Day 3 of life after the walk.

It was an emotional last couple of miles on the final day of my journey, the realisation that I had actually done it - the relief that I had done it -the entire month flashed before my eyes; the challenging days when the weather wasn't cooperative, the moments of doubt that crept in during the toughest climbs, the expansive vistas and hidden gems in my surroundings, and the pride that accompanied me everyday I got to my accommodation, another day down - and I'm in one piece! Yes, I was ready to stop, to rest my legs and allow my body to heal, but I would miss those extraordinary days of walking in the fresh air and seeing the most stunning views all day every day.

In the past whenever I had been away I always looked forward to coming home to Anna. Her never being here again is too hard for words to express. The absence of her presence has created an emptiness in the house, a silence that fills every room. The future that I had envisioned with her is gone and it is the painful reality that I am learning to cope with.

I still have things to do post-walk, today I had an interview with Nicky Price on BBC Radio Gloucestershire which I enjoyed, especially the surprise message from my daughter Alex. In a couple of weeks, I am giving a short talk about my time walking and fundraising at Belmont School, where Anna worked for 20 years. July 17th, they are holding a remembrance day for Anna and raising money for Sue Ryder, everyone is welcome.

I will continue to work while I try and decide how I see life moving forward... What I do know is that I am surrounded by family and friends (old and new) whose love and support for me since Anna passed has been extraordinary. Throughout the planning and walking, the messages of support, the walking with me, the donating, the spreading the word, it's all been a whirlwind, but I am so thankful for every single person that has gotten involved.

I am not sure if people are still following, but I'm thinking of posting perhaps a weekly update of how I'm finding my way moving forward... To process my thoughts and feelings and continue talking about Anna and learning about grief, and life after death.