The loneliness of the long distance golfer

Today's the day ........................ to stride out

I used to have a favourite bench up on the hill behind my house, that I went to quite often.

I could walk up there in seven minutes - and the spectacular view from that seat was the perfect way to blow away all the cobwebs. But then, when the old hips made it impossible for me to tackle the climb, I stopped going there and it sort of dropped out of my life.

I took a notion to go up there today - and I'm pleased to tell you that I managed it without much bother - and it was wonderful. One bit of the walk crosses the golf course and I could see this lone golfer, doing what golfers do - but hopefully enjoying being up there too.

That made me think of my lovely sister-in-law, Mags, who hasn't been able to do much striding out recently. She's had to sit around and be patient while an ankle injury mends itself - and the golf course is definitely out of bounds.

So this one is for her - in the hope that it won't be long before life returns to normal and she's out there striding with the best of them ......................