Friday was pretty much the same as every Friday - Enjoyed a bottle of wine and watched TV. Knowing we were heading off bright and early Saturday morning on Delaval Players annual walk, I brushed my teeth and headed off early to bed. The early bird gets the worm an all.. ...
Saturday brought us clear skies and the promise of sunshine, even though the weather forecast said rain. I packed a bag for the forthcoming walk: flask of coffee for Keefe, bottle of water for me. I made an executive decision to pick up sandwhiches on the way there as I forgot to take the bread out last night - so much for the early bird and worm theory. Spare breathable top and spare socks, I figured it was only a 9 mile walk so wouldnt need excessive clothes - slightly worried about the fact that we had no wet weather stuff, but hey ho - it wasnt going to rain!
I put tracksuit bottoms and a breathable top on the bed for Keefe after donning my own, five minutes later he came out wearing jeans and a sweatshirt - Okay his choice. We had a lengthy discussion regarding coats - he wanted to take a very heavy coat and I managed to convince him a fleece would be better.
My boots
Headed off for Barnard Castle - just south of Durham. The skies promised rain but held off - Phew. Met up with Margaret, Peter, Kath and Dave at exactly 10.26 - Nicky and Rob joined us minues later. Apparently the group has not, to date, ever got there on time. Things are looking good!
Why when your trying to a picture of a whole group do lots of people hide!!!
Steven lead the group up to Morrisons where we all did the usual stuff - purchased sandwhiches, drinks and used the facilities. We then walked through the very pituresque village, a quick but healthy pace.
Adopting Briggsy's style at this point Im just going to say we past this
We walked about four miles - lovely pace, lots of chatting and looking and "ooohhhing and Ahhhhing" and smelling of flowers and eating real live garlic plants and we eventually stopped here for lunch.
This is Rob and Nicky, Dave and Kath scoffing, with Steven contemplating the view
Once we had all filled our faces and investigated the fish we pulled on our rucksacks and walked lots more, passing the oldest swing bridge in the area, headed up some very steep steps and crossed an area covered in sheeps poo! As we returned to the cover of the trees the heavens opened, but luckily we were protected by the trees.
From here we walked another couple of miles and saw this
Highlights of the day
- The pretty ravine showed above - There was a beautiful rainbow but sadly camera didnt pick it up. Blaming my camera. Must learn how to use it properly.
- The scenery - I've never walked in this area and the different landscapes we saw just thrilled me. I love being out in the country.
- Keefe holding my HAND - Oh my god. Totally surprised when he did. I was so shocked I actually asked him why? "Cause I can" was his reply!
Lowlights
- Steven fell over and got all embarrassed, I kindly took the p out of him. Obviously made him feel much better.
- Even though I lead the group for most of the day I was at times very aware of how my fitness has slipped.
In the evening 21 members of the theatre group met up for a meal, which was gorgeous. One of the oldest members Jim was telling me all about a small village he is moving to over in Cumbria. I was amazed and delighted to hear that it was Arnside - a village very familiar to me from my school days.
We talked and became charmed with each other - Im now Jims best friend and he introduced me to every one as the lovely Shannon, who knows Arnside. *glow*. Give me a OAP and I can get them eating out of my hand!!!
Sunday K and I returned to the normality of life. Food, drink and TV.
