A.A. Milne Walk - 15 miles

Perhaps it's because of the universal attraction of Pooh Bear, but for some reason, we had more guest walkers today than ever before. Two scientists from Dr.J's lab and Chris, a friend of my colleague, with his most suitable last name, came along. We've been doing these walks for a while now. And while it's usually good whether we are few or many, having some fresh feet along for the jaunt injects new energy into the group.

From London Bridge, we got the train to Ashurst.



As we moved out into the countryside, I chuckled as Chris audibly reacted the change of locale by commenting, "Hey, even the graffiti is more soothing out here."



The walk was very picturesque as the weather was glorious. There was a sense of enjoying it to the fullest as this might be the end of summer and the beginning of the winter period of short days.





Our new group dynamics quickly found its stride, as various folks split into groups according to pace. This didn't last throughout the walk, as quite often, there were shifts. It was great as we got a chance to chat and get to know different people.





The tree caught my eye. It was startlingly bleached against a vibrant backdrop.





I was a little disappointed that this toadstool had lost its spots. But Chris had a marvellous shot of one that looked like something out of a fairy tale, with folk living under it. According to Chris, many animals seek out plants for their hallucinogenic qualities and are quite inebriated during certain seasons. I've never witnessed it myself, but having seen the cats at the studio get a little silly over catnip, I'm convinced.



We made our way into the famed Five Hundred Acre Wood of the Winnie-the-Pooh stories.



We stopped on the bridge of Pooh Sticks. It amused me that there were posters in English and Japanese. Japanese folk must love Pooh. Of course, a game ensued. Chris won! "It's all in the selection," he grinned.

I lagged behind to pose Edward on the bridge. Some kids were clattering back and forth. One of them spotted Edward and shouted, "Look, someone left a bear!"

"He's mine," I snarled, to my surprise. No kid is getting his grubby hands on Edward!





Whenever I think I've seen it all, something still surprises me still. We peered behind a bushel and spotted this. There were excited gasps all round. A couple of us edged nearer for a look.



Finally, we reached Pooh Corner in Hatfield. It was just closed but we managed to beg entry into the shop for a few minutes.



It was obviously a very quaint part of the world.



It was the longest walk we've ever had. We were definitely glad when it was over and we could celebrate with a few choice sips of whisky at the train station.