Lauren and I are trying to adjust to this new version of reality. We're both having difficulty with the time change and are awake well before 5am, which means we're usually ready to call it a day by 8pm. The view here is gorgeous of course; we're in the Keys. But there's a lot to be said for green mountains and wooded hills that hide gurgling creeks and the accompanying paths covered with fragrant needles from the overhanging evergreens. We both loved the paths that wandered through the woods and along the Swale. You simply can't find that kind of beauty on this piece of coral rock.
However, surrounded by beauty we are; albeit a different kind of beauty. Our yard changed quite a bit in the month we were gone and the transformations are wonderful. The banana trees I planted to screen the house from the hot tub have completely filled in and are doing the job well. The pineapples are taking off, their fronds a very dark green. The tomatoes are looking like something from one of my favorite childhood stories, Jack and the Beanstalk. The gardens are filling in and the baby palm tree is flourishing. Although I miss the temperature and beauty of Great Britain, it is nice to be home.
Lauren has moved on from the walk. I don't think she gives it a second thought unless someone asks her about it. It's different for me. I find myself remembering conversations I had with Lauren and fellow walkers, I see very specific images (such as Whitby Abbey and Dent Hill) with great clarity, and I remember the biting wind and jolting chill on top of The Nine Standards Rigg. I enjoy these rememberings and although I know its inevitable, I will all too soon forget the details. The demands of every day life and the routine of work and cooking and laundry will unfortunately push away remaining images of mountains and babbling brooks and friendly heifers. Until then, I will happily take these memories out while they are fresh and enjoy them often.
When the memories aren't quite so strong and I have to read the blog to remember the little details, then it will be time to plan the next Big Adventure. I hope you'll come along....
Thank you so much for taking us along with you on your wonderful journey. I've enjoyed so much reading about your pals on the walk and of your adventures along the way. I look forward to seeing your pictures when we come to visit next winter.
ReplyDelete