Hiking Diversions

Folks who hiked the 12 km Rural Port Hope hike yesterday were still talking about their pleasant diversion - comfortably eating their lunch on the porch of a home overlooking Lake Ontario. You never know what surprises happen on our hikes! On his pre-hike, the hike leader noticed some people outside of a house where crafts are sold. He asked the owners if his hiking group could sit on their porch the next day. They kindly gave their blessing. How lovely!

This morning's diversion was an introduction to a famous person who is interred in the Canton cemetery. The US Medal of Honour was given to a Canadian, Edward E. Dodds, for his bravery in the US Civil War.

Even though we really wanted to start walking briskly to warm our bodies, the temperature being around -12°C, we took the gentle side-trip into the Canton Cemetery to see Mr. Dodds' gravestone.

Darryl gave us a short version of Mr. Dodds' involvement in the war. If you are interested in the whole story, here is a link.

"Without regard for his own safety Sergeant Edward Dodds braved the fusillade to go to his captain's side, and bring him to a place of safety." From historical plaque.

Every year a wreath is still placed on his grave.

Back on the road again, we walked quickly. It didn't take long for us to warm up and even start to shed clothing.

And, there's our sponsor: the sun!

It's nice to see blue skies again.

Food break/social time is a chance to meet any hikers you haven't already walked with. It's interesting how conversations flow. Connections are made. One new hiker said that she'd recently had orientation training at the Fare Share food bank. Just so happened that another new hiker volunteers there too. I love the networks that thread through small communities.

The "Ganny" is starting to freeze over again.

As far as road hikes go, this one is great for new hikers. There are hills, but they are few and not too steep.

In 2 hours and 10 minutes we were back at our cars. And none of us were cold!

“So many people walk around with a meaningless life.

They seem half-asleep, even when they're busy doing things they think are important.

This is because they're chasing the wrong things.

The way you get meaning into your life is to devote yourself to loving others,

devote yourself to your community around you,

and devote yourself to creating something that gives you purpose and meaning.”

Mitch Albom, Tuesdays with Morrie