While the streets were buzzing with the energy of London Marathon - runners pounding pavements and crowds lining the roads - two GoodGymers brought that same spirit to a smaller but no less mighty event: Eltham junior parkrun.

Taking on different roles, we made sure every young runner got their moment to shine.

One of us was stationed near the finish funnel, cheering on the little ones as they powered through those final strides, while also gently reminding enthusiastic parents to let their kids cross the line solo (their moment, after all!).

The other took up marshalled along the route, giving encouragement, high-fives, and plenty of energy boosts.

And those smiles? Honestly, that’s what it’s all about. Pure joy, determination, and pride written all over their faces.

Helping at junior parkrun is a reminder that even the smallest acts - an encouraging word, a cheer, a high-five - can make a big difference. And whether it’s a marathon or a junior run, showing up matters. and that's what GoodGym is all about.

Until next time. 👋😃

Cecilia D 🍀

Sunshine set the tone for our monthly visit to help with gardening at the Community Hospice.

Jason, the Head Gardener, greeted us with his usual sunny welcome, and asked us clear weeds and moss from the paved drive and pathway leading to the reception. This would make the approach to the Hospice look nicer for everyone.

Robert, arriving by bike, had had to dodge some brambles and plants encroaching on the drive: could he grab some loppers and tackle those instead? Jason's response was an enthusiastic “Yes please!”.

Collecting tools from the shed took us through the gardens which are looking amazing - bright flowers and fresh greenery glowing in the warm light.

It's fair to say this wasn't a glamorous task but it was a good workout thanks to all that squatting and sweeping, and at the same time rather relaxing and chatting all the while.

Topics included the London Marathon (Kam is keen to run it if he can ever get a place, and Sarah and Johnny are volunteering at it tomorrow!), Jason's impressive plans for the 666 Film Challenge next month, and the orgins of our first names ( 'lady/princess', 'God is gracious', plentitude of religion', 'bright fame' and 'healer').

As always when you are busy and in good company, time flew by!

After putting the tools away Kam headed off and the rest of us went to enjoy a tasty lunch in the Hospice canteen.

We'll be back again next month, and Jason always has something different lined up. Come along and help make a difference for this wonderful charity.

What a lovely first session at Holy Redeemer Pre-School!

We were met with a warm welcome from Laura and Shelley, the school's managers, who lead us into their outdoor space which they have been working hard to spruce up in recent weeks.

They'd already given furniture in the mud kitchen a fresh coat of cream paint, and our job was to do the same for two wee benches and apply a protective layer of wood stain to the rather impressive play house.

We decided to start with the play house. First we needed to deal with the heavy-duty clear pvc blinds that formed the windows. Attempts to roll them up proved tricky but then we realised they could be unhooked along the top! Once they were off we were ready to get going with paint brushes. It was a really relaxing task in the evening light, and of course there was lots of chatting.

Meanwhile Laura and Shelley sanded and painted the wooden frame of a large freestanding plastic screen that the children use for drawing on.

With the house done -both outside and inside - Johnny re-hung the 'windows' while the rest of us turned our attention to the benches. A quick sanding and some brisk brush-work meant we got them finished in the nick of time.

So much achieved in just an hour. We're looking forward to coming back again, to continue the renovations.

Three of us joined Andrew, the manager, at the Community Hospice warehouse. It was my first time at this task, and I was alongside Caroline and Simon who are regulars there.

We sorted through a mountain of donations in record time. We saved some hidden gems, and found some sloths hanging around waiting for a new home!

We were that busy, we blinked and suddenly it was time to pack up. It felt like we had only just started but we made a big dent in getting through the donations.

It was really rewarding to help such a great charity.

Clocking in for the first time, one GoodGymer was on time today—literally.

It was planned: a more-than-5k run to Lesnes Abbey Woods junior parkrun to help as one of the two timekeepers. Because sometimes, it’s about giving it a try.

Set in a cracking location, the event welcomed 61 bouncy young runners - feet flying, smiles wide, and determination in every stride. Some with support from their mums and dads.

Three superstars hit parkrun milestones today, hooray! And from first finisher to final finisher, it was a run full of heart, effort, and a fair bit of woodland magic.

Volunteering like this is a powerful reminder that supporting the community is about giving a little of your time, stepping into a new role, and helping others shine.

If you’ve ever thought about volunteering, take this as your sign - there’s always someone to guide you, and a whole community waiting to welcome you.

Three of us joined Friends of Lesnes Abbey and Woods for their monthly litter pick with a big turn out of volunteers.

We split into three groups, with some litter picking around the park, others up Knee Hill and the woods.

We collected the usual rubbish, plus hats and pants, along with many hair clips.

A local resident thanked us from her balcony for our work which was really nice.

The sun was shining as we gathered for a well earned drink before the session ended.

We'll be back again next month - we'd love to have you along for a lovely chatty morning in nature which really makes a difference.