It was Sunday morning. I wasn’t feeling that great. I thought that I was coming down with the cold that seems to be attacking everyone at the moment. But I had 15,000 steps to do that day. I am stubborn – I will get those steps in if I possibly can. I couldn’t face doing my normal Pretzel walk. I knew that if I did, I would plug in my headphones, switch to Spotify and listen to my favourite playlist which brings up emotions and memories. I decided to get in the car and do the short drive to the Downs. I used to take my dogs Lara and Dana up there a lot in years gone by. The Downs are beautiful and hold great memories of a Jack Russell and a Rough Collie ( a “Lassie dog”) running off lead having fun.

So I went to the Downs. What a beautiful walk. It was a cold and grey morning but, at first, there were not many people around so Pretzel was happy to be off the lead. Later she was spooked by the biggest German Shepherd I had ever seen who jumped up at me (I didn’t mind) and then chased my poor, tiny pugese. After that she was clearly nervous so I kept her close to me. For the first half of the walk though, Pretzel as free to run around and sniff and play.

I worked hard to stay in the moment that morning. I knew that there was a good chance of me getting low as I was feeling unwell and fragile. So I took in the views, took pictures and smiled at the people who went by. There were lots of runners up there that morning – all going strong.

It was a lovely walk. I was so pleased that I went. And I am pleased that I chose not to wear headphones. I am pleased that I chose not to think, to dwell. Every time sad thoughts came into my wandering mind, I managed to push them away. I just walked and enjoyed watching my little dog have fun.

Christmas morning. I remember this time when I was little. A stocking on the edge of the bed filled with presents. The stocking was one leg of mum’s American tan tights – it is amazing how much they stretched! My brother and I would go into my parents’ room and show them what Santa had left us. Then downstairs to have breakfast and then open the presents. During the morning there would be mince pies followed by the traditional Christmas lunch. In the afternoon we would play with the toys we had for Christmas. I remember the year my brother got Subbuteo – the dog kept walking across the pitch and causing mayhem. And the year my Nan helped me with my 1000 piece jigsaw which consisted of a brown horse’s head and blue sky.

So this morning I am on my own until my girls return later. So I decided that I would take advantage of the lack of traffic and drive to the seafront. I am so pleased I did. It is only 3 miles away – I should visit it more often. The views were lovely. I let Pretzel off the lead on the beach – pebbles rather than sand sadly. She had a great time sniffing new smells and just being free. People walking / jogging / cycling. Lots of happy dogs – no doubt they are hopeful that they will get a special Christmas dinner. For once I walked without headphones which left me free to say “hello” and “Happy Christmas” to fellow walkers.

So a lovely walk this morning! Not as long as usual – but a break from my normal route. A great way to start the day.

Tag: Eastbourne

A walk on the Downs

Christmas morning seafront walk

Happy Christmas!