Beginning near home

Not having done any serious walking since October 2014 there is a definite need for some sort of fitness regime to be underway.  With a dodgy hip causing a limp, and need for a stick, my normal daily trek of an hour has stretched by 30 minutes, with perhaps a 3 minute rest half way.  Blessed as we are to be living on the coast, this walk encompasses seashore and woodland, and is filled with interest and delight.  What a joy it has been to welcome the spring and witness the early leaves and pungent wild garlic, and then the sweep of bluebells enchanted the eye.  Sea pinks seem better than ever this year, and for the first time I have spotted the white variety down near our swimming spot.
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The beach at Fountainstown

Sea pinks and pebbles with samphire

Near Shell Hole May 2018

Definitely white

Beech trees and bluebells near Crosshaven

Besides these daily rambles to or from Crosshaven, we have decided to pick up the pace a little and try some of the great Irish walks on our doorstep.  The first planned for is a part of the beautiful Beara Way which lies astride the Cork and Kerry border.  The wild Beara peninsula was a favourite destination for my sister Sue, another early cancer victim who died  far too young at 45, but it is an area we know hardly at all, so our walk will be by way of a pilgrimage in itself as we explore an area she loved.

The full walk takes up to 9 days but we will initially attempt a 2-day journey and see how it goes. The relevant guide book has been purchased,  the boots are polished, the knapsack readied and rain gear uppermost  - though now that we are into the third week of glorious sunshine are we being too practical?  Ireland is looking like never before,  and we hope and pray the good weather will last!

Ar Aghaidh Linn !