Strange brew

Thank your god it's Friday and all that. And that I'm tucked up in bed.

The weather is atrocious (cold, wet, windy) and I'm heading to sleep as tomorrow I am going on my first outdoor climbing trip to Portland - the climbing mecca of the south coast. Or something like that. I don't think I have mentioned it on here, but I have started climbing again.

Back in the harness again

Nothing too strenuous mind - I'm doing routes akin to climbing a ladder. I know my physical limitations at the moment and I am taking my time getting back into it. I have done two sessions so far and have enjoyed both. Portland is more out of curiosity and if I really don't like it, there's always the view to enjoy.

It has been a strange old week. Mostly because amongst the routine and general busy-ness of work, there's been the matter of my 6-month post transplant re-staging. 

I had yet another bone marrow biopsy on Wednesday - a different part on my hip bone this time but the same hideous, painful procedure and another MRI scan earlier to check on my bones. I know I have to go through it all as it is necessary to keep an eye on me but sometimes, just sometimes I really wish I didn't have to go through any of this. 

I know I laugh and joke and make light of it but in reality these are fairly heavy duty medical stuff to go through. I not only find it all physically challenging but pretty hard going psychologically too. I'm not asking for sympathy, just asking for a bit of slack. And understanding. 

I'm rather hoping that my complete remission from three months ago continues but you never know with this disease and as the 6 month mark is key, I'm keen to pass this particular test. I'll let you know in 2 weeks what the result is.

In the meantime, Mat and I made the most of the nice early evening weather earlier by traipsing over to the Kyoto Garden in Holland Park - a beautiful Japanese garden in central London. Mat was hoping to get some planting ideas  for our own garden and it was definitely worth the trip as it is beautiful - small but perfectly formed. And a peacock even made an appearance. Strange brew indeed.

More news to follow this weekend. Watch this space. 

In the meantime, enjoy the pics of the Kyoto Garden below.