I’ve been wearing walking shoes myself for some time now. They are comfortable, lightweight and the only maintenance they need is a quick rinse under the hose if we’ve been playing in the mud. I find them a brilliant all-purpose shoe. Perfect for scrambling about on a hillside and walking the dog, but also comfortable enough to drive in and presentable enough to wear on the school run.
Sunday was a perfect example of just how adaptable they are. We drove 60 miles to Salisbury so the kids could attend their Karate grading. Popped into a country pub for lunch before stopping off in Avebury on the way home to walk around the stones.
Avebury is the site of an incredible Neolithic Henge. Consisting of a large circular bank with an internal ditch it contains the largest megalithic stone circle in the world, which in turn encompasses two other separate circles. Situated in Wiltshire it is part of a remarkable wider prehistoric landscape which includes Silbury Hill and Stonehenge. It really is an astonishing site, and unlike its more famous neighbour (Stonehenge is 17 miles away) is totally accessible and free to visit (apart from parking).
While hubby and I took in the vastness and history of the site, the kids explored in their own ‘racing around madly’ way.
They were delighted to find these amazing beech trees with their exposed roots growing on top of the Henge. The Beech tree is considered the Mother of the Woods in folklore representing generosity of spirit and good luck as she gives both protection and nourishment. On our recent bushcraft day, the instructor shared a rather lovely sounding recipe for a beech leaf liqueur with me which I hope to make soon, although this wasn’t a place to be foraging.
These particular trees are clearly considered as a sacred place to many – we found offerings in all different forms around their bases as well as prayers written on ribbons hanging from their branches.
Thanks to Millet Sports for sending hubby the pair of Salmon Hiking Shoes to try.
4 comments
Everyone needs to have the right shoes in order to properly explore new places! It always comes down to the shoe
I totally agree Lex. It really does make such a difference having good footwear.
Im glad the shoes worked out. Ill need to attempt to convert my hubby, who only likes to buy cheep shoes because shoes don’t last long anyway. Oh how i wish for a good pair of all purpose shoes for him. It looks like you had a wonderful day, and i am so happy for you. And i must say that tree is so cool.
They are creatures of habit aren’t they! We did have a lovely day thanks Kellie and the tree was amazing 🙂