On Walking

“Now shall I walk or shall I ride?' Ride,' Pleasure said; 'Walk,' Joy replied.” - W.H. Davies

When my oldest began traditional schooling last year one of my biggest sadness was not just losing a daily Mass partner but also a walking partner.  His school load was so heavy especially in the beginning that he really did not have the time to go for the usual after-dinner stroll.  I either went by myself (meditative) or took a kid or two (or a few to walk off the crazy!)

Prior to marriage and kids I walked practically everywhere.  It didn't hurt that I lived in a very walk-able city in Canada. It is not unusual for me to walk to and from work in the warmer months. The route is a glorious ten miles each way of uphill and downhill in a very scenic town of mountains and ocean.  It was perfect for the ponderer in me. I no longer walk that much. Depending on weather and life schedule we try to log between three to six miles.  I find that even on running days a long walk is the best way to end my day.  

Walking seems to be when my kids are the chattiest.  Our deepest conversations (especially with my two older ones) happen on these outings.  I think the fact that we are not staring at each other gives them the freedom to open up and express what would normally be difficult to say when someone is looking them directly in the eye.  It is also when we hash out plans, hopes, dreams for the future or reminisce about the past.  Needless to say not all our walks end in bliss.  I am raising teenagers after all and sometimes what I have to say is not what they necessarily want to hear.  Despite those sometimes difficult conversations no one has yet bailed on me.  

And just like running, I hope I will still be walking 'til the end of my days.  

sun and shorts in February...

snow and jeans in March