On the Journey of 1100 Miles

 

Part of my mileage on Sunday

I didn't dream that in December 2016 when I first decided to walk 1,000 miles in 2017, I would still be walking in 2024. Not only would I still be walking in 2024, but that I would hit my once-goal of 1,000 miles in mid-November, which is definitely a first. I looked back on past posts and found I met my goal on December 12 in 2018 and December 20 in 2022. Despite a few new chronic orthopedic conditions I'm very happy I'm still walking wherever I go. 

Loved this bench promoting kindness in Sedona

I added 100 miles to my goal when I walked 1070 miles last year. It seemed a challenge, but with a little extra effort I was optimistic I'd see 1100 miles in 2024, and it looks to be on the  horizon. Three things really are making the difference this year. The first two were locations where I walked. I had a wonderful hiking/walking vacation with college friends in Arizona in March and walked at least five miles most days. That really gave my mileage a boost. The second was my trip to Paris in April. Most days I walked at least six miles and a few days were nine mile days. Before this trip I didn't realize I could walk nine miles in a day. I haven't done a nine mile day since, but there was so much I wanted to see while in Paris. 

Loved my walks along the River Seine and this view of Notre Dame Cathedral

The biggest component of walking a thousand or eleven hundred miles is consistency. A few days I barely eked out a mile and a half, but most days were closer to three miles. It's become a big part of my life and it's just something I do now. I'm grateful for everyone who's walked with me, both actually and my friends far and near who are supportive. You all have made what could be a chore a lot of fun.  

What about 2025? I'm planning to revert to my original goal of 1,000 miles. I may end up walking eleven hundred miles, but want to take off some of the mileage pressure. There's also the issue of the weather. New York had about three inches of snow last year, which made winter walking much less challenging. I'm hoping for more snow this winter -- the reservoirs really need it -- and that will make the winter more challenging. 

Is anyone else walking with me? The goal can be 100 miles or two thousand. I'd love to have some virtual company along the journey.

Autumn is fully here in New York and I found my gloves and a light winter coat. It's that time. 

As ever, thanks for visiting and have a great walking day!