Best bits: meeting Sam
Worst bits: so many steps
Distance: 19.4 miles
Amanda and Ian made me a hearty breakfast, including a hot ginger drink which really woke me up. Amanda dropped me off in Charlestown where we met Sam who walked with me this morning.
It was a sunny day but frosty to start with a bit of a cold breeze. Fortunately for me Sam is a very fit woman and set the pace. We walked and talked all the way to Fowey. She pointed out all the local historical and geographic points of interest, such as Daphne du Maurier’s House and the house where Dawn French used to live, the China clay works at Par. She also showed me where the best beaches were for swimming.
Sam is a force of nature and full of enthusiasm, optimism and energy. We were both wearing our Brainstrust beanies and Sam had on her Brainstrust hoody. Sam lost her young son Seth to a brain tumour when he was only seven. She told me her story and we talked about loss, grief, and ways forward and the celebration of life and love. I found myself at times quite emotional.
We arrived at Fowey where we had a pasty and a drink and met Sam’s friend Julia. We posed infront of the Rook With A Book sculpture on the Town Quay.
We parted company as I took the little ferry across the river to Polruan for the afternoon session. A bargain at £3 for the crossing.
The crossing only took a few minutes. This is looking back at Fowey for the last time.
The walking this afternoon was more challenging with many ascents and descents and lots of steps. However, the sun was shining at it became warmer and the beaches were beautiful and white and the sea was a multitude of bright blue colours.
Amanda and Ian walked this afternoons stretch just ahead of me and had been telling people about my trek. I had more experiences today of giving out hearts and people becoming all emotional and tearful resulting in a hug. It’s amazing how such a small thing can evoke such strong emotions.
This was a long day with so many steps. I was starting to feel physically tired and emotionally drained by the end of the day. Finally I rounded a corner and saw the gorgeous sight of the harbour at Polpero. Amanda was waiting just up the road and whisked me off back to her house.
After a shower, food, wine and chat, Ian and I sat down to look at logistics for the next week or two. So many F*estuaries!! and ferries that only run in summer!! A logistical nightmare. At least we finished the evening with a plan for the next week ahead.
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