So happy to be here

After spending the first 48 years of my life in a hot climate, I returned to my family’s roots to settle in the UK. I often get asked why I traded the warm weather for a country that experiences lots of rain, cold temperatures and frequent grey skies and my answer is always the same... variation! It’s fantastic to live in a country where the seasons are constantly changing and each one is more beautiful than the last. I know it may be hard for some to understand that permanent warmth isn’t unbeatable, but change is good!

Having the freedom to be able to pick and choose from thousands of miles of trails and footpaths within splendid landscapes is also something I’m discovering with sheer delight. I am like a kid in a candy shop, struggling to decide each weekend which path to take. Rain, wind, snow, sun – whatever the weather, there is something exciting about putting on your boots and heading out and anticipating what you are going to see.

Last year I subscribed and came across the #walk1000miles articles. What a great way to get a nation out there, getting fit and seeing the land we live in. I started my journey on the 1st January. A good year ahead, I think. Thanks for the inspiration, Country Walking.

I am going to spend the rest of my life exploring this green and pleasant land on foot. Janine Jarratt, Pickmere