But my training calendar is getting more and more full, and with just over three months to go to the big day, I must admit I'm suddenly feeling more serious about it all (though I'm not sure how long that will last).

This week sees the first real tests - the official training regime started on Monday, rather oddly with a rest day.

Sadly though, I couldn't take advantage of it - having been away on holiday for a fortnight, I desperately needed to get back into the swing of running.

After completing my first proper 15-minute jogging session just before I jetted off, I was keen not to get out of the habit, and even packed my running gear in my suitcase.

First race

But spending two weeks living at the end of a dirt track high on a hill in the countryside meant road running wasn't really on the agenda.

Instead I packed in plenty of country walks, trekked around lots of cities and climbed every available tower and hill.

Still, after two weeks on a diet of pizza, pasta and ice cream, getting back into running has been a bit of a chore.

I forced myself to get back out there as soon as I could, building back up to 15 minutes, and last night managed the full 20 minutes advised in the council's half-marathon training plan.

To be honest, I am quite pleased, though I would have preferred it had I not felt I was on the verge of a heart attack by the time I finished.

Real challenge

But it was good practice for the weekend, when, in the second of my challenges for the week, I am due to take part in my first race since the egg-and-spoon back in primary school.

Sunday will see me join hundreds of other women to run, jog and walk 5km around Bath in the Race for Life, raising money for Cancer Research along the way.

Worryingly, I am quite looking forward to it, despite the fact I will be joined by a far fitter, faster friend.

If nothing else it will be interesting to see how it feels to run surrounded by other people, rather than struggling on my own or in pairs.

I have no idea how long it will take to get around the course, or whether I will be able to jog it all or have to walk part of the way, but it is my first proper challenge, and I can't wait.

Now where did I put that sponsor form?