Celebratory Birthday Walk  Sunday, 17th January 2010.

I was very glad to discover and join Epping Forest Outdoor Group (or 'Walthamstow and Chingford Outdoor Group ' as it was then known ) following my husband's passing, and the people there didn't disappoint; I was warmly welcomed and have been happy to call them my friends ever since.

I moved to Bucks from London 7 years ago, so club attendance is less frequent, but I did want to share a 'landmark birthday', along with another member who is also a Capricorn.  We thought a winter walk through Wanstead and Valentines' Parks would be an interesting event.

Thus on Sunday 17th January, Ralph and I arrived at 10am. outside the George to find Paul and a large group of about 20 people suitably attired for walking, bearing rucksacks, and ready to go! I was given some cards and birthday congratulations, and we set off. The weather was perfect -- cool, but not cold, with plenty of sunshine.

Paul led us down to the Redbridge Roundabout where we picked up the Roding Valley Way, alongside the river, which was in full spate due to snow-melt and rainfall on previous days. Then over the A406 footbridge and through a few Ilford streets, and onto the Cranbrook Road.  Paul pointed out that we had been walking steadily downhill into a shallow valley; the reason was the Cran Brook at the bottom, which we saw disappearing under the road, having emerged from Valentines' Park.

Jill's Birthday PartyAfter a short walk by the lake in the park, the Pavilion Cafe loomed, and we stopped off for hot drinks and a snack or two. The park is neatly laid out and has several rhododendron bushes which must be beautiful in the spring. We made our way to the grounds of the newly-restored Valentines Mansion and halted in one of the walled gardens, for my birthday celebration.

Sue had got a large fabric carrier bag which contained a delicious spiced apple cake that she had made. I was given a large lit candle to hold while the members sang "Happy Birthday" and Cliff did the honours by slicing the cake.  Thanks to everyone for 'marking the occasion' and for the group card containing good wishes and their signatures.

Time to return. We arrived back at the footbridge to cross the Roding into Wanstead Park, where took refreshment and had lunch by the tea kiosk. We then walked on past the Temple, and out of the park, making a small detour into St. Mary's churchyard.  Here Paul pointed out the hidden entrance into the crypt, and and the stone 'watchbox' where a guard kept an eye on things in the days of the bodysnatchers!

Then back to the George, where two more members joined us.  We gathered in the beergarden (we are an outdoor group!) and spent a pleasant hour over a drink. It was a great way to spend a January Sunday, especially among such good friends.

Jill Domeny   26th December 2010