Outdoor Gym......

[DartmoorDumpling]

Now I am on the countdown to fitting into my "Mother of the Groom" outfit, my partner decided more exercise was the order of the day. He planned a lovely walk which involved a pretty steep hill climb (we discovered a much better zig-zag route for our return) on a cold and windy day.

The weather was kind to us though; we could see rain clouds all around but we stayed dry, with odd blue sky moments. I was very pleased with my legs, knees and ankles standing up well to the unfamiliar effort. Did get a bit puffed, but took regular "breather" breaks to take in the wonderful scenery.

The picture shows Meldon Reservoir, near Okehampton, Devon on the Dartmoor fringes. We walked to Black Tor, a little below Yes Tor and High Willhays. Our route was around 5 miles in total.

I recommend the use of strong hiking boots and a walking pole, (or two if you haven't got to hold a dog lead) for extra stability and confidence when hopping from rock to rock to avoid little streams and pools of black mud! My partner was frequently to be seen striding off into the distance with our lurcher, whilst I, and my little short fat friend (our JR terrier) paddled through the mud behind.

At times you think....I must be mad, why do I do this! But then, you turn and see the wonderful view...it puts everything into perspective; your troubles seem diminished and you can really breath and feel thankful to be alive.

[Hidden]

How inspiring - both the view and the prospect of a super ‘Mother of the Groom’ outfit!!

[BridgeGirl Administrator SS Supercook 2 stone]

What a lovely route! You're in a beautiful part of the country. Hope your chunky canine chum enjoyed it, too

[NannyEJ]

Fantastic view DartmoorDumpling . 5 miles, wow I am really impressed. Well done you. I bet your skin was glowing when you had finished. You will surely look amazing as mother of the groom and if your husband is getting into the spirit of it he should look amazing too! When is the Wedding? EJ

[DartmoorDumpling Restart Feb 2024 in reply to NannyEJ]

A couple of days before Christmas, in the Brecon Beacons; a true Welsh Wedding! (Just hope we don't have a foot of snow). Planning some walking in those welsh hills too if the weather allows....

[NannyEJ in reply to DartmoorDumpling]

Yep, take your walking boots. We will all pray it does not snow for your son’s big day. Would love to see a pic if you are able to post (I haven’t mastered that yet 🙇‍♀️). EJ

[kiwikyd-nz in reply to DartmoorDumpling]

I can't help thinking that a snow wedding would be magical You could make a bride and groom snowman to greet them when they arrive at the wedding venue

[VickyDLM 2 stone]

That's an amazing view, DD. It definitely looks worth the climb to get there! Not sure about the mud though...

You're going to be a fabulous MOG!

[Minniewinny 5 stone Maintainer]

Beautiful photo and great effort.. your outfit will fit with room to spare, well done your partner for encouraging you and working with you.. and the dogs.

Cheering you on 🎉🎉🎉

[IndigoBlue61]

Lovely post and what a beautiful view DD 😊. Thank you for sharing

[Ceals]

Fabulous view DD, sounds like a lovely walk.

[Latinia]

How inspiring. That weight loss kick is ‘in the bag’. As you say, the Moor is beautiful at this time of year. I too have had a couple of opportunities to get up there recently. The air was clear and the views magnificent. I am envious about the Brecon Beacons. Yes, you certainly must take your boots! BW.