Saturday, June 16
Dear Diary:Sunday June 10th (12:00)
4 am dawned, but far too early after another warm night. However by 7 am the heat inside the tent was getting uncomfortable so I sprang forth to another great bright day. An early morning tarn dip (well more an assertive splash all over) and a leisurely breakfast before we struck camp.
Lay having left early for his long drive south the remaining five of use descended through the increasing heat back down to Grasmere. And yes, another sun breakfast at the cafe, and not even 10:30.
This time we had a slight distraction. After the peace of the hills finding ourselves amidst the crowds involved in the annual Grasmere Gallop run was a little of a culture shock. Especially as the temporary car park entrance was sited next to the cafe (BTW winning time was 41.47 for the 7k multi terrain race - in the heat that was fast)
Amongst these scenes of ultra athletes (and the more normal sized individuals) milling around, our esteemed group quietly sat there consuming bacon butties and gently smoking. What plebs we are. Certainly not fit to be out on the hills (lol)
With all this activity and the sunshine now really kicking in, we finally admitted defeat and retired back into the cool cafe interior for the shade.
And then it was suddenly time to part. Myself off to Grasmere YHA for a rest day, and much needed shower, the others to wend their respective ways back home.
Personally I regarded the meet up as a resounding success. It was great to be out with such a cross section of folk sharing some basic common beliefs.
The Internet comes in for a lot of stick especially when things get hostile, as they will at times.
But when used as a communication enabler it has radicalised the way our social networks can quickly achieve remarkable things.
I can't really think of any other way in which such a geographically disparate group, with common aims, would have so quickly have come together, and managed to meet for such a great weekend, free of ego or rancour. No cliques or personality clashes. Superb.
And let's not forget, the germ of the UKOB group only started forming in March '07, and a lot of new blood has come on board since with a flourishing dedicated website and firm friendships forming.
Nice to meet you all and it looks like another UKOB Meet is already on the cards.
There's more trip reports and many more pictures from Darren, Stef, Duncan, Geoff.
Anything there that disagrees with my report is of course a tissue of lies (unless I come out smelling of roses)But with the excessive heat of the weekend I know what we smelt of most of the time, and roses it definitely wasn't it!
For some reason my camera stayed mostly away over the weekend. Too busy gassing I guess.
And for the next post....what Johnnie did next
Labels: Lake District, UK Outdoors Blogger Meet June 2007, walks
Friday, June 15
Dear Diary:Twin Tarns
Codale and Easedale Tarns (an old picture and no idea where I got it from originally)
Labels: Lake District, UK Outdoors Blogger Meet June 2007, walks
Dear Diary:Saturday June 9th
The day dawned warm and very sunny, already over hot for any serious tramping, unless we really had to. Nice to have the choice for a change.
During the night Lay and Duncan (aka AktoMan) had arrived, and so we made our disparate ways back into Grasmere for a regroup and the obligatory second breakfast (for some!), whilst sizzling in the unexpected sunshine. This was the Lakes. Where's the rain? It's traditional.
Meanwhile Stef had gone peak bagging after a night of stargazing, the stamina of (comparative) youth!
For my descent from Alcock Lay and myself took the alternate path north from the tarn, and I was glad I'd used the more traditional way up on previous trips. Definitely less steep and easier ground to travel over.
So to another leisurely carb/coffee intake at the cafe; A quick trip to Cotswold Outdoors for a (sale item) wicking T shirt in WHITE (my dependable black merino top just too much for the day's heat) and then a slow saunter up to Easedale Tarn. Sour Milk Gill showing white, but again with water flow much reduced.
A pause to take in the scenery, and then the advanced party struck out northwards working our way up to Codale Tarn to establish that night's camp.
Sitting down in the tent porch, first brew in hand, Lay arrived with news of the heat's impact on some of our party, and after a quick discussion we struck camp for the return (Hey this was a meet-up and for enjoyment after all)
So we gamely wandered back down to the rising clouds of Easedale midges.
This left Geoff, who was travelling further afield the next day, to his own personal set of midges. And a quiet night from his own report. I know the Codale wildcamp spot well and in fact he'd inadvertently picked the place I'd used on my last visit (great minds etc etc) and once the absolute silence of the tarn is accepted, its is a very gentle place to stay for the night.
But again - water from the inlet feed was low and becoming very peaty due to its slowing flow rate.
But back to the group at Easedale Tarn. We spent the evening putting the world to rights, sharing our thoughts and observations, with a common thread that ran throughout the weekend, our enjoyment of the natural world around us. Little needed to be said on that subject.
The continued good humour and sense of well being shining through it all.
Easedale Tarn - down amongst the midges
Labels: Lake District, UK Outdoors Blogger Meet June 2007, walks
Dear Diary:Friday June 8th (22:00)
I inadvertently met Geoff outside Windermere Railway Station. Or to be more precise he came over and met me.
Meanwhile following a brief texting session earlier in the journey Stef (aka Bearded Git) diverted his drive up from the Midlands, to pick us both up. Nice gesture. And the sort of selfless action that was repeated by all concerned throughout the blogger meet-up. Always happy to help ease the way, but done with tact.
We parked up in Grasmere, having searched in vain for the now defunct Tourist Information Centre (when did that happen?) and then it was off to spend time in the sun and take on a few carbs at what was to become our regular food stop over the next few days - Miller Howe cafe. Not the cheapest place in town I'm sure. But plenty of outside seating, rather too much sunshine, a good view of Grasmere comings and goings, and staff that didn't seem inclined to take our cash and hurry us out once we'd eaten.
When the five of us early arrivals were present (Weird Darren and Dawn completing the group) it was packs on, follow the road past Grasmere Church out of town, past the Wordsworth cloning laboratory, and upwards onto the familiar cart track leading up to Alcock Tarn.
Newts were spotted in the ornamental fishpond (well I've read that was its original purpose) and finally the tarn itself. A familiar spot to me with good valley views all around except to the east, where Heron Pike soared above us on the Fairfield Horseshoe.
The tarn contained far more reeds than I'd seen there in the past. And the water level was definitely lower than on previous trips. But the inlet stream was still providing a reasonable flow in, and provided a reliable fluid source.
Tents, tarps, bivvy bags erected; Brews (and more food!) on the go. And there was lots of gentle chat and eyeing up each other's kit as the evening remained hot, clear and light long after the sun had dropped behind the Langdale valley ridge.
A good start
Alcock Tarn 2006, with a little more H2OLabels: Lake District, UK Outdoors Blogger Meet June 2007, walks
Dear Diary:Friday June 8th (14:30)
I'd not been in the right frame of mind for this trip. A major upheaval over the last couple of months at work and the usual pre-season concerns over my fitness levels for more serious outings.
Are we ever happy with our fitness preparation? Looking around my contemporaries I really shouldn't over concern myself unduly. There's a sprinkling died young; Many now have serious illness, especially adult onset diabetes, and almost all carry slightly more weight than they did 10 years ago. In some cases visibly far too much.
Ah the joy of the post 40 physique. All those things you put off with riotous living coming home to roost in early middle age. The body calling time (And you thought it was a reliable one - too late to claim under he warranty now I guess)
I've got a lucky set of genes, and I've been told someone who should know (thanks Andy C) that the body shape post 40 is unlikely to get any worse if it already hasn't already by that age.
But in my case the decadent sort of lifestyle hasn't necessarily stopped, and it's been a long game in the playing. 27 years on motorcycles. Never a broken bone, and that's despite some monumental all seasons biking over the majority of that time. I helped bury a few friends in my 20s, so the risks have always been understood.
Which brings me nicely back to solo walking before I wander off beam any further.
Thursday evening saw me throwing gear into the pack, fastening the lid, and largely leaving the rest to fate. The preparation time had just not been available this time around, despite a conscious attempt to make the space.
But a part of the problem was in myself, there was something not quite right in my general attitude to this trip
Not, I hasten to add, due to the planned meeting of fellow UK Outdoor Bloggers from across the country. More I guess the open ended nature of the week after that. A few wild campspots in mind, but no A to B routes prepared, due to the camp diverse locations.
But as I sit here at Oxenholme Railway Station ('Gateway to the Lakes') sweating gently in the unexpectedly sizzling sunshine, I can feel the power of the Lakeland start to work its magic on me.
Relax. Share. Enjoy.
And I feel a good time is on the way.
Labels: Lake District, UK Outdoors Blogger Meet June 2007, walks
Dear Diary - Lakes Trip June 2007
So finally to the trip report. This was written in spare moments as I wandered around, so if that means it comes across as a little over reflective or disjointed, please remember the context.
I'm a great fan of Hunter S Thompson, or Dr Gonzo as he is commonly known amongst HST fans. I'd hardly call this Gonzo Journalism, but in the spirit of trying to capture the moment I'll try to leave it largely unedited unless it's necessary for clarification.
I'll split each day up into a new post, and finally follow it up with my usually debrief on lessons learnt/tips etc.
And for the record: Pack weight when I walked back in through the door was 13kg this time around, which included a spare gas canister and some remaining food (for a change)
Hope the report gives some feeling for an enjoyable break from other people's reality.
Labels: Lake District, UK Outdoors Blogger Meet June 2007, walks
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
Lay having left early for his long drive south the remaining five of use descended through the increasing heat back down to Grasmere. And yes, another sun breakfast at the cafe, and not even 10:30.
This time we had a slight distraction. After the peace of the hills finding ourselves amidst the crowds involved in the annual Grasmere Gallop run was a little of a culture shock. Especially as the temporary car park entrance was sited next to the cafe (BTW winning time was 41.47 for the 7k multi terrain race - in the heat that was fast)
Amongst these scenes of ultra athletes (and the more normal sized individuals) milling around, our esteemed group quietly sat there consuming bacon butties and gently smoking. What plebs we are. Certainly not fit to be out on the hills (lol)
With all this activity and the sunshine now really kicking in, we finally admitted defeat and retired back into the cool cafe interior for the shade.
And then it was suddenly time to part. Myself off to Grasmere YHA for a rest day, and much needed shower, the others to wend their respective ways back home.
Personally I regarded the meet up as a resounding success. It was great to be out with such a cross section of folk sharing some basic common beliefs.
The Internet comes in for a lot of stick especially when things get hostile, as they will at times.
But when used as a communication enabler it has radicalised the way our social networks can quickly achieve remarkable things.
I can't really think of any other way in which such a geographically disparate group, with common aims, would have so quickly have come together, and managed to meet for such a great weekend, free of ego or rancour. No cliques or personality clashes. Superb.
And let's not forget, the germ of the UKOB group only started forming in March '07, and a lot of new blood has come on board since with a flourishing dedicated website and firm friendships forming.
Nice to meet you all and it looks like another UKOB Meet is already on the cards.
There's more trip reports and many more pictures from Darren, Stef, Duncan, Geoff.
Anything there that disagrees with my report is of course a tissue of lies (unless I come out smelling of roses)But with the excessive heat of the weekend I know what we smelt of most of the time, and roses it definitely wasn't it!
For some reason my camera stayed mostly away over the weekend. Too busy gassing I guess.
And for the next post....what Johnnie did next
Labels: Lake District, UK Outdoors Blogger Meet June 2007, walks
Dear Diary:Twin Tarns
Codale and Easedale Tarns (an old picture and no idea where I got it from originally)
Labels: Lake District, UK Outdoors Blogger Meet June 2007, walks
Dear Diary:Saturday June 9th
The day dawned warm and very sunny, already over hot for any serious tramping, unless we really had to. Nice to have the choice for a change.
During the night Lay and Duncan (aka AktoMan) had arrived, and so we made our disparate ways back into Grasmere for a regroup and the obligatory second breakfast (for some!), whilst sizzling in the unexpected sunshine. This was the Lakes. Where's the rain? It's traditional.
Meanwhile Stef had gone peak bagging after a night of stargazing, the stamina of (comparative) youth!
For my descent from Alcock Lay and myself took the alternate path north from the tarn, and I was glad I'd used the more traditional way up on previous trips. Definitely less steep and easier ground to travel over.
So to another leisurely carb/coffee intake at the cafe; A quick trip to Cotswold Outdoors for a (sale item) wicking T shirt in WHITE (my dependable black merino top just too much for the day's heat) and then a slow saunter up to Easedale Tarn. Sour Milk Gill showing white, but again with water flow much reduced.
A pause to take in the scenery, and then the advanced party struck out northwards working our way up to Codale Tarn to establish that night's camp.
Sitting down in the tent porch, first brew in hand, Lay arrived with news of the heat's impact on some of our party, and after a quick discussion we struck camp for the return (Hey this was a meet-up and for enjoyment after all)
So we gamely wandered back down to the rising clouds of Easedale midges.
This left Geoff, who was travelling further afield the next day, to his own personal set of midges. And a quiet night from his own report. I know the Codale wildcamp spot well and in fact he'd inadvertently picked the place I'd used on my last visit (great minds etc etc) and once the absolute silence of the tarn is accepted, its is a very gentle place to stay for the night.
But again - water from the inlet feed was low and becoming very peaty due to its slowing flow rate.
But back to the group at Easedale Tarn. We spent the evening putting the world to rights, sharing our thoughts and observations, with a common thread that ran throughout the weekend, our enjoyment of the natural world around us. Little needed to be said on that subject.
The continued good humour and sense of well being shining through it all.
Easedale Tarn - down amongst the midges
Labels: Lake District, UK Outdoors Blogger Meet June 2007, walks
Dear Diary:Friday June 8th (22:00)
I inadvertently met Geoff outside Windermere Railway Station. Or to be more precise he came over and met me.
Meanwhile following a brief texting session earlier in the journey Stef (aka Bearded Git) diverted his drive up from the Midlands, to pick us both up. Nice gesture. And the sort of selfless action that was repeated by all concerned throughout the blogger meet-up. Always happy to help ease the way, but done with tact.
We parked up in Grasmere, having searched in vain for the now defunct Tourist Information Centre (when did that happen?) and then it was off to spend time in the sun and take on a few carbs at what was to become our regular food stop over the next few days - Miller Howe cafe. Not the cheapest place in town I'm sure. But plenty of outside seating, rather too much sunshine, a good view of Grasmere comings and goings, and staff that didn't seem inclined to take our cash and hurry us out once we'd eaten.
When the five of us early arrivals were present (Weird Darren and Dawn completing the group) it was packs on, follow the road past Grasmere Church out of town, past the Wordsworth cloning laboratory, and upwards onto the familiar cart track leading up to Alcock Tarn.
Newts were spotted in the ornamental fishpond (well I've read that was its original purpose) and finally the tarn itself. A familiar spot to me with good valley views all around except to the east, where Heron Pike soared above us on the Fairfield Horseshoe.
The tarn contained far more reeds than I'd seen there in the past. And the water level was definitely lower than on previous trips. But the inlet stream was still providing a reasonable flow in, and provided a reliable fluid source.
Tents, tarps, bivvy bags erected; Brews (and more food!) on the go. And there was lots of gentle chat and eyeing up each other's kit as the evening remained hot, clear and light long after the sun had dropped behind the Langdale valley ridge.
A good start
Alcock Tarn 2006, with a little more H2OLabels: Lake District, UK Outdoors Blogger Meet June 2007, walks
Dear Diary:Friday June 8th (14:30)
I'd not been in the right frame of mind for this trip. A major upheaval over the last couple of months at work and the usual pre-season concerns over my fitness levels for more serious outings.
Are we ever happy with our fitness preparation? Looking around my contemporaries I really shouldn't over concern myself unduly. There's a sprinkling died young; Many now have serious illness, especially adult onset diabetes, and almost all carry slightly more weight than they did 10 years ago. In some cases visibly far too much.
Ah the joy of the post 40 physique. All those things you put off with riotous living coming home to roost in early middle age. The body calling time (And you thought it was a reliable one - too late to claim under he warranty now I guess)
I've got a lucky set of genes, and I've been told someone who should know (thanks Andy C) that the body shape post 40 is unlikely to get any worse if it already hasn't already by that age.
But in my case the decadent sort of lifestyle hasn't necessarily stopped, and it's been a long game in the playing. 27 years on motorcycles. Never a broken bone, and that's despite some monumental all seasons biking over the majority of that time. I helped bury a few friends in my 20s, so the risks have always been understood.
Which brings me nicely back to solo walking before I wander off beam any further.
Thursday evening saw me throwing gear into the pack, fastening the lid, and largely leaving the rest to fate. The preparation time had just not been available this time around, despite a conscious attempt to make the space.
But a part of the problem was in myself, there was something not quite right in my general attitude to this trip
Not, I hasten to add, due to the planned meeting of fellow UK Outdoor Bloggers from across the country. More I guess the open ended nature of the week after that. A few wild campspots in mind, but no A to B routes prepared, due to the camp diverse locations.
But as I sit here at Oxenholme Railway Station ('Gateway to the Lakes') sweating gently in the unexpectedly sizzling sunshine, I can feel the power of the Lakeland start to work its magic on me.
Relax. Share. Enjoy.
And I feel a good time is on the way.
Labels: Lake District, UK Outdoors Blogger Meet June 2007, walks
Dear Diary - Lakes Trip June 2007
So finally to the trip report. This was written in spare moments as I wandered around, so if that means it comes across as a little over reflective or disjointed, please remember the context.
I'm a great fan of Hunter S Thompson, or Dr Gonzo as he is commonly known amongst HST fans. I'd hardly call this Gonzo Journalism, but in the spirit of trying to capture the moment I'll try to leave it largely unedited unless it's necessary for clarification.
I'll split each day up into a new post, and finally follow it up with my usually debrief on lessons learnt/tips etc.
And for the record: Pack weight when I walked back in through the door was 13kg this time around, which included a spare gas canister and some remaining food (for a change)
Hope the report gives some feeling for an enjoyable break from other people's reality.
Labels: Lake District, UK Outdoors Blogger Meet June 2007, walks
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
Codale and Easedale Tarns (an old picture and no idea where I got it from originally)
Labels: Lake District, UK Outdoors Blogger Meet June 2007, walks
Dear Diary:Saturday June 9th
The day dawned warm and very sunny, already over hot for any serious tramping, unless we really had to. Nice to have the choice for a change.
During the night Lay and Duncan (aka AktoMan) had arrived, and so we made our disparate ways back into Grasmere for a regroup and the obligatory second breakfast (for some!), whilst sizzling in the unexpected sunshine. This was the Lakes. Where's the rain? It's traditional.
Meanwhile Stef had gone peak bagging after a night of stargazing, the stamina of (comparative) youth!
For my descent from Alcock Lay and myself took the alternate path north from the tarn, and I was glad I'd used the more traditional way up on previous trips. Definitely less steep and easier ground to travel over.
So to another leisurely carb/coffee intake at the cafe; A quick trip to Cotswold Outdoors for a (sale item) wicking T shirt in WHITE (my dependable black merino top just too much for the day's heat) and then a slow saunter up to Easedale Tarn. Sour Milk Gill showing white, but again with water flow much reduced.
A pause to take in the scenery, and then the advanced party struck out northwards working our way up to Codale Tarn to establish that night's camp.
Sitting down in the tent porch, first brew in hand, Lay arrived with news of the heat's impact on some of our party, and after a quick discussion we struck camp for the return (Hey this was a meet-up and for enjoyment after all)
So we gamely wandered back down to the rising clouds of Easedale midges.
This left Geoff, who was travelling further afield the next day, to his own personal set of midges. And a quiet night from his own report. I know the Codale wildcamp spot well and in fact he'd inadvertently picked the place I'd used on my last visit (great minds etc etc) and once the absolute silence of the tarn is accepted, its is a very gentle place to stay for the night.
But again - water from the inlet feed was low and becoming very peaty due to its slowing flow rate.
But back to the group at Easedale Tarn. We spent the evening putting the world to rights, sharing our thoughts and observations, with a common thread that ran throughout the weekend, our enjoyment of the natural world around us. Little needed to be said on that subject.
The continued good humour and sense of well being shining through it all.
Easedale Tarn - down amongst the midges
Labels: Lake District, UK Outdoors Blogger Meet June 2007, walks
Dear Diary:Friday June 8th (22:00)
I inadvertently met Geoff outside Windermere Railway Station. Or to be more precise he came over and met me.
Meanwhile following a brief texting session earlier in the journey Stef (aka Bearded Git) diverted his drive up from the Midlands, to pick us both up. Nice gesture. And the sort of selfless action that was repeated by all concerned throughout the blogger meet-up. Always happy to help ease the way, but done with tact.
We parked up in Grasmere, having searched in vain for the now defunct Tourist Information Centre (when did that happen?) and then it was off to spend time in the sun and take on a few carbs at what was to become our regular food stop over the next few days - Miller Howe cafe. Not the cheapest place in town I'm sure. But plenty of outside seating, rather too much sunshine, a good view of Grasmere comings and goings, and staff that didn't seem inclined to take our cash and hurry us out once we'd eaten.
When the five of us early arrivals were present (Weird Darren and Dawn completing the group) it was packs on, follow the road past Grasmere Church out of town, past the Wordsworth cloning laboratory, and upwards onto the familiar cart track leading up to Alcock Tarn.
Newts were spotted in the ornamental fishpond (well I've read that was its original purpose) and finally the tarn itself. A familiar spot to me with good valley views all around except to the east, where Heron Pike soared above us on the Fairfield Horseshoe.
The tarn contained far more reeds than I'd seen there in the past. And the water level was definitely lower than on previous trips. But the inlet stream was still providing a reasonable flow in, and provided a reliable fluid source.
Tents, tarps, bivvy bags erected; Brews (and more food!) on the go. And there was lots of gentle chat and eyeing up each other's kit as the evening remained hot, clear and light long after the sun had dropped behind the Langdale valley ridge.
A good start
Alcock Tarn 2006, with a little more H2OLabels: Lake District, UK Outdoors Blogger Meet June 2007, walks
Dear Diary:Friday June 8th (14:30)
I'd not been in the right frame of mind for this trip. A major upheaval over the last couple of months at work and the usual pre-season concerns over my fitness levels for more serious outings.
Are we ever happy with our fitness preparation? Looking around my contemporaries I really shouldn't over concern myself unduly. There's a sprinkling died young; Many now have serious illness, especially adult onset diabetes, and almost all carry slightly more weight than they did 10 years ago. In some cases visibly far too much.
Ah the joy of the post 40 physique. All those things you put off with riotous living coming home to roost in early middle age. The body calling time (And you thought it was a reliable one - too late to claim under he warranty now I guess)
I've got a lucky set of genes, and I've been told someone who should know (thanks Andy C) that the body shape post 40 is unlikely to get any worse if it already hasn't already by that age.
But in my case the decadent sort of lifestyle hasn't necessarily stopped, and it's been a long game in the playing. 27 years on motorcycles. Never a broken bone, and that's despite some monumental all seasons biking over the majority of that time. I helped bury a few friends in my 20s, so the risks have always been understood.
Which brings me nicely back to solo walking before I wander off beam any further.
Thursday evening saw me throwing gear into the pack, fastening the lid, and largely leaving the rest to fate. The preparation time had just not been available this time around, despite a conscious attempt to make the space.
But a part of the problem was in myself, there was something not quite right in my general attitude to this trip
Not, I hasten to add, due to the planned meeting of fellow UK Outdoor Bloggers from across the country. More I guess the open ended nature of the week after that. A few wild campspots in mind, but no A to B routes prepared, due to the camp diverse locations.
But as I sit here at Oxenholme Railway Station ('Gateway to the Lakes') sweating gently in the unexpectedly sizzling sunshine, I can feel the power of the Lakeland start to work its magic on me.
Relax. Share. Enjoy.
And I feel a good time is on the way.
Labels: Lake District, UK Outdoors Blogger Meet June 2007, walks
Dear Diary - Lakes Trip June 2007
So finally to the trip report. This was written in spare moments as I wandered around, so if that means it comes across as a little over reflective or disjointed, please remember the context.
I'm a great fan of Hunter S Thompson, or Dr Gonzo as he is commonly known amongst HST fans. I'd hardly call this Gonzo Journalism, but in the spirit of trying to capture the moment I'll try to leave it largely unedited unless it's necessary for clarification.
I'll split each day up into a new post, and finally follow it up with my usually debrief on lessons learnt/tips etc.
And for the record: Pack weight when I walked back in through the door was 13kg this time around, which included a spare gas canister and some remaining food (for a change)
Hope the report gives some feeling for an enjoyable break from other people's reality.
Labels: Lake District, UK Outdoors Blogger Meet June 2007, walks
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
During the night Lay and Duncan (aka AktoMan) had arrived, and so we made our disparate ways back into Grasmere for a regroup and the obligatory second breakfast (for some!), whilst sizzling in the unexpected sunshine. This was the Lakes. Where's the rain? It's traditional.
Meanwhile Stef had gone peak bagging after a night of stargazing, the stamina of (comparative) youth!
For my descent from Alcock Lay and myself took the alternate path north from the tarn, and I was glad I'd used the more traditional way up on previous trips. Definitely less steep and easier ground to travel over.
So to another leisurely carb/coffee intake at the cafe; A quick trip to Cotswold Outdoors for a (sale item) wicking T shirt in WHITE (my dependable black merino top just too much for the day's heat) and then a slow saunter up to Easedale Tarn. Sour Milk Gill showing white, but again with water flow much reduced.
A pause to take in the scenery, and then the advanced party struck out northwards working our way up to Codale Tarn to establish that night's camp.
Sitting down in the tent porch, first brew in hand, Lay arrived with news of the heat's impact on some of our party, and after a quick discussion we struck camp for the return (Hey this was a meet-up and for enjoyment after all)
So we gamely wandered back down to the rising clouds of Easedale midges.
This left Geoff, who was travelling further afield the next day, to his own personal set of midges. And a quiet night from his own report. I know the Codale wildcamp spot well and in fact he'd inadvertently picked the place I'd used on my last visit (great minds etc etc) and once the absolute silence of the tarn is accepted, its is a very gentle place to stay for the night.
But again - water from the inlet feed was low and becoming very peaty due to its slowing flow rate.
But back to the group at Easedale Tarn. We spent the evening putting the world to rights, sharing our thoughts and observations, with a common thread that ran throughout the weekend, our enjoyment of the natural world around us. Little needed to be said on that subject.
The continued good humour and sense of well being shining through it all.
Easedale Tarn - down amongst the midgesLabels: Lake District, UK Outdoors Blogger Meet June 2007, walks
Dear Diary:Friday June 8th (22:00)
I inadvertently met Geoff outside Windermere Railway Station. Or to be more precise he came over and met me.
Meanwhile following a brief texting session earlier in the journey Stef (aka Bearded Git) diverted his drive up from the Midlands, to pick us both up. Nice gesture. And the sort of selfless action that was repeated by all concerned throughout the blogger meet-up. Always happy to help ease the way, but done with tact.
We parked up in Grasmere, having searched in vain for the now defunct Tourist Information Centre (when did that happen?) and then it was off to spend time in the sun and take on a few carbs at what was to become our regular food stop over the next few days - Miller Howe cafe. Not the cheapest place in town I'm sure. But plenty of outside seating, rather too much sunshine, a good view of Grasmere comings and goings, and staff that didn't seem inclined to take our cash and hurry us out once we'd eaten.
When the five of us early arrivals were present (Weird Darren and Dawn completing the group) it was packs on, follow the road past Grasmere Church out of town, past the Wordsworth cloning laboratory, and upwards onto the familiar cart track leading up to Alcock Tarn.
Newts were spotted in the ornamental fishpond (well I've read that was its original purpose) and finally the tarn itself. A familiar spot to me with good valley views all around except to the east, where Heron Pike soared above us on the Fairfield Horseshoe.
The tarn contained far more reeds than I'd seen there in the past. And the water level was definitely lower than on previous trips. But the inlet stream was still providing a reasonable flow in, and provided a reliable fluid source.
Tents, tarps, bivvy bags erected; Brews (and more food!) on the go. And there was lots of gentle chat and eyeing up each other's kit as the evening remained hot, clear and light long after the sun had dropped behind the Langdale valley ridge.
A good start
Alcock Tarn 2006, with a little more H2OLabels: Lake District, UK Outdoors Blogger Meet June 2007, walks
Dear Diary:Friday June 8th (14:30)
I'd not been in the right frame of mind for this trip. A major upheaval over the last couple of months at work and the usual pre-season concerns over my fitness levels for more serious outings.
Are we ever happy with our fitness preparation? Looking around my contemporaries I really shouldn't over concern myself unduly. There's a sprinkling died young; Many now have serious illness, especially adult onset diabetes, and almost all carry slightly more weight than they did 10 years ago. In some cases visibly far too much.
Ah the joy of the post 40 physique. All those things you put off with riotous living coming home to roost in early middle age. The body calling time (And you thought it was a reliable one - too late to claim under he warranty now I guess)
I've got a lucky set of genes, and I've been told someone who should know (thanks Andy C) that the body shape post 40 is unlikely to get any worse if it already hasn't already by that age.
But in my case the decadent sort of lifestyle hasn't necessarily stopped, and it's been a long game in the playing. 27 years on motorcycles. Never a broken bone, and that's despite some monumental all seasons biking over the majority of that time. I helped bury a few friends in my 20s, so the risks have always been understood.
Which brings me nicely back to solo walking before I wander off beam any further.
Thursday evening saw me throwing gear into the pack, fastening the lid, and largely leaving the rest to fate. The preparation time had just not been available this time around, despite a conscious attempt to make the space.
But a part of the problem was in myself, there was something not quite right in my general attitude to this trip
Not, I hasten to add, due to the planned meeting of fellow UK Outdoor Bloggers from across the country. More I guess the open ended nature of the week after that. A few wild campspots in mind, but no A to B routes prepared, due to the camp diverse locations.
But as I sit here at Oxenholme Railway Station ('Gateway to the Lakes') sweating gently in the unexpectedly sizzling sunshine, I can feel the power of the Lakeland start to work its magic on me.
Relax. Share. Enjoy.
And I feel a good time is on the way.
Labels: Lake District, UK Outdoors Blogger Meet June 2007, walks
Dear Diary - Lakes Trip June 2007
So finally to the trip report. This was written in spare moments as I wandered around, so if that means it comes across as a little over reflective or disjointed, please remember the context.
I'm a great fan of Hunter S Thompson, or Dr Gonzo as he is commonly known amongst HST fans. I'd hardly call this Gonzo Journalism, but in the spirit of trying to capture the moment I'll try to leave it largely unedited unless it's necessary for clarification.
I'll split each day up into a new post, and finally follow it up with my usually debrief on lessons learnt/tips etc.
And for the record: Pack weight when I walked back in through the door was 13kg this time around, which included a spare gas canister and some remaining food (for a change)
Hope the report gives some feeling for an enjoyable break from other people's reality.
Labels: Lake District, UK Outdoors Blogger Meet June 2007, walks
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
Meanwhile following a brief texting session earlier in the journey Stef (aka Bearded Git) diverted his drive up from the Midlands, to pick us both up. Nice gesture. And the sort of selfless action that was repeated by all concerned throughout the blogger meet-up. Always happy to help ease the way, but done with tact.
We parked up in Grasmere, having searched in vain for the now defunct Tourist Information Centre (when did that happen?) and then it was off to spend time in the sun and take on a few carbs at what was to become our regular food stop over the next few days - Miller Howe cafe. Not the cheapest place in town I'm sure. But plenty of outside seating, rather too much sunshine, a good view of Grasmere comings and goings, and staff that didn't seem inclined to take our cash and hurry us out once we'd eaten.
When the five of us early arrivals were present (Weird Darren and Dawn completing the group) it was packs on, follow the road past Grasmere Church out of town, past the Wordsworth cloning laboratory, and upwards onto the familiar cart track leading up to Alcock Tarn.
Newts were spotted in the ornamental fishpond (well I've read that was its original purpose) and finally the tarn itself. A familiar spot to me with good valley views all around except to the east, where Heron Pike soared above us on the Fairfield Horseshoe.
The tarn contained far more reeds than I'd seen there in the past. And the water level was definitely lower than on previous trips. But the inlet stream was still providing a reasonable flow in, and provided a reliable fluid source.
Tents, tarps, bivvy bags erected; Brews (and more food!) on the go. And there was lots of gentle chat and eyeing up each other's kit as the evening remained hot, clear and light long after the sun had dropped behind the Langdale valley ridge.
A good start
Alcock Tarn 2006, with a little more H2OLabels: Lake District, UK Outdoors Blogger Meet June 2007, walks
Dear Diary:Friday June 8th (14:30)
I'd not been in the right frame of mind for this trip. A major upheaval over the last couple of months at work and the usual pre-season concerns over my fitness levels for more serious outings.
Are we ever happy with our fitness preparation? Looking around my contemporaries I really shouldn't over concern myself unduly. There's a sprinkling died young; Many now have serious illness, especially adult onset diabetes, and almost all carry slightly more weight than they did 10 years ago. In some cases visibly far too much.
Ah the joy of the post 40 physique. All those things you put off with riotous living coming home to roost in early middle age. The body calling time (And you thought it was a reliable one - too late to claim under he warranty now I guess)
I've got a lucky set of genes, and I've been told someone who should know (thanks Andy C) that the body shape post 40 is unlikely to get any worse if it already hasn't already by that age.
But in my case the decadent sort of lifestyle hasn't necessarily stopped, and it's been a long game in the playing. 27 years on motorcycles. Never a broken bone, and that's despite some monumental all seasons biking over the majority of that time. I helped bury a few friends in my 20s, so the risks have always been understood.
Which brings me nicely back to solo walking before I wander off beam any further.
Thursday evening saw me throwing gear into the pack, fastening the lid, and largely leaving the rest to fate. The preparation time had just not been available this time around, despite a conscious attempt to make the space.
But a part of the problem was in myself, there was something not quite right in my general attitude to this trip
Not, I hasten to add, due to the planned meeting of fellow UK Outdoor Bloggers from across the country. More I guess the open ended nature of the week after that. A few wild campspots in mind, but no A to B routes prepared, due to the camp diverse locations.
But as I sit here at Oxenholme Railway Station ('Gateway to the Lakes') sweating gently in the unexpectedly sizzling sunshine, I can feel the power of the Lakeland start to work its magic on me.
Relax. Share. Enjoy.
And I feel a good time is on the way.
Labels: Lake District, UK Outdoors Blogger Meet June 2007, walks
Dear Diary - Lakes Trip June 2007
So finally to the trip report. This was written in spare moments as I wandered around, so if that means it comes across as a little over reflective or disjointed, please remember the context.
I'm a great fan of Hunter S Thompson, or Dr Gonzo as he is commonly known amongst HST fans. I'd hardly call this Gonzo Journalism, but in the spirit of trying to capture the moment I'll try to leave it largely unedited unless it's necessary for clarification.
I'll split each day up into a new post, and finally follow it up with my usually debrief on lessons learnt/tips etc.
And for the record: Pack weight when I walked back in through the door was 13kg this time around, which included a spare gas canister and some remaining food (for a change)
Hope the report gives some feeling for an enjoyable break from other people's reality.
Labels: Lake District, UK Outdoors Blogger Meet June 2007, walks
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
Are we ever happy with our fitness preparation? Looking around my contemporaries I really shouldn't over concern myself unduly. There's a sprinkling died young; Many now have serious illness, especially adult onset diabetes, and almost all carry slightly more weight than they did 10 years ago. In some cases visibly far too much.
Ah the joy of the post 40 physique. All those things you put off with riotous living coming home to roost in early middle age. The body calling time (And you thought it was a reliable one - too late to claim under he warranty now I guess)
I've got a lucky set of genes, and I've been told someone who should know (thanks Andy C) that the body shape post 40 is unlikely to get any worse if it already hasn't already by that age.
But in my case the decadent sort of lifestyle hasn't necessarily stopped, and it's been a long game in the playing. 27 years on motorcycles. Never a broken bone, and that's despite some monumental all seasons biking over the majority of that time. I helped bury a few friends in my 20s, so the risks have always been understood.
Which brings me nicely back to solo walking before I wander off beam any further.
Thursday evening saw me throwing gear into the pack, fastening the lid, and largely leaving the rest to fate. The preparation time had just not been available this time around, despite a conscious attempt to make the space.
But a part of the problem was in myself, there was something not quite right in my general attitude to this trip
Not, I hasten to add, due to the planned meeting of fellow UK Outdoor Bloggers from across the country. More I guess the open ended nature of the week after that. A few wild campspots in mind, but no A to B routes prepared, due to the camp diverse locations.
But as I sit here at Oxenholme Railway Station ('Gateway to the Lakes') sweating gently in the unexpectedly sizzling sunshine, I can feel the power of the Lakeland start to work its magic on me.
Relax. Share. Enjoy.
And I feel a good time is on the way.
Labels: Lake District, UK Outdoors Blogger Meet June 2007, walks
Dear Diary - Lakes Trip June 2007
So finally to the trip report. This was written in spare moments as I wandered around, so if that means it comes across as a little over reflective or disjointed, please remember the context.
I'm a great fan of Hunter S Thompson, or Dr Gonzo as he is commonly known amongst HST fans. I'd hardly call this Gonzo Journalism, but in the spirit of trying to capture the moment I'll try to leave it largely unedited unless it's necessary for clarification.
I'll split each day up into a new post, and finally follow it up with my usually debrief on lessons learnt/tips etc.
And for the record: Pack weight when I walked back in through the door was 13kg this time around, which included a spare gas canister and some remaining food (for a change)
Hope the report gives some feeling for an enjoyable break from other people's reality.
Labels: Lake District, UK Outdoors Blogger Meet June 2007, walks
I'm a great fan of Hunter S Thompson, or Dr Gonzo as he is commonly known amongst HST fans. I'd hardly call this Gonzo Journalism, but in the spirit of trying to capture the moment I'll try to leave it largely unedited unless it's necessary for clarification.
I'll split each day up into a new post, and finally follow it up with my usually debrief on lessons learnt/tips etc.
And for the record: Pack weight when I walked back in through the door was 13kg this time around, which included a spare gas canister and some remaining food (for a change)
Hope the report gives some feeling for an enjoyable break from other people's reality.
Labels: Lake District, UK Outdoors Blogger Meet June 2007, walks
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
