| A Cottage by the Sea |
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 We are into January. I know that because we had our first snowfall yesterday and our first sun-fall today. When the walkway in front of my house is icy- treacherous, I drive to the Lady of Fatima parking lot and start from there. Come along an enjoy the snow and sun.
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 I’ve declared that my knee is better, at least well enough for me to get back into my daily walking routine. How easy it is, with snow on the walkways and pain in the knee, to give up a daily walk. But I’m back. I’ve been doing my PT exercises as warm ups before setting out for my walk—1/8 of a mile to Wadsworth Cemetery, wander about there, and then home.
My final PT session is coming up; my wonderful therapist will give me a set of maintenance exercises; my calendar will be free of that appointment. For those who care, I probably have a degenerative torn meniscus—and some arthritis. It’s an age thing, but I'm telling myself, "Just keep walking!"  Solitude works best for me during these Covid times if I can get out for a walk. If there comes a time when my knee, or some other impairment gets in my way, I’ll have to make serious psychological adjustments. But for now, nothing is in my way, including the weather. When the snow comes and the walkway is icy and treacherous, I can drive up the to Our Lady of Fatima parking lot and walk on the back roads. Today, however, here I am with a clear sky above me.  Taking a walk has always been one of the most satisfying ways I have tapped into solitude. My intention is to stay present to what I am seeing and keep my mind clear of mental distractions (such as rehashing the past or planning for the future). I developed this mindset during those five winters at the cottage when I walked every morning. It became the way I stepped into solitude while wandering the streets of Florence or strolling the grassy terrain of Iona. These days, as I try to maintain a similar clarity of mind, I realize that walking is my go-to entry into solitude. Memories go with me. Remembering Iona and FlorenceRemembering last week's walk I drove up the street to Our Lady of Fatima’s parking lot yesterday to start my afternoon walk because the walkway I usually take to get to the back roads, was too icy. Truth be told, I was tempted to stay home and read my book. Need I say, I’m very grateful I got off the couch. The pictures say it best.  I’m almost finished with jet lag. My strategy is to stay in bed for eight hours, even when I wake up earlier and really want to get going with the day. Last night I went to bed at 9 and got up at 5 t, so I’m just about spot on with my usual routine. In Florence, walking was an essential part of my daily schedule; I averaged between six and eight miles a day. Now that I’m home, I’m lucky if I log in half of that. A daily walk is still on my daily agenda, although the number of miles get in is cut in half. Getting our EVERY day for a walk, even if it’s a short one, will keep it a part of the rhythm of my life. Habit is essential. To put it simply and clearly, if I don’t walk, I don’t walk! –even if it is just up the street or around the block. The bigger challenge is to step out every day when weather stops being as appealing as it is now in New England.  I can’t remember where I got this little travel magnifying glass, but it is perfect: 2 1/4 inches square, snaps open and closes with ease, and is mighty powerful. Walking along examining little things is a beautiful way to be in solitude with nature. The only caveat is that it slows down my walking. Ah, but I have a springtime solution; take two walks a day. It is light enough for me to head out after supper for a little stroll up the street to the Wadsworth Cemetery.   I took this picture on my walk this morning. While photographing I was greeted by a friendly and chatty dog, followed from around the corner of the house by the owner.
Me being friendly and chatty: Gorgeous tree…. we must be grateful.... in fact, I’m taking a gratitude walk. My neighbor being friendly and chatty: That’s why I’m doing in my back yard…. Sitting and being grateful.  Florence is crowded. I knew it would be, but being on the streets with everyone doesn’t come close to reality. I don’t mind the crowds.. I want to be here, and so do others. tTomorrow I’ll get out at 7Pm and walk the streets while many are sleeping. But for today, there is a slide show of my first wander about my favorite city. Hmm, I did do a very good job photographing the crowds. |
