We walked about 12 miles along the Thames Path towards Greenwich, on one stretch, the view of the river is impeded by this concrete wall, on which are two paintings, their situation odd, harsh. They’re depictions of what the river once was but so out of place on the lichen splattered slabs. The sporadic growths of yellow become so much more alluring than the confine of the frame. In parts the wall is obscured by random squares of paint to hide the graffiti, this always amuses me, I’m not sure why, though maybe because it reminds me of this.
I forgot the sheer variety of birds you get along the route. Teal, Shelduck, a stone still Kestrel, but no Stonechats. And more I saw but couldn't name. You have to look hard for serenity, as far as views go, it’s a bleak sort of walk, grim. But it’s a good lesson in looking beyond the sometimes severe exterior of the suburban, working river as it meanders on and becomes dotted with those tall glass facades.
This walk does have some sort of relevance, but I'll get to the point;
In a blog post last year, the one concluding that stupid walk Claire and I completed I wrote this; 'My sister asked me shortly after if I'd do it again. With the pain now fresh in my memory the answer was of course, no. But ask me now, I wouldn't rule it out.'... Well, I'm going walking again, one of those 60 miles in one go sort of walks. This time along a segment of the Kent Coast.
I've decided to fundraise for Young Minds, which is a charity that helps improve the mental health and emotional wellbeing of children and young people. I've been inspired by this book, but also inspired by the obvious importance of such work. I understand it's asking much trying to raise a substantial target only a year after asking for money but, it's not for me. My funding page is here.
