David and I have started 2015 as we mean to go on
Eating a healthier diet
Getting outside more to exercise
David and I love walking
Before children we used to do lots of long walks together
And we still walked, with the double buggy, after Esther and William were born
Since Tilda died we have not really done that much of anything
Actually David has run a marathon
But we have not done anything together
The snatched hours we have spent walking
Since the year began
Are really doing us good
Because not only are we outside and walking
We are talking too
Really really talking
And it is good
Esther and William are just at an age and size now
Where they have the stamina for doing longer walks themselves
We are lucky enough to live in a tiny village in rural Kent
Surrounded by rolling hills and open countryside
Perfect for adventure and exploring
Whatever the weather
We have had a lot of rain recently so much of the land is sodden
The footpaths are like swamps in places
Esther and William love to stomp and splash in muddy puddles
Though this weekend was all about cracking and crunching the ice
Bea comes out with us too
Either David or I will wear her using our Manduca carrier
It turns a leisurely stroll into a workout for me
Carrying 20lbs of Bea!
Bea usually sleeps for part of the walk
But when awake it is clear that she loves being outside
She is alert, looking around and taking it all in
It is a great feeling getting outside
The hills are alive!
Even if we are reluctant to go at first
We never ever regret getting out
Watching Esther poke the puddles with her stick
Our curious investigator
Seeing William run down the hills
Charging with giant sticks
Our little bundle of energy released to the elements
And being outside makes me feel closer to Tilda too
Being beneath her brilliant skies
The hills are alive
With colour in my cheeks
Mud on my boots
And wind in my hair
I feel alive!
Such a great read Jennie! You walk looks amazing and you look like you had a wonderful time. The last photo is so cute. Fresh air in the countryside really does make a world of difference 🙂 x
Lovely to hear! And Bea looks very cozy and warm in there! X
Invigorating! Janet Street-Porter recently wrote an article in the Daily Mail about the healing powers of walking. Would be worth a read but essentially confirms all that you talk about in this blog.
I have a fair walk for the school run and some days it can be a chore but actually it often makes me feel so much better. It’s amazing what a bit of fresh air does for the soul. I’d like to go out for more walks at the weekends, we always seem so busy doing things that cost us money I just need to work on the hubby! Great photos, love that last one too x
Hello Jennie, I’ve read a lot about your blog so I thought I’d say hi. Lovely pictures, it looked like the perfect day for a family walk. I love walking, especially in the Lake District. I always feel calmer and less anxious when I’ve been out walking. in the countryside. You must have some muscles carrying Bea in your carrier!
x