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Embracing the Outdoors: A Silver Lining Amidst the Pandemic
August 1, 2020
In August 2020, the United Kingdom found itself in the midst of a global pandemic that had fundamentally altered the way we lived our lives. Lockdowns and restrictions were in place, urging citizens to stay indoors and maintain social distancing. However, amid the uncertainty and challenges, a silver lining emerged—people across the nation began embracing the great outdoors like never before. As a 38-year-old new dad hailing from the Midlands and working in the IT sector, I found solace in the simple joys of nature during this trying time.
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10 Virtual Fitness Tech on the rise in 2020
July 1, 2020
Ten virtual fitness technologies that gained popularity during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. Peloton: Peloton gained immense popularity for its connected fitness equipment, especially its stationary bikes and treadmills, which come with live and on-demand classes. Zoom Workouts: Many fitness trainers and studios turned to platforms like Zoom to conduct virtual fitness classes, allowing participants to join from the safety of their homes. Fitbit Premium:
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Settling in to the New Normal
April 1, 2020
Keep Calm and Carry On The media responded to the pandemic and we followed reports and the government’s news updates. People wanted to try to make sense of what was going on. Captain Tom Moore captured hearts by fundraising for the NHS. We stood on the doorstep of the house and banged saucepans as ambulance workers drove by. SpaceX’s Crew Dragon launch was announced. Home Training As outdoor activities were restricted, people turned to indoor workouts.
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Covid 19 Pandemic
March 1, 2020
Covid pandemic Weird news conferences Not allowed to leave home Working from home Staying fit from home Home food deliveries New baby to look after
Tags: Covid
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A Storm is Brewing: Weather and Life Changing Events
February 1, 2020
Running Event Stopped in it’s Tracks I was signed up for a half marathon race at Castle Ashby. I was running regularly and well prepared. I had done a couple of longer 20km training runs along with my usual shorter distances. However, sadly, it had to be canceled due to Storm Ciara due to the amount of dead wood that had fallen onto the route and the weather had not improved sufficiently to go ahead with a safe event.
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UK Leaves the EU
January 15, 2020
As the decade opened, the United Kingdom officially withdrew from the European Union, marking a historic moment with significant economic and political implications. When I had originally heard the news that we had voted to leave the EU I was gobsmacked. I intuitively felt it was a bad idea and going to have negative consequences.
Tags: politics
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Discovering Nietzsche via the Philosophize This! Podcast
January 15, 2020
I got into the podcast “Philosophize This!” by Stephen West which covered Friedrich Nietzsche in several episodes. Nietzsche was a German philosopher known for his critiques of traditional European morality and religion. His ideas have had a significant impact on philosophy, psychology, and literature. Here are some key concepts often associated with Nietzsche. Will to Power: Nietzsche argued that a fundamental driving force in humans is the “will to power” – a striving for excellence, achievement, and the realization of one’s potential.
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Tech Innovations at CES 2020
January 1, 2020
I attended a call with a tech specialist on CES 2020. CES 2020 showcased a variety of groundbreaking technological innovations across different sectors. Here’s a brief overview of some key innovations: NEON Artificial Humans: NEON, a project by Samsung’s STAR Labs, introduced lifelike AI avatars that could interact and engage with users in a remarkably human-like manner. These artificial humans were designed for tasks such as customer service and personal assistance.
Tags: cesinnovations
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Encouraging Quotes 8
November 6, 2019
John Lennon Time you enjoy wasting is not wasted time Dalai Lama This is my simple religion: There is no need for temples; no need for complicated philosophy. Our own brain, our own heart is our temple; the philosophy is kindness Tony Gaskins If you don’t build your dream someone will hire you to help build theirs Napolean Bonapart The only one who is wiser than anyone is everyone
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Bikepacking Scotland '06
March 22, 2019
Bikepacking Scotland ‘06 takes you on an unforgettable journey through the rugged landscapes of Scotland. This book chronicles an epic bikepacking adventure, exploring the Highlands, lochs, and remote trails that make Scotland a cyclist’s paradise. Experience the beauty of Scotland through the eyes of a bikepacker, with detailed route descriptions, stunning photography, and tips for planning your own bikepacking trips. Whether you’re an experienced bikepacker or new to the sport, this book will inspire your next adventure.
Tags: bookadventurebikepacking
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Why is bicycle touring so good for exploring?
January 19, 2019
Unleash Your Adventurous Spirit with Bicycle Touring Exploring new horizons and pushing the boundaries of your comfort zone is at the heart of every traveler’s journey. If you’re looking for an exhilarating way to embark on an adventure that immerses you in nature while providing the freedom to set your own pace, bicycle touring might just be the perfect fit for you. Embrace the Road Less Traveled Bicycle touring offers a unique opportunity to veer off the beaten path and explore destinations that may be inaccessible by car or too distant to cover on foot alone.
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My Solar Charging Set Up
January 19, 2019
Charging setup laid out before going hiking in Spain see above. Gopro Hero Black Edition Portapow AA charger Portapow Solar Panel 11W iPhone 5 Life Edge Rugged case Sansa Mp3 player Portapow battery / solar panel I used the solar panel to charge up the back up battery Advantages of the folding solar panel Good portability Rugged, surface doesn’t damage as easily Can be strapped to backpack 2 usb charging ports Advantages of AA charger Can be used to charge batteries Can be used as a battery itself (provide power of 4 AAs to another device via USB) It is good to have a back up energy source