Shadowy trees loom in the mist

Tree silhouettes on part of the route taken for this walk.

HOUSES were shrouded in mist and shadowy trees loomed as I set off yesterday (Tuesday) morning. I managed to avoid the turn I took on Sunday as I strode through the residential areas. Thankfully, this meant no ‘circular tours’ around unfamiliar streets! As I approached the park, I wondered whether going in an anti-clockwise direction would make any difference.

It was mild and the sky was white with mist. Occasionally trees disappeared into the ghostly cloud. There was a waft of lavender, and standing proudly under some trees in a field, a piebald pony. Its black and white pattern contrasted with the subdued grey-green tones of the surroundings.

Relaxed pony enjoys a healthy diet!

The walk went well. I wore short-sleeved shirt and jeans and had soon warmed up. It was quite busy with people exercising. I was walking almost as fast as one jogger - which actually doesn’t say much, as she was moving quite slowly! Maximum speed was 8.7 miles per hour. I’m not out to break any land-speed record, but like to have a little burst now and again!

It’s surprising how much propulsion your arms can give you. It’s like having a turbo charge. You can be gently strolling along, then swing your arms, and whoosh, an acceleration boost. At one point, I felt as if I could take off! (Shucks, I knew I should have moved my arms like pistons rather than flapping them like wings!).

I was back in just under an hour, which I was happy with. I wouldn’t want that circuit – a little over four miles – to take any longer.

As for the anti-clockwise route? Well, it felt comfortable; I’m in good company as athletes tend to run in this direction; and I finished on time. There are theories about why anti-clockwise is the norm but, for now, I’ll leave that side of things to the scientists!

                                                               

Monday 26: Set out for a walk in the afternoon, but the sun was too strong for my liking. It was hot and shining straight into my eyes.  I didn't fancy being baked and blinded, so did a 20-minute lap of the block. Used up about a tomato's worth of energy. That's not going to win any prizes! Not the best walk. But, hey, it happens.