“Keep the water on your right.” A wise reminder! That is the wisdom for those of us hiking the South West Coast Path from the north to the south. Growing… Read more

I’m walking. I’m moving through some woodlands and approaching a grassy field. What do I expect, a stile. I don’t expect stiles in France. I don’t expect stiles in Italy.… Read more

I anticipated that this slow- walk would be different than my other “recognized” pilgrimages. I know that English on the surface appears to be a secular nation. As a result,… Read more

Another quintessential English landscape feature is the parish church. In Cornwall alone, there are over 200 parishes. A lot of churches! Despite many of the medieval Norman style churches “restored”… Read more

Let’s get it straight, I’m Dr. Ellington. Do not pretend we are on a chummy, first name basis. I’m not Doc Martin. I sure did not expect to become a… Read more

Who doesn’t enjoy a blooming flower or shrub? What could be more quintessential than walking past English flowers and plants, in gardens or simply in the wild? Solitary geraniums in… Read more

I’m awake. It’s 5:03 AM. I’m walking in the rain today. While I’ve had a drizzle three other days, those drizzles didn’t amount to much or bother me much. Today’s… Read more

I love trees. While not a landscape designer, I’ve randomly planted 50-60 Japanese maples in our yard or in pots. While not a botanist, I admire the diversity of tree… Read more

The day begins at 7:50 AM with a death; the day ends with a death. A woman commits suicide; the partially eaten pheasant carcass lays on the road as I… Read more

Besides specific pains, which lessen with this day. Besides other specific walkers, who have been delightful to meet. Besides specific scenic views, walking past rhododendrons, weaving through gorse and blackberry… Read more