Walks - Sat. Dec. 28 - Jan. 1st

Ice and holly

Well, the ice storm has certainly hampered the walking schedule this past week so I'm hoping for great walking weather in the week ahead. And, I'm hoping that everyone who participated in the non-voluntary indoor winter camping without hydro survived the experience - none the worse for wear.

Join us on Saturday, at Tim's at 8:00 am. for whatever distance seems manageable....we will keep to heavily travelled surfaces, if necessary. It will be our last Saturday walk of 2013. See you there and then. Please sign in on the blog to let us know when you plan to walk.

During the week, we may want to add some day time walks as it seems unlikely that anyone will want to walk on Jan. 1st.  I'm going to suggest a few dates
Monday, Dec. 30 - 9:00 am - meet at Tim's 2 or Dawn's  - check the blog for the details.
Monday Dec. 30 - 7:00 pm - meet at Loblaw's - again sign in so others will know your plans.
Tuesday Dec. 31 - daytime - anyone????
Thursday Jan. 2 - 9:00 am - meet at Tim's 2? Any interest????  Sign in please.

If anyone is interested in day times walks (morning especially) please let me know as I have tons of distance to do in order to complete my challenge for 2013 and this weather is making it difficult. Would love some company.

 

Walks - Sat. December 21 - Mon. Dec. 23rd.

Yikes - it's almost here - Christmas, the holiday season, whatever you call it at your home. Time to celebrate....with a walk or two.

Let's walk on Saturday, weather permitting, from Tim's at 8:00 am for whatever distance seems wise - we could aim for 8 - 10 km.  Will you join us?

I'm going to do a second post after Monday in which we'll suggest some days and times for the "holiday weeks".  I suspect we'll have more people interested in extra day time walks, so I'll ask around on Saturday to see if there are suggested days, times and locations. Please add your ideas to this blog.  I would love to have some company to help me knock off those last 191 kms before Dec. 31st - how did I get so far behind?  Was doing well for so long and then....????

I know that some people are travelling to far off places to join loved ones - enjoy your visits and travel safely. To everyone, have a wonderful holiday season - enjoy time with family and friends.

Announcements:
from Libby: 

The next race is the resolution run December 29th for those inclined to wear off some Christmas feasting!

 

Walks - Sat. Dec. 14 - Wed. Dec. 18

 

Restaurant in Barcelona

New career option for Shorethings here?

 

Well, the weather outside is frightful.

And, the fire is so delightful,

There's no time to fuss with the wok,

Let us walk, let us walk, let us walk. 

 

Now, I suspect I am the only one who needs exercise on Saturday, but I am pleading with you to join me for 8-10 km - regardless of the weather. Think of it as an investment in calorie burning in advance of the big celebrations, whenever and wherever they are. Tim's at 8:00 am for 8 km.

 

The Monday and Wednesday day time crew know what to do or to contact Dawn to confirm.

Monday evening is at Loblaws at 7:00 pm for 6 km. 

Wednesday evening is at Occasions at 7:00 pm for 6 km. There was a time when we walked regardless of the weather conditions.....I'm just saying....

 

Announcements

from Norma:    What your walking pace says about your health

A huge walking study was recently done linking how long it takes you to walk a mile and your likelihood of premature death. Check out this link for more information:

http://www.chatelaine.com/health/fitness/does-it-matter-how-fast-you-walk/

See you on Saturday.

 

 

 



Walks: Sat to Wed, Dec. 7 to 11

Proof that we clean up good, especially glam new mother-in-law Debbie!

Folks, this is where you all sign in to say you'll be joining us at Tim's at 8 am on Saturday for 8-10K.

Then, again, we reconvene Monday at 7 pm, Loblaws, and Wednesday at 7 pm, Occasions – and 6K seems to be the pre-holiday preference for these evening walks.  Dawn or Lou-Ann are the daytime walk contacts if you prefer to join them.

Calendars and books (including Ireland) have all arrived. Helen will bring them to Tim's for pickup, but only if you've given Charlotte the big bucks. I'm compelled to say that by the Money Queen.

See you Saturday morning.

Birthday wishes to Kathleen. Will we see you on your special day?

Walks: Sat to Wed, Nov. 30 to Dec. 4

Saturday morning on the Spit

Wow, look at those dates! Shall we cheer in the last month of 2013 together? Bundle up.

Saturday, 8-10K from Tim's in the construction zone at Leslie at Lakeshore.
Monday, 6-ishK from Loblaws (or check the comments for alternative start point).
Wednesday, 6-ishK again from Occasions. Follow-up hot toddy, optional.

Helen is filling in on the blog for the next two weeks. Please send any news or updates her way.

Happy Hanukkah, all the best to Debbie for her son's wedding, happy birthday to Barb S. and bon voyage to our travelling señora!

Walks - Sat. Nov. 22 - Wed. Nov. 27

The Keeners

 

Last week, we had wonderful weather for walking and the spit was the perfect place to enjoy the fresh air. Let's hope for more of the same this week. Saturday is at 8:00 am and most any distance is good - let's aim for 8-10 km.

 

Monday and Wednesday - locations are the same as always - day time group keeps in touch through Dawn; mid-town group gathers after work, and the evening gang meets at Loblaws on Monday and Occasions on Wednesday - both evenings at 7:00 pm.  Please sign in on the blog so others know your plans.

 

Announcements:

from Libby:

Let people know about the Santa Race registration deadline of November 22 for online registration for your 5k Santa Suit race in Burlington. www.santa5k.ca

The Sporting Life 10K on May 11th. 2014 has just opened for registration...for anyone not yet signed up for KW Walking Classic.

 

from Olwyn (thanks for the photos)

There are two very exciting Christmas and holiday fairs coming up; the first one is this Saturday, November 23^rd, at St. Dunstan of Canterbury Church, 56 Lawson Road.  It’s their annual ‘Holly Berry Bazaar’, with lots of seasonal treats, home-made goodies, a delightful lunch-room, a fabulous bake-sale, and a table of hand-made items by Cheryl, Cynthia and Eva, and Olwyn’s photo cards and Christmas cards.  It’s on from 9am – 2pm; 

The second is the ‘Jingle-Bell Fair’ at Lou-Ann’s church, where we had our Shore Things party.  It’s on Saturday December 7, from 11am – 3pm, and has a wonderful lunch room, bake-sale, and many fabulous hand-made items.     Come one, come all; get that Christmas and Hanukah shopping done!!

Be sure to pass along any announcements  - I'll cram them in if there's room (and I remember).

 



Walks - Sat. Nov. 16 - Wed. Nov. 20

 

Great Gathering 2013

 

Saturday promises to be a fine day so I'm suggesting a brisk 10 km starting from Tim's at 8:00 am.

 

Generally, there are three small groups walking on Monday and Wednesday.  You know your starting place and times but I'll mention the evening walks just as a reminder - Loblaws at 7:00 and Occasions at 7:00 - likely for 6 kms both evenings. Not sure about the rest of you but I find it hard to encourage myself to go out in the dark or cold or wind or rain but company makes it much more pleasant, so please join us. Sign in and let the others know your plans.

 

What a great gathering we had on Saturday! Wonderful food was shared; funny stories were told (some included truthful sections); and awards were bestowed. My thanks to all who helped to make this event such a success. Of course, a special word of thanks goes to Lou-Ann for the location.

 

Announcements:

from Libby -

We have a large group already signed up for the KW Walking Classic in May. Just a reminder to those still waiting to sign up, register as a group. Rainer is listed as the group captain for the The Shore Things!

Whitby Waterfront 5 and 10K race is this Sunday. It is walker ‘friendly’ for any of you looking for a last minute race to add to your calendar this year!

 

from others -

Several races were discussed at the Great Gathering - just to tempt us. Let's keep talking up races of interest.

 

Dawn is hoping to arrange a brunch in January and will keep us informed about a time and date. Location is TKOs on the Danforth at Coxwell - can't you just smell the bacon?

 

Walks - Sat. Nov. 9 - Wed. Nov. 13

Line Dancing

This Saturday, I suggest we meet at 8:00 at Tim's for 10 km or whatever distance suits you. Let's burn some calories before indulging at the Shorethings Year End pot luck celebration. We always have so many wonderful dishes to eat at our great gathering.

 

Monday and Wednesday:

-day time walkers know to connect with each other for their meeting time.

-Yonge & Eglinton area walkers connect with each other

-Evening walkers meet Monday at Loblaws at 7:00; Wednesday at Occasions at 7:00 - 6 km each night.  Please use the blog to let others know if you'll be joining the evening walks.

 

Let's get out there and keep up the pretense of (some) distance and fitness before the snow flies.

My thanks to Olwyn and Eileen for some great photos.

 

Announcements:

from our Social Committee:  The Year End Great Gathering is Sat. Nov. 9th and if history repeats itself, like it does at City Hall, the evening will be a delight - great food, great friends, great time. The doors crack (sorry, but I had to use that meaningful word) open at 6:30. Please join us with your pot luck creation. A separate message has been sent with the details. We have a dedicated group of volunteers who are making this possible - many thanks to all of you.

 

from Charlotte: - our coffers need replenishing and we ask that each person contributes $10. The funds help support the behind the scenes work. Charlotte is gladly accepting cash!

 

from Rainer: - Robbie Burns 8 km race on January 26th is selling out fast. Earlier this week, there were only 33 spots left. It is a short, fun event and gives you the opportunity to travel to beautiful downtown Burlington - certainly, not to be missed!

 

 

funky art





Walks - Sat. Nov. 2 - Wed. Nov. 6

Tower of Chairs - art?

 

This week, let's meet on Saturday, 8:00 am, at Tim's for 10 kms or whatever distance appeals to you. Take advantage of these snow free days while we can and get some distance in! Dianne - do you need any company for longer walks? Let us know.

 

Monday and Wednesday walks - day time walkers connect with each other through Dawn or Lou Anne to organize. Evening walks will be from Loblaws at 7:00 pm on Monday and from Occasions at 7:00 pm on Wednesday. Please be sure to sign in to let others know your intentions.

 

Announcements:

Our Year End Great Gathering is Sat. Nov. 9th at 6:30. A separate message was sent this week by Barbara B with all of the details.  

 

Please RSVP to Leverne as soon as possible. Our committee needs to have an idea of numbers in order to set up the tables and plan the event. Bring any race suggestions for 2014.

 

Thanks to all who are working on this event - it is always a nice celebration with great food.

 

From Libby - some race ideas to get you in the mood:

For those wishing to race in November- The Whitby Waterfront Race  is only 10K , an 11am start and only $55.00. Everyone gets a hat and chili!...another favorite of Rainer’s!

Check out the Chilly Half in Burlington- March 2. The jacket this year for Chilly Half are spectacular!

We already have quite a few registered for KW so those sitting on the fence may wish to reconsider so we have a strong group presence.

Early Registration rates also end soon for the Flying Pig in Cincinnati...a great race and fabulous medal. Very walker friendly and enjoyed by this years attendees.

 

See you Saturday.

 

 



Walks - Sat. Oct. 26 (a very special day) - Wed. Oct. 30

Eye Candy?

 

Saturday is quickly approaching and I'm going to suggest that we meet at 8:00 for 10 km - you'll notice this is becoming a theme...or whatever distance suits your fancy.

 

Monday and Wednesday day time walkers will do their thing & contact each other.

Monday evening - Loblaws - at 7:00 for 6 km.

Wednesday evening - Occasions - at 7:00 for 6 km.

 

Announcements:

from Grandma Charlotte - We are collecting $10 cash from everyone, if possible, to help replenish our coffers. Please bring it on Saturday. It isn't really the admission to the pot luck and it would help if everyone can contribute. Charlotte will happily accept cash on Saturday.

 

from Leverne:   Party facts:

·         The event will start at 6:30pm

·         Set up crew should arrive at 5pm

·         Please label your serving dishes and/or serving utensils

·         If your contribution needs to be hot, please bring it as warm as possible

·         If anyone has ideas for upcoming races, please bring info regarding them

·         please RSVP to Leverne - but I'm reluctant to put a private email in the blog

·         cleanup crew may want to bring rubber gloves

 

from Libby:

A friendly reminder for everyone to start thinking about race plans for 2014. I will bring a few new potentials to the pot luck. We have some registered for Robbie Burns 8K January 26th. It’s only 8K- less than many of our Saturday walks and a walker friendly race with a reasonable start time!

The early bird rate for KW walking classic in may ends November 1. If your training for a half marathon doesn’t materialize they will let you switch to the 10 or 5K distances! It is always good to have a goal as we do our weekly walks!

 

And, just for the record, we used to walk rain or shine - so see you Saturday!



Walks - Sat. Oct. 19 - Wed. Oct. 23, 2013

Art?

 

Walks for this week include:

Saturday morning from Tim's at 8:00 am for 10 km - or whatever suits you. If Dianne is coming, she'll need a few walkers to help her do a longer walk as she prepares for her marathon. We know who will likely offer (this week or another time) - Sharon, Ruth, Libby, Susan, Helen....to name a few. Give us a shout Dianne if you need company.

 

Monday & Wednesday day time walkers are in full force - keep in touch with each other.

 

Monday (Loblaws) & Wednesday (Occasions) evenings at 7:00 and likely 6 or 8 will be just fine to keep us active and healthy.

 

Please remember the above are suggestions only....sign in & let others know your plans.

 

Reminders: 

The year end party is Sat. Nov. 9th. It is $10 admission plus a favourite pot luck item (sometimes I make things up, so I'm sure someone will correct me if I'm wrong). 

 

We still need volunteers for the awards committee - please contact Leverne or Barbara B if you are able to help. The admission fee will go towards topping up our coffers which are depleted.

 

The t-shirts are in - contact Charlotte if you have ordered one & still need to collect it. She only accepts cheques.

 

Rainer wants to remind us that the early bird deadline for the K-W Walker's classic (next May - on Mother's Day) is only available for a few more days.

 





Walks - Sat Oct. 12 - Wed. Oct. 16

Welcome Home - Congratulations & Well Done

Happy Thanksgiving to all and lets get to the details of our walks:

Saturday 8:00 am for 10 km from Tim's - my suggestion.

Monday - 8:30 am for 6-10 km from Tim's 2 - because it is a holiday for many.

Wednesday 7:00 pm for 6 km from Occasion's.

Please remember, the distances are suggestions only - anything that suits you is just fine.

The day time walkers will know to contact each other. The Eglinton & Yonge group will also contact each other. If you have other options and want company, use the blog to let others know. Diane - let us know if you need company for any of your walks - long or short.

Messages:

First from Dawn - wonderful to hear about their trip:

"Las tres amigas have returned from their Camino jaunt.    Beautiful scenery, challenging at times, but we made it.   Additional challenges included pouring rain, sharing a room with 28 others and having to clamber up to top bunks, and finding a decent breakfast!!    They don't do our breakfasts, only toast and cafe con leche.   The coffee was generally a real treat.   We averaged 16k a day and arrived in Santiago on Monday 30th September." 

You are better women than I am!

From Rainer:

An interesting walking conference in Waterloo, with presentations from Lee Scott (WOW Power walking), Dick Felton (Chi walking), as well as Pilates for walking  and walking for wellness.
There are special prices for the 2014 K-W Walking classic for the next 2 weeks  .... sign up now. It is in May 11 2014, I understand.

Hope to see some of you over the weekend - Enjoy the Thanksgiving weekend - we have lots to be thankful for.



Walks - Sat. Oct. 5th - Wed. Oct. 9th

Strong finish on a foggy morning

 

My suggestions is: Saturday morning at 8 am for 10 km.  Monday (Loblaws) & Wednesday Occasions) for 6 kms each day....plus, of course, the day time walkers.  Really, just come out and walk whatever suits you - it's all good.

 

Lots of messages this week: 

From Rainer:

A large group of Shore Things came out Saturday to tackle the hills of Cavan. A strange weather day - it was about 10C and visibility of about 100yds. Bob had a great race. All in all we had 5 Shore Things (tie for 3rd place finish female - Frances and her daughter) on the podium collecting a medal.
The post race grub was tasty ... home made baked beans, butter tarts, muffins, cookies and apples. These people know how to set  a tasty spread.  Again congratulations to all Shore Things for challenging the friendly hills of Cavan.

 

From Debbie:

We send our best wishes for a speedy recovery to Val, who recently tore a muscle in her leg following some exercise. She says she is feeling a little better every day, and is able to get around (slowly!) and able to drive. But her doctor says it will be several weeks before she can rejoin us on our walks. Val, we miss you!

 

From Charlotte:

Please pay by cheque ($31.64) and pick up your damn t-shirts!

 

From Leverne:

We need some volunteers to help the social committee with the work of the Shorethings Year End party on Nov. 9th.....set up, clean up, acknowledgements, etc......a few helpers would be much appreciated by our social committee. Speak to Leverne.

 

I think that's it for this week. Let me know if you would like something added in the weeks ahead. We aim to please.

The happy walkers at Cavan Race 2013

 

 

 

 



Walks - Sat. September 28 - Oct. 2

Some gals have all the fun!

 

No formal training that I'm aware of so I'm suggesting the following:

Saturday - Meet at Tim's at 8:00 am for 10 km - why not - the weather sounds lovely. Just remember that Leslie is closed between Lakeshore & the driveway to Tim's.

 

Monday at Loblaws for 6 km

Wednesday at Shoppers for 6 km.  I heard a request to switch back to Shoppers on Wednesday.

 

The day time walkers will know their schedules and meeting spots.

 

Some comments about the race last weekend from Helen:

Our race weekend started at Michelle's in her spiffy new apartment (moved only 10 days ago) for pasta dinner  -- delicious, and she and partner Gilles were most gracious hosts.

 On race morning, the weather looked touch and go, it was chilly and there were some sprinkles but the big rains held off till after we all finished. Yay! (Then it really came down.) Ottawa-Hull's prettiest bits were along the course, with lots of photo ops. And we all did well. Bob was off his goal time of 2:30 by only about 50 seconds, Ruth, Arlene and Libby were their usual lightning fast and Sharon said she took a minute off her best time. Eva was about five minutes ahead of Team Trish, with Cheryl and Helen, at the end -- and Trish was very happy with her relatively pain-free finish. The cool thing at the end, besides the dogtag-style medal, was a zip-up gauze jacket with hood instead of a mylar blanket. Useful for our next big race. All those surveyed said they'd do the race again.

 

A group of our walkers will be heading to participate in the Caven race - enjoy the countryside, do well, and enjoy those butter tarts!

 

See you Saturday.



Walks - Sat Sept 21 - Wed Sept 25

Early evening sunset walking from Occasions

 

It's a big week(end) for many of our folks.

 

Dawn, Lou Ann and Sheila are taking off for their trek and adventures in Spain. We wish them a wonderful journey and look forward to hearing all about their experiences and seeing their photos. Happy hiking on El Camino.

 

A group is headed to Ottawa for the half marathon on Sunday - make us proud! Good luck to all and if you see Michelle, give her a big hug from me.

 

And, yet another group of us is staying in Toronto and will meet to walk on Saturday for any distance we like. I'm going to suggest 10 km starting at 8:00 am.

 

However, please note: Leslie Street is closed between Lakeshore and Queen St for construction. I think it is still possible to enter the parking lot from Eastern Ave but I haven't been able to check it out. We may need to find an alternate meeting spot during this construction which will likely last at least several weeks/months as they lay street car tracks along Leslie. 

 

My question - what is a good alternative meeting spot?  Do you have a suggestion? Put it in the blog. We have met at Loblaws and/or Tim's 2 (Victoria Park & Gerrard) in the past mainly because parking is plentiful. What's your preference?

 

We need some volunteers to help with the year end party on November 9th. Tasks include set up, clean up or awards committee for example. The social committee will be glad to hear from you if you are able to help - contact Barb B, Lynne, or Leverne.

 

And, lastly, Rainer suggests that we consider:

 

Sat Sept 28 is the beautiful Cavan race. About 10min south of Peterborough, starting from one of the volunteer's farm. Small, friendly country event. Nice 10km through the countryside. Buttertarts to die for ....all monies goes to charity .... Margy and I have done it for the last 5 years .... http://www.events.runningroom.com/site/?raceId=9361

The other one is October 5 Saturday in Newcastle. The running Maniacs are hosting an event the same day of the Newcastle Fall Fair. Small, friendly event with a separate walker category and separate walker starts. There is a 5km and a 10km walk section.
http://www.events.runningroom.com/site/?raceId=9428
 

 



Walks - Sat. Sept. 14 - Wed. Sept. 18

 

Misty morning walk

 

This week's distances are relatively short since it is taper time for the Ottawa group. Saturday is 12 km so let's start at the respectable hour of 8:00 am (I've had a few requests for a humane start time....).  Monday (Loblaws) and Wednesday (Occasions) distances are 6 and 5 (very manageable).  The day time walkers will organize their own times and routes. Email Dawn or Lou Ann.

 

Some updates:  1st from Libby:

There is a small group doing the PEC  half marathon October 6th. (Prince Edward County). This is a small friendly race with both Half and Marathon distances. Elaine Selke did this last year and Arlene and Marilyn Orr will join her this year. The walking contingent is very small. A group of us did this race a few years ago - a pleasant route in the country.

Lee Scott has reminded us the Robbie Burns Race is capped at 100 walkers and there are many of the WOW group doing the race. www.burlingtonrunners.com

Lee is holding a new class this fall called “Rock the 800’s”. It is repeats of 800 meters around a track. Friday night at Central Tech is the location for anyone keen to improve their race pace. It is said to be a proven training method to improving speed. www.wowpowerwalking.com

 

2nd from Helen:

Rotary Club hosts the Turkey Trot Trail Race, Oct. 20th at Bronte Creek Provincial Park. It’s a flat, groomed trail walk and with a huge community feel. From draw prizes, to a unique medal, it’s going to be amazing.  The website is www.rotaryturkeytrot.ca 

 

 Please let us know if you see any races of interest so that the information can be passed on to others.

 

See you Saturday at 8 for 12 or for whatever suits your fancy.



Walks - Sat. Sept. 7 to Wed. Sept. 11



So now we know where the Milkmen live!

This Saturday is the long walk for those training for Ottawa's half marathon. Libby reports the following:

Greg and I cycled a very interesting route on a walking/cycling path leaving from just north of Guildwood Station. It is a paved path through parks along Highland Creek and ending at lake Ontario and then a beautiful path along the Lake to Pickering. I am suggesting we consider this for the 20K route. (Do not have to do it entirely and I am able to plan a circle to our cars.
Anyone who is interested in joining them should contact Libby directly.

For the rest of us, the usual meeting spot on Saturday is Tim's at 8:00 am for a reasonable distance of your choosing. Now that it is cooler, likely 8 - 12 kms seems reasonable. Your choice!

Monday and Wednesday, we aim to walk 10 kms this week (can't remember why). The usual gathering spots - day time group will email each other; evening group meet at Loblaws (Monday) and Occasions (Wed).

Rainer would love to chat up a couple of races happening later this month. He and Margy are planning to enter at least one, if not both of them, and would love to encourage others to join them.

Lastly, Dawn, LouAnn and Sheila are in the final days of training for their big trip. You'll see them staggering under the weight of their back packs along the streets and trails....wearing their very fashionable hiking boots and flattering hiking pants. We hope that their trip is a most excellent adventure.

Our Sunday walk near the Brickworks

Labour Day weekend is upon us - please say it isn't so....where did the summer go?

For those of us who will remain in the city for this long weekend, our walks will take place on Saturday, from Tim's and as is often the case on a long weekend, we meet Monday morning at Tim's 2. I have heard some chattering about other places and times, but will leave those options out of the main blog for now.

Distance for Saturday is 16 km for those preparing for Ottawa. (Libby has suggested that the longest walk be done next weekend when more people will be in town). I suggest a 7:00 am start. For others, any distance that works for you is just fine - I suggest 8:00 am start for 10 km or more or less.

Monday morning - Tim's 2 - 8:30 am start - for 10 km or less.

Wednesday evening - Occasions for 10 km or less.

I know there a few other options....so please sign in with your plans.  See some of you on Saturday.



Shore Things - new season reminders

one of my favourite photos

TEAM As you know, a team of about eight has replaced Helen's team of one.   Some of the important people to remember are Susan (send anything or photos which you would like her to include on the blog);  Libby (any races you are thinking about and all your registrations for races);  Trish and Jan will be providing us with some new routes with a parking and coffee shops.   Please watch for those!

SHIRTS - Sheila sends the following

"We are putting in an order for a lightweight double-mesh wicking ShoreThings T-Shirt. They will have our logo on the back and front just like the blue ones, but this time the shirt will be white.  The women's are v-neck and the men's are crew neck. The price will be around $30.

For those who I've missed due to summer vacation and have not yet put in their orders, the deadline is September 8th. I will be at Tim's from 10-11 this coming Saturday and also the 7th with samples to try on, and I can arrange to hook up with anyone who would like to try on the samples anytime in between before the 7th. Just email me at <smallwoodsheila@gmail.com> and we can make a time to meet. "

YEAR END POT LUCK - this will be held at Lou-Ann's Church on Saturday 9th November.   Closer to the date we will send out more details.   But I wanted to let you know the date, and also to let you know that we are asking that everyone who attends pay $10 each.   Our ST bank balance is running low and we need money to pay for small things (prizes, S>T> adds etc) and also to pay for the Church.    If anyone can think of any additional ways to increase our coffers, please let us know..

SCHEDULED WALKS -  we have a few smaller 'break-off' groups walking at different times and different locations, for our week day walks.   One group walks in the Eglington/Mount Pleasent area and another group walks during the day on Mondays and Wednesdays in the O'Connor/St.Clair area.    I believe these two groups will be posting times and locations in the comments in the appropriate blog.   However, these times are not set in stone and may change at short notice.  So, it is important to let people know ahead of time if you wish to join them.   Trish and Ruth will be looking after theEglinton walks, and Lou-Ann and Dawn will be looking after the O'Connor area.   However, Lou_Ann and Dawn will not be doing this for the last two weeks of September.

It is my fervent hope that the majority of our walkers will continue to meet at Tim's on Saturday mornings.    We are hoping to perhaps look at routes which might include Sunnybrook Park, Brickworks, West end (right Trish and Jan?) etc.

I think that covers most of what I wanted to say.   I have enjoyed the summer, all our hot walks with wonderful people, an amazing pool party and lots of additional swims to cool us off after our walks.   Many, many thanks to Lou-Ann and her pool staff, Paul.

Dawn

Walks - Sat. Aug. 24 - Wed. Aug. 28

Midsummer Night's Walk gang - 2013

 

Race update according to Olwyn - Midsummer Night’s Walk ~

It was a fun walk; gorgeous weather and a very flat course; but the wait for the ferry took forever! However, we did get to ride on the Trillium ferry on the way home, which was a treat; it’s an old restored ferry from 1910; and it’s run by steam, with a paddlewheel; felt like we were back another century!  Sounds like a good way to end the evening....

 

Our walks for the week are as follows:

Saturday's distance for the Ottawa gang is 18 km - I suggest a 7:00 am start, given the distance and potential for heat. For those planning to do less, 8:00 am start would likely be fine for 5-10 km.

For the Monday and Wednesday day time group, please contact each other using email. Evening walkers will meet at Loblaws on Monday and at Occasions on Wednesday - both at 7:00 pm.
Monday's distance is 8 km; Wednesday's distance is 10 km.

Couldn't resist this photo from an outing with feathered friends in Newfoundland (thanks to Charlotte, I think):

 

 

 





Walks - Sat. Aug. 17th - Wed. Aug. 21st

Gardener's Cottage - Kew Beach

 

A few of us die hard walkers will gather at Tim's on Saturday (many are still away or otherwise called) and as we walk we will continue to enjoy the beautiful gardens we find along the way. To everyone who is doing the MidSummer Night's event - enjoy, dress creatively, and do well.

 

For the rest of us

Ottawa distance is 16K for Saturday.  Weather forecast is for sun and reasonable temps so I would suggest a 7:30 am start for the long walk. Some may wish to start at 8:00 if your distance is less.

Monday and Wednesday distances are 8K both days.  We still have (at least) two groups walking during the week - the day time group will connect with each other via email; evening group meets at Loblaws and Occasions (we love those hills - gently challenging).

 

Sign in - let others know your intentions.  See you Saturday.

 

 

 





Walks - Sat. Aug. 10 - Wed. Aug. 14

Irish Medal celebrations



Still not sure if you'll see this picture - but if not, rest assured, it's a good one! Some day, this too shall pass.

Most of our Irish racers and fans have returned so I suspect we'll hear some well deserved bragging on Saturday.  Ruth - where is YOUR medal?

Our walks for the week, for those of us who remain in the city and walking, are as follows:

Midsummer’s is now in full taper with 10K race pace for Saturday, then 6 and 5 Monday and Wednesday respectively

Ottawa is 14K for Saturday and 8 and 10k Monday and Wednesday 

I suggest that we start at 7:30 for the 14 km and those doing 10 km (or less) could start at 7:30 or at 8:00 - state your preference.

Mid week daytime walks - you folks know what to do and where to meet. Please connect by email.

Mid week evening walks - Monday from Loblaws and Wednesday from Occasions.

Hope to see you out walking on Saturday.

Walks - Sat. Aug. 3 - Aug. 7

Our walk & the plant growing through the roof -Allen's Gardens

I suspect that many people will be away over the long weekend but for those remaining in the city, here are the "desired" distances (and I use the term lightly).

For both Midsummer’s and Ottawa,  Saturday’s distance is 12K.  Easy!  Starting at 7:30 am. Walk whatever distance is comfortable for you.

The Monday distance is 10 and 8.  Please check the blog and sign in - some may want to do a morning walk from Tim's 2, starting at 8:00 am - it's a long weekend. Others may walk from Loblaws at 7:00 pm. Please let others know your plans.

Wednesday mileage is 8 for Mid Summer and 8 for Ottawa.  Meet at Occasion at 7:00 pm.

The daytime Monday & Wednesday group will make their own arrangements.

Our Ireland folks are racing on Monday. Make us proud!  Bring home your medals. I hope it doesn't rain.  Here are some of the gang doing their hill training in Ireland.

(I hope these photos are visible this week - oh my, the challenges! Please bear with me.)

 

Walks July 27th - July 31st - updated post

IMG_2323, a photo by theshorethings on Flickr.

Lou Ann's Lovely Ladies Lounging

We are likely going to be a small group this week, given that our Dubliners have flown the coop. Their race is next week. We wish them the very best. Make Us Proud! We also have a few people vacationing, entertaining, attending appointments or making excuses, but I know the dedicated group will be out and raring to go. Please sign in so we will know who to expect on each of our walk days.

 

Distances: Midsummers is 14K for Saturday and 10 and 8 K during the week.

Ottawa ramps up for 16K Saturday with 8K for both week days.

I do have a suggested route and destination for your consideration. Did you happen to see the article in The Star about the beanstalk that has grown beyond the roof at Allen's Gardens?  This is a once in a lifetime opportunity as this plant will dry once it blooms - later this fall. Check out the article: http://www.thestar.com/life/2013/06/21/beanstalk_breakthrough_at_torontos_allan_gardens.html

I suggest that we walk through Riverdale, through Riverdale Park, through Cabbagetown to Allen's Gardens to check out this plant and then return. It will be about 10 km return (or just less) and honestly, it is a once in a life time opportunity.  Any interest? Start time 7:30 am.  ....Or whatever gets stated in the comments section - Ottawa folks may want to start earlier. Flexibility is our goal.

Monday and Wednesday day time group - you folks know your routine. Email each other.

Otherwise, for the evening folks, Monday is from Loblaws; Wednesday is from Occasions; both start at 7:00 (or in my case, 7:03). If I figure out the distances, I'll add them in the comments section....but to be safe if it is raining, walk 6 km; if no rain, walk 10 kms.

Walks - Sat. July 20 - Wed. July 24

WOW - IT'S HOT

Please turn down the heat for Saturday.

 

 

My photographers will, I'm sure, be sending some amazing photos of the pool party - a great time was had by all, I understand, and many thanks to our gracious hosts. This is a fine tradition.

 

Our walks this week are as follows - On Saturday

Dubliners - 16 km (almost to Rosetta McLean Park) - start 7:00 or earlier - state your preference.

Midsummer's Night and Ottawa - 14 km (almost, but not quite, to Rosetta McLean) - start 7:30 am

Others - whatever distance and time suits you.  Refreshments at Tim's after for all.

 

Monday & Wednesday - the morning group - you folks know the places and times. Bathing suits required for Wednesday.

 

Monday evening - 10 km for Dubliners and Midsummer's Night; 6 km for Ottawa. Meet at 7:00 at Loblaws.

 

Wednesday evening - 10 km for Dubliners, 8 km for Midsummer's Night; 6 km for Ottawa. Meet at 7:00 at Occasions. (I goofed on the location last week.)

 

Please sign in so others know your intentions.  See you Saturday.

 

Is anyone interested in the Collingwood Half Marathon on Oct. 5th?  Check it out: www.runcollingwood.ca   Sounds like a good course and not too far away. Let Dawn know if you are interested.