Just got back from a Division Growing Guiding Weekend at Dunton, Nr Fakenham, Norfolk.
We arrived on Friday, and had a Quiz Night and i was on the winning team and we won by 1 point, i won a Guiding Mug, we also partook of wine and nibbles.
We didn't go bed too late the first night.
On Saturday morning we started off with breakfast, porridge and croissants, then started our first session.
This was run by Catherine Foreman and was entitled 'Challenges' and we learned about challenges Penquins, Royal Wedding, Our Planet Our World, Three Peaks.
Then we stopped for Morning coffee and had homemade scones.
The second session was doing Rag Rugging which was brilliant demonstrated by a Guider Jerry, i am quite taken with it, and bought the tools.
Then we had lunch of homemade soup and Home baked bread followed by a Fresh Fruit Platter.
Then in the afternoon we had our third session which was outside, which was run by Scouter Bob outside, this was great it was orienteering, we learnt how to read a compass, and then followed an orienteering course which led us to different challenges, one was a jigsaw puzzle, wire a plug, reach 2 mouse traps using canes and elastic bands which was just out of reach and follow a string trail blindfolded, with bags attached and see what was in the bags, great fun, i loved it.
Then we had afternoon tea with homemade cake.
Followed by a Go! Training.
Then we had dinner of Roast Pork and Cider Casserole with Vegetables, and Roast Potatoes, followed by a Fruit Pavlova.
In the evening we had a Chick Flick, the majority vote was Devil Wears Prada, drank wine and had nibbles, while continuing doing the Rag Rug and other crafts.
Eventually going to bed about 12.30, when my pedometer read 84 steps until i realised it zeroed at 12 midnight.
For breakfast on Sunday we had Porridge, home made bread and Jam.
Then we had a session on Teambuilding, which was fun and interesting, playing silly getting to know you games.
Then we were ready to leave about noon.
A great weekend the best ever.
Sunday, 30 January 2011
Wednesday, 26 January 2011
Leprosy Mission
We have had two meetings about Leprosy Mission the first meeting Veronica Welham cam and discussed with us about what the Leprosy Mission does and how we can help, it was a very interesting meeting.
Our mission is to minister in the name of Jesus Christ to the physical, mental, social and spiritual needs of individuals and communities disadvantaged by leprosy; working with them to uphold human dignity and eradicate leprosy.
http://www.leprosymission.org.uk/default.aspx |
Thursday, 20 January 2011
The Spark Book by Chris Downie
By now, you've probably heard of "Sparkpeople". It has taken the online weight loss and health community by storm, by providing the largest free service for those looking to change their lives.
"The Spark", written by founder Chris Downie, details the origins of Sparkpeople, its philosophies, and a 28 day plan for transforming your life.
After making a gazillion dollars selling his company to eBay, Chris Downie immediately put his vision of SparkPeople into motion, which is the result of what 4 million people a month see today. The Spark is based on some strong foundational premises, including:
In my opinion, SparkPeople excels in its concept of community, its emphasis on lifestyle and positive thinking and mindset change. It shows that even if dietary principles aren't up to scientific speed - adherence and consistency are the most important components to any program. This is exemplified in the many testimonials of SparkPeople followers.
"The Spark", written by founder Chris Downie, details the origins of Sparkpeople, its philosophies, and a 28 day plan for transforming your life.
After making a gazillion dollars selling his company to eBay, Chris Downie immediately put his vision of SparkPeople into motion, which is the result of what 4 million people a month see today. The Spark is based on some strong foundational premises, including:
- Goal-setting
- Behavior change
- Community Support
- Positive motivation
- Team building
- Accessibility
- World-class technology
The Four Cornerstones of Living a "Sparked" Life
- Focus: The ability to set priorities, live a life according to your values, and become clear about your vision and goals.
- Fitness: A physical and mental springboard that provides you the energy to reach your goals and trains you to think on your feet.
- Fire: The passion that is created by your actions and momentum. When you live with fire, you see possibilities, not problems.
- Positive force: This is what happens when you share your energy and success with others. The more you give, the more you get in return
The SparkPeople Plan
- Fast break: Essentially re-emphasizing and expanding on goal-setting. This part gives some very good examples of the how's and why's behind setting attainable goals. It's as good an overview as I've seen on the topic.
- Healthy diet habits: This is where things may get controversial. The SparkPeople way of eating is based on conventional USDA/National Academy of Sciences recommendations. The dietetic staff of SparkPeople may be a little behind on nutritional science here. Nevertheless, there are some sensible eating tips in there on how to incorporate healthy foods into the diet and caloric needs.
- Lifestyle change: This section serves as kind of a reinforcement of the previous sections relating to motivation and positivity.
- Spread the Spark: This part is about how to maintain a loss, pay it forward and encourage others.
Overall Impression
SparkPeople is something of a game changer in the online health community. This book certainly bottles up the main principles on which SparkPeople's success is based.In my opinion, SparkPeople excels in its concept of community, its emphasis on lifestyle and positive thinking and mindset change. It shows that even if dietary principles aren't up to scientific speed - adherence and consistency are the most important components to any program. This is exemplified in the many testimonials of SparkPeople followers.
Tuesday, 18 January 2011
Silent Witness (TV Series 1996– )
Silent Witness is a forensic thriller series, which was first broadcast in 1996, created by ex-police officer Nigel McCrery. The programme originally followed the activities of pathologist Dr Sam Ryan (who was later promoted to professor), played by Amanda Burton. However, Ryan's character departed early in the eighth series in 2004. During the sixth series in 2002, Dr Leo Dalton (William Gaminara) and Dr Harry Cunningham (Tom Ward) had joined the team, and now remained in the series and continued as lead characters following Ryan's departure, with Dalton replacing her as professor. Dr Nikki Alexander (Emilia Fox) joined the team shortly after Ryan's departure. Orginally set in Cambridge, the main action of the series was then relocated to London.
The programme is typically made up of a series of two-part stories, usually with six to eight episodes per series.
The programme is typically made up of a series of two-part stories, usually with six to eight episodes per series.
 | William Gaminara | ... |
Leo Dalton (84 episodes, 2002-2011)
|
| | Tom Ward | ... |
Dr. Harry Cunningham (84 episodes, 2002-2011)
|
 | Emilia Fox | ... |
Dr. Nikki Alexander (64 episodes, 2004-2011)
|
| | Amanda Burton | ... |
Sam Ryan (44 episodes, 1996-2004)
|
The Spark Diet
| “This diet will change your life!” You’ve heard that one before, haven’t you? The latest crazes claim to have stumbled upon a magic secret that decades of research and millions of real-life experiences have failed to discover - and now they’re willing to share it with you. Too bad those “secrets” or “discoveries” never quite pan out the way they’re supposed to. The problem is, these diets do not change your life, even if they do help you lose weight. They don’t change your life, because they don’t change your lifeSTYLE. When the diet’s over, you end up with the same habits and daily routines that caused the weight gain in the first place. Typical diets are temporary solutions to what for many of us is a lifetime problem. That’s why 95% of dieters gain their weight back within a year - and often more. Fads and gimmicks are no match for some plain, old-fashioned common sense. Dieting without a lifestyle change is like patching a flat tire. You can put a temporary fix on the damaged area to get the car rolling again. But it’s highly likely that you’ll just end up patching it again later - just as it’s likely that you’d have to diet again at some point. There are millions of frustrated dieters out there who have made a practice of patching tires again and again and again, and are still struggling. If they simply had a better set of tires (or a healthier lifestyle), this wouldn’t be a problem anymore. The SparkDietTM is a four-stage process that helps you make the elusive jump from “dieting” to a “fresh, new lifestyle.” These stages zero in on the keys to a lifestyle transition that fixes the problem once and for all - motivation, healthy habits, and confidence. When these are normal parts of your everyday life, you may never need to “go on a diet” again. |
 | Yo-yo dieting may seem like a harmless way to live, but it is serious, dangerous business. Studies have shown that yo-yo dieting is hard on your heart and depletes your immune system. Not only that, but it’s counterproductive. Every time you lose weight and gain it back, it makes it much tougher for your body to lose weight again and much easier to gain it. So, every time you diet, it’ll take a higher and higher toll on you - and your body - until you completely wear yourself down or give up trying altogether. So, unlike most diets, the SparkDiet will be a positive experience. No more yo-yoing here, just steady progress that winds up with permanent results. It will make you feel good about yourself instead of training you to find flaws or beat yourself up. Hopefully, you’ll meet new people in the community and have some fun. Most of the fun you’ll have will come from freedom. Freedom to make the journey as you see fit, freedom to mess up without the world ending, and freedom to create the healthy lifestyle that you’ve always wanted. So jump off the dieting roller coaster and free yourself from this harmful cycle. You’ll land safely and - yes - your life will change. |
|  The Fast Break Stage is a springboard that gives more power to the other SparkDiet Stages. Just a little prep and practice give you a head start without the need for manic, life-altering changes. You’ll choose and focus on three small, simple goals that will help you get off to a good start without overwhelming you. Meanwhile, you’ll learn six strategies that will set you up for success.  Healthy Diet Habits help you chisel away at the building blocks of a healthy lifestyle. These are six simple changes you can make in your life that really add up to something special. If you pick up these six habits - and if they stick around - we can almost guarantee that you’ll reach your goals. You’ll also accelerate your weight loss during this stage by regularly using the meal planner and nutrition tracker, tools that help you build a healthy lifestyle the right way.  Stage 3 bridges the gap from dieting to healthy lifestyle and gets you ready to spread the “spark” to other people. The Lifestyle Change gives you a chance to learn to live with your collection of new habits. Even more importantly, it also teaches you how to stay motivated and consistent. Persistent self-motivation is the key to keeping momentum alive and making it different this time.  This is the culmination of weeks of hard work. In this stage, we’ll help you max out your weight loss success and put it to good use as a positive force for your loved ones and community. You can draw on everything you’ve done up till now to reach your goals and dreams, and to help others do the same. You can do whatever you put your mind to! |
| The diet program is a combination of directed and self-directed action. Your MySpark Page, along with reminder e-mails, will guide you to the right places at the right times. The program is set up with activities, tools, goals, articles, and information that help you build the skills and habits to live a healthy lifestyle. This is a very hands-on process. Quick fixes may promise weight loss while you sleep, but a healthy lifestyle is active, not passive. You’re going to play an active part in making real changes, instead of waiting for them to happen to you. Every step will be another boost of motivation and momentum. You’ll cover a wide range of topics, from controlling your portions to coping with setbacks. Every bit of it is designed to build confidence and habits that last. While all of this is going on, you’re encouraged to explore and use the site and its resources to your advantage. We know that everyone moves at different speeds and that you can be tripped up by tricky obstacles that are out of your control. Because of this reality, you control when you move on to each higher stage. You can either follow the prescribed schedule (highly recommended), or wait to move on until you feel more ready. Also, if you miss a topic or two - or even if you completely fall off the wagon for a while - you can revisit old topics and strategies at any time. You’ll do much better, and you’ll see stronger, longer-lasting results, if you pay attention to all of these strategies and habits. You’re not being timed, so there’s no need to rush. You will lose weight, but don’t forget that keeping it off is just as important. So make a commitment, take some time, and make sure you get it right. |
| Going out on a limb here, it’s probably a safe assumption that you want the SparkDiet to work. You want it to work fast, you want it to work well, and you want it to stick. You’re in luck. Whatever else happens in the next several weeks, whatever else you learn, there are three major ingredients that run through every stage of the SparkDiet, and make it work. These factors are proven to accelerate weight loss and raise your motivation levels to new heights. Any time spent here will save hours of false starts, confusion, and frustration.  You may have heard that “it takes a village to raise a child.” Well, it can take a whole community to help each other reach goals. That’s exactly what the community does. Tens of thousands of people from around the world use our site as a gathering place and a forum for meeting, motivating, and trading ideas. You’re now a member of this community. Many of our members say that the only thing standing between their success and failure is often a kind word or bit of advice from another member. Post on the message boards regularly, join a SparkTeam, comment on someone's SparkPage blog, or do a SparkPage search for other members like you.  The calorie equation is the core of what you’ll be doing in the SparkDiet. To lose weight, you simply need to burn more calories than you take in. The best way to know if you’re reaching your calorie goals is to simply create weekly meal plans and track what you’ve eaten. Our meal planner and nutrition tracker, along with reporting and journal tools, give you a real-time, clear picture of how you’re doing at any time. In some stages, you’ll be using these tools more than in other stages, but you should always be in the habit of using these tools to get a handle on what you’re eating.  Few diets ask you to do anything more than eat what they tell you to. That’s part of the problem; a one-size-fits-all weight loss program is doomed to fail. You can customize the SparkDiet to fit your needs, and to do this, it’s important to know something about yourself. In the next several weeks, you’ll be introduced to several simple activities that help you learn what type of program strategy works best for you. So watch for the Diet Personality Profiler, Fitness Personality Profiler, Main Motivation Worksheet, and Healthy Lifestyle Checkups. They’re your chance to learn something that you didn’t know before. One other way to learn about and pay attention to your body is to find methods to measure progress that don't involve weighing yourself on the scale. We would all agree that the benefits of fitness and weight loss go far beyond the number on a scale, so fixating on that number alone really doesn't make sense. It's fun to discover how your body changes as it grows healthier, no matter what the scale says. Measuring different areas of your body is a great example. Your neck, arms and waist can prove progress even when the scale doesn't budge. www.sparkpeople.com |
Monday, 17 January 2011
Weightwatcher Links
www.weightwatchers.co.uk
www.zeropointsoup.com
www.facebook.com/home.php#
/pages/WeightWatchers/5273
www.facebook.com/home.php#
/group.php?gid=6297422343&
www.zeropointsoup.com
www.facebook.com/home.php#
/pages/WeightWatchers/5273
www.facebook.com/home.php#
/group.php?gid=6297422343&
Saturday, 8 January 2011
Calorie Counting Links
www.caloriesperhour.com
www.calorie-count.com
www.calorieking.com
www.calorieking.com.au
www.calorie-count.com
www.onlineconversion.com/
www.foodfocus.co.uk/registerprompt.php
www.fitday.com
Calories in vegetables
www.positivehealthsteps.com/calories/vegetable-calorie-chart.shtml
100 snacks under 100 calories:
www.fitnessireland.ie/100snacks.php
To estimate how many calories you've burned:
www.healthstatus.com/calculate/cbc
www.nutritiondata.self.com/
www.livestrong.com/thedailyplate
www.caloriecount..com
www.eatingwell.com
www.calorie-count.com
www.calorieking.com
www.calorieking.com.au
www.calorie-count.com
www.onlineconversion.com/
www.foodfocus.co.uk/registerprompt.php
www.fitday.com
Calories in vegetables
www.positivehealthsteps.com/calories/vegetable-calorie-chart.shtml
100 snacks under 100 calories:
www.fitnessireland.ie/100snacks.php
To estimate how many calories you've burned:
www.healthstatus.com/calculate/cbc
www.nutritiondata.self.com/
www.livestrong.com/thedailyplate
www.caloriecount..com
www.eatingwell.com
Monday, 3 January 2011
The Kissing Gates Walk
Yesterday i met mum at Snettisham Church, and we started our walk with the dogs Spot and Trixie, we went up through Hall Farm, cut across fields on to Norton Hill, saw some wonderful houses, it was peaceful and idyllic.
We met the main road and went down Common Road, there were 7 horses in the field we should have gone through so we went via the road to meet the main road we then crossed the By Pass and started walking through Ken Hill Wood, it was lovely and sunny without being too hot.
We saw Fungi
Robert Herb
Grey Squirrel
We steadily went uphill, wow it was hard work at times.
At the top we had quite a long rest.
Then started downhill towards Beach Road.
We went down beach road, and across the A149, and down Station Road, and turned off towards Snettisham Watermill, and then followed the river, again this was idyllic.
We saw Mallards
And continued along upto the main road crossed over and continued through Snettisham Housing Estate, up to Park Farm, followed the path through the back of Park Farm passing through a field with goats in.
Then round back to the Church and the finish, pretty worn out by then.
The walk said it was 3 3/4 miles.
However, my pedometer, said we walked 13272 steps and 6.07 miles.
4th August 2010
We met the main road and went down Common Road, there were 7 horses in the field we should have gone through so we went via the road to meet the main road we then crossed the By Pass and started walking through Ken Hill Wood, it was lovely and sunny without being too hot.
We saw Fungi
Robert Herb
Grey Squirrel
We steadily went uphill, wow it was hard work at times.
At the top we had quite a long rest.
Then started downhill towards Beach Road.
We went down beach road, and across the A149, and down Station Road, and turned off towards Snettisham Watermill, and then followed the river, again this was idyllic.
We saw Mallards
And continued along upto the main road crossed over and continued through Snettisham Housing Estate, up to Park Farm, followed the path through the back of Park Farm passing through a field with goats in.
Then round back to the Church and the finish, pretty worn out by then.
The walk said it was 3 3/4 miles.
However, my pedometer, said we walked 13272 steps and 6.07 miles.
4th August 2010
North Norfolk Coastal Path 2005
Me and Jen continued this walk after doing the Peddars Way, we started in July 2005.
Introduction
Initial discussions for the North Norfolk Coast Path .adjoining the Peddars Way began in the 1960’s, in the late 1970’s a feasibility study was completed, with the report being published in 1982.
Eventually, on the 8th July 1986 HRH Prince Charles the Prince of Wales officially opened the route on the beach at Holme.
The North Norfolk Coast is classed as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and is 47 miles long.
We had difficulty deciding where the start of the route was, but after research we came to the conclusion that it was on Hunstanton Green by the Pier Site, it is a shame there is no sign to say that this is the beginning of the path.……
We have found the waymarking of this path not very good, and we did a fair amount of guesswork.
Again there was no definite end to the walk, so we finished at Cromer Railway Station.
Sunday 10th July
Hunstanton to Thornham 5 ½ miles approx
The route opened officially on the 8th July 1986, we are virtually starting the walk exactly 19 yrs after its official opening.
A glorious day for the start of our North Norfolk Coastal Walk, there were a lot of people around, we are not used to all these people.
We started at the old Hunstanton Pier site, it was difficult finding the beginning of the North Norfolk Coast, but from what we can ascertain, this is about the start.
We passed St Edmunds Chapel ruins in Hunstanton and saw this plaque:-
God Willed
At Gore Point in Holme where the Wash meets the North Sea, we saw some spectacular views, at the end of the walk we had to go down a steep grassy slope, I had difficulty getting down I thought I would slip. We arrived at Thornham at about 2pm, a lovely walk.
Sunday 24th July
Thornham to Brancaster 4 miles approx
This was quite boring, a lot of tarmaced roads. Through Thornham we saw some lovely houses and gardens.
Then we went up Choseley Road, it seemed like miles, we thought we had gone too far then we came across the sign.
We passed a small gypsy encampment but luckily saw nobody.
Sunday 14th August
Brancaster – Burnham Overy Staith 6 miles approx
A very cloudy with the odd couple of light showers, but it wasn’t cold.
Some lovely views over the saltmarshes.
When we passed Brancaster Staithe, the masts of the boats were very noisy, clanging together in the breeze.
After that we followed a bank, which seemed to go on for miles this straight bank, we met several people doing the Coastal Path.
The gulls were very noisy at times.
During lunch as we sat down the sun came out, then as we got up it went in again.
We told Bob to collect us at Burnham Overy Staithe when we got there he wasn’t there so we went and had a quick look at the harbour then returned to the A149. where we waited and waited, then he rung up and said where were we, he had driven up and down the A149 several times and couldn’t see us after asking several questions I eventually asked Where are You, he was in Brancaster Staithe.
Sunday 11th September
Burnham Overy Staithe – Wells – Next - Sea 6.7 miles approx (should have been)
It was cloudy and overcast but not too bad
We continued our walk of the North Norfolk Coastal Path today from Burnham Overy Staithe to Wells should have been 6.7miles.
Burnham Overy Staithe Harbour is lovely, really pretty, there are seats you can sit and watch the water, boats and birds. . We walked along the sea bank for ages, it was spectacular views, at the end of the bank, we came across a vandalised sign so we didn’t know which way to go, their was a three way choice, the way we chose, led us to the beach, so we went back and chose another way, it soon became obvious we were wrong and were lost, it was a nice walk going over land reclaimed from the sea, we continued on, I panicked to begin with, then figured as long as sea is on our left, we must reach Holkham and pick up the Acorns again, then we went by a pine forest which was planted to stop sand blowing on farmers fields, we found a bench and had a lovely lunch overlooking Holkham Bay, then we continued on and reached Holkham where we picked up the Acorns again, first time since Burnham Overy Staithe.
We saw a refreshment kiosk and had an ice cream, then continued through Holkham woods, and reached Wells, we went to the harbour and had chips.
Sunday 18th September
Wells – Next – Sea - Blakeney 7.5 miles approx
It was a lovely day, it was cloudy but clear and it was very warm
We continued our walk of the North Norfolk Coastal Path today from Wells to Blakeney, 7.5 miles.
It was good walking with some spectacular scenery over the salt marshes, we saw lots of birds and migrating geese.
At one point we came across some brightly coloured tents in the distance looking like Medieval tents, and they were playing very loud music, we come to the conclusion it was one of those illegal raves, we passed a group of people sitting on haystacks, obviously from the rave and asked what was going on, they said oh just a group of us having some fun, which reinforced our suspicions, I said is it going very early or very late they laughed and said very late.
Overall the walking was very good, however, at times it was very muddy and at one point jenny slipped over and ended on her knees, I however, didn’t mess around I did it properly, I elegantly slid down and ended on my rear end sitting in the mud.
We continued on quite muddy by now.
At morston was the harbour one side of us and some birding lakes the other side, the lakes were full of geese and birds, making an awful noise it was quite spectacular.
At Morston we treated ourselves to a well deserved ice cream. Then continued on to Blakeney which is very pretty. On the route we have saw some very pretty harbours, i didn't know existed, amazing all the times i have travelled down the A149 and not realised what was a few minutes away
Sunday 25th September
Blakeney - Salthouse 5.2 miles approx
It started off cloudy and drizzly, but it improved and ended up a very nice day.
Blakeney is lovely, with the harbour, a very busy lake, with lots of birds, we continued along the banks, and hit a footpath diversion, due to construction works, we then continued on to Cley-next-sea, passing Cley windmill, it is a lovely village, Cley.
We then continued onto Salthouse, along some lovely paths, seeing some spectacular scenery.
During this part of the walk we passed some lovely birding lakes, with lots of birds.
Sunday 2nd October
Salthouse - Sheringham 6 miles approx
It was cloudy and very windy, but it wasn’t cold and there was some sun.
It was the nicest walk of this stretch, some spectacular views from Weybourne to Sheringham. We saw the steam train.
Sunday 9th October
Sheringham - Cromer 5 miles approx
A lovely day, warm and sunny couldn’t be better.
On leaving Sheringham, we climbed Beeston Hill, and had some spectacular views of Sheringham below us.
Then we winded our way down and crossed the A149 then we started to go up, through some lovely woodland, reminding me of being a child, and kicking all the leaves on the ground.
We passed the flag pole at Roman Camp which signifies the highest point in Norfolk.
Then started going downhill again (thank goodness). We saw some lovely views, it was a great walk, one of the best, for weather and views.
Then we arrived at Cromer, we have finished the whole of the North Norfolk Coastal Walk.
Since January we have walked 94 miles, in 9 months, taking it in stages, we succeeded what we set out to do and walked The Peddars Way and North Norfolk Coastal Path. A wonderful experience.
Introduction
Initial discussions for the North Norfolk Coast Path .adjoining the Peddars Way began in the 1960’s, in the late 1970’s a feasibility study was completed, with the report being published in 1982.
Eventually, on the 8th July 1986 HRH Prince Charles the Prince of Wales officially opened the route on the beach at Holme.
The North Norfolk Coast is classed as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and is 47 miles long.
We had difficulty deciding where the start of the route was, but after research we came to the conclusion that it was on Hunstanton Green by the Pier Site, it is a shame there is no sign to say that this is the beginning of the path.……
We have found the waymarking of this path not very good, and we did a fair amount of guesswork.
Again there was no definite end to the walk, so we finished at Cromer Railway Station.
Sunday 10th July
Hunstanton to Thornham 5 ½ miles approx
The route opened officially on the 8th July 1986, we are virtually starting the walk exactly 19 yrs after its official opening.
A glorious day for the start of our North Norfolk Coastal Walk, there were a lot of people around, we are not used to all these people.
We started at the old Hunstanton Pier site, it was difficult finding the beginning of the North Norfolk Coast, but from what we can ascertain, this is about the start.
We passed St Edmunds Chapel ruins in Hunstanton and saw this plaque:-
God Willed
They were Long
They Lived They Loved
They Found They Held
God Willed
Aye Do Not
Grieve
It was difficult to read in places but we think it is right.
We passed the lighthouse, and went through old Hunstanton and passed the Lifeboat and the golf course, then followed the River Hun into Holme, we went through the Sanddunes and passed Norfolk Wildlife Trust house The Firs.At Gore Point in Holme where the Wash meets the North Sea, we saw some spectacular views, at the end of the walk we had to go down a steep grassy slope, I had difficulty getting down I thought I would slip. We arrived at Thornham at about 2pm, a lovely walk.
Sunday 24th July
Thornham to Brancaster 4 miles approx
This was quite boring, a lot of tarmaced roads. Through Thornham we saw some lovely houses and gardens.
Then we went up Choseley Road, it seemed like miles, we thought we had gone too far then we came across the sign.
We passed a small gypsy encampment but luckily saw nobody.
Sunday 14th August
Brancaster – Burnham Overy Staith 6 miles approx
A very cloudy with the odd couple of light showers, but it wasn’t cold.
Some lovely views over the saltmarshes.
When we passed Brancaster Staithe, the masts of the boats were very noisy, clanging together in the breeze.
After that we followed a bank, which seemed to go on for miles this straight bank, we met several people doing the Coastal Path.
The gulls were very noisy at times.
During lunch as we sat down the sun came out, then as we got up it went in again.
We told Bob to collect us at Burnham Overy Staithe when we got there he wasn’t there so we went and had a quick look at the harbour then returned to the A149. where we waited and waited, then he rung up and said where were we, he had driven up and down the A149 several times and couldn’t see us after asking several questions I eventually asked Where are You, he was in Brancaster Staithe.
Sunday 11th September
Burnham Overy Staithe – Wells – Next - Sea 6.7 miles approx (should have been)
It was cloudy and overcast but not too bad
We continued our walk of the North Norfolk Coastal Path today from Burnham Overy Staithe to Wells should have been 6.7miles.
Burnham Overy Staithe Harbour is lovely, really pretty, there are seats you can sit and watch the water, boats and birds. . We walked along the sea bank for ages, it was spectacular views, at the end of the bank, we came across a vandalised sign so we didn’t know which way to go, their was a three way choice, the way we chose, led us to the beach, so we went back and chose another way, it soon became obvious we were wrong and were lost, it was a nice walk going over land reclaimed from the sea, we continued on, I panicked to begin with, then figured as long as sea is on our left, we must reach Holkham and pick up the Acorns again, then we went by a pine forest which was planted to stop sand blowing on farmers fields, we found a bench and had a lovely lunch overlooking Holkham Bay, then we continued on and reached Holkham where we picked up the Acorns again, first time since Burnham Overy Staithe.
We saw a refreshment kiosk and had an ice cream, then continued through Holkham woods, and reached Wells, we went to the harbour and had chips.
Sunday 18th September
Wells – Next – Sea - Blakeney 7.5 miles approx
It was a lovely day, it was cloudy but clear and it was very warm
We continued our walk of the North Norfolk Coastal Path today from Wells to Blakeney, 7.5 miles.
It was good walking with some spectacular scenery over the salt marshes, we saw lots of birds and migrating geese.
At one point we came across some brightly coloured tents in the distance looking like Medieval tents, and they were playing very loud music, we come to the conclusion it was one of those illegal raves, we passed a group of people sitting on haystacks, obviously from the rave and asked what was going on, they said oh just a group of us having some fun, which reinforced our suspicions, I said is it going very early or very late they laughed and said very late.
Overall the walking was very good, however, at times it was very muddy and at one point jenny slipped over and ended on her knees, I however, didn’t mess around I did it properly, I elegantly slid down and ended on my rear end sitting in the mud.
We continued on quite muddy by now.
At morston was the harbour one side of us and some birding lakes the other side, the lakes were full of geese and birds, making an awful noise it was quite spectacular.
At Morston we treated ourselves to a well deserved ice cream. Then continued on to Blakeney which is very pretty. On the route we have saw some very pretty harbours, i didn't know existed, amazing all the times i have travelled down the A149 and not realised what was a few minutes away
Sunday 25th September
Blakeney - Salthouse 5.2 miles approx
It started off cloudy and drizzly, but it improved and ended up a very nice day.
Blakeney is lovely, with the harbour, a very busy lake, with lots of birds, we continued along the banks, and hit a footpath diversion, due to construction works, we then continued on to Cley-next-sea, passing Cley windmill, it is a lovely village, Cley.
We then continued onto Salthouse, along some lovely paths, seeing some spectacular scenery.
During this part of the walk we passed some lovely birding lakes, with lots of birds.
Sunday 2nd October
Salthouse - Sheringham 6 miles approx
It was cloudy and very windy, but it wasn’t cold and there was some sun.
It was the nicest walk of this stretch, some spectacular views from Weybourne to Sheringham. We saw the steam train.
Sunday 9th October
Sheringham - Cromer 5 miles approx
A lovely day, warm and sunny couldn’t be better.
On leaving Sheringham, we climbed Beeston Hill, and had some spectacular views of Sheringham below us.
Then we winded our way down and crossed the A149 then we started to go up, through some lovely woodland, reminding me of being a child, and kicking all the leaves on the ground.
We passed the flag pole at Roman Camp which signifies the highest point in Norfolk.
Then started going downhill again (thank goodness). We saw some lovely views, it was a great walk, one of the best, for weather and views.
Then we arrived at Cromer, we have finished the whole of the North Norfolk Coastal Walk.
Since January we have walked 94 miles, in 9 months, taking it in stages, we succeeded what we set out to do and walked The Peddars Way and North Norfolk Coastal Path. A wonderful experience.
Walk after Work
After work me and Bob took Spot a walk down Snettisham beach, we heard a cuckoo but unfortunately didn't see one.
We saw the family of Magpies again
And saw and heard 2 RAF Jets.
I would have liked to go a bit further, but Bob was having breathing difficulties.
1st July 2010
We saw the family of Magpies again
And saw and heard 2 RAF Jets.
I would have liked to go a bit further, but Bob was having breathing difficulties.
1st July 2010
Peddars Way 2005
In 2005, me and Jen decided to walk the whole of the Peddars Way in stages. The Peddars way is 47 Miles long.
Built
The Romans developed the route between about AD 47 – 70 (Just under 2000 years ago) from an existing Bronze Age track (which would make it 4000 years old!)
This is the earliest Roman Road in the Norfolk.
Roman engineers tended to make their roads take the shortest most practical route, but in general they paid careful regard to obstacles.
Pre Roman Times
Peddars Way was originally called Palmers Way - pilgrims (carrying palms) used to use it to travel from Ely to Walsingham.
Another reference said a short section of the road was used by Pilgrims including Royalty, travelling backwards and forwards to Walsingham.
Destination
Possibly originally linked to Colchester.
Supposed to be from Stanton Clare in Suffolk to Holme which is 50 miles.
Now it starts in Knettishall in Suffolk to Holme which is 47 miles.
There is a Norfolk legend that says the road turned at Ringstead and ended at St Edmunds Point, Hunstanton
Sunday 30th January 2005
Knettishall – Wretham 6 Miles
We collected Jen and left for Knettishall near Thetford it was a foggy start but on the way it cleared up and turned into a lovely warm sunny day. We got there and started about 9.30am it started in lovely pretty woodland, the scenery and weather was perfect. This eventually turned into swampland, where we followed a broadwalk to and over the River Thet, where we had our elevenses. We saw a lot of dead rabbits.
Late morning I got bitten by a large long haired brown dog, on my wrist, it was very painful and broke the skin.
We passed through Brettenham Heath where we had lunch.
We passed the A11 and the main London to Norwich rail track. Then we passed through farmland, and went through some smelly muddy track. We eventually finished our 6 mile walk at Wretham about 3pm, found the next part of our walk and waited about 20 minutes for Bob.
We got home, I was shattered, my legs hurt the dog bite was throbbing.
Sunday 6th February 2005
Wretham – Little Cressingham 8 Miles
Today is part 2 of our Peddars Way walk today we do from East Wretham to Little Cressingham a total of 8 miles. I was worried because I haven't walked that distance before, I got on better than I expected. It was a good easy walk we went through military zones and heard lots of gunshots, there was some lovely scenes, we saw snowdrops out and lots of daffodils nearly out. We passed Thompson Water and the Pingo Trail.
There was a warning about Giant Hogweed along part of the trail, saying to beware because if you touch the leaves the sap could sting, the Hogweed grows upto 5 metres tall and the leaves can grow upto 1 metre across. (There is a picture, but it is the wrong season to get the full effect)
It took us about 5 hours.
During the walk we saw two plaques in totally different places, there was no reason for them, they were in the middle of nowhere, with no date or who put them there being mentioned.
The first one was vertical with the writing vertical, with a spiral in the top right hand corner.
The verse read:-
The second one was horizontal and read:-
Sunday 20th March 2005
Little Cressingham – A47 7 miles
It started off misty and damp, although the mist remained throughout the day, it dried up.
We were dropped off at Little Cressingham at about 10.30am, and started our walk, most of the walk was over metalled surfaces unfortunate, and wasn’t following the original Peddars Way which had been lost over the years, we picked up the original Peddars Way again the other side of North Pickenham.
We saw lots of wild daffodils and Catkins, we saw baby lambs and calves, we saw a lamb chasing a pheasant which was a picture to see.
Many signs of Spring on the way.
We passed the River Wissey where Jen insisted on stopping to play Pooh Sticks.
We hand lunch in North Pickenham, then the walk continued on a grassy green lane called Procession Lane after Pilgrims who used it, this now was following the ancient Peddars Way. The walk was very hard it was mainly on metalled surfaces and progressed uphill gently all the way, it was very hard work.
Towards the end of the walk we came across an abandoned car which had been set alight to.
Then we saw a plaque (see photo) with the following words on laid out as they were on the plaque:-
Sunday 15th May 2005
A47 – Castle Acre 5 miles
Through several reasons we have had quite a long break doing the walks, and we were both eager to get back to them.
This is the shortest leg of the walk, but it was the only way we could organise it.
The day was glorious, weather was lovely and sunny with clear blue skies, the birds were singing, we could smell all the greenery of spring, we stripped down to tee shirts it was so warm. We saw lovely yellow fields everywhere with oil seed rape flowering, it looked quite spectacular.
It wasn’t the best section there was a lot of Mettalled surfaces. When we had our elevenses we were joined by some cattle who came to watch.
Just outside Castle Acre we came to a deep Ford, with signs saying not suitable for cars which people ignored, for a moment we thought how do we get past, then spotted a footbridge round the edge of it, some children were playing and paddling in the Ford while having a picnic lunch, this Ford was part of the River NarWe saw some fantastic views of the Castle Acre Priory.
Then I met up with Ann Dodd we used to sit on Play Groups and PlayFund committees together years ago.
We had lunch in a spectacular spot overlooking the River Nar.
Just after lunch we went over a small wooden bridge over a stream just off the River Nar and met this boy about 10, who was pointing out tadpoles and small fishes to us.
We then proceeded into Castle Acre, a lovely village, where Bob met us before we reached our meeting place.
Sunday 22nd May 2005
Castle Acre – A148 (Harpley Dams) 7.11 miles
This was not the nicest part of the journey, we went constantly uphill, and for half the journey it was on metalled roads.
The weather was fine.
Near the end of the journey we came to a plaque which read:-
We were completely exhausted when we were done.
Sunday 19th June
A148 (Harpley Dams) – Fring Road 5 ½ miles approx
It was Hot Hot Hot today about 90degrees (30c)
It was a lovely walk it meandered up and down gentle hills, we rarely saw anyone.
We passed lovely wildflower meadows, beautiful hedgerows that were inundated with life, insects, butterflies, birds.
At one point we saw some baby ducklings not very old on the path, but they scattered and we missed taking a photo.
Although it was a beautiful walk it was very tiring because of the heat, we intended to get to Fring Cross at Sedgeford, but had to cut the walk short, by about 1.5-2 miles.
Sunday 26th June
Fring Road - Holme 7 ½ miles approx
It was not as hot today.
It was another lovely walk, lots of wildlife and insects in the hedgerows, with lots of wildflower meadows. It wasn’t long before we reached Fring Cross, which is where we should have been collected last week. Fring Cross is an old Ford, where Heacham River used to cross, and there used to be a Cross there which is long gone.
We walked through Ringstead, this is the only place on the whole walk that we passed a shop, we bought an ice cream, I also met and spoke to Pete Mullins.
We continued the walk and passed another Plaque which read:-
This is part 1 of our walk, the next part is to complete the North Norfolk Coastal Path.
Built
The Romans developed the route between about AD 47 – 70 (Just under 2000 years ago) from an existing Bronze Age track (which would make it 4000 years old!)
This is the earliest Roman Road in the Norfolk.
Roman engineers tended to make their roads take the shortest most practical route, but in general they paid careful regard to obstacles.
Pre Roman Times
Peddars Way was originally called Palmers Way - pilgrims (carrying palms) used to use it to travel from Ely to Walsingham.
Another reference said a short section of the road was used by Pilgrims including Royalty, travelling backwards and forwards to Walsingham.
Destination
Possibly originally linked to Colchester.
Supposed to be from Stanton Clare in Suffolk to Holme which is 50 miles.
Now it starts in Knettishall in Suffolk to Holme which is 47 miles.
There is a Norfolk legend that says the road turned at Ringstead and ended at St Edmunds Point, Hunstanton
Sunday 30th January 2005
Knettishall – Wretham 6 Miles
We collected Jen and left for Knettishall near Thetford it was a foggy start but on the way it cleared up and turned into a lovely warm sunny day. We got there and started about 9.30am it started in lovely pretty woodland, the scenery and weather was perfect. This eventually turned into swampland, where we followed a broadwalk to and over the River Thet, where we had our elevenses. We saw a lot of dead rabbits.
Late morning I got bitten by a large long haired brown dog, on my wrist, it was very painful and broke the skin.
We passed through Brettenham Heath where we had lunch.
We passed the A11 and the main London to Norwich rail track. Then we passed through farmland, and went through some smelly muddy track. We eventually finished our 6 mile walk at Wretham about 3pm, found the next part of our walk and waited about 20 minutes for Bob.
We got home, I was shattered, my legs hurt the dog bite was throbbing.
Sunday 6th February 2005
Wretham – Little Cressingham 8 Miles
Today is part 2 of our Peddars Way walk today we do from East Wretham to Little Cressingham a total of 8 miles. I was worried because I haven't walked that distance before, I got on better than I expected. It was a good easy walk we went through military zones and heard lots of gunshots, there was some lovely scenes, we saw snowdrops out and lots of daffodils nearly out. We passed Thompson Water and the Pingo Trail.
There was a warning about Giant Hogweed along part of the trail, saying to beware because if you touch the leaves the sap could sting, the Hogweed grows upto 5 metres tall and the leaves can grow upto 1 metre across. (There is a picture, but it is the wrong season to get the full effect)
It took us about 5 hours.
During the walk we saw two plaques in totally different places, there was no reason for them, they were in the middle of nowhere, with no date or who put them there being mentioned.
The first one was vertical with the writing vertical, with a spiral in the top right hand corner.
The verse read:-
The footprints of our ancestors
Familiar as our own faces
Remote as fossils
Written on clay
And wash away
Over and over
Over and over
Maybe this refers to people who lost their lives building the road???The second one was horizontal and read:-
Surveyors have made their lines
On the land trapping Albion
In a net of roads
A taut web on the edge of empire.
Albion I believe is Roman for Britain, as this is a Roman road, it fits, and it seems to refer to the Roman mapping of the area.Sunday 20th March 2005
Little Cressingham – A47 7 miles
It started off misty and damp, although the mist remained throughout the day, it dried up.
We were dropped off at Little Cressingham at about 10.30am, and started our walk, most of the walk was over metalled surfaces unfortunate, and wasn’t following the original Peddars Way which had been lost over the years, we picked up the original Peddars Way again the other side of North Pickenham.
We saw lots of wild daffodils and Catkins, we saw baby lambs and calves, we saw a lamb chasing a pheasant which was a picture to see.
Many signs of Spring on the way.
We passed the River Wissey where Jen insisted on stopping to play Pooh Sticks.
We hand lunch in North Pickenham, then the walk continued on a grassy green lane called Procession Lane after Pilgrims who used it, this now was following the ancient Peddars Way. The walk was very hard it was mainly on metalled surfaces and progressed uphill gently all the way, it was very hard work.
Towards the end of the walk we came across an abandoned car which had been set alight to.
Then we saw a plaque (see photo) with the following words on laid out as they were on the plaque:-
The
Piety
Of
Every
Man
And
Every
Wo-
Mans
Whisp-
Ered
Prayers
Clasped
In the
Grain of
Wood and
Stone and
In the Grace
Of ancient
Air
Sunday 15th May 2005
A47 – Castle Acre 5 miles
Through several reasons we have had quite a long break doing the walks, and we were both eager to get back to them.
This is the shortest leg of the walk, but it was the only way we could organise it.
The day was glorious, weather was lovely and sunny with clear blue skies, the birds were singing, we could smell all the greenery of spring, we stripped down to tee shirts it was so warm. We saw lovely yellow fields everywhere with oil seed rape flowering, it looked quite spectacular.
It wasn’t the best section there was a lot of Mettalled surfaces. When we had our elevenses we were joined by some cattle who came to watch.
Just outside Castle Acre we came to a deep Ford, with signs saying not suitable for cars which people ignored, for a moment we thought how do we get past, then spotted a footbridge round the edge of it, some children were playing and paddling in the Ford while having a picnic lunch, this Ford was part of the River NarWe saw some fantastic views of the Castle Acre Priory.
Then I met up with Ann Dodd we used to sit on Play Groups and PlayFund committees together years ago.
We had lunch in a spectacular spot overlooking the River Nar.
Just after lunch we went over a small wooden bridge over a stream just off the River Nar and met this boy about 10, who was pointing out tadpoles and small fishes to us.
We then proceeded into Castle Acre, a lovely village, where Bob met us before we reached our meeting place.
Sunday 22nd May 2005
Castle Acre – A148 (Harpley Dams) 7.11 miles
This was not the nicest part of the journey, we went constantly uphill, and for half the journey it was on metalled roads.
The weather was fine.
Near the end of the journey we came to a plaque which read:-
From
Blackwater
Carr to
Sea Gate
Since
Tithe Plough
First
Broke the
Bread of
Land
Pightles
And pieces
Plots &
Pastures
To Everyman
His Stony Acre
This obviously had its roots in agriculture.We were completely exhausted when we were done.
Sunday 19th June
A148 (Harpley Dams) – Fring Road 5 ½ miles approx
It was Hot Hot Hot today about 90degrees (30c)
It was a lovely walk it meandered up and down gentle hills, we rarely saw anyone.
We passed lovely wildflower meadows, beautiful hedgerows that were inundated with life, insects, butterflies, birds.
At one point we saw some baby ducklings not very old on the path, but they scattered and we missed taking a photo.
Although it was a beautiful walk it was very tiring because of the heat, we intended to get to Fring Cross at Sedgeford, but had to cut the walk short, by about 1.5-2 miles.
Sunday 26th June
Fring Road - Holme 7 ½ miles approx
It was not as hot today.
It was another lovely walk, lots of wildlife and insects in the hedgerows, with lots of wildflower meadows. It wasn’t long before we reached Fring Cross, which is where we should have been collected last week. Fring Cross is an old Ford, where Heacham River used to cross, and there used to be a Cross there which is long gone.
We walked through Ringstead, this is the only place on the whole walk that we passed a shop, we bought an ice cream, I also met and spoke to Pete Mullins.
We continued the walk and passed another Plaque which read:-
And I
Being Here
Have Been
Part of
All this
Caught &
Thrown
Like sun
On Water
Have Entered
Into All
Around Me
We then reached the A149 and continued on to and passed The River Hun, where we came upon a sign which said Peddars Way one way and North Norfolk Coast the Other, we had Finished the 47 mile walk.This is part 1 of our walk, the next part is to complete the North Norfolk Coastal Path.
Snettisham to Heacham South Beach
The question is will we won't we, after a scorching few days, there was some heavy rain overnight, and it started off overcast, weather forecast showing showers, after humming and haaing we decided to go for it.
Started off going to Jens for a Wii Fit session, and then Bob got on his moped to its MOT, which it sailed through, and i drove to pick him up.
We then went to Snettisham and set off to heacham, the first thing we saw was 3 magpies chasing each other quite spectacularly.
We continued walking till we reached Heacham Dam.
After the Dam it got really hard going because we were walking on very soft sand towards the end i was really struggling.
Eventually we reached Heacham, and had a lovely lunch at The Heacham Halt cafe.
Then we started the long journey home, this time we went the land side of the dunes and this was much easier walking, we walked through some holiday homes built on boats.
We then passed Island Camping Club
Continuing on beside Heacham River we saw a family of Coots.
And a Grey Heron coming into land.
We saw a Reed Warbler, hovering from reed to reed.
We saw a Blue-tailed damselfly
We saw a Caterpillar
We saw loads of Sea Holly
We also saw plenty of Sea Bindweed
We saw quite a lot of Rabbits as well.
We also saw a red and black moth called cinnabar.
We eventually finished our walk, hot bothered and satisfied.
We walked a total of 15986 Steps and 7.31 Miles.
We went and collected the Moped and popped into Mums for a cup of tea, Dads reaction to our adventures i am old enough to know better and shouldn't go on long walks at my age!!!!!
29th June 2010
Started off going to Jens for a Wii Fit session, and then Bob got on his moped to its MOT, which it sailed through, and i drove to pick him up.
We then went to Snettisham and set off to heacham, the first thing we saw was 3 magpies chasing each other quite spectacularly.
We continued walking till we reached Heacham Dam.
After the Dam it got really hard going because we were walking on very soft sand towards the end i was really struggling.
Standing in the wild in the middle of nowhere I said isn't this perfect it's like we're alone in the world, Bob said yes till one of the kids ring and bring you back down to earth and guess what JEN rang
We saw huge flocks of oystercatchers coming into land.Eventually we reached Heacham, and had a lovely lunch at The Heacham Halt cafe.
Then we started the long journey home, this time we went the land side of the dunes and this was much easier walking, we walked through some holiday homes built on boats.
We then passed Island Camping Club
Continuing on beside Heacham River we saw a family of Coots.
And a Grey Heron coming into land.
We saw a Reed Warbler, hovering from reed to reed.
We saw a Blue-tailed damselfly
We saw a Caterpillar
We saw loads of Sea Holly
We also saw plenty of Sea Bindweed
We saw quite a lot of Rabbits as well.
We also saw a red and black moth called cinnabar.
We eventually finished our walk, hot bothered and satisfied.
We walked a total of 15986 Steps and 7.31 Miles.
We went and collected the Moped and popped into Mums for a cup of tea, Dads reaction to our adventures i am old enough to know better and shouldn't go on long walks at my age!!!!!
29th June 2010
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