The Matterhorn (4478 meters)

I cried a bit when I reached the summit - something I haven’t done for a very long time. It shocked me - I really didn't expect it. It surprised me.

I cried because I have never in my life had to work so hard for something so beautiful.

It was overwhelming and I will never forget that moment.

Kinder plateau is a place of contrasts.

Stark, desolate troughs meandering into the fog. Soles sinking knee deep into mahogany rich peat. The wind carries hail, sand and a bitter cold that stings exposed cheeks. Sometimes you can't see at all.

Not that I'm complaining, mind. It's what I love about the place - it can feel wild. I am just eternally grateful that people are as fickle as they are - not venturing out when the weather turns. I get the place to myself.

Sometimes the clouds retreat, and you are rewarded with special views. Kinder's little thank you.

Carve away...

The next time you go wild camping, make sure you take a really sharp knife with you.

One of the finest things you can do whist warming yourself around the campfire is to carve a spoon. Trust me. There is something genuinely heart-warming about the process.
The focus needed makes it somewhat meditative at times, and the finished spoon will forever remind you of the wild place in which you camped and of the good company you kept that evening.

Each spoon stimulates wonderful memories.....

Kinder Downfall

I went on a walk from Upper Booth to Kinder Downfall and back, to bed in my new boots today.
I set off quite late (around 14:30) and arrived back at the car by dusk. It was a very atmospheric walk - the weather was overcast and blustery which made the Kinder plateau feel wonderfully remote!
The good news is my boots gave me no problems whatsoever which bodes well for the trek!

Crib Goch

I've travelled up to Snowdonia, North Wales with Gill to do some training in the mountains! We chose to climb the Crib Goch route to the summit of Snowdon . Crib Goch is a knife-edged arête with spectacular views. Luckily, the weather was kind to us, and the views there stunning - the best I've ever seen in Snowdonia!

This was my first outing in my new boots and I really put them through their paces! Luckily they performed very well with only slight rubbing that never materialised into blisters. Given a few more long walks, I am convinced they will wear into a perfect fit.