Middle-aged flash packers

Up earlyish to add 2, maybe 3 Wainwrights to the week’s collection.

Another cold and cloudy day. Even the bionic man had run of enthusiasm by this time but neither of us voiced it, so off we went. The plan was do Brae and Longland Fells, (5 miles) then a drive over to Binsey Fell rather than an 11 mile walk.

The wind wasn’t as chilling as yesterday but still had a cold bite. The walk to both peaks was short compared to our previous days and not unpleasant, just….dull. My spirits were reasonably high as I knew we were heading home later to – of all things – a heatwave! Yes, the beautiful south of England is going to be basking in Mediterranean temperatures of 26degrees!

However, when Steve decided that even he’d had enough and didn’t want to do Binsey, I was not disappointed. At all.

As I write, we are driving home. The sun is out, the temperature is already 21 degrees compared to 13 ( with wind chill, much lower).

And so, my thoughts on walking with a purpose, such as completing a walking trail, climbing a particular range of mountains etc etc are rather conflicted. It’s nice to have a goal but there’s a danger that it can become an obsession rather than enjoyment. Enjoyment is my goal.

However, I am pleased to announce that 16 Wainwrights were walked.

The rest are not going to get done in a hurry. They should be savoured rather than rushed.

And on that note, a final word from Mr W: “The fleeting hour of life of those who love the hills is quickly spent, but the hills are eternal.”