In memory of my beautiful friend

My dearest friend, Kathy, a generous mentor and a kindred spirit with whom I set out on this virtual walk some months ago, passed on this morning, Monday 1st June at 5.10am.

Right until the end, she retained her love of adventure.

Missed, but not forgotten.

On the way to Rosthwaite

Past Ennerdale Waters, Ed and Simon tell us of the YHA at Black Sail where they will be staying. We walk there to look and it seems great - apparently a former shepherd's hut. Many stay at Black Sail YHA as an epicentre to explore the hills of the surrounding region, such as Great Gable, Pillar, Red Pike and Steeple. Geographical labels such as 'tarns', 'fells' and 'pikes' are words that we are not familiar in Australia, and they sound so quaint. this photo is of Ed Curl at Black Sail YHA.

After a rest, Kathy and I part company with Simon and Ed. We are sure that we will meet up with them along the journey ahead. We continue on to our destination: Rosthwaite. Rosthwaite is one of several villages in the long, winding valley of Borrowdale. Other villages ('hamlets') are Seatoller, Stonethwaite and Longthwaite. Oaks clad the hills surrounding the valley and we are reminded that from humble beginnings mighty things grow.

We are pleased to arrive in Rosthwaite (picture courtesy of Ed Curl). We have been able to book a two-bed room at Borrowdale YHA and will enjoy swapping tails with other travellers over some slow food.

Ennerdale Waters

Kathy and I are moving on from our stay at Ennerdale Bridge, which we have enjoyed. We have had time out, exploring the surrounds. Kathy has had time for some sewing, craft work and journalling and has produced some beautiful items, like a matinee jacket for grandbaby #2. I have had to attend to more mundane pursuits like meeting deadlines :(

Past Ennerdale Bridge, our route now takes us down to Ennerdale Waters. We are amazed at how different this lake can look under different conditions. On the way we meet Ed and Simon who are aslo taking the trek. Ed graciously shares his photos with us. You can read more of their journey at <http://www.coasttocoastwalk.zoomshare.com/>

Laughter is a blessing

Laughter shared with a good friend is such a blessing.

A Perfect Day in the Lake District

For you, Kathy, to remind us of the beauty of our journey.

<http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rZ2RfwqjRWQ&feature=related>

The song 'Perfect Day' is sung by Miriam Stockley, and was the theme song to the children's series 'Beatrix Potter'.

Ennerdale Bridge

After the extreme weather conditions and a good rest, we are ready to set off again with our destination being Ennerdale Bridge.

Although it is an uphill climb the view is worth it ... the sea behind us and the mountains of the Lake District before us. Just beautiful.

Walking through forest and farmland, by streams and lanes, it is a lovely route. It is pleasing to see that a number of groups, including local landowners, the National Trust and the Forestry Commission, have joined together to promote 'Wild Ennerdale' and their site is interesting and worth visiting.

Time to catch our breath, a warm shower, and then off for a hearty pub meal. Perfect.

Cozy

Hmmmm ....

With this cold weather(!) it is fun to venture out ...

but equally enjoyable to stay inside ...


a little reading, writing, stitching, contemplating ...

is good for the soul.