 I just feel so very lucky to have found Helen and Bryn Walking by a series of events that just fitted into place….I’d completed online courses run by MIND which led onto the Couch to 5K with them, then they passed on the details of a course of weekly local walks to be run in autumn 2022 (luckily on my non-working day) in conjunction with the Outdoor Partnership, of which Helen was one of the leaders. I had seen Bryn Walking pop up on facebook, had joined and it was on the list of things to do but just hadn’t got around to going out with them, plus if I’m being honest was probably nervous of meeting new people etc. Because of attending that series of walks I was offered a subsidy to do 2 courses of my choice of courses run by Helen – Navigation/Hillwalking/Mountain Walking or First Aid. In the meantime I did the introductory navigation day run by Bryn Walking and absolutely loved it! I’d never even been to the Kerry Ridgeway before despite living so close. We had perfect misty conditions! I’ve always loved Geography and maps and vaguely recalled some of the map work from school, but not compass work and I’m still convinced compasses are witchcraft! It’s fascinating. It just felt so good to be outdoors and to be learning something! I would never have felt able to just go off on my own for a walk before doing these courses and Helen as a tutor is fantastic, patient, clear and great company. I then went on to do the Bronze and Silver NNAS Navigation courses. I can’t always make the walks due to work but I’ve since been on a few and what was I worried about?? On every walk there is a lovely bunch of ladies and we chat about all sorts of things (okay mainly our dogs!) THEN I was introduced to Helen’s counterpart from South Wales, Alan Ward, for a revision nav session and discussion over lunch…a few days later I signed up to go to Annapurna Base Camp in November with them!! I’m also booked onto the Bryn Walking Slate trails trip next year and is lovely to have something so nice to look forward to. I have gained a new hobby, skills, fresh love of the outdoors (not to mention the Brecon Beacons) and a lovely new group of friends. Feeling very lucky and grateful.  
6 Comments
Wendy Cottis
6/9/2023 13:13:28
Lovely write up Louise. We are lucky to have all been brought together by Helen and Alan. I feel it is a special tribe that adds a lot to our lives. Always love the opportunity to talk ‘long dogs’ as well.
Helen
6/9/2023 13:48:19
I agree, so lovely to hear Louise’s story and I have to thank everyone who becomes part of our circle - the dynamics are always warm and relaxed. It’s so nice for new comers to know that they will be welcomed and to know that there are opportunities on offer as well as making new friendships.
Lizzie C
6/9/2023 15:13:47
Well done Lou! 😊
Bethan Logan
6/9/2023 16:38:49
What a lovely story, so great to hear everything in one place, I think the project is lucky to have found you as a participant Louise, just one piece of the jigsaw needed to bring everything together and this story will, and has already, inspired others to get out there and explore which is what it's all about! Also, I loved the dog chat. Leave a Reply. |
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