A quiet one

Christmas is often a time for doing very little, hooking up with friends and family; some reflective and relaxing "down-time" at the end of a busy year and time for planning what to do with the new one.

This Christmas has been more inactive than usual due to a cold. That said, I wasn't entirely idle. Of course, like everyone else, I got out for walks with friends to enjoy the snow. I made a special effort to haul myself out of my sickbed to see the lunar eclipse on December the 21st, the winter solstice.

The moon at the start of its eclipse. From my bedroom window.

More photos here.

I got out to do some birdwatching, the highlight being 2 bittern at Leighton Moss RSPB reserve.

In a final effort to undo some of the damage caused by too much food, drink and slothfulness, and on the shaky advice of a friend  that a cold could be "driven out", I entered my first cyclocross race in Round 9 of the Yorkshire points series at "Todcross", Todmorden.

I was delighted not to have come last in the vet's category, racing for Bradford And Bingley Canoe Club, and to finish before members of some illustrious cycle teams and Here Come the Belgians.  I was less happy to be coughing violently for the next 2 hours. Results here.

This is video of the senior's race. Take it from me that 'd have been off the back in the first 30 seconds.



Footage courtesy of James Lyon and  manchestervelodrome.

Feeling better now. Thanks.