Walks: Sat-Wed, Dec. 29 to Jan. 2

'Twas a snow-free Resolution 5K back in 2011

Winter finally arrived, and it looks like it might stick around for the weekend. Do you know where your Yaktrax are? Whether or not you are doing the Resolution 5K, please let us know whether you'll be walking on Saturday – 8K sounds like a nice round number. But feel free to go shorter or longer.

Resolution folks, race kit pick-up starts on Friday. Charlotte has volunteered to pick up kits, and Bob and I will also be going. Please email your race confirmation to one of us is you'd like us to get your kits. A million thanks to Debbie for organizing the car pool, which leaves from our house at 8:30 am on Sunday. You can park in the school lot across from our house. And a million and a half more thanks to Debbie for organizing the post-race brunch. A few of the 21 attendees are for brunch only – if you'd like to be added, please contact Debbie asap. Don't know how? Contact me, and I'll forward.

Monday and Wednesday, those still on holiday might prefer to walk in the mornings. I raise my hand here. Suggestions for alternative departure points? Evening walkers on those days, let yourselves be known. Everyone, please do sign in on the blog, so your possible arrival (or not) won't be a mystery.

Congratulations to Arlene Mawson for winning the Wow 2012 Challenge draw. And well done Shore Things – we were 12 of the 20 finishers! News on Wow's Challenge for 2013 – it's an either/or: EITHER walk 2013 minutes each month in 2013 OR walk 20+13 minutes daily. Minutes can be banked in the month (from long walks, for example), but I'm unsure if we're out of the challenge if we miss our total for a month. Will write to Lee for clarification. Strange. Even those who said "never again" found ourselves trying to calculate if we could "do it again."

Brette, have a happy birthday! And Happy New Year to all of us wonderful Shore Things!!

Walks: Sat. Dec. 22 and Christmas week

Happy, Shore Things! All finished the 2012 Challenge!

Saturday will be a great time for us all to get reacquainted. No long distances. No breakneck speeds. Just some pre-Xmas calorie-burning. And I mean that in the least calorie-burning sort of way.

Next week, Monday falls on Christmas Eve and Wednesday falls on Boxing Day. I'm going to leave it up to you to organize yourselves, should you want to get together. I believe that Margy and Rainer are bound for Hamilton on Dec. 26 to do the Boxing Day 10-Miler. As always, I admire their stamina.

Six of us will be at Wow's Winter Solstice Muffin Walk on Sunday at 8 am in Oakville – or, as I've called it, the Post-Solstice Awalkolypse. We'll pick up 2012 Challenge medals for all the finishers. There are still a couple of seats in the cars. Contact me if you want to go.

Next weekend is the Resolution 5K. Debbie is organizing a car pool and a brunch, so if you've registered but aren't on the interest list yet, please drop me or Debbie a line. Charlotte has offered to pick up race kits, so let her know if you'd like her to get yours. Thanks to both for stepping up!

Eva is this post's birthday girl. Hope you're nice and cosy and enjoying your special day.

If I don't see you before, have a Merry Christmas, everyone! May Santa bring us what we want – including, and perhaps most of all, peace on earth.

Walks: Sat-Wed, Dec. 15 to 19

Celebrating 12/12/12 at 12:12:12 with a 12K walk

Don't know how I managed to gain that massive double chin during this Year of Living 2012-Challengingly! But, oh well, the moment was historic, so here the picture is. Focus more on my fit-looking companions for the mini-mob version of the Wow Power Walking 12K at 12 on 12/12/12. And follow that link to Wow's revamped website, especially if you completed the 2012 Challenge. If your name is drawn to win a membership, you can plan your options in advance and leap right in.

Saturday, those few still doing those tantalizing last bits of the Challenge want to do 10K. Actually, want might be the wrong verb. Everyone else, please do come out for your own distance.

Monday and Wednesday, we'll say 6-8K (with the option to go up or down, as required).

Next Saturday is our very last chance (with one exception) to complete our 2012 in 2012 mileage, which must be submitted by 2 pm on Sat., Dec. 22nd. The exception is the 8K Wow Winter Solstice Coffee & Muffin Walk the following day, starting at 8 am at Sovereign House in Oakville. A few of us will be going. Those who need the mileage to complete your 2012K can add this 8K to the total you submit on Saturday, if you sign up in advance and attend. One way or another, we'll finish this, gang!

A message from the Shore Things at the back of the pack: they appreciate it when those in front look back to make sure they're okay – and loop back to those who seem lonely or lost. The need to loop may be less of an issue once the holiday crush gets our numbers up and ensures there's a group at every pace. However, looking out for each other is a nice thing to do, so please keep it in mind.

That being said, our loosely defined club has both pros and cons. There are people who prefer the same route every week, and others who crave variety. We each walk at the pace that feels comfortable for us, and sometimes walking slowly can be as hard to maintain for fast walkers as walking quickly can be for slower ones. Unfortunately, we can't satisfy everyone, all the time. If you have suggestions, please let me know.

I also welcome help with route planning. But whether we post routes or simply describe them at the start of each walk, it's up to each of us to know where we're going – or, if unsure, to ask. In fact, two of us got "lost" last week on a route we've done innumerable times. Let's re-do our Shore Things directory, especially our cell numbers, so we can check in if one of us gets lost or needs to be found. A volunteer?

I'll close with a belated birthday wish to Kathleen K., who I missed last week because she wasn't on my Shore Things calendar yet. And, speaking of calendars, the reprints have arrived – I'll do my best to remember to bring them on Saturday. Hope to see you!

Walks: Sat-Mon, Dec. 8 to 12

Our speed demons at the turnaround

Am I the only one starting to get annoyed with our fickle weather? Let's see what the future brings on Saturday, when only the Fearless or Fearsome Four (Leverne, Jan, Helen and Bob) still have kms to log for the 2012 Challenge. It would be great to get many klicks out of the way… if it isn't r**ning. Everyone else, please, come out and lord it over us after the distance you like and some coffee.

Monday and Wednesday evening, 6-8K, depending on who's out and what the weather does. But on Wednesday midday, I'm planning the east-end version of Wow's Mob Walk: 12K at 12 pm (and presumably at 12:12:12) on 12/12/12. How could we resist? If you'll join me, please drop me a line.

Happy Chanukah! Happy December! And happy feet – whatever you're up to this week.

Walks: Sat-Wed, Dec. 1 to 5

Queen Olwyn sparkles at the Santa Claus Parade

Hard to believe we're into December. Where did the Challenging 2012 go? It passed quickly beneath our intrepid feet – and now the last three weeks of the 2012-in-2012 draws to a close. I'm curious. How many of us are still at it?

Interjecting a quick note to say if you want to do the Resolution 5K, rates go up on Saturday.

If you read the Wow newsletter, Lee Scott has invited folks to a 12 @ 12 on 12/12/12 walk – walking 12K (or 12 X any shorter distance) at 12 noon on Wed. Dec. 12th. If you can't make it to High Park and still need kilometerage (like me, most likely), join me in the east end – start point, TBD. I'll plan a new route, for variety.

Speaking of variety, we've had some whining requests about change-ups to our same-old-same-olds. Trish has suggested that we ask for volunteer hosts on the first Saturday of each month, starting in 2013. She will be kicking it off on January 5th with a route in the Eglinton and Bayview area. Details to follow. Please submit your name/neighbourhood for future walks. And, at any time, new routes in our regular nabes are always most welcome. Hint, hint. Hint.

Of course, those who prefer to stay put will probably have company at Tim's. Always sign in to say where you'll be.

This is the time when newbies might be joining and the walking wounded will be returning to us. For this reason, I want to remind all the speed demons about looping. Turning back to join the back of the pack is a way to add interval bursts and a little extra distance. It's good for both hares and turtles.

Now that you've read till the end, I can tell you Saturday, some 2012 challengers are considering 13K, but normal people will probably be doing 6-8-maybe-10K. C'mon out.  I will remember to bring the books and calendar this time (the second batch of calendars will come later). Monday and Wednesday, 6-8K, weather and weariness dependent.

Barb S, you have a very happy birthday, girl!

Walks: Sat-Wed, Nov. 24 to 28

You never know hoooooo! you'll meet while walking

Dawn captured the picture of this watchful owl on a morning walk in Taylor Creek Park. What a beautiful creature – and the owl is, too! As we're chatting on our walks, it pays to keep our eyes open.

Let's meet on Saturday at 8 am at Tim's to see what we'll see. Some 2012 Challengers still have distance to make up. Those who do can settle how far to go on the morning of, but I'd suggest 10-ish. However, these are easy days; maintenance only, for most Shore Things. We encourage newbies and lapsed Things to join us now, especially on Saturdays.

Monday and Wednesday, Nuckle-down November-ers who walk in the evenings will probably aim for 8K, weather willing. There are roving daytime walks both days – let me know if you need to find them.

I see a number of familiar names (and perhaps more hidden in the blanks) on the Resolution 5K confirmation list. If you want to be amongst them, do it before the next jump in fees on Dec. 1st.

Or if you want to try something truly ridiculous, in all the best ways, consider the Santa Suit 5K in Burlington, which "runs" – although you don't have to – earlier on Dec. 8th. They expect 4,000 Santas this year, a new record. Hint from one who's been there: don't lose sight of each other in the crowd.

For those who ordered yearbooks, they're heee-re. If you give your money to Charlotte, she will allow me to give you one. I'll have them and the one spare calendar (Norma's?) on Saturday.

No birthdays this week, but a Happy Thanksgiving wish to all Things of an American persuasion.

Walks: Sat-Wed, Nov. 17-21

What a healthy-looking group!

Thank you, Shore Things, for a great year-end bash and for your thoughtful gift. I'll be "taking the waters" for my health and thinking of you all very kindly.

One calendar remains to be claimed. Please let me know if it's yours. Also, I will be placing a calendar re-order this weekend for some latecomers, so if you forgot to request one, contact me quickly.

Saturday, as the weather is predicted to be fine, a few catchers-up for the 2012-in-2012 Challenge will be doing a Nuckle-down November walk of 16K. We want to rack up as many klicks as we can before the December crunch. Don't let our foolhardiness intrepidity stop you from coming out for a shorter distance – make the most of these late fall days.

Monday and Wednesday might have the same fate. Last night, four of us set out to do 8K – and (okay, mea culpa) ended up accidentally doing 10.5K. Let's aim for 8K and see what happens.

The interests list on our blog is now updated – please contact Dawn or myself if you'd like to add your name to any event, or if you're suggesting a new one. Get those earlybird rates, folks!

More and more Shore Things insist on being born on the same day. This week is a triple-header: Ruth, Marilyn and Ellen – have a wonderful day!

Walks: Sat-Wed, Nov. 10-14

November at the Lookout

Greetings from Taiwan, where it's a hazy and humid 26˚C. I look forward to seeing you all on Saturday – first for a lovely walk (Yes, it will be lovely. Hear that, rain?), then for our annual pot luck fun.

Weeknights at 7 pm, we'll set out from our traditional meeting places (Loblaws on Monday; Shoppers on Wednesday). Sign in if you'll be there. Dawn will also be hosting daytime walks on those days. Contact me if you need to learn how to contact her.

Weekend or weeknights, this is the ideal time for newcomers to join the group. Training season is behind us, so our distance is more manageable. If you've been hesitating, now's the time to drop by.

Birthday wishes go to Libby and Yuen – enjoy your day. Hope you both get thoroughly spoiled.

And if I've forgotten anything, please check the comments!

Walks: Sat-Wed, Nov. 3 to 7

Sandy, putting the damp-er on our walks 

Rain, rain, go away! All the Shore Things want to play. I hear that Saturday might give us a break in the clouds, so we can walk up a storm. Come one, come all, at 8 am for whatever distance you choose.

Then, on Saturday night, remember to set back the clocks. Fall backwards, losing an hour.

Monday and Wednesday evenings will look a lot darker, suddenly. Many of us are now in maintenance mode, with perhaps a few added Ks if we need to catch up for the 2012 Challenge. Just show up at the appointed place and time, and we'll figure it out as we go.


David is our birthday boy this week. We'll understand it you prefer to sleep in. Wishing you sunshine on your happy day.

And a week from Saturday is the Shore Things Annual Pot Luck (Nov. 10th) for Shore Things, old and new. But, of course, none of us are old. If you haven't received your invitation email with the details, please let me know. If you haven't RSVPed, please do that, too!

Walks: Sat-Wed, Oct. 27 to 31

The Shore Things motored in Motor City!

What an event. Ruth took third place overall amongst the Detroit full marathon walkers, with a blistering 5:31 chip finish. Most of us would have been thrilled to even have had her clock time of 6:01. In the half, our leader was Bob; 9th overall and on the leaderboard as 5th male with a chip finish of 2:31. We all placed in the first 50% of participants. Special thank-yous for the support of our cheering section, particularly Alexis and Barbara, who restocked the thirsting with water (we were told bottles weren't allowed to cross the border). Well done, Shore Things.

See you Saturday to talk it over on a companionable 8-10K, or the distance of your choice, at 8 am from Tim's. Newbies welcome! Monday evening from Loblaws (and a possible uptown location), for 6-8K, depending on how we feel. Wednesday evening is Hallowe'en – sign in if you'd prefer to walk on Thursday, Nov. 1 instead, from Shoppers.

There are daytime walks on weekdays for those available. Just sign in and show up for our regular locations. Or contact me for the other locations, and I'll hook you up with the organizers.

A few things upcoming:

For anyone considering the Dublin Half, rates go up by four euros after October 31st.

Please start looking for next year's races, to post your interest at our party on November 10th. Our Year-End Party is both a celebration of things past, and a kick-off for the year to come.

For example, I just stumbled on the Niagara Falls Women's Half Marathon on June 2, 2013. There's a bottle of VQA wine in every swag bag. Now it's not a cheap race, but earlybird rates are cheaper, and they jump after October 31, 2012. (Men can participate, but there are no prizes for males.)

Also, Bob and I are fulfilling a long-held wish to do the Cincinatti Flying Pig Half on May 5th, 2013. And I just noticed that they have a 3-Way set of combo races, like the Disney or Bermuda Triangle in January. I believe that Rainer and Margy are already signed up for the latter, as well as for the Chilly Half, and rates for that one go up October 30th.

So look around, see what you like and invite the Shore Things to join you in the races you want to do. I've updated all the updatable race links on the blog, but feel free to introduce us to new races.

Still taking orders for calendars: approx. $19.99 plus HST. However, if I hear from nobody else by end of day Saturday (emails only, please – it's the only way I can accurately keep track), I'll submit our order and with luck will have calendars ready for our party.

Now that we've completed our last big race, the yearbook is also almost finished – but send me your great photos by this weekend. FYI, Sharon got a preview Tuesday evening and immediately placed an order. Cost will be approx. $80 plus HST.

Happy birthday to Stacey! Wishing you nothing but loveliness for your day and your year. And also to Jeanny – we missed you in Detroit. Hope you're okay.

Walks: Mon-Wed, Oct. 20 to 24

Can you detect the added detail?

Well, this is it. Saturday's meet at Tim's will be smaller than usual, due to the horde of Shore Things in or on their way to Detroit to do the full or half marathons or to cheer on our team. I wish us all speedy border crossings and fine weather – neither too hot, nor too cold, nor too wet – and a great race.

Please sign in if you'll be at Tim's on Saturday. We hope to see you also on Monday at 7 pm (Loblaws) and Wednesday at 7 pm (Shoppers) for some victory laps. This is a great time for newcomers to join us, so please invite your friends!

Happy birthday to Pat – hope to see you now that the training is behind us. And belated happy birthday to Val. You see, I just knew there was an October birthday girl I was missing.

And I notice that Hallowe'en is a week from Wednesday. Do we want to walk that night anyway, or shift to another night? Let's discuss in the comments.

Walks: Sat-Wed, Oct. 13-17

Scary sights on our last night of hill training

We're winding down to the end of race season, with one last Saturday "long" walk (in relative terms) before Detroit. For the full marathoners, and those wishing to join them, it's 13K. Leverne requests a 7 am start, and if the weather's nice we'll do the Spit. The half marathoners are doing 8K, but Trish tells me that some will be walking on Sunday. Non-racers are invited to set their own time and distance. Everyone, please sign in to say when and where you'll be, and for which distance.

Monday, both sets of racers, it's 6K; Wednesday, it's 5K. Sign in, kids. It's no fun to show up and find no one to walk with.

This is where I introduce the concept of Knuckle-down Knovember (or Nuckle-down November, if you prefer) for anyone doing the 2012 in 2012 Challenge. We soon won't have race schedules to force us to take those extra steps, and less-clement weather and the holiday season in December will loom to drag us down. So I propose teaming up for extra walks in November – 5K here and there will make a huge difference, and all the better with company. If you're walking (morning, lunchtime, evening), let people know in the comments so we can be aware of local clusters.

I have no birthdays on my calendar for this week, but have a feeling I'm missing some of our newer Shore Things. If you haven't heard a birthday shout-out from me, please email me your birth date, and take pity on my sieve-like brain. We love you and wish you happy birthday, whenever it is!

Walks: Thanksgiving weekend & Wed. Oct. 10

Toad-ally ready for a long weekend!

Congratulations to Bob on his first-place male finish at the Toad trail race. He came in nearly a full hour faster than Jan and I! And Ruth "only" beat us by 40 minutes. We had perfect weather for it; unfortunately, we were dressed for imperfect weather. A good reminder for our upcoming Detroit races: dress for 10˚C warmer than the forecast. You will warm up.

I won't even tell the Detroit Full Marathoners what to do on Saturday, as they've already decided on 35K, starting at 6:30 am. The Detroit Half Marathoners have only 18K on their schedule. 7 am is the time Sharon told me, so I'll go with that.

Won't you all be glad when race season is over and we can get back to regular human-being distances and times? Some of you are already doing that, setting your own distance, starting at 8 am. Please sign in to tell us what it is.

Holiday Monday, we usually have a morning option, starting from Tim's 2 (Gerrard at Vic Park). The half marathoners have 10K to do; the full marathoners, 16K. Anyone else is welcome to join us for less. Shall we have a vote for starting time? I'll suggest 8:30 am, to give us at least the illusion of sleeping in. Feel free to overrule me, one way or another, by signing in.

With the Detroit races only two weeks away, on Wednesday, we'll do one last set of hills. Distances, technically are: Detroit full, 6K; Detroit half, 10K. Yes, I have that the right way around.

Happy birthday to our sometimes-walker Carole. Hope your concussion is healing after the Toad. It was a rooty course, with many opportunities to take a flyer.

To all of you, a Happy Thanksgiving. Eat lots of turkey and get stuffed with stuffing. Most of all, I hope we all continue to have much to be thankful for. I know I'm thankful for the Shore Things!

Walks: Sat-Wed, Sept. 29 to Oct. 3

Ellen sports her first half marathon medal

There's one race behind us, the KW Walking Classic, and the Shore Things did well. Our male walkers, Bob and Rainer, each placed first in their age categories and second male overall in the Half Marathon and 10K respectively. Everyone's times were excellent. And Ellen got her first half marathon medal with a 3:04:46 chip time. Pretty darned good.

Note that the KW Classic will not be held next September, as they're shifting to a spring race. The next one will be in April 2014 to coincide with Mental Health Week. Mark your calendars.

Okay, schedules: Saturday is a long one for the Detroit Full marathoners: 35K, or thereabouts. I know you'll organize your own start time.

Detroit Half marathoners: 16K. Please state when you want to begin, as three of us DHMers, plus Jan, will be doing the 25K Toad trail race on Saturday instead. And that will be another fall race behind us. Let's all pray for fine weather.

Monday: Detroit Full, 14K; Detroit Half, 10K.

Wednesday, normally hills night, is the first night of the Doc Soup season, so many of us (who should be doing hills) will be away. Sign in if you're in for hills on Wednesday anyway. Or, if you're available, those who have to miss could do hills on Thursday evening. Occasions is the starting point, either way.

Olwyn passes along this "shameless plug" (her words) that gives us a deal on an upcoming show that Steve has worked on. She says, "it’s a new Canadian musical, somewhat dark, comical, macabre, and it’s about murder; what could be more fun than that?!?" Here are the ticket details:

We at Theatre 20 are most thankful for the overwhelming support from our community as we speed forward to our inaugural production of Bloodless: The Trial of Burke and Hare! To show our gratitude we are offering $1 dollar tickets to our Theatre 20 Family & Followers with the purchase of another!  

Valid on all performances from Oct 9 - 13, 2012 on top-price only.  

After you submit the code, buy tickets using the price $1 DEAL - Web. Must be purchased in multiples of 2 (full price + $1 split in half)  

Be the first to witness this morbidly entertaining tale of murder and mayhem based on the true story of two 19th century Irish serial killers and their cut-throat pursuit of riches. Directed by Theatre 20 Artistic Director Adam Brazier with Founding Artist Colm Wilkinson as Creative Consultant, this wickedly eerie story is told in memorable song, macabre humour and compelling lyrics. 

"If you like your humour black, drink this one down" 

-Winnipeg Free Press

  FULL PRODUCTION   

PREVIEWS: Oct. 9-11, 2012 

OPENS: Oct. 12, 2012 

RUNS: Oct. 28, 2012 

To take advantage of this exciting opportunity, use the promotion code TURKEY12 

 FOR TICKETS:

To order call 416-872-1212 or 1-800-461-3333, visit any Mirvish theatre Box Office or book online at:  

www.mirvish.com/shows/bloodless

Okay, that's it for now. I wish myself a very happy birthday. Have fun, everyone!

Walks: Sat-Wed, Sept. 22 to 26

The silver-medal-winning Flaming Dragons, with our own Olwyn

Your Saturday schedule, should you choose to accept it: Detroit Half, 11K; Detroit Full, 19K. A mere walk in the park this week! And the only people doing the Toad are the ones racing in Waterloo this Sunday. (Wish us luck and no rain.) So, our race plans are beginning to come to bold fruition.

For those on a training schedule, I'll leave your start time to you. And for those who just want a friendly walk, how about a distance of your choosing on Saturday, starting at 8 am.

Monday from Loblaws at 7 pm: Detroit Full, 10K; Detroit Half, 8K; Toad, 6K.

Wednesday from Occasions at 7 pm for hills: Detroit Half, 10K; Detroit Full, 8K; Toad, 5K. Note the switch in distances, as the full marathoners rev up to their longest walk. Or walks, if Susan has her way.

Thanks to all the willing volunteers for our November 10th party. I still need to hear from a few of you whether you're coming – and with how many – so that our set-up crew knows how many tables to prepare. If you've never been to our year-end bash before, all Shore Things, old and new, are welcome, as well as partners or pals. I'll send out a general email later with all the details. Just save the date.

Still time to order calendars (approx. $20) and year books (TBD). Please let me know.

In my super-long message last week, I missed saying L'shannah Tovah! to all those celebrating Rosh Hashana. I hope your year is filled with all things joyful.

And a very happy birthday to Niki. Wishing you sunshine on your day, and all year through!

Walks: Sat-Wed, Sep 15 to 19

The cultural component of last Saturday's epic 29.3K

This is an especially long post, so please scan the headers, especially the one about requests:

First, the week's distances:

Here, the September half marathoners and full marathon trainees part company for a while – unless you're Ruth, who's doing all three! For the Detroit Full, the schedule says 29K. As that's what we ended up doing last week, I'll leave the distance and start time to you to decide.

Other scheduled distances for Saturday: Toad, 18K; Detroit Half, 16K; KW, 8K. As Bob and I are doing them all, with two races on the next two weekends, we've decided to compromise with 10K. The long distance walkers might want to start at 7:30; with those going less starting at 8 am. Sign in to state your preference.

Monday: Detroit Full, 13K; Toad, 10K; Detroit Half, 8K; KW, 6K.

Wednesday: Toad, 10K; Detroit Full and Detroit Half, 8K; KW, 5K. We're back to Occasions for hills: Detroit Full, 12 hills. The rest of us, fit in as many hills you can.

Next, some requests:

Photographs! If you have any shots of this year's events, please send them along in the highest possible resolution (aka, largest size). I'm doing the book and calendar now. One special request is for an un-blurry photo of our huge Resolution 5K team, if you have one.

Party & volunteers! Lou-Ann has reserved the room at her church for our party on November 10. We'll need one more volunteer to join Jan and Bob on our Awards Committee. We'll need set-up people and (hopefully not the same) clean-up people for the night. And, also, start dusting off your pot luck recipes. Please email me a) if you're attending, and with how many, and b) if you can help.

Orders! Let me know if you want a calendar this year (approx. $20), and especially if you'd like a yearbook. Knowing who wants a book (usually just a few) helps me organize the pictures.

Finally, good wishes:

We're in the thick of the September birthday season now, so very happy birthdays to Margy, Denise, Debbie and Fiona. We hope it brings each of you exactly what you want.

And hearty congratulations to Olwyn, whose all-women-of-a-certain-age Flaming Dragons took silver in last Saturday's dragon boat regatta, in the teeming rain, against some very tough (younger, mixed gender) competition. Great going, gals!

Walks: Sat-Wed, Sept. 8 to 12

When not acing races, they're training for El Camino

Okay, Detroit Marathoners, this Saturday is when the shoe leather (or synthetic version thereof) really hits the pavement: 27K. The marathon trainees I've spoken to think a 6:30 am start will be quite early enough, thank you. Rain is predicted, but I see only a 40% chance of isolated showers totalling < 1 mm. That might actually help rather than hinder the long slog. Dress for a little rain. However, if the forecast changes and Sunday seems better, sign in to say whether you want to switch.

That's the marathoners out of the way. For the other trainees, Saturday brings: KW 18K; Detroit Half 16K; Toad 13K. Motivated by some grumbling from the masses, let's move this start time to 7:30 am. Please sign in and come out if you're doing a shorter distance. There will likely be company for you.

Monday, 7 pm: Detroit Full 11K; KW and Toad 10K; Detroit Half 8K.

Wednesday, 7 pm: Let's meet outside Occasions on Eastwood Rd. for hill training and a walk (or, a walk and hill training; or, heck, just a walk if you don't have a race in your near future). It's 9 hills this week. Detroit Full 8K; everyone else 10K. Afterwards, beer optional.

This week, we send a very special birthday-cum-get-well wish to Alexis, the first of our many September birthday gals. Let's hope the year ahead brings healing, health and happiness. Happy birthday to you, too, Julaine, wherever you may be.

Dawn also forwards this heads-up about some community engagement sessions on planning for the future of Toronto's natural trails. If you're interested in attending and providing input, bring your two cents to these meetings:

As part of our ongoing community engagement strategy we want to hear from you! We will be hosting the following information and planning sessions:
Don and Highland Creek Watersheds Tuesday-  September 18th at 6:30pm at the Papermill Theatre and Gallery at Todmorden Mills, 67 Pottery Rd (http://www.toronto.ca/culture/museums/todmorden.htm)
Etobicoke and Mimico Creeks and the Humber River Watersheds Wednesday-  September 19th at 6:30pm at the Swansea Town Hall, 95 Lavinia Ave (http://www.swanseatownhall.ca/).
Please contact us to register for either or both of these events.
For more information on the City of Toronto's Natural Environment Trail Strategy please visit our website atwww.toronto.ca/nets or email trails@toronto.ca.
Natural Environment Trails Program
www.toronto.ca/trails 

Walks: Labour Day Weekend & Wed. Sep. 5

Where some of us met the sunrise on Saturday

While we were all off walking in interesting places (the Island, the Brickworks, Owen Sound), Alexis was busily breaking bones in both ankles. Now that truly deserves a special prize. Get well, Alexis!!

This weekend, being the unofficial end of summer, we have lots of choices, so listen up:

Saturday 7 am at Tim's: KW and Detroit Full, 16K; Toad, 11K; Detroit Half, 10K.

Sunday 7:30 am at the Brickworks: Distances as above, if you're not walking Saturday. Weekend parking fee is higher than weekday, so bring $9; carpooling advised. Cheryl notes the antique market is Sundays, if you need added inducement.

Monday morning – I'm going suggest 8 am, but speak up if you prefer later/earlier – Tim's 2 (Gerrard & Victoria Park). Detroit Full, 13K; KW, 10K; Toad, 8K; Detroit Half, 6K.

Monday evening 7 pm from Loblaws, should anyone prefer to meet at our standard time.

Wednesday evening, 7 pm from Shoppers OR place TBD: Our evening walks have resumed, although I believe there will also be an afternoon option when Dawn returns. Whatever we do, it will include six (6) hills. KW and Toad, 10K; Detroit Half, 8K; Detroit Full (you slackers!), 6K. We can't be too hard on them, as they're gearing up for 27K next week.

Rainer reminds us that the Cavan Hills 10K (AKA "The Butter Tart Race" in Shore Things circles) is coming up at the end of September. Here's the link if you want to give it a go. Early bird rates end on Aug. 31.

And an extra Get Well message to Alexis, because two broken ankles deserves twice the good wishes!

Walks: Sat-Wed, Aug. 25 to 29

Here's what we were up to on a Midsummer Night

Last Saturday, some of us were tetched by fairy dust – making two of us (Fleet-Feet Bob and Ms. 37K-in-One-Day Ruth) go very, very fast, and made others of us simply have a lot of fun.

This Saturday, some of us will be walking over the water – that is, on Toronto Island – catching the 7 am ferry to Ward's Island to do 24K, followed by brunch at The Rectory. Car pooling (or TTCing) is advised, as the best parking is behind the Toronto Star building at $15 a crack. If you're going, and/or if you either have or need a ride, please contact me.

Saturday walkers also can opt to join Trish on an 11K circuit starting from The Brickworks at 7:30 am, followed by coffee and a browse through the organic market. Bring cash and an appetite. I have a copy of Trish's route, which she describes as a combination of hills, streets and wooded trails, and can scan and email if you need one. Parking is $6; car pooling advised. Please let Trish know to wait for you if you're joining that group. Don't know how to contact Trish? Then email me. My email address can always be found "disguised" in the bottom left on our blog.

If you'll be at neither of these, but want company from Tim's for any distance, please sign in.

Next week will be this year's last walk-and-swim 8 am mornings from Lou-Ann's. However, some of us will have returned to an evening walk schedule at 7 pm – with hills on Wednesdays. Yes, hills. We need them! You're welcome to join either or both times. Sign in to say where you'll be.

Monday's schedule: Full marathoners, 11K; everyone else, 8K.

Wednesday: KW, 10K; Toad, 8K; and, surprisingly, both Detroits, even the marathoners, 6K. Add three hill repeats to your route. For this week, we'll start from Shoppers, but there's talk of moving the Wednesday start during hill training to Occasions, on Eastwood, just east of Coxwell, for more concentrated hills, with an optional beer chaser. Discuss.

Now the special mentions, consecutively. First, we send our best wishes for a happy celebration to Lou-Ann and Paul, our latest, soon-to-be-new-minted parents-in-law. Have a ball!

Then, the best of luck to Margy & Rainer who are competing in the 10K Bayshore powerwalk category in Owen Sound on Sunday. We know you'll do us proud.

We also have two birthday girls to celebrate this week, both sharing the same special day: Charlotte and Eileen. We wish them a very appropriate health and happiness for the year to come.

Have fun, everyone. Enjoy these last days of "summer."

Walks: Sat-Wed, Aug. 18 to 22

Yes, the angel choirs do come out when we go walking.

Saturday evening, many of us (wearing official Shore Things tutus, naturally) will be doing the Midsummer Night's 15K at 6 pm. So our numbers on Saturday morning will be thinner. (I'll be picking up race kits on Friday afternoon; please email me your confirmation if you want me to get yours.)

Distances for Saturday: K-W Half, 16K; Toad, 13K; Detroit Half, 10K; Detroit Full, an invigorating 21K. I'm told that the preferred start time for the marathon group is 7 am. Temps should be cooler. Sign in to say where you'll be and when.

Monday distances (and I believe Lou-Ann is still hosting a morning group this week; TBC): Detroit Full, 13K. Everyone else, 8K.

Wednesday distances: Toad, 10K. Everyone else, 8K.

A reminder that you still have till Friday, Aug. 17 to sign up for the K-W races and qualify for the draw for a Blackberry Playbook. The 10K, with its later start, might be an option for those who haven't been able to get accommodation. Remember, this is the only set of races that puts walkers against walkers. A link to the race page is on our blog.

Some of the long-distance trainees will be going to Toronto Island next Saturday, Aug. 25 for 24K. We'll be catching the 6:35 ferry to Ward's Island. However, if you want to walk less and still join us, you can opt for a later ferry. Our goal is to have brunch at The Rectory, which opens at 11 am. So time your crossing and walk to finish accordingly. Let me know if you're coming.

Finally, Charlotte passes along a volunteer opportunity that you might like:

The 2012 Cabbagetown Tour of Homes will take place on Sunday September 16 from 12pm to 4pm. The Cabbagetown Preservation Association now seeks volunteers to participate in what we believe will be another terrific tour.
We have confirmed 8 terrific homes this year - a real mix of sizes and styles. We are looking for volunteers to work with house captains to make this year's experience a memorable one. 

Again this year, all volunteers will receive a complimentary ticket to view all the houses during the dedicated hour that follows the public viewing -- from 4pm to 5pm. Volunteers will also join homeowners at an After Tour Party at a home in the Cabbagetown neighbourhood. Details of this event will be provided to you upon confirmation of your volunteer status.
Very soon, tickets will be on sale at various local vendors or via Paypal at, 

http://www.cabbagetownpa.ca/cabbagetown-tour-homes-september-16-2012-noon-400-pm
Might you be interested in volunteering for this year's Tour? If so, please contact Anne Pastuszak, Volunteer Coordinator (email on the web contact page) as soon as you are able. 

Walks: Sat-Wed, Aug. 11 to 15

Want to help improve Toronto's trail network? Take the survey.

Saturday: KW (13K), Toad (10K), Detroit Half (6K – ha!), Detroit Full (14K). From Tim's, starting at a very reasonable 7 am. I'm told it will be cooler on Saturday, but stay tuned for an earlier start should the Humidex rise. If it's wet, remember: there is no bad weather, only bad clothing.

Monday: KW (8K), Toad & Detroit Half (6K), Detroit Full (11K). Lou-Ann again hosts the coffee and pool mornings on Monday and Wednesday this week. Please sign in to say whether you'll be walking in the morning, afternoon or evening.

Wednesday: KW (10K), Toad & Detroit Full (8K), Detroit Half (6K). Ditto re: sign ins. We will eventually return to regular evening walks later in August; timing will depend in part on the heat.

For those doing the Midsummer Night's 15K, note that race kit pick-up begins towards the end of the week if you want to get yours before race day next Saturday (there's also race day pick-up). If you have no suitable attire, or want to doll yours up, Trish is holding a tutu touch-up or tulle-up party this Sunday, Aug. 12 at 1 pm. Contact me if you don't have the coordinates.

The following weekend, Sat. Aug. 24, we're invited to meet on Toronto Island with the Toronto Powerwalkers for our 24K (they'll be doing 21K). You could do less, of course. We'd catch the 6:35 am ferry to Ward's Island and stop at The Rectory café for brunch after. (All with the proviso that we'd stay put at Tim's for an earlier start in the event of another heat wave.) Speak up if you're in.

As always, check the comments to see if I've forgotten anything this week.

Walks: Sat-Wed, Aug. 4 to 8

Bucolic scenery in Taylor Creek park – as we make for the shade

Oh, dear. Is it really 19K for the Detroit marathoners on Saturday? It's going to be a killer, hot and humid, so how about the long-walkers start at 6 am? Certainly, no later than 6:30. Sound in.

KWs, you have 10K; Toads have 11K – and my permission to start at 7 am, or the time of your choosing.

Monday is a holiday. The schedules call for 6K (KW), 8K (Toad) and 10K (Detroit Full). Let's meet at Tims 2, Gerrard at Victoria Park, at 8 am. (If no full marathoners are actually present, we might choose to split the difference with an 8K walk.) Anyone preferring to walk in the evening, ask for company in the comments.

Wednesday, the morning group starts at 8 am from Lou-Ann's. Distances are 8K (KW) and 6K (Toad and Detroit). Afternoon or evening walkers, please give your details in the comments.

Saturday at around noon, the Olympic race walkers start their 20K race. With some of us having just done 1K less that morning, it will be humbling to compare our times. The following Saturday is the 50K race walking event. Follow up on those results if you really want your mind blown.

A message about upcoming races from Rainer:

Hello fellow walkers
It has always been difficult to find races that recognize walkers or have separate walker categories  .... well here we have a couple of races that are upcoming in Sept / Oct that Margy and I have done that are a lot of fun and that Support Walkers,
Separate Walking Start, Separate Walker Awards.... 

Saturday Sept 29 Cavan 10km - nice small country race just south of Peterborough, in the country, very pretty route, with FANTASTIC
home made butter tarts & Home made baked beans and other goodies afterwards .... worth it for the buttertarts alone ....
http://www.events.runningroom.com/site/8245/Brochure2012.pdf 

Saturday Oct 6 - 7th Annual Fall Festival Run/Walk - 5km & 10km race - in Newcastle 5min east of Bowmanville - nice friendly event same day as the the Newcastle fall Festival - no finishers medals but Finisher Gloves .... they look great http://www.events.runningroom.com/site/?raceId=7903
Here we have a couple of small race organizers who have agreed to support walkers. Lets have a good turnout for walkers. Both events are fun as well as supporting a worthwhile cause. Spread the Word....
Rainer

Rainer has also written good things about two other walker-friendly races to keep our eyes on for next year, both in Whitby: the Whitby Waterfront Summer 5K race and the Durham 1/4 Marathon 5K and 10K walking categories. If you prefer shorter races, these might be for you.

We have two special birthday girls for this period, Sharon and Norma. Hope you both enjoy wonderful days with lots of good stuff in them.

Walks: Sat-Wed, July 28 to Aug 1

Some of our morning walkers in Taylor Creek Park

On Saturday, Detroit marathoners: 16K. KW half: 11K. Those training for the Toad: 10K. For those looking for variation, I have a Rosedale-bound route that will take us along the Milkman Lane trail. Or, if we prefer, we can head along the boardwalk. Unless I hear loud screams, I suggest we shift our start to 6:30 am for the longest distance. Sign in and let your vote be counted. (Next Saturday will be 19K, when we might even prefer to start at 6. TBD)

Monday, Detroit full: 11K. KW Half and Toad: 8K. Mornings now seem to be the preferred time during this hot summer. As there's a fair difference between the two, do the 11K trainees want to start a half hour earlier, at 7:30 am? We can be quiet as mice before setting off from Lou-Ann's, to finish with the 8 am group at about the same time. Takers? And if anyone is still walking in the evenings, please sign in to rustle up company.

Wednesday, Detroit full: a mere 6K, and same for the KW Half. Toads: 8K. Those of us who fall into more than one category might choose the longer distance for 2012 Challenge reasons. Or, to celebrate the start of another month – August already!

Walks: Sat-Wed, July 21 to 25

A bridge too far... churned 0.5K downriver by Sunday's rain!

Isn't it great to be an experienced walker, when you get to say: Saturday's distance is "only 13K"!? That's for the Detroit full marathoners, starting at 7 am. KW Half is 10K. Everyone else, do your own thing.

Monday and Wednesday: 10K and 8K for the full marathoners; 8K and 8K for the KW Half. If you're joining the morning group, let Dawn or Lou-Ann know.

Anyone not registered for the KW, there's a draw for a Blackberry Playbook for anyone who's registered before August 17th.

And that's the news in this part of the world!

Walks: Sat-Wed, July 14 to 18

What's missing from this picture?

Detroit marathoners, you're getting into the big time now: 16K, starting at 7 am from Tim's. We have three possible routes planned, dependent on weather and willingness: East, north or west. Let us know who's coming. If you're training for the KW Half, it's 10K.  Everyone, please judge your own distance.

Saturday afternoon, Lou-Ann and Paul are our gracious hosts for pool-based revelry similar to that shown above. Please be gracious, too, and send them an RSVP. So far, the weather looks ideal.

Monday and Wednesday, the schedule says 8K and 6K tempo. With school out, the morning group has been popular. If you want to join them, contact Dawn. If you need evening company, sign in here.

Looking ahead, the Toronto Power Walkers, the midtown walking group, have invited us to a meet-up – either to share a couple of our long marathon training distances AND/OR to meet on Toronto Island for a walk August 25th. They're training for Washington, which is the week after Detroit. It would be great to strengthen our relationships in the powerwalking community. The idea is that we could meet in the west end for one walk then they could join us in the east for another. Dates to be determined. I think it's a great idea, for many reasons. What do you say?

Walks: Sat-Wed, July 7 to 11

Taking a break from the heat

Detroit marathoners have 14K on tap – and, with the rain forecast, that might be literally on tap – for Saturday. A reminder that those doing the longer distance will start at 7 am unless I hear loud protests and cogent arguments in the comments. Please sign in to state your intentions, and come prepared.

Monday is 10K and Wednesday is a 6K tempo – but we'll be guided by the weather. Bob & I actually did a not bad 6.5K tempo-ish walk in the valley on Wednesday evening, when everyone else had decided to give it a pass. It was significantly cooler and shadier down there.

Those with time off might be interested in meeting up earlier in the day. Dawn H. is the point-person for daytime walks. This week, there are special plans for Wednesday. Let me know if you don't have her contact info.

The potluck pool party at Lou-Ann's is a week from Saturday on July 14th. Hope you can make it.

Also, let me know if you want to be added to our Ireland mini-mailing for the Dublin Half 2013.

Birthday girls this week are Shore Things alumna, Michelle, and Leverne. Two hot mamas, in any weather. Hope your days are filled with good things.

Stay cool!

Walks: Canada Day Weekend & Wed. July 4

Post-walk conversation and, of course, coffee

No matter which side of the border you come from, it's a very patriotic set of walks! As it's a long weekend, it's more important than ever that you let people know that you'll be out walking. Here are our times, distances and places:

Saturday at Tim's, starting at 7:30 am. One last chance to catch 30 extra winks, for 11K. (We'll be switching to 7 am, starting July 7th, for those going into full marathon training.)

Monday at Tim's 2 (Gerrard at Victoria Park), starting at 9:30 am. For those who prefer a morning walk on a long weekend. 8K.

Monday at Loblaws (or alternative location, TBD), at 7 pm. For those who are away for the weekend and can't walk in the morning. 8K.

Wednesday at Shoppers at 7 pm. Business as usual, for a 6K tempo walk. But we tip our hat to our independent American compadres.

Silly me. Somehow I missed wishing Dawn B. a happy birthday! Hope it was a happy one. Best birthday wishes also go out to Arlene and Cheryl. Have fun celebrations. And I'm going to wish my darling husband and I a happy 30th on the 30th. It seems like only yesterday!

Walks: Sat-Wed, June 23-27

This makes me want to Spit! (Toronto humour)

Thank goodness the hot weather has broken for the Detroit full marathoners' 14K on Saturday. Those training with them (and any other interested souls) will start at 7:30 from Tim's. For those who are ready for a change, I've mapped a 14K route via the Don Valley through Cabbagetown and Rosedale. For those who prefer the same-old, 14K would take you to Warden via the boardwalk route.

Monday and Wednesday, the Detroit schedule has us doing only 6K and a 5K tempo. We'll take it, pending better offers.

Mark your calendars for the Shore Things Pot Luck Pool Party! Lou-Ann and Paul have again generously offered to host our motley crew – particularly generously, given the wedding that's coming soon. The date is Saturday, July 14th from 2 pm. Bring a chair, your refreshment of choice, a pot luck item to share and, of course, your bathing suit. RSVPs go to Lou-Ann. I'll post a separate private invitation with all the pertinent contact info.

Happy birthday to Greg! I'm glad you're sharing that milder weather you got for your gift!

We're also getting ready to say farewell to Maureen, who leaves us soon for the Capital Region. We'll miss you, kiddo.

And healing waves go out to all our injured Things, including Eileen, Charlotte, Barb S. and Val. And for all you teachers and administrators, here's to a smooth last week of school.

Happy summer!

Walks: Sat-Wed, June 16-20

This kind of "peanut" is good for your health

Other than the Detroit full marathoners, no one is into deep training yet – as far as I know. Tell me or Dawn if your upcoming race isn't noted on our Interests List. Currently, I'm using the full marathon schedule, as some of us have decided to train with the marathoners. Please, let your body be your guide when selecting your distance. There's always someone to keep you company.

Saturday: 13K. We'll be starting at 7:30 am. I'll repeat that: we'll be starting at 7:30 am – from now till the next heat leap. From Tim's. I suggest the Spit, as we haven't done it in a while, and it offers shorter options. For 13K, we need to do both sides. Let's take the longer/outside road first, then return via the more interesting bridge route. Sign in to declare when you will be arriving, and the distance you prefer.

Monday and Wednesday: 8K and 6K. Again, we'll do tempo on the shorter walk to get our heart rate up and build up our endurance and cardio capacity. The few who came out tonight enjoyed it.

But if you need convincing to go for speed, here's a great article in More Magazine on the calorie-burning benefits of faster walking. 4 mph (9.3 mins/km) is the first big benchmark, and every small increment above that reaps disproportionately greater benefits. At 5 mph, walkers burn more calories than runners, due to our form! The article includes technique tips, so I recommend a read.

It's semi-official: the New Zealand crew has changed its destination for next summer. We're now looking at Ireland, the Longford marathon, marathon relay and half marathon at the end of August 2013. Perhaps this will appeal to a larger group. Let us know if you're interested.

Happy Father's Day to the fellas in our group. May you be fêted as you deserve! And happy birthday to Rainer. Have a medal-winning day.

Walks: Sat-Wed, June 9-13

Our two fellas each placed first in the Alfie Shrubb 8K and 5K races

Bob took first in the 8K Alfie Shrubb and Rainer the 5K, with an almost identical pace of 6:49 and 6:50 MPK respectively; 54:29 clock time for Bob, and 34:09 for Rainer. Blazing! Until the midway point in the 8K, the Shore Things almost had 1st, 2nd and 3rd tied up. Then a fleet-footed walker swooshed past at the turn, and receded into the distance. Still, Jan and Helen virtually tied for third overall and second female with identical times in the 8K, both with personal bests.

A computer glitch at the end of the race meant that the organizers (temporarily) lost everyone's times, retrieving only the 5K at the last minute. So only Rainer stepped up to the podium; the rest will be mailed our prizes. However, Bob won a $90 watch in the draw – the very last prize of the day. And the rain held off! All in all, a good 10th Anniversary Race for the Alfie crew.

We really must commend race organizer Al Storie for his support of walkers. His long and amusing announcement before the walkers' start made it absolutely clear that walking means no running! All races should do the same. A very easy way to get the word out.

Saturday: Let's say "rain or shine"(bring your rain poncho!), the Detroit full marathoners only need 10K. Neville Park route if it's clear; North to the Lookout if not. Or, send me a route and I'll post it. We'll again stick to the 8 am start for this week. But I suggest we switch to 7:30 am, beginning June 16th.

Monday and Wednesday: Let's do one 8K route (Monday, to Rosetta) and on 6K tempo pace (that's faster, for Wednesday). Again, let me know if you have a new route to try.

Our dear Eileen has taken a tumble, as you might already know, and is now in a full leg cast. We send her our very best healing wishes.

Happy birthday to Maureen! We'll miss you when you move to the big O.

Walks: Sat to Wed, June 2-6

The wisteria in bloom at Rosetta McClain

Let's keep Saturday's start time 8 am this week, as it looks like we have a break in the weather thanks to the cooling effect of Friday's rain.

Detroit full marathoners have 13K on their schedule on Saturday. As no one has volunteered a route, I'm suggesting the Spit. Full marathoners go straight out to the lighthouse and then take the curved route back. To the rocks is 8K, to the lighthouse and straight back is 12K. As always, your distance is your own decision – feel free to join us for less, or more!

Monday and Wednesday, we'll keep it to 8K, weather permitting. The forecast seems to have a lot of raindrops in it! (Gardens are thanking the rain gods.)

A few of us are doing the Alfie Shrubb 8K on Sunday. Good luck to us!

Sunday is also the Cabbagetown garden tour. Thanks to Charlotte for the link. Bring your brolly.

We have a lot of June babies in our group. Happy birthday wishes to the first two, Trish & Susan.

I'm sure you'll remind me of all the other things I should be reminding you of. Stay dry!

Walks: Sat-Wed, May 26-30

Olwyn would like to invite you to the Canterbury Creative Arts Show and Sale next weekend, May 31 to June 2, which includes her own lovely photographs. Details in the poster.

For this weekend and the days to come, here are the details.

Saturday, let's stick with an 8 am start. This is an alert, though, that we'll soon (possibly next week) move to an earlier start time (likely 7:30, at first), to beat the summer heat.

I'm suggesting 11K*, along the boardwalk to Silver Birch, but adding the "the peanut" on the way out (that's in one direction only). If you prefer 14K*, follow the same route back (doing the peanut twice). For 8K, skip the peanut entirely, and do the boardwalk to Silver Birch. And, of course, you can always do less. Let common sense and your body be your guide.

*Actually "and a bit".

What is "the peanut" you ask? It's that blobby-shaped route around the south side of Ashbridge's Bay. A detail is below.

Monday and Wednesday, I'm looking for new routes. Last night, we accidentally did 9.25K, but it was pleasant and went quickly. C'mon, Shore Things: be the change of scenery you wish to see in the world!

week of 21st - 26th May

the route.......











Beautiful route, stunning scenery, lots of drink/fruit/chocolate/chip stops along the way and lots of groups of people cheering us on.   They had their chairs, their picnics and their special cigarettes - so we would inhale deeply as we passed by.   The route was mostly shady, except for the last few kilometres which were along the road, but we had the sea beside us and a lovely sea breeze to keep us cool

 Medals, refreshments and finally, party......  The "official" is my friend Liz at whose place we had the party.

 
Sorry, I'm not very good at arranging pictures on the blog.   But wanted you to have a taste of Bermuda so that you will seriously consider coming next time.

Oh, almost forgot....... walking on Monday 21st from Tim's 2 to Rosetta McLean park, start time 9.00 am.   Wednesday usual evening walk from Shoppers at 7.00 for whatever distance you wish, and Saturday 26th from our usual Tim's at 8.00 for 10 k.   For those of you 'in training' for something, please follow the schedule.  

Finally, in case you are wondering, this is P Dawn doing this blog, as Helen is away.    PLEASE SIGN IN to let us know your walking intentions.