There was a nice surprise hidden among the cacti at the Botanical Gardens in Sheffield. This is a rare event indeed in the UK and I made the most of it.

Still the funniest thing that ever happened when I worked at a university in Istanbul.
Second picture was two hours later... glad I got a photo while it lasted.

Just as I start to count down to leaving the UK again, I've begun to feel more settled here in Sheffield and sad at what I'm leaving behind. Why is this always the way?

I went to two back to back classes at the gym today. Great trainers for both classes - took the time to walk around and give personal attention. I got praised on my squats and told I have 'buns' 😄Going to his class again!

I went to my first weightlifting class! It's a shame I have to cancel my gym subscription due to upcoming travel, as I've settled in there now. Also a shame that finding an accessible gym in Turkey is so problematic.

Starting to read 'Ultra Processed People' and making small steps to eat more whole foods and avoid packaged junk. This is going to be a real shift in my lifestyle!

Really looking forward to the 'three countries in two days' bike trip in May. Turkey, Greece, and Bulgaria. I've done it a few times before but now I am much fitter, it should be easier and more fun!

Back from a lovely 3 nights in London. One night at a friend's, 2 nights at a YHA hostel, £15 a night, 4 women in my room, clean, centrally located, massive kitchen.

I love Heron Foods. They have really good special offers, and if you ignore the deep fried frozen beige stuff, there's goodies there like philadelphia 79p, giant snack a jacks, 79p, protein mousse, 2 for £1. I think they're only in the north of England - do you ever go?

My last night in Portugal. I'm spending tonight in Faro, as it's near the airport for my morning flight. It's been raining and very windy most of the afternoon, so I've not explored much.

The weather back in Sheffield looks absolutely dire for the next few weeks. I really wanted to climb up Mam Tor for sunrise but won't bother if it's constantly cloudy and rainy.

I've completed the VoiCE (Video Creation for Educators) course with Jo Gakonga and I'm starting to produce videos to supplement educational materials. Feeling enthusiastic about the direction my career may take this year.