Day 365 - Mile 364

Well, here I am at work... as I had to come in today I decided that I'd fit a lunchtime walk in. We work right next to the motorway so you have to listen to the cars which is probably the worst bit of the walk.

I chose to look the other way as I walked, across the fields. There is regularly a horse or two in the field, but I couldn't get very close as there was way too much mud! Attached to the field is the most bizarre caravan 'holding pen' for want of a better word! Hundreds of caravans all lined up in neat little rows.... bizarre!

I took a picture of the Nepshaw Lane South sign to prove that I got to the other end and meandered my way back towards work spotting a flat cap that had been left of the fence post... someone obviously has a cold head somewhere! Shame it wasn't in better condition... think I may suit a flat cap? maybe not? See pictures here...

Hope you are all enjoying the last day of 2010 and that you are all ready for tonight's festivities!

The last mile will be tonight on the way to the bar that Trina and I are going out to celebrate the New Year! You may have to wait for the blog until Jan the 1st!

May you have a lovely night and see you in 2011!

Love Iona x
365milesin365days@googlemail.com

Day 365 - Miles 362-363

7.30 am! I haven't seen that time for a while now! My alarm went off and I had to jump out of bed to get 2 miles in before coming to work. It wasn't too cold... well it's all relative I suppose!

I headed down Coal Hill Lane and was surprised at the fact the there was some builder already doing work and office lights going on..... I headed down to the canal thinking that it was probably still a bit too dark to be walking along the canal but by the time that I got there the sun had brightened up the day a little.

The canal is still frozen and the poor birds are still all congregating outside the Barge pub. I counted 14 swans this morning - amazing to see so many in the same place - I am in complete awe of their beauty even though they scare the crap out of me when they come close!

Back along the road and up the other end of Coal Hill Lane to home. 2 down, 2 to go.....

Pictures here...

Love Iona x
365milesin365days@googlemail.com

Day 364 - Miles 354 - 361

I was given 2 sets of walking card set for Christmas from Nat and Chris, so when Trina and I decided to do a big walk today, we picked one out of the box! It was nice to do a walk that we had never done before even though we were a bit disabled by the mist and couldn't see very much!

We took a 7.5 mile walk called Navigating From Stanley Ferry and made it an 8 mile walk because we got a bit lost - good lost - adventuring lost - but lost all the same!

We headed out of Stanley Ferry Marina along the canal for about a mile. It was weird as the canal has a long crack in it running parallel with the edge of the canal for ages and ages. We couldn't see very much due to the mist - but the trees did look spooky across the fields in the mist.

We got off the canal and headed into the village of Atlofts, winding through the streets, down ginnels and along field edges. At one point the lovely path turned into a horrible muddy path, so muddy that by the end of the field our boots were almost twice the size that they were when we had entered the field!

This is where we went wrong - seems that the instructions and the sign post weren't inline with each other so we went with our instincts... which by all accounts weren't right! We walked down the country lane expecting to pick up the directions soon enough but didn't! Ho hum..... Trina and I are not the sorts to get all panicky and distraught because we don't know where we are, so instead we soldiered on!

We came to a fork in the road, which way to go? the one without the big barking dog obviously!

This is where our adventured started. It seems that we had landed ourselves in the middle of the Newland Estate.... Click here for more info and pictures you can see, rather than my misty ones which are here...

We headed back along the river and were soon back on the right track. We did stop and ask a man who was walking his dog if we were where we thought we were and he pointed out that the lakes were were stood by had just been made, hence they were not on our map!

Over the ridge, and along by the river once more we entered the village of Kirkthorpe where we passed the church (definitely back on track according to the directions) and into The Southern Washland Nature Corridor. Under the railway line and back over the canal onto tow path.

We headed up the tow path, feet aching towards to Marina once more. It was amazing to see how many different canal boats there was, Trina like the look of a rather large one so she could store her clutter! I like the names and paintings and seeing where they have all come from. The poor birds seem to be having a rough time on this canal too - teetering on their feet trying not to slide around too much!

Would we go on this walk again.... maybe when we can see a bit more than 50 metres ahead of us! Nice to be somewhere different through, and good to do a long walk. Home now and bathed, ready for work and the remaining miles tomorrow.

Love Iona x

365milesin365days@googlemail.com

Day 363 - part 2 - Mile 353

Evening all!

I had intended on going on an afternoon stroll with Calum and Samuel so that Helena and Graeme could sort a few things out at their house - they have been flooded and are currently living out of a hotel room - and could be for 3 months!

However, this didn't really end up happening as Calum has a raging temperature and was really sleepy so he and I spend approximately 4 hours watching DVD's snuggled on the sofa while Helena sorted stuff out and Graeme looked after Samuel.

After we ate dinner and getting the boys ready for bed, they headed back to their hotel room and I went out for a quick stroll around the block for a bit of exercise and to cool off - 4 hours lying next to someone who has a temperature certainly warms you up.

I took a few light pictures here, but frankly with the mist and it being dark there wasn't much to take picture of.

2 days to go and 12 miles and I have to work one of those days..... eeek!

Love Iona x

365milesin365days@googlemail.com

Day 363 - Miles 349-352

This morning I needed to run a few errands and rather than jumping into the car and nipping over to Pusdey, I decided to walk. It's surprising how unappealing everything looked this morning after the lovely white snow everywhere. It was quite hard to take good pictures too as there was a heavy mist over the area.

I headed out along past the park and onto Stanningley Road, underneath the Arches and into Pudsey. I really like Pudsey, it still has the small market town feel about it and it has most of the things that you need..... well it had all that I needed this morning.

First to the green grocers to get some veg for the next few days - I spotted some lovely Clementines in a tray.... I am a sucker for patterns! Then to visit Pudsey Bear who lives in the Town Hall, I really wanted to take a picture for everyone who doesn't believe that sometimes I drive home just to catch a glimpse of the 7 foot Pusdey Bear - however the dirty windows and the light made it hard!

A quick trip to the bank to pay in cheques for the charities I am doing this for (many thanks and to those who have sent money through paypal.... every little helps as they say!) , and then to get a few more bits... bread for lunch and pastry to make mince pies......

See pictures here...

I managed to get home in good time and have decided that if I only want a few things in the future I shall be walking to Pudsey!

Love Iona x

365milesin365days@googlemail.com

Day 362 - Miles 347-348

Today we all headed over to Corin, Jen and Harper's new house in Marple for more sorting and a bit of DIY. Obviously someone has to look after Harper all of the time, so I took him out for a walk for a bit so that the others could crack on. It was pretty miserable weather, so I donned my Mac and Harpers pram was kitted out for all weather!

We headed out into the centre of Marple, past the old fashioned cinema and onto the Canal. There is a stretch here which has many, many locks, so we got on at number 13 and exited at number 7. I really like canals and the mechanical-ness of the lock workings. It amazing to think that these locks have been here for years, a small piece of metal is enough to open the workings to fill and empty masses of water to enable the barges to rise and fall up or down the locks.

It was evident that the canal has been very frozen, with ice skating ducks and some frozen locks. We exited the canals after a brief period of very slippy ice under water underfoot and headed back towards the highstreet. Not knowing completely where I was going I just kept going exploring until it seemed like we were heading in the right direction.

Finally we were passing the fire station and back on the highstreet heading towards home for a warm cup of coffee! I was completely drenched, Harper was fast asleep, but we had a good walk and were back in the land of warm and cosy rooms!

See the photos here...

If you are reading this, then please spare a few pounds to donate..... as that is the whole point of this. Dexter's Wish - a charity raising money to help families with children who need support during their difficult illnesses, and MacMillan Cancer Support are both charities that are close to my heart... so please... if you have a few spare pounds send them our way.

I have 3 days and 17 miles to go - we I make it?

Many thanks, Iona x

365milesin365days@googlemail.com

Day 361 - Miles 345-346

After a quick drive down the motorway, we arrived in Manchester for out 2nd Christmas.

Happy Christmas Everyone.... again!

After another round of present opening we nipped out to Tescos for some supplies. Mum, Dad, Harper and I took a stroll down the slushy pavements and through the park to Tescos. Princes park looked really nice in the snow, lots of people out walking dogs in the snow.

Tescos was such an exciting experience Harper fell fast asleep! Wish I could deal with shopping in such a way! We did however manage to get all we needed and some treats to keep us going for the next couple of days and a Welcome mat for Corin, Jen and Harper's new home! Lovely!

Odd set of photos here...


Love Iona x
365milesin365days@googlemail.com

Day 361 - Mile 343-344

Snow! this morning just as I was about to go out for a walk it started to snow, not just a bit but a lot! Ho hum..... on with the wellies, anorak, and woolly hat and off I went!

I went out to have a walk while mum and dad packed all their worldly goods, and Christmas presents into their suitcases before we drove to Manchester for lunchtime.

I headed down to Rodley and along the canal. It was very frosty on the canal still especially as the snow was falling again. I'm not sure I could spend Christmas on a canal boat - brrrrrr!

There was a small piece of water not frozen next to the Barge pub where there seemed to be all the birds in the area - there were about 10 swans amongst others. I walked up through the snicket and to the main road where I saw the picture above - 2 intertwined love hearts in the snow!

A quick walk up the hill home for a cup of coffee! mmmmmmmm

Photos here....

Love Iona x

365milesin365days@googlemail.com

Day 360 - Miles 340-342

HAPPY BOXING DAY !!!

Mum and Dad have never been to the Yorkshire Sculpture Park, so to avoid the thought of going sale shopping - my worst nightmare - but in order to get out we headed there for a walk and a look at the art.

I love the sculpture park as it has many of my favourite things.... trees, fields, water, art, coffee, cake and a good gift shop... so the sculpture park is bliss for me! Many of our friends and relatives have spoken to Mum and Dad about the park and all it holds so they have been keen to go for a while, but it's just so hard to fit in all the things they want to do each time they come to the UK.

It was really lovely to be walking in the park in the snow. My photos are different this time as this changes the way you look at the sculptures. David Nash's exhibition is still on, so the large tree sculptures that I had seen only a few months ago took on a whole different dimension today. The park is brilliant, the way that you can interact with the art and see it up close.

Through the park we headed down to the lake, some poor swans and their year old cygnets were trapped in the only bit of water on the lake. They had made some lovely foot prints.... someone had even gone out on the ice and drawn a smiley face - not sure if I would have trusted the ice.

Back up through the pastures, passing Henry Moores and a quick stop in the deer shelter sky space. Not a very impressive sky to look at through the viewing space - a bit cloudy, but nice all the same.

Up to the cafe for coffee and cake, and a surprisingly inexpensive visit to the shop! Well I can always go back.....

See lovely, lovely photos here...

Hope you are all coping over the Christmas period,

Love Iona x

365milesin365days@googlemail.com

Day 359 - Miles 336-339

HAPPY CHRISTMAS EVERYBODY!

Christmas sees our family having the idyllic tradition of a Christmas walk. We are having Christmas in Leeds this year and so have met up with the Leeds clan to take a Christmas stroll.

Carina, Zipp, Finn, Alice, Keir, Mae, Mum, Dad and I (and Bowie the dog) headed from Carina and Zipp's up into Headingley. We ventured through the street until we came to "Woodhouse Ridge", a lovely walk through the woods, right the way behind Headingley to Woodhouse and then back past Meanwood.

I love walking in big groups - you always seem to talk more than you would in a house and meander between people and flows of conversation. I think that I catch strange combinations as I stop to take photos which means that I end up at the beginning, then in the middle, then a the end of the group.

We walked back past Meanwood and came across a bandstand base - it was amazing to see the drawing of what the path used to look like and that there was a bandstand up there on the ridge. The Victorians had it right I think!

We did intend to go for a quick drink at the pub before heading home to get the dinner ready, however it wasn't open by the time that we had got to it! Oh well, we had a lovely walk in the woods and had some great quality family time together. I really appreciate being part of a large family, especially as we all get on... well most of the time!

Lovely photos here...

For anyone who wants to look at Mum and Dad's round the world blog here....

Love Iona x

365milesin365days@googlemail.com

Day 358 - Part 2 - Miles 334-5

Dad and I had to nip out to get a few supplies, so I was convinced that we should walk to do some more miles. I decided that we'd do a walk and look out for Christmas lights to show Mum when we got back who was busy making mince pies.

Lost of people go crazy decorating their house but there was some tasteful decorations in for the offering! We headed down Coal Hill Lane, up the high street and through the back roads to home giving us plenty of opportunity to seek out lovely lights. Take a look here...

We arrived home just before we got too cold and warmed up with tea and mince pies - mmmmmm...

Hope you are having as nice a Christmas Eve as us.

Love Iona x

365milesin365days@googlemail.com

Day 358 - Miles 332-333

Happy Christmas Eve!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

We were let out of work early today so I made the most of the sunshine this afternoon. I popped over to see Nat, Chris and Captain. I was a bit excited and nipped into Helena's to borrow Calum's sledge as I haven't done any sledging so far this year!

Nat, Captain and I headed up to the Billing, for a cold walk around the lake and up the hill. I tried to get Nat to have a go on the sledge but he was having none of it! I however, was very excited and had a couple of goes as soon as we came into the main field. It was great - and very fast... I did try to take a picture but it was very blurry!

Captain played fetch, really enjoying the snow as we walked around and up the hill, making friends with any other dogs that he could!

A final go on the sledge for me across the corn field.... a fast but bumpy ride!

See photos here....

Love Iona x

365milesin365days@googlemail.com

Day 353 - Mile 331

So, it's a bit late to be writing this blog as we walked on Sunday - but there you are, life kind of gets in the way sometimes.

We had a family 'do' arranged for Sunday afternoon, all meeting at Kirkstall Abbey for Carols before the eating and drinking would commence. Mum, Dad, Katy and I decided to head out to Kirkstall early for a walk in the snow. It was utterly beautiful... there is enough snow on the ground to get lovely snowy pictures, but not too much to get snowed in or inconvienced too much.

After strolling around the ruins and along the river, we headed to the Carol singing. We had all anticipated that we woulod be singing, as did lots of members of the crowd, but it seemed we were just there to watch the Heritage Singers sing carols.

It was lovely to hear them sing in the old Abbey, such a lovely setting even if we all did end up with freezing feet and the desire to sing - well we did have a bit of a sing - hope they didn't mind!

Pictures uploaded here...

Love Iona x
365milesin365days@googlemail.com

Day 352 - Mile 330

So, the folks have landed safe and sound yesterday - thankfully not today due to the snow and all that! It was funny to watch how excited Mum got when she awoke to see the snow outside - a light sprinkling I'd call it after all that we have had, but they don't get much snow in Menorca so it was a real treat for her!

We went out for a quick walk before porridge for breakfast - mmmmmm...

Lots of footprints already even though we were out before 8.30am, cats, dogs, people...... I took a photo of some that look like shooting stars.... well if you have a good imagination they do!

We were walking along and saw a DHL man delivering very large sacks to a house, I think it may have been Santa in disguise!

See our photos here....

Love Iona x

365mileisn365days@googlemail.com

Day 346 - Miles 325-329

Well what a lovely Sunday I have had! Lazy morning followed by a walk, torchlight parade and carols, followed by a carol service, out for dinner and now home - as I said - Lovely!

I have had quite a busy and stressful few days after I came home from work to find Police in my house and Katy on the phone to the locksmith after we had been burgled! Thankfully we were both out, no one was hurt and the alarm went off so they didn't take much! Saturday was spent sorting more locks and insurance folowed by Calum's pirate birthday party which made that day a bit more enjoyable!

I'm not one to sit around an wallow, well not for long anyway, so today was a day for enjoyment!

Trina and I set out to Haworth after lunch and headed out onto the moors into Bonte country! After a quick trip to the toilets we were off. There was some upmarket graffiti "Live a life of splendor", good advice if you ask me! It really was a good day to be out there, there were heavy clouds and the rain was just at bay! I have never ventured out on the moors here before but will definitely be doing more so in the future. It was still quiet cold up there as you will see from the pictures, puddles and the old quarry lake were frozen. You can see out to the reservoir and across to some of Yorkshire's finest fields from the top, there was a bench in memory of "Jackie" - in a great spot, obviously someone special.

After wandering around (me calling Heathcliffe!, Trina cringing and laughing at me!) we headed back down towards Howarth village for some Christmas treats. The light was going, the Christmas lights were sparkling and there was a buzz in the air as we all waited for the torchlight parade to start.

It was brilliant - definitely something to become a tradition of mine and Trina's. The torches were lit, the carol sheets handed out and the safety warning given - much to the annoyance of the Beagle (old name for policeman apparently). We headed up the hill with torches, topping and singing carols at various points. Lots of people parading and many more watching from shops, pubs and cafes. I love singing!

We finally arrived at the church where the people that were going to church were ushered through the crowd so that we could fine our seats and prepare for the carol service, it was a lovely way to end a great day - more singing, a good sermon, readings and more........ I realise that I have mentioned this before but for someone who is not religious, I seem to have spent alot for time in church recently!

Lots of lovely pictures here...

Hope you have all had a great weekend,

Love Iona x

365milesin365days@googlemail.com

Day 342 - Mile 324

So.... I had intended to get up and go swimming at 7am this morning..... hummmm that didn't happen! It is so cold at the moment, even though I had everything ready by the door to make my exit a swift one, that when my alarm went off, I found it hard to get out of my warm snuggley bed and get up!

I did however pack my swim bag into the hire car so that I could go after work. It felt very strange walking across the car park to go swimming in my wellies - not swimming IN my wellies that would be silly! The car parks were frosty and there was lots of snow still on the ground, I was quite thankful when I got into the leisure centre.

It was nice to swim, I love it, I can not think of life without the ability to swim! The only problem was getting out! The pool and the poolside were warm, but the changing rooms seem to have a massive draft running throughout - brrrrrrr!

I did make sure I took the time to dry my hair before heading back out into the cold - even though my hair is getting a bit long for this swimming!

See pictures here...

I am going to try to swim at least 2 times next week to get some miles in, and plan to do some walking at the weekend - hopefully!

Love Iona x

365milesin365days@googlemail.com

Day 339 - Part 2 - Mile 323

These are our grumpy car collision faces!

However.... as you know I am one to make the best of a situation, and as Trina was now stuck at my house, I decided to walk her home and she would drop me back. Well I need some extra miles and I wanted to take pictures of the Christmas lights again this year.

As we teetered and tottered down Coal Hill Lane, the walking was much better when we were on the flat! Both of us had intended to go to the Farsley Lights switch on but Wednesday was blizzard day so we opted to stay in the warm!

I am sure, and so is Trina that lots of the lights are different this year.... whether they buy new ones, or swap with local towns I am not sure! I have to say that I much prefer them this year, especially the Angel outside the church - just beautiful!

To see this years lights click here....

To compare to last years click here...

Love Iona x

365milesin365days@googlemail.com

Day 339 - Miles 321-322

Sundays don't start better than a nice large coffee and some toast and strawberry jam! Yum!

Trina, Nat and I had planned on going to the Yorkshire Sculpture park today but they both texted to say they thought they'd have too much work to come out for a walk. I decided to just head out to Otley Chevin on my own, but Trina decided that she's probably get cabin fever if she was in all day so came with me.

We went for a lovely, somewhat de'ja'vu walk, as we had walked year in the snow early last year. Trying to get some lovely pictures as I love the Chevin and the trees and views that you can get from there.

We were greeted with a strangers dog coming bounding towards us - I got an amazing shot just before he darted off to his owners! Lots of people out walking dogs, sledging and enjoying the lovely snow before it gets too icey and cold. The sun was really shining!

See the pictures here...

We headed to The Cheerful Chilli for cuppas and cake before heading home......or so we thought... what started off a a quick walked turned into a long day out!

Someone had slid and crashed into my car! Thankfully they had left their insurance details, so after an hour of phone calls, we were rescued by the AA. They got my car road worthy enough to get it home ready for collection by the garage tomorrow - gaffer tape it seems is the best thing ever! Thank goodness for the AA and their very helpful staff - if you are not a member I definitely recommend it.

See pictures here..., hope you had a better day!

Love Iona x

365milesin365days@googlemail.com

Day 338 - Mile 320

Christmas party number 1 - wonder how many I'll get through this year! My closest university friends always meet up before Christmas for dinner and to exchange gifts! What started as a 1230 lunch ended up finishing at 4pm! Oh well good job the restaurant wasn't too busy!

Nicola, Pearse, Joshua (1), Dominic (1), Helena, Graeme, Calum (nearly 4), Samuel (1), Fiona, Paul, Simeon (1), Sue, Nat, Chris and I all sat down for a lovely leisurely lunch.

Some of us headed for a quick walk while we sill had light, trying to burn off a little of the giant meal that we had all eaten! Phew!!

We headed down to the canal in Appperley Bridge for a quick stroll to see the canal boats and back to the pub! It was slippy and chilly, but we were all wrapped up well, so it wasn't too bad! Lovely frozen Canal again today!

See the pictures here...

The roads are getting less snowy and more frosty so I am planning a nice quiet night in!

Love Iona x

365milesin365days@googlemail.com

Day 336 - Miles 318-319

After being sent home from work yesterday due to the snow, and a 2 hour drive home I couldn't bring myself to go out again for a walk, so I hid inside and slept!

This morning after a lot of to-ing and fro-ing, the decision was that I would stay at home until lunchtime and await the call to go in if necessary. So I decided that good walk in the snow was in order. After all you have to get some pleasure from this weather, not just annoyance from people driving too close to you!

It was really lovely going out, the snow was still crisp underfoot and glistening in the sunshine. I headed down the road, past the park and onto the canal. The only point in the whole walk that I nearly slipped over was crossing the bridge onto the canal. It was such a lovely sight seeing 2 canal boats with their chimneys going, keeping warm in this wintering weather.

The poor birds only had a small bit of water to swim on but they seemed to be making the most of it! The swans were breaking the ice and pushing their way through!

On the way up the hill home, it was clear who has decided not to go into work by the layers on snow on their cars, and the people who have been out for a bit by the thick brown sludge on theirs! When the snow goes I think there will be a lot of car cleaning going on!

Snowy pictures here...

Hope you are all warm and happy,

Love Iona x

365milesin365days@googlemail.com

Day 334 - Mile 317

Brrrrr it's cold! There was more snow last night and it's getting deep!

I tried to get a mile in last night by going swimming. I arrived at 6.05, was told that someone was sick and that they were re-opening the pool at 6.30. So I had a drink and watched them clean up the sick - a odd process. At 6.30 we were told to go home! Ahhh I really wanted to swim! but I called Helena and popped in to see them all so the evening wasn't wasted!

I thought that I'd get out at lunchtime to walk a mile in the snow at work at lunchtime, but completely forgot until it was 3 o'clock - whoops! So I decided to get out and do a mile as soon as I got home.... at least I could walk knowing that I could come home and get warm.

Was really nice to walk in the snow, crunching away under foot with the dog walkers and people coming home from work. I know it may sound odd but I like the cars going slowly... it's odd but true... there is something quite pleasing about it.

The only sad thing about the walk was my wellies now have a hole in each - not leaking yet though so I have time to buy some new ones - hurrah!

A few pictures here...

Love Iona x

365milesin365days@googlemail.com

Day 332 - Part 2 - Mile 317

After arriving home for about 5 mins I was heading out the door again to go for a snowy wood walk with Nat and Captain the dog! It was a beautiful, really magical walk! I have to thank my folks for my love of this weather - my mum for her giddiness and my dad for teaching me how to drive in the snow!

We crisply walked through the hardening snow and the rustling leaves while Captain found all sorts of new and exciting things to smell, lick and generally get himself tied up in! A few other people were out making the most of the Sunday sun before we all head back to work tomorrow.

I was really pleased to be able to get out with my 'big' camera to take some shots having decided wrongly to take my 'little' camera away for the weekend... I won't make that mistake again! I got some great shots here....... thanks to Nat and Captian for their patience!

Then it was straight off again to the Advent service in Leeds Cathedral - beautiful singing and a beautiful building - quiet a religious weekend for me!

p.s. did I mention I love snow? woooooo hooooooo!!!!!!!!!

Love Iona x

365milesin365days@googlemail.com

Day 332 - Miles 315-6

Hurrah for Ollie and Sarah! After a lovely day with them, their families and friends yesterday it was bliss to go out and explore Derby this morning. I was wandering the streets, admiring the architecture by 10 am.

The hotel that the wedding reception was held in is really close to the Cathedral in Derby so as I meandered through the streets and alleyways, the Cathedral bells played out a lovely relaxing tune to walk to. Yet another crisp and snow morning, I had to be wrapped up and booted to make sure that I didn't freeze on this glorious Sunday!

There are an amazing array of building in Derby. It seem that they have just been organically fitting into each other, different architectural styles and times. A really lovely place that I am sure I'll have to come back to to explore some more. What struck me more than anything was the sheer randomness of the shops... for example Laura Ashley is next to a charity shop and then Primark! A great hotch potch of shops!

Mainly building pictures here...

Love Iona x

365milesin365days@googlemail.com

Day 331 - Mile 314

Well what can I say, what a horrid couple of weeks. I had a dreadful cold and work has been really stressful, so I have been coming home and pretty much collapsing in a heap, before going to bed and starting again the next day.

I was so exited on Saturday, not only because it had snowed, but it was two very good friends of mine's wedding day - Hurrah for the new Mr and Mrs Snodgrass.

I decided to do a quick mile in the morning before getting ready to leave for Derbyshire. I donned my jeans and wellies and headed out in to the cold. It was great!!!!!!! I love the strangely quiet crunch of snow and the way that it seems to make the world fresh and clean! Just what I needed, a bit of peace and calm after another late night at work, and before the weekend's jollities!

Lovely snowy pictures here,

Love Iona x

365milesin365day@googlemail.com

Day 319 - Mile 313

I haven't swum for ages, and definitely not in a pool, so when I dived in tonight I was surprised at how good it felt. Obviously I love swimming and in the wild is much better, but water is water in my books and a pool will have to do until spring!

The light is great, reflecting and refracting off the bottom of the pool and soon I was into a good rhythm. One front crawl, one breast stroke........ easy! Even though I was in the fast lane, it was quiet a relaxing swim and not too strenuous.

It was made a bit easier by the cute man in camo shorts who was swimming too.... maybe I'll make swimming a Monday tradition!

Photos here...

Love Iona x

365milein365days@googlemail.com

Day 317 - Miles 305 - 312

After a very wet and windy week, Trina and I had toyed with the idea of walking into town to go to the German Market on it's first weekend of opening. Last night didn't look too hopeful for our walk today as it was absolutely soaking wet when we went to the theatre with Helena and Nat!

Up early and the weather looked ok, so I text Trina and we were set...... by the time I had picked her up it was raining again! We decided to walk a bit along the canal and we could always turn back if the weather didn't get any better.

It's 6.25 miles from Rodley to Leeds along the canal, and what a great walk it is. After the initial downpour the weather lifted to light showers and lots of sunshine when we got to town. It's really interested to see a part of town which I know so well but from a different perspective. The back of Kirkstall Abbey, past the marina, Armley Mills, under lots of bridges before hitting the centre of town. At one point the canal is being "fixed", so it has had most of the water taken out, it looks very bizarre!

The light was great after the rain had finished so I managed to get lots of good pictures along the canal and some great pictures of town and the market. I don't think I have looked up enough at the buildings in Leeds. Take a look at them here.....

After our lunch and shop Trina wanted to try "Appy Feet", where you plunge your feet into fish tanks and they eat the dead skin off your feet. A bit like a pedicure with fish! Trina has wanted to do this for ages, but nearly screamed the place down when the fish actually started to eat her feet! It was a surreal but enjoyable experience and I would recommend it - honest!

Off out to thanksgiving dinner tonight, yummy!!

Love Iona x

365milesin365days@googlemail.com

Day 313 - Mile 304

Monday morning blues meant that I didn't get out of bed until the last possible minute yesterday, hence to walk or jog!

After digging over the compost at the weekend I have pulled a muscle in my leg, so it was a brisk walk this morning rather then a jog! It all started out ok, a bit cold but the rain was holding off! Feeling happy that I had got out of bed, I got into a good stride and was soon at the park........ where the heavens opened and I got very wet for about 5 mins as I crossed the park.

As soon as I had exited the park and was on the main road, the rain had stopped and the wind had dropped, so that the bit before home was nice and walk in comparison!

Will upload the photos later,

Love Iona x

365milesin365days@googlemail.com

Day 311 - Miles 299-303

Sunny Sunday yet again - has to make up for all the horrible weather we had during the week! Busy few days with work and bonfire night(s), trips on the trains, visits to the museum, so it was lovely to get out for a long walk.

Trina and I headed out to Harewood House for a walk through the woods, past the Emmerdale set, along the bridle paths and past Eccup reservoir. I haven't been in this area since I was at Uni and the landscape is beautiful. It was designed by Capability Brown, so everything has it's place. Apparently there was some storms that ruined some of the wood, but they have worked to get it back to it's original state replanting.

Will have to look at some other walks in the area as it is so pretty here and there is so much to explore. Let's get the maps out!

Lots of good autumnal pictures, especially ones of Trina walking on the log! See here...

Love Iona x

Day 308 - Mile 298

Wednesday morning was wet and wild, so as you can imagine I stayed in bed! Thursday morning however it seemed a bit less windy and rainy so I head out for a quick mile before work.

Lot of puddles on the ground and the trees were a lot less leafy with all the wind over the last few days. The birds seemed to be enjoying it though, loads of little sparrows scratching through the leaves to eat.

A few pictures here...

Love Iona x

365milesin365days@googlemail.com

Day 306 - Miles 296-7

So I managed another morning of getting up and out! It took all my will power to get up out of my snuggley bed this morning and go out as I could hear a gale blowing outside.

It was nice and fresh as I went out, definitely blew the cobwebs away! Jogging down coal hill lane I stumbled on a sales office - seems they are doing some development and the only sign of anything happening yet is the office and bulldozed land!

Jogging and walking through the cut through and onto the canal, it was so peaceful! No a sole to be see on the canal this morning and only the ducks and swans for company! Bliss! Shame I have to get back onto the road and head up the hill to home.

I did try to get some pictures to show you just how windy and wild it was this morning, but they didn't seem to come out as well as I had hoped. See here...

Love Iona x

365milesin365days@googlemail.com

Day 305 - Mile 295

What a difference a day makes - well a couple and the clocks going back!

It was light this morning when I wet for a jog - Light I tell thee! and so much nicer than jogging in the dark. This I am going to have to get out over the next week or so to get in some miles.

Out around the park this morning, just one mile, but nice to start the week with god intentions! Let's see if I can keep it up every morning, because I am quiet busy this week after work!

See a few pictures here...

Love Iona x

365milesin365days@googlemail.com

Day 304 - Mile 294

A quick jaunt out tonight before it got too dark. As the clocks have gone back our meeting time of 4pm could have meant that it got a bit too dark, but Nat, Captain and I were all on time, and walked briskly, so we managed a mile in before the light went too much.

A bit hard to get good photos but I did manage a few. Captain is such a good dog and always come bounding back when he is called. A nice chat with Nat, and now home for a cuppa before getting ready to go out in a bit!

See the photos here...,

Love Iona x

365milesin365days@blogspot.com

Day 303 - Part 2 - Miles 292-293

Last night we went over to York to see the Illuminating York Festival. Thankfully it was a dry night and not too cold, even on the last couple of days of October.

Trina and I hadn't quiet comprehended just how many drunken people dressed up for Halloween their would be wondering the streets drunkenly as we tried to find the Illuminated Rose on York minster. Quite a sight is all I'll say!

We finally meandered our way through the streets of York and the first glimpse of the installation on the minster was impressive. The whole of the street was crammed with people watching as the story of the rose unfolded before our eyes and boomed out from the sound system.

It was magnificent to watch the light display unfurl before us and listen to people comments around us as we mingled through the crowd to the gardens behind the Minster.

Lots going on in the garden which was made more spectacular by the lit up trees. We headed through to the Treasurer's house, where there seemed to be a Halloween display being shown. We were herded and told to keep moving around the garden, but made a quick pit stop to the cafe for Hot Chocolates to warm us up! After we went back through the gardens taking in some of the installations that we had missed first time, before meandering back through the streets of York to the car.

A very pleasant evening, and some great photos here...

Love Iona x

365milesin365days@googlemail.com

Day 303 - Miles 288-291

The weekend - hurrah! I managed to get some jobs done in the morning so that Trina and I could have a lovely afternoon walking.

We headed out to Fewston and Swinstry Reservoirs - but decided to start at Fewston and see how far we got. We only managed one reservoir as the light was starting to fall, and I didn't much fancy traipsing around in the woods in the dark. Trina kept trying to persuade me that we'd be fine, but I managed to win with the promise of a cuppa at the Cheerful Chilli. Little did we know that we were going to be half a hour too late!

We headed off around the reservoir, through the trees. It is a really nice place to walk and very accessible, so there were lots of different people out walking. From casual dog walkers, to hardened walking societies! We seemed to be about the middle ground, walking boots, but no rucksacks and waterproofs.

The trees in here are beautiful as they are all turning orange at different rates, and as you are walking around the water you can always see the trees on the other side! We did find a rather large leaf towards the end of our walk!

We headed back to the car park, before a quick trip home for dinner, before heading out on our next adventure.

See the autumnal pictures here...

Love Iona x

365milesin365days@googlemail.com

Day 300 - Mile 286-7

Crikey, where did the last 300 days go! I can't believe that there is only 65 days til a new year will be upon us, there's a thought eh!

Dashing out of work to try to get back to my 'holiday home' in Rawdon before the sun had completely gone down, I got home just in time. Quick change, let the cat in, feed the cat, let the cat back out and dash out the door.

I was on a bit of a mission, not just to jog/walk a couple of miles, I also needed to get some milk for my cuppa tea! How very important in my life! Jogging down the hill along to Quaker Lane, past the green and down Quaker Lane. It's quite a steep down hill and as I knew that jogging carrying milk was going to cause me some problem I decided to run as fast as I could to the bottom of the hill. It was great, running like a little kid, but I did have to stop myself feeling like I was going to end up flat on my face!!

Passing one of my favourite gift shops, I could help but stop to admire their Christmas display.... yes you read right, they have their Christmas display in the window already! Although I love Christmas and have started my Christmas shopping, I still can't bring myself to be happy that the shops have decided it's Christmas already - not even if the display is delightful!

Popping into the shop to get the milk,I popped it into the pouch of my new hoodie. I felt a bit like a kangaroo carrying all the bits in my pouch, I don't know how they do it.

The sight of my home for the week with the welcoming outdoor light I was pleased to be home and ready for the warm!

Pictures here...

Love Iona x

365milesin365days@googlemail.com

Day 299 - Mile 285

Here I am cat sitting in Rawdon again! Make a change to be able to jog around some different roads and see some different sights.

It's funny the things that you don't notice when you are driving the roads that you see when you are going at a slightly slower pace.

It always makes me smile when I see the estate agent Acorn - makes me think or Acorn antiques and doesn't make me so keen to use them should I want a new house!

Photos here....

Love Iona x

365milesin365days@googlemail.com

Day 298 - Miles 283-4

Monday always comes around so quickly, but feeling completely relaxed after a weekend of doing very little, walking tonight seemed the best thing to do.

The nights are definitely drawing in very quickly, so Trina and I walked down the canal for a mile and then back along the road under the safety of the streetlights. Cold and dark and the evening progressed, we both couldn't really believe it when we got back to the car and it was only 6.30pm! felt more like 9pm! With smoke coming out of some of the canal boats it really looked like a warm snuggley place to be tonight!

Photos proved hard this evening as it was already quite dark when we set off! I think that over the next few weeks there will be less and less photos and it gets harder and harder. See what we did manage to get here...

Hope your weeks have all started a relaxed as mine,

Love Iona x

365milesin365days@googlemail.com

Day 297 - Miles 280-282

The best Sunday's start with freshly brewed coffee, and today was no exception. Coffee and a good book for a couple of hours before gatecrashing a walk with Trina, her sister and her friends.

Meeting at Otley Chevin was a bit chaotic today as it was very busy. I think the whole of Yorkshire had the same idea to get the family out for a walk! The autumn days are slowly turning the forest but I think it's going to be a good couple of weeks before it is at it's autumnal best!

Dogs, children, an the adults all seemed well equipped for the muddy Sunday stroll. We went on a route that I have never been on before and it was nice to see parts of the Chevin that I had never seen before. We hit 3 miles today where my normal walk up there is about 2. More sculptures to be seen, and strange familiarity as we criss crossed the route that I normally take.

See the pictures here...

After lots of ups and downs we finally reached the car park for good byes, and Trina and I hit the Cheerful Chilli for tea and scones! Hurrah - a lovely little restaurant, which was absolutely crammed with people today - the poor staff were rushed off their feet.

Lovely day, with unexpected company! What a lovely Sunday!

Love Iona x

365milesin365days@googlemail.com

Day 293 Part 2 - Miles 278-279

After a sunny day at work, I managed to finish on time and get home for a walk before the sun went down. The evening was cold, crisp, but really lovely to be out in the sunshine!

Wrapped up warm I headed out from home, and had a bit of an adventure through the trees to the park (more investigations needed) and out across to the canal. Thankfully they have fixed the bridge so I could have a chat with the swans for a while - until they started to get a bit stroppy!

Down the canal and then heading back home as it got colder as the sun went down. Pictures here....

Lovely autumn days we are having - make the most of it!

Love Iona x
365milesin365days@googlemail.com

Day 293 - Mile 277

Brrrr..... it was very chilly this morning when I went out for a 'brisk walk'. I was told at dinner last night that a brisk walk is as good as a jog, so when I was sleepy this morning after said dinner I decided that a brisk walk it was to be...... inorder for me not to fall staight asleep again!

There was frost on the ground, I could see my breath as walked and dark.... it's just so dark!

There are a few photos here, but I had to take some with the flash.... which you know I hate but ho hum.... that's just the way it is going to have to be! Lovely frosty patterns on the car roofs though!

Love Iona x
365milesin365days@googlemail.com

Day 291 - Mile 276

Monday morning jogs are great, apart from the fact that although I left it until 7am to jog, it was still very dark! Not great for taking pictures..... but nice and peaceful for jogging.

Seems less and less people venture out as the dark draws in, soon I'll have to stick to the roads to stay in the light of the street lamps! Or just get out LOTS at the weekends.

I can't describe to you how many seagulls were on the park this morning and due to only having my little camera I couldn't capture it either! I did get a few, rather dark shots here...

Love Iona x

365milesin365days@googlemail.com

Day 290 - Mile 275

Beautiful Sunday today, coffee, croissants and a lovely relax!

Trina and I had arranged to go for a walk this afternoon, but I got quite giddy about the fact that the sun was shining and maybe this would be the last time we would get out for a wild swim before the year was out! So, after a phone call to convince Trina (didn't take much) we drove out to the dales for a brisk walk, followed by a very cold swim!

We had to get in rather enthusiastically as we had an audience! The pressure of having to get in when people are watching - did make us just get in and look all energetic! They were very impressed and gave us cheers and encouragement!

We did a couple of widths and then decided to get out and get in upstream and whoosh down with the current on out 'slide'. I love it, it makes you squeal with excitement, before a quick swim to warm up and then out to get dry!

A lovely swim today, even though it was bloody freezing, but luckily we had come prepared with hot drinks and hot water bottles - I think we got more odd looks walking carrying hot water bottles than actually swimming today!!!

See pictures here...

Love Iona x

365milesin365days@googlemail.com

Day 289 - Mile 274

Lots of sleep last night, a morning at work, and a very productive afternoon in the house led me to needing to go out and do some exercise....

I decided to just have a little jog around the park before the sun went down and the light had gone. Bright sunshine hit me as I left the house, and stayed with me all the way round. It has been a funny weather day today, and the clouds tonight kind of describe it. From light fluffy white clouds, to deep dark oppressive grey clouds! Made for something nice to look at whilst I was jogging.

There were also another of interesting things in the park today..... a firework that never left the ground and some rather cute mushrooms! See the pictures here.....

May I gently remind you that I am doing this for charity and any few pennies that you can spare will go towards two good causes; Dexter's Wish and Macmillian. It was the anniversary of Dexter's leaving his family this week at the tender age of just over a month old, so our love is with them at this hard time. If you have anything you can give it will be gratefully received, I know.

Much love to the Robinson's and to you, Iona x

365milesin365days@googlemail.com

Day 286 - Miles 272-273

Exhausted is how I would describe myself....... after being ill last week I seem to have not got completely awake since! Everything is just that bit harder than it should be! Hence I haven't been out in a couple of days.... more warm snuggley bed time has been in order.

Tonight though, the sun was shining and I needed to nip out to M & S, so instead of driving out I decided to come home, drop off the car and walk there and back. I would describe the night as 9pm on a summer's day not 6pm on an October evening. It was warm, sunny and lovely!

It's not a terribly exciting route to M & S but I really like railway arches and walking under them when I train is going overheard is an experience! I did managed to get a few pictures of odd or lovely things, like beautiful barbed wire, to sheep! See here...

Walk done - check, shopping done - check, dinner eaten - check, blog written.... nearly!

Love Iona x

365milesin365days@googlemail.com

Day 283 - Miles 270-271

Well what a surprise the weather was when I was driving back from work this morning, the sun was bursting through the heavy fog and mist on what turned out to be a glorious October day.

Lots of little jobs to do, but a reward of visiting Nat and Captain and going for a walk was my reward. We headed out just after 4pm for a stroll up to the Billing, a slightky longer walk than I have done up there before.

It was great to see the progress that Captain has made in just a few short weeks - he is now swimming, properly swimming and fetching and bringing back without too many distractions. He is walking off the lead and didn't even get traumatised by the cows!

Such a lovely sunny afternoon, Nat and I discussed life and the universe, but mainly just how lucky we are to live where we do with the countryside so close. It's GREAT up North! A lot of our friends and us often meet to walk in the countryside and it's just so easy!

Cute Captain pictures here...

Love Iona x

Day 282 - Miles 268-9

Today was a lovely day! What better way to spend the day with family! I seem to have spent the last three weekends with Corin, Jen, Harper and Aniq in one way or another... and I know Aniq is not technically family but she might as well be!

We headed out to the Yorkshire Scuplture Park to meet Alice, Keir, Mae and Carina, for lunch, a walk, coffee and cake and then a lovely meal at Alice and Keir's - thanks guys!

Between us we have 2 people that we know who have exhibitions on at YSP at the moment (check us out!) so we thought we should go and see them.

Casey Orr's Bone Fire exhibition is a long time project she has done taking photos of local bonfires, guarded by their teenage creators. It was good to see old fashioned bonfires of my youth, and not the massive mass produced bonfires that are more regularly organised these days. To see more on her work see http://www.caseyorr.com/.

Asha Munn's Me, Myself and I (photographic art by young people) exhibition is work that she has done with youngsters in the community. The large canvas hangings line a walkway in the sculpture park, and truely show these kids perspective on their worlds. To see more of her work see http://www.ashamunnphotography.com/.

I love the sculpture park and with the bonus of David Nash's sculptures (lots of wood) it was a lovely walk, with lovely, lovely people. Take a look here....

Love Iona x

365milesin365days@googlemail.com