After my outing during the week, I am back to walking in the city again. But somehow, I don’t feel as confined now, knowing that I can go to the mountains again soon.
I walk as substantial circuit within the city each day. As I do, there are signs of the changing seasons. When I was first limited to the city, the daffodils were in bloom, but they have now disappeared. Even the dandelions are past their flowering best and waiting for a breeze to spread their seeds.
But there are new blooms from several trees and shrubs. Buddleia has come into bloom in some of the city parks. In many streets, the wisteria plants add colour as they climb the sides of apartment blocks. And of course, the chestnut trees have added their spectacular candelabra flower formations. All are reminders that even in these times life goes on.
And of course, life does go on. I walk in the early mornings and I share the walkways with runners and joggers. The trains still run in and out of the main railway station. The barges still go up and down the canal.
Paradoxically, my daily step count has actually gone up in this time of crisis. I am averaging 20,000 steps per day. The early morning walks are supplemented by pacing up and down my balcony while on the telephone. It is indeed possible to stay healthy within the social distancing guidelines.
But for all of that, I will be glad when this is all over and we can get back to something closer to normality.
Walkingman 