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I've vowed to walk and go to the theatre more often...want to join me?



Article as seen in Portsmouth View, August 2014


As I drove around the Hampshire countryside the past week, I came across a stunning view of lush green hills and fields of ripe wheat waiting to be harvested. I longed to walk the hills and the fields.

I read that walking is good for you. Besides the exercise, walking also allows you time to think. So I made a resolution to do more walking for the rest of the summer to improve my health and well-being.

We are fortunate that we have such lovely countryside around us for walks. For those who cannot travel far, there is always the walk along the seafront that will invigorate. There is the incentive to stop at the new Southsea Beach café for a cuppa in the middle of the walk, if you need any excuse!

On one of my recent Southsea walks (from Camber Docks to Palmerston Road) I had time to think about this column and about attending live events. People, in general, love enjoying shared experience and the opportunity to commune with others, whether at walks or at cultural events.

Last month I discovered opera at West Green House Gardens, near Hook. The tickets were expensive, but it was no more than going to a West End show, but the experience was amazing. Nothing could gladden your heart more than sitting in a beautiful garden on a summer’s evening, enjoying a picnic with friends and some beautiful music.

Every time you step out of the house you learn. You learn from other people and the things that you see in your walk. That is why it is important to get out and about and attend live events.

There is something raw and exciting about experiencing something live such as the recent Southsea Show.

Coming up for your diary is the Victorious Festival. Portsmouth is lucky to have the setting for various outdoor events and places to walk, cycle or run.

If you haven’t, try the Park Run on Saturdays as it is fun and, who knows, by October you might be fit for the Great South Run. Then you will really feel good about yourself.

I also went to a most stunning production of Amadeus at the newly refurbished Chichester Festival Theatre. There was such energy and feeling, that you don’t quite get from the film version.

Apart from walking, I’m also resolved to attend more theatre shows. Join me!

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