Thursday, December 06, 2007

Tiz The Season To Be Walking....

Tra, la, la, la, la, etc , etc!

Hello there! Just when you thought I'd gone away - I'm back!!! But only to say a festive thank you to everybody who has helped and supported me over the past year. In particular I'd like to say thanks to my mum for putting up with my mad cap ideas and general whinging, my best mates Pat and Estelle for their never-ending belief in me, to Neil and Skinny and Cleveland Search and Rescue (I will get up there for some training next year), and last but not least to the lovely people at the Bardnaclavan Guest House in Fort William. I really appreciated their hospitality when I stayed with them on my Ben Nevis trip. Not only did they feed us well but they also offered me a wonderful welcoming hot bath when I came back from the mountain. If you're looking for somewhere to stay in the area you can't really go wrong - thanks guys.

So, I'm offering this early festive greeting as I'm about to jump on plane to the Canaries for a spot of diving and...wait for it......walking! In fact, I'm hoping to walk up a volcano!! Not only will it be amazing but it could well be the highest I've ever been before (except on the flight) and I may even have my first encounter with walking at altitude. Well......you didn't think I'd just sit on the beach now....did you?

Take care one and all and whatever your faith/belief/background, have a wonderful festive season and all the best for the coming New Year.

Sturdy :-)

Posted by Admin @ 6:34 am :: (0) comments

Sunday, September 23, 2007

Ain't No Mountain High Enough......


Well...maybe there is one - or two...or three......but not Benny!

Did you think I was lost then?? Sorry for delay in posting this final entry but have been waiting to upload pictures from a water logged camera. 'Water Logged' you say - 'how so'. Well, true to form, when Sturdy takes to the mountains the rain clouds are sure to follow. And last Saturday was no exception!

It was a bright sunny morning and I and around 35 other walkers gathered in the garden of the Ben Nevis Inn for our safety briefing before heading off on our charity walk for Marie Curie Cancer Care. The mountain guides were very clear in their talk - if you don't have waterproofs - you're not going! I was really surprised at how many people had turned up with out them and were, in fact, wearing casual trousers or tracksuits and hardly seemed equipped for walking to the summit of Britain's highest mountain. So, while part of the group waited for friends and colleagues to return with waterproofs, I headed off with another part of group ready for the big walk. We started off at 10am - at 10.13 the rain started and stayed with us for the rest of the day! The leader maintained a good pace but one of the group found it hard to keep up so, in true, would be aspiring mountain leader style - and not being interested in a race, I walked with her and tried to help her make it to the half way point. The problem seemed to be over strained calf muscles but, together, we made it. But it was grim - windy, raining and cold. At the half way point we were given another 'pep' talk and reminded that from here-on-in, if one wanted to turn back, we all had to turn back. My companion to the half way point decided not to continue and I admire her for taking the decision. I and the others decided to continue our battle against the elements and slowly - very slowly - made our way towards the summit. The weather was appalling - the wind picked up to gale force, the cloud drop, the rain got heavier, the cold bit deep and when we finally made it to the top, at about 2.30pm, I really could care less! We could just about see each other, never mind anything else and we only remained there for a few minutes. Then began the long, slow trudge back down - rain beating in the face. At one point my hands were so cold I could just about hold onto my poles - but I wasn't let go of them for anything - at times these were the only thing that stopped me being blown over.

After 8 and a half hours I finally made it back to the Inn, where my mother was waiting with a big grin, a bowl of soup and better still - a nice warming whisky! Oh yes, and a DVD she'd bought me in the visitor centre of the Ben Nevis walk and the views you can see on a good day - if you're lucky!

I can honestly say this was the most challenging thing I've ever done - physically and emotionally - but I did it. Yes....I actually did it. And it was only because of the extreme weather conditions that it was such a battle - otherwise the training and preparation paid off.

So, mission accomplished! Only a year ago I'd never done any real hill-walking but since I took up the quest to become a proper 'hill-walker type' I've learnt about safety, first aid, navigation, environmental issues, scrambling and endurance. And I've met some fantastic people and had some real adventures. I'm fitter, happier and healthier and that's how I intend to stay. And I love the great outdoors!!

Ben Nevis really brought home the fact that I am not a mountaineer and a hard core hill-walker/climber. I'm interested in the beauty of the landscape, of walking in breathtaking places and in having fun with friends and family. Last weekend, despite the bad weather there were, apparently, about 500 people on the summit - it was like Piccadilly Circus - and that's not for me. In future, I'll be looking for those quieter, less-frequented hills and peaks that I can explore with Sean and Basil, Mum and Pat and others I meet on the way. And I'm gonna have adventures and I'm gonna be out there - but in my own time, in my own way and far away from the maddening crowds.

Thanks for following my journey - hope it's raised a smile and/or an eyebrow or too and I hope you find your own path on the hills. Take care, be happy and keep walking - I will be.

So, in the words of Bugs Bunny....'that's all folks'.
Sturdy

Posted by Admin @ 11:42 am :: (0) comments

Wednesday, September 12, 2007

The Road Is Long.....

With many a winding bend........or so they tell me!

Well folks - the hour of reckoning is fast approaching. Almost a year ago I was set a challenge - to become a 'proper Ben Nevis hillwalking type' within a year. Over the past months I've been to new and exciting places, developed vital skills, challenged myself physically and emotionally and learnt a lot about the wonders and pitfalls of hillwalking and also learnt a lot about myself. Despite the grumbles about occasional aches and pains I'm fitter than I've been for a long time and loving it! Since I began my training I've lost well over 3 stone and have gone from being a dress size 18-20 to 10-12. My energy levels are great and I've learnt to appreciate my own abilities as well as the wonders of the outdoors. But it's not over yet. On Saturday I will be facing my greatest physical and psychological challenge ever - to walk to the summit of Ben Nevis and back - safely and in daylight - and with every step I'll be helping to raise much needed funds for Marie Curie Cancer Care. I'm pleased to say I've raised just under £400 at the moment but would bring in a bit more so if you've a few pennies to spare you can log on to www.justgiving.com/sturdygirl and make a small donation - every penny helps.
My mum will be joining me on the trip up to Fort William. Needless to say, she won't be making the ascent with me but I know she'd love to if she could. Instead she'll be waiting at the bottom with a walking talkie grasped firmly in her mitts, patiently waiting for me to come back down - either that or she'll be off shopping somewhere and enjoying a leisurely lunch! Just make sure you've got a nice pint for me mum when I get back - and something yummy to eat. If any of you are in the area on Saturday why not say hello. I'll be leaving from the Ben Nevis Inn between 9.30am and 10am - hope to be back by 5pm - but more likely 8pm! I'll be finding a nice pub in the town later on as well. Tomcat will, I hope, be hanging around at home waiting to here if I've survived or not :-) and has promised a nice dinner and lots of TLC when I get back on Tuesday- although in reality what he means is we'll be jumping into a swimming pool as soon as I get back to practise his scuba diving skills! Cheeky monster. And in case you're wondering, Tomcat's real name is Sean and thanks to him and his beautiful dog I've been able to discover the wonders of my home county and have finally come to understand that I don't have to be an all singing/all dancing extreme sports nutter to find a companion who is happy to share some of my outdoor passions - I've learnt that it's O.K to stop every now and again and do nothing - I've found balance and a playmate to explore life's great adventure with - and we first met in the pouring rain on a walk around Hadleigh Castle - and if waterproofs don't put you off someone then it's got to be good!!!
So, what a year it's been. But, as I said, it's not over yet. It's time to face that mountain and step up to my final challenge. Wish me luck. I'll be writing one final blog next week when I get back, sharing memories, moments and hopes for the future - thanks for travelling with me so far - hope you've enjoyed the journey.
All for now.
Sturdy.

Posted by Admin @ 4:38 am :: (0) comments

Friday, September 07, 2007

The Final Countdown....

Leaving on a jet plane........

Yes, only a week to go and I'll be flying off to bonnie Scotland for my final challenge in my first stages of becoming a competent, happy hillwalker and head for the summit of Ben Nevis.

August was a bit of a wash out what with weather, family commitments and an extreme lack of real walking but I was able to keep up the general fitness and think I'm ready for next week- I think it's going to be more of a mental battle. Mind you, having said that, I've been having bad pains in my hip joint (left side) for a couple of weeks now - I know I've just had a birthday but come on.....I'm too young for that.......aren't I!!! As such, been taking it easy this week - resting up before a final boost next week before the big walk. So I haven't been out doing much for the past month but my friend Pat has - and boy did she go for it.

'Hi, I'm Sturdy Girl's friend Pat-from-Somerset. Last week another friend and I did a three-day 36.5 mile walk called the Coleridge Way. This is a newish trail, based on a walk that the poet Samuel Taylor Coleridge did from his cottage in Nether Stowey to Porlock. It's a fabulous route, going through the Quantocks (England's first Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty), then the less well-known Brendon Hills and finishing in Exmoor National Park. We printed off a brilliantly detailed itinerary and map and found it easy to follow, particularly as little quill-feather symbols appear on all the signposts. It's a reasonably tough walk due to lots of long ascents, but we were really lucky with the weather. Thanks to Sturdy Girl's advice I was properly equipped with good boots, lightweight walking trousers and especially comfortable socks. I even used a borrowed walking pole in some places to get me over uneven ground and a few streams. Another bit of SG's advice also proved invaluable, namely to carry a pack of nuts, seeds and raisins for much-need energy boosts throughout the day. We even remembered to do some stretching exercises before getting into the car at the end of the walk each day. I'm no spring chicken (next year I'll get the bus-pass), and at the end of the final walking day I vowed "never again!", but within 24 hours I was starting to wonder where my next long-distance trail might lead. I'd never before done three consecutive days of walking, so physically it was hard, it was sometimes painful (a blister, a dodgy knee episode, a couple of rather scary slips and three twisted ankles), and totally exhausting, but emotionally it's chock full of satisfaction, excitement and, I must confess, more than a little smugness. I did it! Thanks, Sturdy Girl, for your encouragement and support.'

Well done Pat and Rachel - proud of you both.

As my little blog is nearing it's end (sob!) and love to know if my mini adventures and/or insights have made any difference to you - why not drop me a line - I'd love to hear your story.

And don't forget - it's not too late to sponsor my efforts next week - all funds raised will go to Marie Curie Cancer Care and you can donate at: www.justgiving.com/sturdygirl.

All for now.

Sturdy

Posted by Admin @ 3:19 am :: (0) comments

Monday, August 27, 2007

Where's Sturdy??

Did you miss me???!!!!!

Sorry folks, been without my computer for the past week. Bet you thought I'd got lost somewhere! Chance would be a fine thing!!! Sadly, still haven't been able to get out anywhere exciting to walk. It's strange isn't it how life can change in such simple ways yet they can have such a large impact on different things. Until a little while ago I had no commitments or real reason to keep me at home and so I used to be out there all the time - nothing and no one to stop me - apart from a shortage of cash every now and again! But as the year has moved on and I've met different people and done different things I find that I'm now leading a more balanced, some would say normal life - which is good......but......I want to be out there walking! It seems ages since I've really been out on the hills. The weather this weekend has been great and I've been doing some brilliant things and having a good time but I've not been out on the hills and it feels as though I've missed out. I know that how I've chosen to spend my time is, in the long term, more important, but it would have been nice to have been out somewhere like the Lakes, or the Peaks, or the Downs, or anywhere really. I have just been for a nice walk around Langdon Hills but it's not quite the same now is it!

On a more positive note, I'm obviously having a good affect on some of you, including my best mate Pat down in Somerset. You know, the one I keep dragging into things. She called the other day to tell me that she's about to undertake a 3 day, 35 mile walk with another of my friends. It sounds like a fantastic route and I'm soooo envious of them. Sorry I can't be there with you. They've promised to give me a full account and I'll pass on the highlights to you when they come back. I'm so pleased for them, especially for Pat as this is the sort of thing she would never have dreamed of doing just a short time ago!!! Go for it girls.

Last week I officially became a volunteer walking leader for 'Walking Your Way To Wellness' - a council run scheme to encourage those leading a sedentary lifestyle to take to the great outdoors. Especially those who may feel excluded, such as those with health problems, feel they may be too old or too large or those who don't want to go out on their own. This is something I feel really passionate about as I know the difference walking has made to me, and if I can help others to discover that joy and some of the health benefits I have gained then it's more than made my journey worthwhile.

It's only 3 weeks now until I go to Ben Nevis and I'm really starting to worry that I've let things slip a bit. I have no doubt that I can do it but it's going to be a struggle. Interestingly enough it's probably going to be more of psychological struggle at the moment than a physical one. And then what? Once I've 'been there, done that'? Well, I'm not going to give up walking but at least then perhaps I can feel as though I can relax a little.

So, the ultimate challenge is almost upon me. If you'd like to help support Marie Curie and help encourage poor sturdy as she takes on Ben you can log onto: www.justgiving.com/sturdygirl and make an online pledge. Every penny counts and come on....you know I'll be suffering!!!

All for now.

Sturdy

Posted by Admin @ 10:35 am :: (0) comments

Monday, August 13, 2007

Tell Me Why.....

I don't like Mondays..???!!!

What a great song that was - and so true. I mean, who does - like Monday's that is!
Another quiet weekend I'm afraid with no real walking. I could fib and tell you I've been to the Peaks, the Lakes or the Downs but I'm afraid that would be telling a big fat porky lie and that's one thing I don't do! I guess it's like that for a lot of us walkers - the urge to get out and do it is always there but the practicalities of everyday life often get in the way - ho hum. Still, did get to help demolish a fence and dig some post holes so that was good exercise - and we had a bouncy castle to play on afterwards. It's true what they say, you never are too old to storm a bouncy castle!!! Went for a gentle walk on Sunday around Maldon and Rettendon which was very relaxing.
Gosh, to think in 5 weeks time I would have been to and, hopefully, conquered Ben Nevis. Scary stuff! Just been in the gym pounding away at the cross trainer and really do need to sort out at least one decent walk over the next few weeks. Think I might head back to my trusty Cheddar Gorge, drag Pat out and head for the hills. Sounds like a plan to me - just not sure when!
As I'm nearing my challenge I can look back over the past few months and consider the may things I've learnt, the people I've met and the physical and psychological changes that I've undergone. I've lost around 3 stone or more and am now a size 10/12 (unless trying to squeeze into a wetsuit!), am holding steady at 10st (but hope to lose a bit more) and am more confident on the hills and paths. I've learnt a lot about myself and about others and know that I'm not the same person now as I was in October last year. And all for the better! I really do love my walking and know that when my initial quest is over, a new one will begin. Next week I take some basic training as a walking leader - and then....who knows! I seem to prefer walking in the cooler autumn/winter months as I don't fair too well in extreme heat so guess some winter walking skills will be called for - and then a trip to the Cairngorms. Tomcat and I hope to do a couple of days wild camping over the winter so if anybody has any ideas of where/what/how etc please do let me know.
Not much going on this week other than the usual training. I'm working some extra hours this week so doing 12 hour days means I'm not going to have much energy for anything else - but it's my birthday on Thursday, so I'm sure I'll muster up some energy for a celebration walk - even if it's only to the pub!!!
Thanks for the emails I'm getting, it's really nice to hear your stories and if my little challenge can help inspire others or make a few people laugh then that's great as that was my hope!
I'll let you know when I've got my next proper walk planned and if you're in the area, maybe you could come along and join me!
Right - back to 'The Fellwalker' - it's just getting to the really interesting part. Mind you it does start to make you wonder about these national park types that want to take you walking in high places....Neil!!!! (just kidding). Good book to pass the time but don't read it alone on the hills.......
All for now.
Sturdy.

Posted by Admin @ 6:17 am :: (0) comments

Friday, August 10, 2007

Kinder Surprise...!!!

And the surprise is.......I'm not going :-(

Just a little disappointed. Er - understatement of the year! Sadly, family matters have intervened and Tomcat and I are unable to make our great escape to the Peaks this weekend and, to be honest, I'm at a bit of a loss as to what to do. Last weekend I managed to get out for a nice country stroll but nothing like the kind of distance or terrain I need to be doing at the moment. I also spent a lot of time mucking around under and on water - and as it was so hot, that probably wasn't a bad thing.

But it's only 5 weeks until I go to Ben Nevis and I'm starting to worry - just a little. Really must try and get some decent walking in but it can be hard sometimes, can't it; finding the balance between spending time with loved ones/family and dealing with the grind of daily life and getting out on the hills. I may be able to get out along my 'usual' route this weekend but if I'm honest, I'm also not that keen on doing it alone - but hey, needs must. Think I've become spoilt recently with having company - I've lost my solitary ways - but that's probably a good thing :-)

On a positive note, I've been invited to become a walking leader for the local council (see earlier blogs) and will be taking my training soon. Once completed I'll be able to lead short walking sessions for the elderly and those with medical conditions such as heart problems, arthritis, pain management etc. It's not exactly hard core mountaineering but it's a vital service, makes people happy and gets them out of doors. And I'll get a nice fleece and rucksack as well!!!! My mum is going to be my back up leader and will be taking the training as well - should be interesting!

So, for now it's keeping on at the gym, taking the stairs whenever and wherever I can and trying to arrange some proper walking before I reach the ultimate challenge of my quest on September 15th.

If anybody has any tips about tackle The Ben please do let me know - I'm going to need all the encouragement I can get!!!!

All for now.

Sturdy

Posted by Admin @ 1:29 am :: (0) comments