurable experience) And you're so far away from me (I'm not sure where *you* are, but I've just left the family in their beds) And where are you when the sun goes down (likely in isolation at home) You're so far away from me (kind of depends on the geographical proximity of your home really) Enjoy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YIHMPc6ZCuI Overcast but warm this morning. There still appears to be a "rush hour" of sorts in effect, buses ferrying people, queues of cars at traffic lights - don't get me wrong tho, the numbers are still very low, its just odd. Still have a VERY niggly calf muscle, it's not improving but I am exceedingly ancient so what am I expecting. The slightly different route this morning resulted in me having to run an extra bit around the streets near home, never pleasant as mentally, when I am close to home I am nearly finished.... Please give a Pound/Euro/Dollar/Diraham/Naira/Lebanese Pound/Rupiah/Krona if you can - thank you

7.27am 10.56km 1h 2020 Total: 486.1 km / 48h 5m On a dark desert highway (actually very bright and sunny) Cool wind in my hair (it was, who are you, John Kettley?) Warm smell of colitas (not that I noticed) Rising up through the air (it was a little breezy) Up ahead in the distance (the sun was in my eyes so I couldn't really see that far) I saw a shimmering light (the sun I assume) My head grew heavy and my sight grew dim (I was a little tired and my eyesight isn't what it was) I had to stop for the night (I was home by 8:30am, it would be a little early to go to bed) Enjoy: https://youtu.be/NhjSzjoU7OQ Lovely day, these dry days make the morning slog almost pleasurable. I've headed over the £1000 of donations and this is astonishingly fantastic - I am so grateful to every one of you. Please give a small donation to a wonderful cause in memory of a wonderful girl. #foreilidh

7.23am 16.36km 1h 31m 2020 Total: 459km / 45h 25m Love Train People all over the world (everybody) (wake up you lot) Join hands (join) (not in this isolated world, just keep your distance) Start a love train, love train (now you're talking, woo hoo) People all over the world (all the world, now) (you lot in Juniper Green, Currie and Balerno) Join hands (love ride) (see above) Start a love train (love ride), love train (or just run with me) Enjoy: https://youtu.be/QyT9jTW7MHc Cold and windy morning. Lots of runners out. Swithered on the route until I got to the end of Balerno and decided to take the hard way home, although in reality any run home is tortuous. Donations are creeping towards the £1000 crest, thank you all #foreilidh

7:28am / 10.52 km / 1h 1m / 2020 total: 442.7 km / 43h 53m / 4,550 m Elev / // America - What a drag it is the shape I'm in (easy now, I'm doing my best. Although it does feel like I'm dragging a heavy weight round with me) Well, I go out somewhere then I come home again (that really is the basis of a run from home) I light a cigarette 'cause I can't get no sleep (fortunately don't, I'm out of puff as it is) There's nothing on the TV, nothing on the radio (plenty on the TV that I've recorded and don't have time to watch - although I do sit up far too late [circa 1am] watching multiple "Law & Order" re-runs just now) That means that much to me (it all means something surely) Enjoy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V9NhncU5_CE Birthday detour to drop off Fraser Cann's birthday card - felt weird running with it for 6.5 km, like some manic postie delivering everything individually. First 3 km is directly into the morning sun, which sounds nice but I'm essentially blind and given the distancing advice I sometimes get a surprise when a pedestrian looms into view and I have to dive onto the road. Please give if you can, its a great cause

9.21am 16.57 km 1h 35m 2020 Total : 432 km / 42 h 52m Raspberry Beret Yeah (yes?) I was working part time in a five-and-dime (more likely to be a ScotMid or maybe a Costcutter) My boss was Mr. McGee (used to go to college with a John Mcghee, don't assume it's the same person) He told me several times that he didn't like my kind (what's not to like?) 'Cause I was a bit too leisurely (harsh) Great conditions, quieter than last weekend, maybe people are heeding the advice... Ali and the kids met me at Harlaw and cycled back with me (I was running) . Fortunately, as I had to sort the chain on Christina's bike multiple times. Enjoy : https://youtu.be/l7vRSu_wsNc Not far from the £1000 mark with the donations, amazing effort by you all. Please give if you can

7.35am / 10.55 km / 1h 2m / 2020 total: 415 km / 41h 17m / Titanium / You shout it out (more of a mild grumble really) But I can't hear a word you say (I've got the headphones in and music blaring) I'm talking loud not saying much (only when some tool doesn't get out of the way) I'm criticized but all your bullets ricochet (is this something about being allowed to exercise but people viewing it as unnecessary) You shoot me down, but I get up (this is all a tad violent) Enjoy : https://youtu.be/JRfuAukYTKg The hardest thing for each run isn't the distance, the uphill or the exhaustion, its dragging my carcass out of bed to go... Its getting very warm running now, may have to ditch the outer layer Please give if you can

9:19am / 11.04 km / 1h 5m / 2020 Total: 405 km / 40h 15m / Born of Frustration / Wooooowooooowoooowooo (indeed) Wooooowooooowoooowooo (ditto) All this frustration (at my general lack of fitness) I can't meet all my desires (sub 5 min km every run) Strange conversation (just with myself tho) Self control has just expired (I've managed to get this far) All an illusion (maybe I'm imaging all of this) Only in my head you don't exist (the pain definitely exists) Who are you foolin' (nobody) Don't need a shrink or an exorcist (maybe just a vigorous rub down) Lalalala (quite) lalalala lalalala la Enjoy: https://youtu.be/QxM42rG0a08 Beautiful day with a b-tard of a climb out of Currie. Very warm in the sun, making me curse the extra top I started in. On getting home I proceeded to eat my own body weight in pancakes. Please give if you can - thanks

7:21am / 13.8 km / 1h 25m / 2020 total: 394 km / 39h 10m / I can see for miles / I know you've deceived me, now here's a surprise (surprise, its just as awful as usual and you're no fitter than you were) I know that you have, cause there's magic in my eyes (a bit of sleep in my eyes maybe) I can see for miles and miles and miles and miles and miles (kilometres and kilometres maybe) Enjoy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q0iqg2UanEc Decided to go last Sundays route which took longer than expected and the legs felt heaviest on the return leg (which in theory is all downhill!?). I can now barely move - I really should stretch more afterwards but had to make breakfast when I got home. Please donate for the plodding

7:11am / 10.46 km / 1h 2m / 2020 total: 384 km / 38h 8m / Road to Nowhere / Well we know where we're going (in a big loop back to the house) But we don't know where we've been (I can see it on the map TBH) And we know what we're knowing (that this is hard work) But we can't say what we've seen (a few grumpy faces, but also a few smiles and a "Good morning" or two And we're not little children (not for a VERY long time) And we know what we want (for this to be over) And the future is certain (right now I'm not so sure) Give us time to work it out (we've all got a little time on our hands just now) / Enjoy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LQiOA7euaYA / I'm finding it ever tougher to drag my carcass from the depths of slumber and into the crashing light of the day. That said once I was out I "sort of" enjoyed it. Lots of knowing smiles/thanks from fellow runners as we swerve onto the road to keep our 2m distances and only one pillock in a car honking their horn as the effort was deemed too strenuous to lift their foot from the accelerator as they careered towards a junction. In these testing times any donation (no matter how small) is massively welcomed

13.88 km / 1h 21m / 2020 total: 369.8 km / 36h 43m Journey - Don't Stop Believin' Just a small town girl (eh?) Livin' in a lonely world (it is relatively quiet on the highways and byways) She took the midnight train goin' anywhere (just a long run really) Just a city boy (sort of, Colinton is actually a suburb) Born and raised in south Detroit (all over the shop TBH; Glenrothes, Arbroath, Hornsea, Beverly, Thornthwaite, Armathwaite, Kingsmuir, Friockehim, Brechin, Perth, Glasgow, Paris, Edinburgh, Karlskrona, Leeds) He took the midnight train goin' anywhere (he's not taken any train anywhere right now) Enjoy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VcjzHMhBtf0 The long route and weirdly the least amount of elevation in my discovery of Edinburgh routes. That said the water of Leith cycle path users sometimes leave a little to be desired in terms of their 2 meter distancing, sure I swore at a few - come on folks, its not difficult, If I'm running in the gutter/hedge/fence then at least have the decency to move over to the other side rather than just trying to fill the rest of the path! In this trying time I realise its tough to feel like giving, so double thanks to all those pushing me through the pain barriers: https://eilidh-neave.muchloved.com/Fundraising/Events/273745818 Link in the Bio @meningitis_now

3:22 pm 10.47 km 1h 1m 2020 total: 355.9 km / 35h 21m Afternoon Run with Sterephonics Dakota Thinkin' 'bout thinkin' of you (going for a run is frequently on my mind) Summertime think it was June (I wish it was June, warmer and hopefully closer to the "end of the tunnel") Yeah, I think it was June (its not, its March) Layin' back head on the grass (just lying down anywhere for a rest) Chewing gum havin' some laughs (this is 'great' fun....) Yeah, havin' some laughs (I exaggerate, its a bit of a laugh) Enjoy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SzBJQnD7TRM A foggy day across Edinburgh, altered the route (wild I know) which introduced even more hills (urgh). 4th run of this week and that's what I'm blaming for the struggle in my legs Please give if you can - every amount no matter what size is a massive delight

5.11pm 10.46 km 1h 0m 2020 Total : 345 km / 34 h 20 m Hey rainmaker, come away from that man (social isolating deems that I swerve round everyone) You know he's gonna take away your promised land (I'm sure it'll all get back to normal eventually) Hey good lady he just wants what you got you know (I'm sure nobody actually wants Covid-19) He'll never stop until he's taken the lot (toilet rolls maybe) (Hey Hey he hey hey) Enjoy: https://youtu.be/2CQLAhNlbfQ After too much sleep this morning I tried another evening run which was remarkably successful, decent pace and nice weather, lots of swerving into the road to avoid the other runners and walkers, always slightly scary. In these trying times I'm energised by all of the amazing donations

6:47am 11.03 km 1h 6m 2020 total: 335 km / 33h 19m Enjoy the Silence (prophetic) Words like violence (not a great start) Break the silence (my alarm did that) Come crashing in (like a crane) Into my little world (into my sleep addled brain) Painful to me (it was painful before and painful after) Pierce right through me (maybe a little dramatic) Can't you understand? (rarely) Oh my little girl (its Christa's 10th Birthday today!) All I ever wanted (for the run to end) All I ever needed (more energy) Is here in my arms (pump the arms to speed the legs) Words are very unnecessary (I can barely speak whilst running) They can only do harm (I certainly felt harmed post-run) Enjoy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aGSKrC7dGcY First run in "lock-down" mode; less people at bus stops but still plenty in cars and more runners than usual, this invoked a strange dance as we timed passes by veering onto the road whilst trying to avoid moving vehicles. Was a huge struggle to get out of bed and the howling gale did nothing to ease my aches and pains, as usual I was glad I had gone out after the exertion. In these testing times I am immensely grateful to all of you who have given money towards my fund-raising efforts, they keep me going

6:29am 10.46 km 1h 3m 2020 total: 323.9 km / 32h 13m Morning Run with David Bowie Starman Didn't know what time it was and the lights were low (it was actually very sunny this morning) I leaned back on my radio (I wish I'd been sat somewhere) Some cat was layin' down some get it on rock 'n' roll, he said (music blaring in my earphones) Then the loud sound did seem to fade (just a fade afore the next track) Came back like a slow voice on a wave of phase haze (maybe I was just a little over tired) That weren't no D.J. that was hazy cosmic jive (trippy) Enjoy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sI66hcu9fIs First of what is likely to be many runs around Edinburgh now Bromley is off the radar. Not sure what I'll do if we go "full lock down" but I'm sure I'll think of something Thank you, as ever for all of the generosity - please stick a few quid in if you can

5:47am 12.26 km 1h 16m 2020 Total: 313.5 km / 31h 9m Take me with you I can't disguise the pounding of my heart (peaked at 166 bpm) It beats so strong (always feel like its about to leap out of my chest) It's in your eyes, what can I say (strangers, looking at me with a mixture of amusement and bemusement) They turn me on (easy tiger) Enjoy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KEtEsBf3iRg I took Colin with me, OK he joined me on the plod winding our way through mud caked tracks. Beautiful morning. Please give if you can

5:53am 10.38 km 1h 2m 2020 total: 301.2 km / 29h 53m Morning Run with Coldplay God put a smile upon your face Where do we go? Nobody knows (my fitness tracker has a pretty good idea, its a 10km loop round Edinburgh) I've got to say I'm on my way down (unfortunately this route has way too much "up" for my liking) God give me style and give me grace (Grace? Its not like much a Gazelle across the Serengeti, more like a Tortoise across the Galápagos) God put a smile upon my face (grimace) Enjoy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qhIVgSoJVRc Given the current lack of travel down to my usual circuit around Bromley I'll have to pound the local routes - Edinburgh is geographically unfortunate with too many hills for my taste/knees/stamina. Please give what you can to keep me pounding the pavement

5:46am 10.05 km 1h 2m 2020 Total: 290.8 / 28h 51m Could it be Magic (no it wasn't) Spirits move me, every time I'm near you (the Spirits could have tried a little harder to move me as the legs weren't this morning) Whirling like a cyclone in my mind (it was a bit breezy, but "cyclone"?) You're my life line, angel of my lifetime (I could have done with a lifeline today) Answer to all answers I can find (Huh?) Enjoy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SVBIfSt0lAo Stiffest legs prior to a run ever. The ~20 km last night did nothing to propel me round the 10 km this morning and I'm slightly surprised I completed it - admittedly at a very slow pace. Find me on Strava: https://www.strava.com/athletes/37040247 Thank you for all of the massive donations

4:37pm 19.33 km 2h 3m 2020 Total: 271.4 / 27h 49m Afternoon Run with ABC When Smokey Sings Like a bird in flight on a hot sweet night (more like an arthritic Dodo waddling the streets of London) You know you're right just to hold her tight (Right to decide to run this distance? I'm not convinced He soothes it right, makes it out of sight (hopefully Smokey will be on hand to soothe the ache in my legs, a brisk rub-down maybe?) And every thing's good in the world tonight (not sure my legs thought everything was "good in the world" last night) Enjoy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BTV5FvNCbhk A ~20km run to my sisters place for dinner seemed like a good idea, the last few km weren't helped by a massive building site plonked in the way of my route Find me on Strava: https://www.strava.com/athletes/37040247 Thank you for all of the massive donation

5:48am 10.26 km 1h 29s (slow) 2020 Total: 261.4 km / 25h 44m Morning Run with Nina Simone My baby Just Cares for Me My baby don't care for shows (not at this time in the morning) My baby don't care for clothes (well some running gear is obviously preferable) My baby just cares for me My baby don't care for cars and races (dodging the cars, although its not really a "race") My baby don't care for high-tone places (not sure you could ever consider Bromley to be "high-tone") Legs aching after the ~20km yesterday - and I've another (long) run planned for this afternoon..........!? Enjoy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1bccOfePKVc Please give what you can

8:54am (warm and dry) 5.49 km 33m 2020 Total: 251.2 km Post breakfast run is always a struggle and the legs felt heavy. I'm meltingly hot on the train journey back to Bromley ready for a shower and sleep (rather than work) Thank you as ever for the kind donations, please give if you can

5:51am (warm and dry) 15.72 km 1h 34m 2020 Total: 235.48 km You Can't Always Get What You Want I saw her today at the reception (my reception involved a large breakfast near London Bridge) A glass of wine in her hand (Filter coffee) I knew she would meet her connection (I made it to Victoria later) At her feet was her footloose man (are these my feet we're talking about?) Very warm before 6am this morning. It was a struggle towards the end tho. Breakfast was a welcome enticement. Enjoy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jv9sDn_2XkI Thank you as ever for the kind donations, please give if you can The donations are well ahead of my total distance, I better up my game

5:59am (light drizzle) 10.28 km 55m 43s 2020 Total: 229.9 km Morning Run with Reef Place Your Hands Oh, place your hands on my hope, (easy Tiger) Run your fingers through my soul. (this feels a little awkward) And the way that I feel right now (exhausted) Oh lord it may go (away or just me going?) Enjoy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bihoNRc8GDQ As always, thank you for the kind donations, please give what you can

8:48am 5.37 km 31m 33s 2020 Total: 219.7 Morning Run with a belly full of eggs benedict An immediate second run of the day (post breakfast) seemed like a great idea and the views and sights were awesome. A scary amount of depressed looks stares on the general populus trudging their way to work though, cheer up folks, you could be running 5 km with rampant indigestion

5:52am 15.86 km 1h 34m 2020 Total: 203.8 km Morning Run with Primal Scream I was blind, now I can see (I was certainly sound asleep at 5:20am) You made a believer out of me (Believe that the alarm was jarringly loud) I was blind, now I can see (First sight of daylight that early in the morning for a long time) You made a believer out of me (at the end of the run belief that I had made it) Enjoy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SnkjvECEQr4 Tough run into London for a breakfast, usual interesting route but nice to see the first glimmers of daylight at the start of the run Please give what you can

5.49am 10.19km 57.03mins Very wet & soggy. ######## Moving ######## Moving, just keep moving, (I'm doing my best) Till I don't know what's sane, (in the rain this morning it didn't feel too sane) I've been moving so long, (true) The days all feel the same (every day is a new day) ######## Other than the current 1000km2020 challenge, this song could be the anthem of my (working) life. I do feel work has been a steady stream of airports and different (occasionally interesting) locations. I've (sadly) tracked all of these flights and to date the stats are; 905 flights over 525,717 miles (that's over 21 times around the Earth or to the Moon and back) spending 1,984 hours in the air (that's over 82 days) - madness! ######## Enjoy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q8w81AAK7to ########

5.50am 15.76km 1h 35m You ask me if I'm happy here no doubt about it (not sure I agree with that 4km into a long run) You ask me if my love is clear want me to shout it (I certainly want to shout at some of the insane commuters across London) Gave you the best years of my life woman (the best is yet to come........?) I know I failed to treat you right woman (are we talking about the run here?) Its a long run into London but the route is OK (give or take the odd scrum around bus stops). The sights are impressive once you get to the edge of the city and the sun keeps me going. ########## https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R5prT2qiiWY ##########

5.50am 10.09km 57mins For What It’s Worth ## There's something happening here (me plodding the streets of Bromley) But what it is ain't exactly clear (me going slowly) There's a man with a gun over there (is that meant to encourage me to speed up?) Telling me I got to beware (I'm not getting any younger) ####### Classic: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gp5JCrSXkJY ####### Mellow: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5ud5T5I4XcA ####### Am considering going for 1000 miles this year - but this is a considerable increase, but maybe that's part of the challenge......

5:48am 10.06 km 58m 36s Weather: Driech (wet & windy) but weirdly mild for Feb. As I trudge slowly through the wind and rain, each song seems to be a mantra for purpose. Of course this isn't strictly true and more likely I am projecting my thoughts, ideas, worries and life onto the lyrics. I then tell myself to stop over-thinking and just enjoy the song, which inevitably leads to another bout of air guitar/drums and concerned looks from weary looking commuters at the strange bloke shuffling round in the dark with an imaginary drum kit/guitar Good Riddance (Time Of Your Life) Another turning point, a fork stuck in the road (sure, but I know I turn right here) Time grabs you by the wrist, directs you where to go (my GPS kinda does that although its flighty) So make the best of this test and don't ask why ( I ask "Why did I get out of be so early?" every day) It's not a question, but a lesson learned in time (If I've learned anything about this running lark its that whilst I feel dreadful doing it I will live) It's something unpredictable, but in the end it's right (see I knew it was doing me good) I hope you had the time of your life (not sure about this one) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CnQ8N1KacJc

Music is a huge motivator for me when I run, and my fairly eclectic tastes covers a gamut of genres. Today it was (amongst others) The Stranglers; Golden Brown texture like sun (its nice to see it this early) Lays me down with my mind she runs (she forced me up, but I guess I could say she was running with me) A lovely song with a slightly dodgy subject matter https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z-GUjA67mdc Another 10.08 km in the bank