Think We Can Do It, Ellen?

Last March I got a new iPhone. Then, shortly thereafter, I discovered the wonderful world of apps, in particular the Nike Running App. I made up my mind that seeing I paid $1.99 for this app, that I should make good use of it as often as possible. Before obtaining this app, I used to walk on weekends and some evenings after work, but when I bought the Nike app, I decided I should put a bit more effort into it - walking that is, not running. I'm not a good runner even though I did do the Begin to Run Course at the Running Room a few years ago. I never did get the "runner's high"!  Anyway, starting last March, I began to take the iPhone with me ever time that I went out, (although I did forget it a couple of times at the beginning-Darn!) Then I noticed that the 2.92 kilometres I was walking almost every day (to feed the geese and ducks) began to add up - a lot! Then I started to wonder how many kilometres I could walk in a month, 6 months and so on. Then I set a goal for myself - 1,000 kms in a year. 

March 7, 2012 was my start date. As of Sunday past (Feb 24, 2013) I was up to 944 kms. Ellen is 'standing behind' me, encouraging the whole time. :-) Can I do the 1,000 kms? If the weather is half cooperative I think it's possible. However, snow storms are a bit of a drag from a walking perspective! Lately, because I'm so close to accomplishing the goal, I've even borrowed John's safety glasses a couple of times when it's snowing and windy. Those tiny bits of ice really really hurt when they go in your eyes! The geese and ducks are always happy to see me so that makes walking in the cold a bit easier.

And, speaking of goals, I was invited to a friend's birthday supper on Sunday past and wanted to hand knit something to surprise her. I had one week in which to do this, among other projects. Down to the wire but got it finished in time! I hand knit a shawl from Lion Brand Homespun and Patons Canadiana - two strands together, 2 balls of each.

Any of you who would like to knit this, it's easy: Size 8.0mm needles (set of 2), cast on 38 sts and knit seed st (K1, P1 across row, then reverse this on the opposite side by knitting the purls and purling the knits) for 48". Bind off. Find a nice shawl pin and you're all set!

I was pleased with the outcome of the shawl and my friend was delighted with the gift!

Anyway, wish me good weather for the walking goal. We'll keep you posted!

Geese and ducks coming to meet me at the pond on Sunday past.
Somebody's hungry!

Same trail as above but looking back up the hill.

River I pass on my way out of the park.

This is a picture I took with my phone
through the dining room window of our friends' house on Saturday night.