An Adventure Begins

In the last 25 years of work I have never been away from my desk for more than 2 weeks. I'm all too aware that my fitness is declining and recovery time is increasing. Injuries aren't just the result of accidents, often I just wake up with them. I'm in my mid 50's and there are too many people of my age suddenly developing life altering, or even threatening, illness.
So it seems time for a bit of an adventure. After years of rumination I've decided to take extended leave from my work, to go paddling.
The general plan is to start in the Solway Firth and head the long way round Scotland back to home. Clearly the basis of the idea comes from Brian Wilson and "Blazing Paddles". I first read it many years before I started paddling, but it left the seed which probably got me into a kayak in the first place. I suspect my paddles won't be blazing, though. Maybe just flickering.
The biggest hurdle of all seems to have been cleared. The arrangement to get away from work for 10 weeks is made. I've found someone to do my job for me, and, best of all, one of the CWW juniors may be able to come with me.
The plans can still all go wrong. Start date is the last weekend in April, and there are plenty of things beyond my control that can scupper the whole adventure. Not getting started would disappoint me more than not finishing the trip.

But at least it's worth a go. Out with the books!