Day 4 – Patterdale to Shap – a high and a low point for everyone

Another fine day awaited us as we gathered at the White Lion Inn. Today we would farewell the Lake district and enter the Eden Valley in preparation for our traverse of the Yorkshire Dales. But we weren’t prepared to let go of the Lakes just yet. Here we say a fond farewell to Ullswater near Patterdale.

We then enjoyed a lovely amble around Angle Tarn before reaching the highlight of today’s walk – Kidsty Pike.

This is the highest point on the Coast2Coast route and we were treated to an uninterrupted 360 degree view. We met a couple of young men also doing a charity walk and another couple who followed us most of the way but once our presence was known most left us so we could enjoy this beautiful viewing platform all to ourselves. There were 25 walking with us today which is quite a crowd on these beautiful hillsides and I guess our presence could dampen the serenity and peace for those who wished to savour a quieter moment to themselves.

Doug, Merran and I will readily admit the descent to Haweswater Reservoir was an absolute killer. No injuries with any of us but the old arthritic knees sure didn’t like very steep 1 hour descents.

A lengthy 6km traverse of the dam was really the icing on the cake. A brief snack break and then a leisurely amble into Shap.

We passed the ruins of Shap Abbey and, for some, enjoyed an beautiful night in the Hermitage B & B, all rickety floor boards, low ceilings, beautifully polished copper pots, shared bathrooms and all.  The local chippy served up some terrific fish and chips and treated us to mushy peas and pickled eggs – certainly an acquired taste but worth trying the local delicacies. A solid 34kms tomorrow so early to bed once again.

 

 

 

Day 3 Stonethwaite to Patterdale

Well most of us are now safely home after our wonderful fundraising adventure which now sadly is now 6 weeks gone. Our intentions to give you an updated blog of each day’s walk were severely hampered by a very little to, in most cases, totally non-existent wifi connectivity and very little evening time to ourselves before a shower, dinner and an early bedtime.

Our live updates were restricted to 4 bar reception on a mountain top promptly followed by a quick iphone photo and post to facebook. This at least gave you some insight into the adventure of a lifetime you were missing. And missing you were. Traditionally the Coast2Coast Walk would mimic Melbourne weather (the four seasons in one day scenario) over a 2 week period. Rain was inevitable but we were yet to see it. In fact, bar a 2 hour period on Day 8, we saw no rain for the entire journey. So Day 3 commenced with much anticipation of yet another perfect day.

Today we attempted 2 days in one with the half way point being Grasmere. All the walkers were now behaving like a fine oiled piece of machinery. They knew their backpacks intimately as did their buddies, they had their provisions loaded, their feet were prepped, walking sticks to the ready and we were on our way. Walking paces and walking buddies sorted we then settled into a hefty walking day.

With the benefit of experienced guides, Chris and Jan Ainsworth and Joel Griffiths we were happy to be led. Wainwright encouraged walkers doing the Coast2Coast to make the journey their own. It didn’t matter how you managed to get from A to B. “Such personal initiatives are to be encouraged. The way you go and the time it takes matter not. The essence of the walk is the crossing of England, from one coast to the other, on foot.” And so we trusted Chris on an eventful bush or more appropriately fern-whacking bog detour – a short cut he famously said.

No Great Tongue or Little Tongue route for us. We diligently followed Chris up a valley with a lovely beck running through it and emerged, I think to the north of Grisedale Tarn, rather than the more used south western access point. If you get to Grisedale Tarn before 2pm and the weather is agreeable a high route path via Helvellyn/Striding Edge or St Sunday Crag is possible but we arrived at 4pm so the sensible valley path was chosen and we all arrived safely in Patterdale around 6pm. Ian, our host at Old Water View, served us our preferred G&T/bubbly or beer and we enjoyed their hospitality immensely.

 

 

Day 2 – Ennerdale to Stonethwaite – Into the Lake District National Park

Started the day with fine weather as we left Ennerdale.

The walk beside Ennerdale waters was beautiful.

We  had a cuppa at Gillerthwaite at the Ennerdale youth hostel. From there the party split into two groups. One took the high road into the heather to High Stiles with magnificent views of the Buttermere Valley and the other group continued on a more gentle incline heading towards Haystacks. (Guess which one Katrina took! Her attitude towards walking of “the harder, the better” might help.)

Both groups scrambled up Haystacks risking life and limb on some challenging, almost vertical rock faces, sometimes on our hands and knees. It was well worth the effort, the view from the top was breathtaking and many photos were taken and emailed home.

Debbie Bird finished the day proclaiming, “I am a rock climber!” No one was about to argue with that. And Denise was thinking that the climbs were designed for tall people with very long legs. Nevertheless, Denise conquered Haystacks with a leg up or two.

Then a gentle wander down past Innominate Tarn where Alfred Wainwright’s ashes are scattered.

Both groups then struggled with a steep downhill walk through a slate mine followed by a very long walk off the mountains, past Honister slate mine museum. Some stopped here for tea and a pee, some left their walking poles behind and others got a lift down the mountain, either by bus or Mike the wonderful transporter. There were some very weary legs and sore knees after the long, difficult downhill scramble.

We arrived at Stonethwaite at around 6 pm. Dinner and some accommodated at Langstrath Country Inn where we were joined by the vivacious Yvonne Booth

and  her husband Duncan (another person with MS who we hope will benefit from the research that this Walk will fund), cow fearing Lyn (that’s another story) and the wonderful Graham and Margaret Bryce. Great day, great night lots of carb loading and ready for a good nights sleep.

Saturday 30 August. This is it folks… over the top

On a cloudy, windy morning in St Bees, the Walkers and supporters gathered at the beach on the shore of the Irish Sea. Most people were in long pants and wind protection on top against the brisk wind. We were kindly farewelled by the MS Society UK’s local Coupland branch and the Chairman of their English Council without a single drop of rain being felt. There were photos aplenty to record the emotions of this long awaited day, many in front of the famous sign that marks the official start of the Coast to Coast Walk. Though so many before us have completed the challenge of Wainwright’s Walk, rarely has a group arrived with a stronger passion for their cause.

As tradition requires, the next step was to dip our boots in the Irish Sea and to select a pebble that we would throw into the North Sea at the journey’s end. For some the selection of the pebbles was a challenge in itself because they were all so pretty and then, because the tide was out, we then had a fair walk to the sea. Once the boots had been dipped in the Irish Sea and the pebbles been gathered for the journey across an entire country, we were ready to embark on the challenge of a lifetime.

We finally set off at 9.10am, only 10 minutes behind schedule so the signs were looking good. As we ascended what was a toughish ascent to St Bees Headland the clouds lifted for a clear view of the Isle of Man and even Scotland. Mike accompanied us for 50 minutes which was excellent. But the path was narrow with uneven grassy verges.

Our scheduled lunch stop no longer existed and the backup was closed for renovation so a quick trip off route for Mike had us lunching, as we expected, with lovely freshly made sandwiches. Mike’s support role was starting to take shape in a big way. But a little time had been lost so we picked up the pace and soldiered through the mining villages of Moor Row and Cleator.

Our first real hill, Dent, beckoned and with a beautiful day of limited cloud the sight was spectacular. The climb up maybe not as spectacular but the 360 degree view at its peak definitely was. Special thanks to Yvonne Booth, 2013 Fundraiser of the Year, and her capable map reading friend, Ella Penuel Ferguson Scott, for getting us there.

The ascent was tough but the descent was tougher. The descent to Nannycatch Beck is the steepest on the whole Coast to Coast route and I think these pictures ably demonstrate that. But they’re all smiling. This was followed by a short level valley floor walk into Ennerdale Bridge. We safely arrived at 5.30pm.

A quick shower, a lovely dinner at the Shepherd’s Arms with the chef preparing a beautiful cake with an exact replica of our red Kiss Goodbye to MS hat to celebrate Katrina’s birthday and then off to bed in preparation for Day 2.

The Lake District awaits with good weather forecast. The high route is definitely on the cards. Just hope the knees and feet hold up but spirits are high.

Winter in Sydney

It’s really hard to take. Fleece for 5 mins and then it’s off. Excuse me Merran but where is your team shirt? I hope it’s in the wash.

Today we participated in an assignment for Meghan Rogers, daughter of Pauline who is walking all-the-way with us, for her Event Management degree which she doing at the International College of Management, Sydney (ICMS). Her task was to create a small fundraising event which would encourage local participation and support for the Kiss Goodbye to MS campaign.

For a gold coin donation walkers could join her for a short walk along the  beautiful Manly foreshore. Dogs and blokes were welcome.

Here’s Mike Hemingway giving it a go with Peter Molloy.

And Ruby, Denise’s dog, joining Merran and Tansey.

The ICMS campus is situated on Sydney Harbour’s North Head on St Patrick’s Estate overlooking Manly Beach.

And this is the view looking north towards Palm Beach.

The historic site is surrounded by 20 hectares of parklands and has extensive campus facilities.The building which houses ICMS was originally built in 1885 as St Patrick’s Seminary, Manly.

The building is made from stone initially quarried from North Head with the finer stone coming from Pyrmont by boat. The College stands at four storeys high with a six level central bell tower and covers 60,000 square feet.

Without further ado thank you Meghan for giving us a wonderful day to showcase our beautiful northern beaches. Manly is just a quick ferry ride from Sydney’s CBD from Circular Quay ferry terminal. And thank you for supporting your Mum in her efforts to reach her fundraising target. We have nearly reached our original fundraising goal but we are all keen to push on and raise as much as we can. Our aim is to continue until there is a cure. If you haven’t donated yet please do. Your donation may be the difference between finding a cure and assisting the 3 million worldwide currently living with MS to regain their quality of life. Or not. Don’t be a not.  Click DONATE now.

Thank you so much.

We will walk 300ks

Of course we will. And here is why. This video was produced at no cost to us by Bruce Stephens and Associates to whom we are greatly indebted. We are definitely not flaky tarts. We are committed fundraisers for MS research because we want to rid this world of one of the most misunderstood and invisible diseases which wreaks absolute havoc on the lives of those who must endure it. 3 million people worldwide currently live with MS and we are working hard to give them HOPE and renewed vigour that a cure is not far away.

Short of time view our two minute highlights version here

Have the time to be impressed and wished you’d joined us. View the full version here. It includes a  great final panorama of our gorgeous Sydney harbour – and yes we may have butchered a song along the way but as they say it’s all in the name of charity. Who said fundraising couldn’t be fun?

We hope you like our video and thank you greatly for your support of our efforts to find a cure for MS by walking 303kms across England over 12 days starting on the 30 August

To help us get our story out there on social media please share these video links with your friends or post our video, currently residing on vimeo, on facebook or twitter or any other social media avenue you prefer.

Thanks for your help in sharing as widely as possible and pretty soon we’ll be on our way …..

And remember it is never too late to DONATE. Select the DONATE icon and select your favourite fundraiser or DONATE to our team page here.

THANK YOU so much for your support.

Ceilidh (kay-lee) today

Our cake stall today at Coles Asquith had a Scottish Gaelic flavour to it. Not in the baking but the company. Seems the store double-booked the charities and while we sold aplenty the Hornsby RSL Pipe Band blew to their heart’s content. See the kilt in the background querying the store manager as to why we were there. But we were very nice and let them share the stage.

Ceilidh (kay-lee) is the Scotch Gaelic word for a “visit” – a party or celebration. The party involves dancing, music, drink and food… and usually that nasty haggis. But how appropriate. After we finish Wainwright’s Coast2Coast MS Walk some of us will be heading to Scotland itself and I’m not shy in saying I like the stuff. It’s only oatmeal soaked in…

But do you think the Pipers could play our theme song? Never they replied sacrilegiously. What are they on about? I thought our theme song 300ks (formerly known as 500 miles) was written by identical Scottish twins, Charlie and Craig Reid. Well, we’ll shortly give you a rendition the Proclaimers will be proud of. There’s more to us girls than just walking, baking and fundraising.

Today special thanks goes to Kendy Drummond for her divine cakes, Carolyn Reeves for her lovely slices, Sally Hawthorne, one of the team who drove across Sydney to deliver goods and keeps us suitably caffeine-hydrated. And last but not least, Pauline Rogers and Liz Melchior who kept me company this morning. Thank you Coles Asquith for allowing us to fundraise outside your store.

There were plenty of requests today for more goodies. Gluten Free, chocolate, banana, scones and lemon slices were all requested. If anyone would like to assist us please email us at c2cmswalk@gmail.com or bring your goods clearly labelled and packaged to Coles Asquith on Saturday 2 August 2014 when we will be hosting our second cake stall.

We are getting very close to reaching our $150,000 target and really appreciate everyone’s assistance and support. It definitely feels like a matter of when, not if, a cure will be found and we are thrilled we are well on the way to Kissing Goodbye to MS forever.

 

 

Special mentions

Recently retired ex Manly Sea Eagles rugby league professional, Josh Perry, didn’t have to look far for his next challenge. A quiet moment to ponder his role as MC for our Black and Red Dinner Dance before he was ready to pounce. A signed Storms jersey was nothing compared to the Sea Eagles jersey Josh unhesitatingly offered to our keen bidding crowd.

Debbie Bird, one of our all-the-way walkers, who has participated with us on long distance walks before spoke movingly about the challenges she faces every day having lived with MS now for 21 years. She admits she is quite scared about walking 303kms over uneven terrain and possibly with wet and muddy conditions courtesy of the English weather.  But she has every faith in the supportive team of women walking with her and even jokingly (or maybe not jokingly) volunteered the services of the  lovely Bron Dowling to literally carry her over those fells, dales and moors if the going gets a wee bit tough.  Bron, the rest of us will certainly chip in and assist you if it gets too much but we’ll leave you to it if you’re coping. Deb’s only a wee feather of a thing.

We have to say this group is all about putting the “fun” back into fundraising and Lou Purtle, ex auctioneer from Sydney Auctions, flew all the way from Townsville to show us just how to do it. Wear red, put on a silly expression, gee up the bidders to get into the spirit of things and then let’s do business and get this show on the road. All live auctions sold thanks to Louise’s sterling effort.

A reflective moment for an amazing woman – Tansey Keys. Little did she imagine how much success could be had when you just ask for help and donations. She was overwhelmed by the Bayview community’s generosity but it took the courage to ask that deserves as much credit. Thank you, Tansey, for reaching beyond your wildest dreams to raise funds for a charity, until recently, you knew little about.

Finally, an overwhelming thank you to her partner-in-crime. Ever since school Merran has had the power to inspire and uplift those around her and she did not disappoint. Your beautiful smile is one people with MS will not forget. Thank you. To continue to support our efforts particularly before the EOFY please visit our blog’s donate page and select the walker you would most like to support or to support the whole team please select this link.

 

 

 

 

Bayview Ball for MS research

To Bayview, in the heart of the Northern Beaches of Sydney, NSW, and a fund raiser that will linger long in the memory. Two of our intrepid walkers, Merran Cooper and Tansey Keys, fresh from their brush with fame in the Manly Daily, organized a black and red Dinner to help the team meet its $150k fundraising goal. The event was held at the Bayview Golf Club and at times it felt like the entire Mona Vale business community had turned out to support the event.

From Left, Tansey Keys and Merran Cooper

With 200 guests, music from the Enormous Horns, and an array of inspirational speeches and glittering prizes, the night was wildly successful. The event raised awareness, raised funds, and the team made sure everyone had a good time. It was spectacular. Special thanks to everyone (too many to mention!) for the generous donations to make the event possible.

We estimate some $20,000 was raised on the night, a great achievement and a testament to team work. Way to go!

Our next big fundraiser will be hosted by two of our other walkers, Sally Hawthorne and Dianne Ramsay, an opening night screening of the delightful romantic comedy “The Lunchbox” at The Orpheum Theatre, Cremorne, on Thursday 10th July from 7.45pm. Tickets can be purchased online here through trybooking with early bird specials available for bookings before 4 July. Don’t miss out. Remember every dollar given to support our efforts brings hope to the 2.5 million people worldwide currently living with MS that a cure is a distinct reality in their lifetime. Researchers are now confidently talking about when a cure  rather than if a cure will be found which is a positive sign that real progress is being made. Keep supporting us. We really appreciate it.

LUNCHBOX INVITATION

Always learning new skills

This time it was how to use my oven, how to ask for help, how to attractively package goods for sale, how to sell the Kiss Goodbye to MS message.

If it wasn’t for Gail’s handy suggestion to lower the oven temperature by 20 degrees for all those old family recipes when fan-forced ovens did not exist I would definitely not have had so many cakes to sell.

If it wasn’t for all the wonderful baking assistance from family and friends we would not have made a wonderful $1100 for continued research into a cure for MS.

If it wasn’t for their focus on community initiatives for worthy causes we wouldn’t have had such a fine venue. A special thank you to Bunnings Dural for giving us the opportunity to host 2 cakes stalls on 26 April and 17 May and to the Bureau of Meteorology for predicting and following through with two perfect days.

A special thank you to my mum Liz, my neighbours, Helen, Jan, Elena and expectant mum, Becky (just 4 days away from giving birth and still able to muster some goodies for our cause),  my golfing buddies – Gail, Judith, Dilys and Jenny, Robyn for the mountain of delicious cupcakes and friends of old.

From Liz, a special thank you to my all-the-way walking buddies, Pauline, Denise, Merran and Sal, to old friends Frances, Gabby, Vicki, Jane, Beverly, Stephanie, Gwen and Karen.

To Kendy and Anna who helped us serve Liz and I reserve special thanks. Your Thai Chilli Relish, lime butter, Zaatar (yes, a wonderful aromatic exotic thyme sumac sesame rub) and home baked apple pies went down a treat.

But if it wasn’t for your fine packaging skills and stall rearrangements we wouldn’t have sold all the merchandise. Presentation and pricing are key ingredients to a successful stall and we certainly learnt from the masters.

The other key ingredient is engaging with the customer, listening to their stories and selling ours. We met many health professionals including, the depression doctor, Dr Nick Krasner, occupational therapists and physiotherapists who are all presently working with people living with MS. They have seen for themselves the daily difficulties this debilitating disease presents for their patients and they were all very supportive of our efforts to continue research towards finding a cure.

A special mention too to the Hon Philip Ruddock, Federal Member for Berowra who popped in to see us, found something to his liking from our ample array of goodies and even partook of a sausage sandwich in support of Dural Girl Guides Association who worked tirelessly beside us.

Our efforts will continue next weekend. On Saturday May 24 Liz and I are relocating to Bunnings Carlingford for the mother of all Sausage Sizzles. Awarding winning butcher, Allan Waldon of Eastern Road Quality Meats, Turramurra, is donating all the sausages. Woolies is donating all the onions, bread and condiments and family and friends will be serving you. A $200 Bunnings gift voucher will be raffled at 4pm.

What more could you want? Picture it now – aisles and aisles of handy goods to purchase with your winning ticket, the captivating aroma of a juicy prime beef sausage and the opportunity to meet all-the-way walkers Helen, Pauline, Katrina and Liz. Well, a cure, of course. And with the sensational efforts of all 17 Australians walking all-the-way across England this September we are confident it definitely won’t be far away now.

See you at Bunnings Carlingford at 295 Pennant Hills Rd on May 24 from 9.00am.