New Year and raring to go..

So the Christmas season has come to pass... trousers are a little tighter, wallets are a little lighter and we have arrived into a brand spanking new year.

I'm feeling pretty please as instead of squandering the seasons holiday in front of the TV (OK, squandering ALL of it I should say) for once, I have been busy making preparations for the trip (which is 26 weeks and 2 days away).

1) Physical preparation - As one of my big worries is being unfit while I'm away, I've started preparing for the trekking aspect with some walks. Guildford and the surrounding area is a gold mine for hills and I've been trying to conquer them all. There have been muddy hills, sandy hills, really really steep hills! I've acquired some willing and able walking buddies, kitted up, and forced myself out into the cold. I'll be a lean mean hiking machine before you know it!

2) Health preparation - As well as the physical exercise, I've been dosing up on everything to keep me in tip top shape. Vitamins, more fruit, more veg, NO WINE... anything to protect myself. I've also booked the appointment with my doctor to start getting my vaccinations done. I'm unfortunately prone to getting poorly and I don't want that affecting my trip, or those around me. 2009 will be the year of health!

3) Equipment preparation - I am now the proud owner of some very swanky walking boots (at a 70% discount), a very expensive and waterproof jacket - good for the rainy season in Malaysia, an essential sleeping bag liner to combat bacteria, a water bottle, as well as a couple of head torches. I've been able to acquire this haul through a combination of monetary donation, Christmas gifts and good old fashioned giving so thanks those who helped me.

4) Financial preparation - The fundraising is going swimmingly - about 40% there with 4 months to go before the deadline. I've been really lucky int he support I've received but I'm also looking to get more, and not only relying on the kindness of friends but a wider appeal. I've also been making sure I'm financially prepared for the trip (there will be small costs I incur when I'm out there, and the not so small cost of a flight!), I also have to make sure I have a buffer for when I'm back. The job climate is slightly unpredictable at the moment as well know, the uncertainty of what I'll do when I get back adding equally to the excitement and fear, so there's a lot of planning to do there on my part.

Just thought I'd keep people up to date with my actions. Please, keep spreading the word of Raleigh and hopefully we'll tap into people's generous sides and get more support for Raleigh.