Queen Elizabeth I 1558-1603 My university course

If you've been following my tweets on my Twitter account (@martinwb10) you will know I've been working on an online course with the University of Oxford studying the life and reign of Queen Elizabeth I. It's a 10 week course ending with an official credit. I'm now on my final week, having passed the first assignment and now I'm almost ready to submit my final essay which will count towards my final mark. It's been a wonderful course, I have a passion for Tudor history so it's been right up my street. At times coming home from work extremely tired, I have had to be very motivated to settle down with my books and study hard for a couple of hours, but I've done it and nearing the final post! I'm very pleased with myself as its the first formal adult education I've participated in since leaving college in the 1980's. wish me luck for my final assessment and I'll let you all know if I pass, you'll hear the squeal of delight! Mart xx

I have Ankylosing Spondylitis

I have AS or it's full name Ankylosing Spondylitis. I was diagnosed with AS at 19 years old and has affected my life ever since, it creates challenges in everyday life, pain, fatigue and stiffness.

A description from the NHS website:

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a type of chronic (long-term) arthritis that affects parts of the spine, including bones, muscles and ligaments.

Arthritis is a common condition that causes pain and inflammation of the joints and tissues around them.

The symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis can vary, but most people experience back pain and stiffness. The condition can be severe, with around one in 10 people at risk of long-term disability.

Welcome

Hello and welcome to Martin's World, I intend to use this blog to keep a record of my life and interests: Books & Reading, Naturism, Ankyslosing Spondylitis, Gardening, Holidays and generally being me in my crazy, clumsy life! Thanks for dropping by! Martin xx

Game of Thrones -Season 3

Only one week to go until Games of Thrones season 3 begins on Sky Atlantic. I can't wait, I'm so excited. The House Stark motto "Winter is coming" is very true at the moment with the weather we've been having in England recently!