Hot, Humid, Difficult
That about sums up this most difficult of days. About 14 and 1/2 miles, started at 8:30 a.m., finished at 6:15 p.m.
Walking along the Irish Sea coastal path was steep, narrow and tortuous. Had to watch every single step, for fear of twisting an ankle. This certainly is not taking a leisurely stroll down Connecticut Avenue! Several hikers, more powerful and more comfortable, passed me by, but for the most part, I was by myself. Lots of rocks underfoot; fortunately, I had sturdy boots that helped keep my footing and provide some support. The trail was marked fairly well, but in too many places, it was difficult to discern where the trail was, particularly when going through fields. Some of the trail was on gravel roads (fine), but then it could deteriorate to a six-inch wide path overgrown with weeds.
It was so hot, that I had to drink like a fish. Probably had four liters of water. I was so dehydrated and so hot that I couldn't eat anything, not even a power bar. (Made up for much of this after the conclusion of the day at the pub and a lasagna dinner).
My trip was saved by my partnering up with Peter from Somerset. A stout-hearted fellow, former Royal Marine, who (a) knew what he was doing and (b) could read maps. I would have been utterly lost without his guidance. The guidebooks warn you, "Never walk alone." Now I understand. Only because of Peter did I make it to my destination safely. My map reading skills are pretty basic, and until Peter showed me how to use a compass, I was still struggling away.
Glad to have this first day over. But I was slyly warned by a veteran walker that the next day would be even more difficult. Stay tuned. Pictures will follow once I get home.
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WOW. When the student is ready the teacher appears! THANK GOD for the Royal Marines!
ReplyDeleteThis is turning out to be a very in-the-monent experience, isn't it? Do you have a walking stick, that might be helpful, or--not--if the path is really gravelly.
I bet you have a deeper understanding and appreciation of "taking care!"
Good luck on the trek tomorrow (today by now, I guess).
Dennis Life should be full of surprises! Some happy and some less so. Glad you found a walking buddy at the right time but we are sorry you needed him at the time. We are all behind you (way behind you in this case) and pulling for you (how anyone behind you can be pulling for you is a mystery but you get the idea). We are about to take off for the Palisades Fourth of July Parade. As I recall the July 4 celebrations in England were fairly subdued.I am sure you will find your own way of celebrating because if the 4th never happned what you write books about? Happy fourth and happy trekking.
ReplyDeleteFrank and Mary
(From Lupy) I find this to be quite interesting commentary coming from a guy who doesn't even like picnics!
ReplyDelete(From Patti) Glad I'll only experience this trek through your pictues!
Sounds like you will be a 'vet' after this trek is over. Taking advice/guidance from a vet indicates intelligence! (The ones that don't take advice usually get into trouble.) God knew you needed someone like Peter so that you could finish the first day in the right place. Hope the 2nd day wasn't more difficult. If I remember correctly it was a shorter distance.
ReplyDeleteLooking forward to the next journal entry.
AND contrary to Patti I wish I was doing this trek also (if it would have happened 2 yrs ago) Photos, in this case, will do just fine.
ReplyDeleteSo it would be cruel to tell you that we sat with our coffee on the deck the last two mornings, temps in the 60s? Atypical early July in Washington.
ReplyDeleteJoining this party late as granddaughter RUby Kathleen arrived Tuesday morning, 4 weeks early. Rocky start, things smoothing out now.
Press on, valiant knight! May the force be with you and God watch your careful steps! J
Onward & Upward and Keep Pushing the Guinness! Should the "St. Bees Bugle" or "Ennerdale Bridge Muffin" not have carried the story, Sarah Palin has resigned as governer. Thought you'd want to mull that over for a chapter in your next book as you Tramp Tramp Tramp along. P&C
ReplyDeleteDick said to tell you people doing a 6 week Coast to Coast bike trip echo thoughts like 'why am I doing this', they press on and after a week or so they settle in and it becomes easier. In fact I think I've heard HIM say such a thing (hard to believe, I know). Sooooo, keep on pressing on.
ReplyDeletePat P said ...There's nothing like the possibility of injury or of being lost in the countryside of England forever( we really would come looking for you) to get you out of your head and into the present moment. I am trying to put the most positive blush on your first day. I'm imagining you're already wondering what was I thinking, why did I think this was a good idea?.
ReplyDeleteYou really are doing great!! In all seriousness, I truly admire your willingness to go this far out of your comfort zone. .Just think you will be ready for the Billy Goat Trail when you get home.