Author: martinjamesphd
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Exploring the Sights, Sounds, and Smells of MOROCCO
It was exactly the orgy of sights, sounds, colours and smells I hoped it would be. The weather was surprisingly unreliable but the city delivered in every other way. In comparison to Egypt (which I also visited recently) Morocco was laid back and more Westernised – which isn’t to say better but it was more…
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Another aerobic/anaerobic hybrid gym session
This workout was one of those where you just feel powerful and energetic for no known reason. That made it enjoyable and the quality of the beats (Deep Dish) only added to it.
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Scenic Canal Ride and Wildlife Encounters: Captivating Moments Along the Route
I put in an 11 mile round trip along the Worcestershire & Birmingham canal. Unsurprisingly there was lots of young families along the route, especially geese and swans. My Specialized off-road is an absolute beast, there’s nothing it cannot smash its way over and through. It’s so much fun to ride.
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Back on the Bike
Finally – some nice weather! I’m not a fair weather cyclist but when you’re out of the groove you tend to wait until the right moment. That means nice weather and the workload being under control. Better May than never.
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Straight Outta Oxford
I got a last minute invite for tea and civility in Oxford so why not? At 43 spontaneity is hardly a priority, so I enjoyed doing something out of nowhere. As ever the tourist crowds were annoying but there was plenty to enjoy. Every time I go to Oxford and Cambridge they seem smaller than…
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A Third & Final Spring on Campus
Sadly this will be my final Spring and Summer at the University of Birmingham. It kind of feels over before it began, even though it has been 2 and a half years since I joined UoB. It leaves me with a few months to get around to all the things I should have got around…
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Bournemouth & the New Forest
The New Forest has been on the agenda for well over a decade. It didn’t disappoint, it’s the kind of place you could spend all day getting lost – enjoying every second. On this occasion I only walked for a few hours, which was nonetheless rewarding. Bournemouth too was a treat, so much so that…
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Keepin’ Movin’
Another workout featuring back-to-back sets of big weights and cardio. The main summer holidays are not far away and I’m mildly stressed about the lack of consistent progress.
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Trying to progress
Here’s another snapshot of my trying to push forward in 2024, despite it’s many obstacles. Hopefully progress will come easier as the year rolls on.
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Digital Nomading in Glasgow and the Highlands
I’m no stranger to life on the road, having had a part-time driving job (amongst others) during my PhD. At this point in my life and career I am growing accustomed to an alternate digital version of work whilst wondering. Why not get about? For much of my time a laptop, smart phone and WIFI…
Dr Martin James 