Tucson's only nonprofit tattoo shop, Spark Project Collective, is gearing up to attempt a remarkable feat: breaking the Guinness World Record for the most tattoos completed in 12 hours by 12 artists. The record stands at 836 total tattoos, achieved by Alessandra Bonacorsi's team of artists in Italy. Spark Project Collective aims to sur...

Raising money for the children’s charity of rugby Wooden Spoon by attempting a world record - to play rugby at the highest altitude

All paid for but we are looking to raise in excess of £200,000.

My part of it? £20,000 combined with my partner

Can you help? Please...to make life easier and more fulfilled for disabled and disadvantaged children. Thank you

  Hello! Remember me? I used to write a weekly blog roundabout these parts. I’m sorry; I needed to take a bit of a break from blog-land (apologies other bloggers too, I haven’t even been reading other people’s). I think I just got tired of the sound of my own voice (which, as longtime readers, is a sentiment that you will completely understand). If I’m entirely honest, I struggled to make a start on this post you’re reading now. But a chance remark from my daughter about how my mother-in-law’s sister (convoluted family tie enough for you?) about how she missed my Saturday morning blog spurred me into action. So, thank you, Biddy (you’re going to feature heavily in my next blog, I hope you don’t mind).

Windswept on the Wild Atlantic Way

Don’t worry, there is a point to this blog (I find it hard enough to write with a point, let alone without one). I’ve just returned from a ten-day trip to Ireland, actually. It was just the break I needed – not that it was a restful holiday or anything – we’ve been driving around and visiting relatives like mad things. My husband is half-Irish, and his father’s side of the family are situated around the County Kerry area of Southern Ireland. I’m quarter-Irish myself; on my paternal grandmother’s side, but I’m ashamed to say we have no connections with that part of the family; I honestly wouldn’t recognise them if I tripped over them in the street. Anyway, my father-in-law was also back in Ireland after a recent illness, so we decided to take our annual August holiday there. And it really was a chance for my husband to relive his childhood, as he spent two weeks of his school summer holidays there annually as a kid. I’m afraid to say we weren’t met by fantastic weather (it’s at least four or five degrees lower even than the UK), but that didn’t spoil our fun.

Torc Waterfall

I do love Ireland. The scenery is just enough at variance from England to know you’re somewhere entirely different. I love the space. I love the solitary little houses set apart on their own. The landscape is simply greener than England (probably due the excessive rain, and we get enough), and more undulating. On arrival in Kerry, the town of Tralee was all in a frenzy over the hurling final which was taking place about the time me were picking up our hire car (the staff at Europcar car rental had little interest in handing us over our keys in the excitement of listening to the match on the radio). For the uninitiated, hurling is a bit like hockey with a weird-shaped stick – but bears WAAAAAY more importance over there than hockey does in our country. Anyway, Limerick (who hadn’t won the final for over 40 years) beat Galway by a tiny margin. So flags were flying from houses and cars in every street. Perhaps even more importantly, at the same time, The Pope was making his first visit to Ireland since the 70s – and the country was all in a flutter about that too (you could even buy ‘Pope’ flags and t-shirts in supermarkets. You don’t get that in Tesco’s or Sainsbury’s). I can only wish I’d bought one. Oh, and then there was the ‘Rose of Tralee’ going on all week. It’s a bit like a beauty pageant or a ‘Miss World’ competition that has been running since the 50s, but covering all the counties of Ireland – and parts of UK, USA, and Australia too (for some reason). However, it professes not to be beauty contest – but let’s just say being attractive helps. Like my husband says, ‘you couldn’t be a right munter, could you?’ (I don’t know what that means either). We even went out at midnight to see the contestants on a parade in the streets just before the announcement of the winner (I would post a picture of her, but she didn’t look my way – so, y’know, her loss). And this was all followed by ‘midnight madness’ – which was actually just fireworks and unforgivable music played by a DJ, like ‘Cotton-Eye Joe’.

My husband’s aunt and uncle (Eileen and Jim) had kindly offered to put us up for the duration of our trip. I admit I was a tad anxious about it as I had only met them once or twice – and probably not for over a decade. But my worries were instantly alleviated as Jim and Eileen were just so friendly and accommodating. I just hope we were good house-guests (we only broke two of their showers, so I think we’ll be invited again). In fact, my husband’s Irish family (aunts, uncles, cousins etc.) were all so gracious. We were invited over for dinner by three separate families. You couldn’t hope to meet more genuinely approachable and affable people. And my children were so pleased to acquaint themselves with new family members they didn’t know or didn’t remember.

  A proper Charlie

Like I say, we sure did some mileage during the trip. I really feel that we covered every inch of the county of Kerry. The coastline is simply beautiful (in recent years, it was christened The Wild Atlantic Way – very apt; never have I been so windswept). One day we ventured off on an hour-and-forty minute drive to Waterville to take part in a world record attempt – the largest number of Charlie Chaplins in one place. Chaplin used to come to Waterville every year for his holidays and his family still have strong links with the area. My youngest child dressed up as Charlie (it was the only outfit size we could find on eBay and we had to carry the bugger – bowler hat and all – in our already over-burgeoning suitcase). The current world record was set in Canada, and boasted well over six hundred Charlies. Unfortunately, Waterville was at least 400 Charlies short! But the weather was terrible and Waterville really is a bit off the beaten track. Ahh well, we made the local newspapers. My husband is particularly pleased as he is pictured proudly beside his drone.

Gareth, Ibby, and Drone

Don’t get me started about that bloody drone. My husband has always been a keen photographer (the superb title photo is his) and, more recently, a videographer. But the drone is a new member of his arsenal. And yet another reason for him to stop the car, fish out and calibrate the drone, and fly the b*stard thing for fifteen minutes over something that has caught his eye – until the battery runs out (thank goodness). I shouldn’t grumble, really. The drone really does produce some wonderful footage. And he’s only crashed it twice – causing damage that has cost merely hundreds of pounds to put right. So, that’s something. He’s also making an ‘Ireland Video’ as we speak – so I’ll only see the back of his head whilst she’s at the computer editing for the next week or two…

I’m so cold.

But all too soon that ten-day break came to an end; back to reality. I can’t say I feel in the least bit rested as we were busier than ever. But it was a break from the norm and that was much needed. I trust we won’t leave it so long before we visit Ireland again. It’s great to frequent a place that you have real connections with. And I’ve made new friends – family, really – that I wouldn’t have made on any normal trip. It’s just a shame they now feel so far away. But it’s just a short plane-ride away. Even if you do have to trek nearly three hours to sh*tty (and horribly organised) Stanstead airport to get there. Still, it was worth it.

PS: To all my husband’s lovely Irish family (even though I don’t think any of you know of the existence of this blog), thank you again for your kindness; you are more than welcome to visit us in the UK. Our home is yours.

PPS: The Irish are universally worried about Brexit and think it was a huge mistake. I can’t argue with that…

PPPS: I would even consider moving to Ireland but for the fact that you have to remove your own hubcaps and hoover your boot before your M.O.T. (yearly vehicle inspection) – that’s just a deal-breaker.

    Top of the Morning Hello! Remember me? I used to write a weekly blog roundabout these parts. I’m sorry; I needed to take a bit of a break from blog-land (apologies other bloggers too, I haven't even been reading other people's).

The Hour is cycling's most iconic, prestigious yet toughest record. Man and machine racing against the clock, where any one can test themselves against the best in history to see who can ride the furthest in 60 minutes. Here I have for sale the actual skin suit worn by #ChrisBoardman when he broke the world record on the 6th September 1996 in Manchester Distance 56.375KM Chris has signed the skin suit and also handed written the world record details. Please message me for further details #GAN #gancyclingteam #skinsuit #cycling #cyclinglife #famouscyclists #thehour #thehourcycling #worldrecord #worldrecordholder #worldrecordattempt #cyclists #speedcycling #boardman #boardmanbikes #boardmancycles #chrisboardmanteam #rare #sports #sportsmemorabilia #sportsautographs #rareautograph #sportsbikelife #sportsmedia https://www.instagram.com/onlineantiques/p/CXPB7MaowYY/?utm_medium=tumblr

Yesterday I recieved my medal from @virtualrunnersglobal for participating in the massive world record attempt of seeing how many people can complete a 10km in 24 hours! 🏃🏽‍♂️ The best thing is that the record was broken, and I got to be a part of that 😁🎉 Well done to everyone else who took part last month 👏🏼 #running #runnersofinstagram #run #runner #runningismytherapy #runningmen #runningmotivation #virtualworkout #virtualrunning #virtualruns #worldrecordattempt #personaltrainer #guinnessworldrecord https://www.instagram.com/p/CUwl96HsHQ4/?utm_medium=tumblr

Guinness World Records Official Attempt medal arrived!! ❤️ Such an excellent beauty!! ❤️⭐️✨ I LOVE IT!! 🤩❤️ #sheilagrace #virtualrunners #guinnessworldrecord #gwr #running #virtualrunning #worldrecord #guinnessworldrecordsofficialattempt #virtualrunnersfamilie #worldrecordattempt P.S.: Here‘s a closer look, than on reel. https://www.instagram.com/p/CUX5oVCjSkf/?utm_medium=tumblr

Icom UK's Marketing Manager, Ian Lockyer (left) met Brendon Prince (right) from The Long Paddle 2021 last night who is attempting to circumnavigate mainland Britain by Stand Up Paddle (SUP) Board. By being the first ever to complete this challenge, Brendon will also achieve the world record for longest ever journey by SUP. Having started at the end of April, Brendon has been paddling daily with no boat support, meaning he is dependent on the support of his land crew. Brendon is making fantastic progress and is currently in Margate, having covered over 3,000 miles already with a tantalising 400 miles to go.

If you are just off the shore and see Brendon, do give him a big cheer. I am sure he will appreciate the support.

You can track Brendan’s progress https://thelongpaddle.co.uk/route/

Come April, we’ll be #guinessworldrecord holders. ————————————————– The Black Tribbles will set out to break the official Guinness World Record for the longest audio-only live stream (podcast) at FIFTY-FIVE CONSECUTIVE HOURS of furry tribbliciousness! AND YOU CAN BE THERE! Find out on Thursday, Jan 14th LIVE! ————————————————– #blacktribbles #worldrecord #podcasting #worldrecordattempt #geek #blerd #comics #anime #radio #entertainment #nonstop #ongoing #audio #creative #manga #marvel #dccomics (at Philadelphia, Pennsylvania) https://www.instagram.com/p/CJ8661gHWGT/?igshid=19ms2ixu61ufe

Happy to be part of the world record attempt. Register at www.trueandhealth.com True and Health workout challenge is the first-ever Virtual World Record attempt by the National Youth Council of India on 9th August 2020 between 9 AM to 9.20 AM As we are aware, the lockdown has inevitably taken a toll on people's mental and physical health. The belief in making the best out of this Pandemic has resulted in an iconic idea of a virtual workout challenge. The virtual workout aims to drive home the point of staying fit and active during these trying times. We are here to challenge the misunderstood notion that workouts are meant for fitness enthusiasts. ANYBODY CAN WORKOUT - All one needs is a dash of dedication, focus, and loads of belief. This record-breaking attempt will have several thousands of participants from across the country performing a 20-minute workout from their own homes. The virtual event will be recorded live as the participants perform. We believe that this beginner-friendly workout will motivate and encourage a lot of people to start exercising and begin their journey to a healthier lifestyle. #trueandheath #thwc2020 #worldrecordattempt #workoutchallenge #jointherevolution #unitingtheyouth #fitnessworkout #healthyroutine #fitindia #asiabookofrecords #worldrecords #worldrecordsindia #workoutlifestyle #workoutroutine #thwc2020 #youthenvoy (at Chennai Event Professionals) https://www.instagram.com/p/CDWFeIqjWwY/?igshid=1jlto9guyktfi

Good luck Marko Baloh at World Record Attempt #spiegelbikes #diablo #sanmarino #tundra #markobaloh #worldrecordattempt #timetrial #goodluck🍀 @markobaloh (at Dobrovnik) https://www.instagram.com/p/CDEW7zMFGrn/?igshid=1qb32zg182u48

Excited to be official photographer of this Guinness World Record Attempt. Taking place on the 18th and 19th July, 2019. Please join us in making history. Venue: Trinity Art Gallery Unit 22 Hope Street London City Island London E14 0LG : : : #sokarieu #londoncityisland #trinityartgallery #londonlighthousestudio #theguitarsocial #guinessworldrecord #guinness #worldrecordattempt #music #thomasbinns #thomasbinnsmusic #musical #guitarplaying #rnib #spotify (at Trinity Art Gallery) https://www.instagram.com/p/BzcdOOzluAB/?igshid=1l3o4mhk9omw8

Please post this out to your friends as we will be supporting this wholeheartedly.

We didn't quite make the #worldrecord but it was #fun nonetheless! #humanesocietyofsouthernarizona #tucson #arizona #dogs #worldrecordattempt #laencantada

A lo Alex Caizergues, vamos a reventar records‼ ⠀ #Repost @alexac21 (@get_repost) ・・・ Because yesterday, we wrote a new page in speed sailing History, here is the video of the day! Thanks again to my Salt and Speed crew, you made this possible 🙏🙏🙏 Video from my boyzzz @bandoriginale 🤘🤘🤘 . . . . #saltandspeed #worldrecord #worldrecordattempt #worldrecordholder #speed #vitesse #motivation #nevergiveup #mistral #camargue #france #kitesurf #kiteboarding #foneproshop https://www.instagram.com/p/B-2PmXTj9hC/?igshid=13httm8t9r68m

WORLD RECORD ATTEMPT CADD Centre s fashion/animation/garment designing training division DreamZone on the way to set two world records 😀 1. Longest fashion Show - Current record is non stop 24 Hrs. We are planning to work on 25 Hrs non stop fashion show. 👍 2. Number of designers participating: 250 nos is the current world record. We have crossed 250 nos today Morning and we are working on a bench mark of 400 designers show casing their designed garments. Venue : Four Point Sheraton; Mahabalipuram, Chennai. Thank you to each and every body who have worked and is currently working on making this record attempt to be a massive success. #notjusttrainingatcaddcentrekollam #leadershiprole #worldrecordattempt #caddcentrekollam #caddcentrehighschooljunction #caddcentrekarunagapally #dreamzoneschoolofcreativestudies (at Four Points By Sheraton Mahabalipuram Resort and Convention Center) https://www.instagram.com/p/BrwhK3lh_Wo/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=1hwclpmnt44xg