Ok so no bullocks or bogs in this picture! Such a lovely day and the Tor beckoned. I was merrily trudging up this slope (the other direction) to Corn Ridge (or Branscombe's Loaf!) thinking "this is the life" and my legs will be rocks after today when, all of a sudden, they emerged on the horizon.....
Foiled again by livestock! Having walked over two paths to stick to my route plan, I had to veer across the mound and head towards the path further along. In doing this, I came across bog!!! I was calm though as I was far enough away from the bullocks and it was a fabulous day. When I got to the path I had a rethink which meant I walked to Great Links Tor instead of round the back to Meldon Reservoir. I noticed some other people negotiating the bog also, so it wasn't just me! The path took me round to the back of the Tor, where I got a view of Bleak House......
Doesn't look so bleak today but not a place to be in winter! Peaty path to the top and then fantastic photo opportunities and lunch......with rock.
Not only did I cross country back via Little Links Tor (sounds like a golf course), I traversed more bog and managed to avoid more bullocks to route back to the path and return. You may wonder how this helps confidence........
From the moment I arrive on the moor, or at the start of a lowland walk, my mind is focused on the job in hand - getting from A to B using my map and compass. Even when I have to reroute to avoid obstacles that I choose to avoid (bullocks) , I am focused on the route/reroute ahead. You have to focus on every step and the concentration just takes you away from any struggles in your life. When I got back to the car, I felt hot, tired, accomplished and happy. That is what gives me confidence and what makes me want to go out again and "face the bogs and the bullocks"!
From the moment I arrive on the moor, or at the start of a lowland walk, my mind is focused on the job in hand - getting from A to B using my map and compass. Even when I have to reroute to avoid obstacles that I choose to avoid (bullocks) , I am focused on the route/reroute ahead. You have to focus on every step and the concentration just takes you away from any struggles in your life. When I got back to the car, I felt hot, tired, accomplished and happy. That is what gives me confidence and what makes me want to go out again and "face the bogs and the bullocks"!