‘It doesn’t matter where you’ve come from, only where you are going’.

I disagree with this statement. I believe that we are shaped by history, our childhood, our family and our experiences. Where we’re from, who’ve we’ve loved (or been loved by) and what we’ve done so far shapes the people that we are today and who we will become.

Arthur David Gwyther, is the name of my Grandad on my Dad’s side. Known to others as David of Dai (Welsh).

On the morning of Sunday 2^nd December, my Grandad, someone who has shaped who I am today, suddenly and tragically passed away.

Grandad was someone whose smile and warmth was infectious. He was strong, kind, gentle and loving. I can never remember a time when he was disappointed or angry with me, only ever proud and encouraging with a brilliant chuckle.

Grandad was always into his music, he played in a jazz band-piano and violin. I remember at Sara and Dave’s wedding after the first dance, Grandad and I taking to the dance floor and him telling me to stop looking at my feet, and for goodness sake let him lead! Grandad also served in the Navy in the Second World War. When I was 15 I joined the Navy Cadet Force, because of his service in it. I remember him singing to me ‘In the Navy,’ and chuckling as I told him my stories of marching, saluting and tying copious amounts of knots.

There are many more memories that I could share, all of them filled with joy from the great man that Grandad was. He always supported me in everything I did, whenever I got all passionate about something and ‘off on one again’ he would always say ‘ you go lass’ or ‘go on girl.’ Just as Grandparents are meant to be, Gran and Grandad were constant, always loving.

 Their relationship inspires me. I think you can learn a lot from the people who love you. The way that Granny and Granddad loved each other and how they just fitted together is incredible. This and the way they have encouraged and loved me, has strengthened me. It has increased my capacity to open up to people, and to love.

This past week has been hard, especially for Gran, Dad and my two Aunties. Tears have been shed, memories shared and arrangements have come together for Grandad’s funeral next Wednesday. What has been incredible about this week has been how our family has come together. I have always been brought up to appreciate and protect family relationships. But this week I have truly witnessed the ‘power of love’ (I know cheesy John Lewis advert). The raw, unconditional love of family is quite amazing.

I’m sorry this post may have been quite intense or depressing, but true to my personality of being quite open and outwardly processing things, it seemed wrong to chat about my running programme without acknowledging what has happened this week.

Training:

• 9 miles on Monday –that was a hard one, Chorleywood has too many hills. Started walking on the last hill I was running up (mile 9) because someone managed to walk past me-awkward.
• 3 miles on Tuesday- Legs were not loving life as I hauled myself around the hills once more. Think I may run to Amersham next time!
• Today Gym time and then tomorrow another 3-4 mile run.

Next Week:

•  9 miles on Monday and Tuesday 3-4 miles.
• On Wednesday evening, after the funeral, I am going to Australia for 3 weeks, where I will continue training (early morning runs) in 30 degree heat. Oh dear.

Whatever you do this Christmas, tell the people you love how much you appreciate them and love them. Let’s defy British social norms regarding displays of emotion and affection and just act on LOVE. Don’t worry I’m not getting all ‘hippy’ on you, I just think it’s important to gain perspective, to appreciate what you have, be thankful and honest.

Here is a song I’ll leave with you, one that sums up my Grandad and shall be played at his funeral.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_aJfZw3SA2c

Grandad, you will always hold a firm place in my heart and live on through our family. I will always cherish being told I had my grandad’s smile.

Have a joy-filled weekend,

Jen xx