Saturday, December 19, 2009 South Island, New Zealand - a magnificent wonderland. Pristine rivers snowcapped mountains, lush valleys; an adventure playground for walkers like us.  We had booked into the Routeburn walk which  is promoted as one of the top ten walks in the world and it is very easy to see why. The views  an all three days are truly breathtaking.

Thursday 3.12.09

Rog and I set off with our packbacks filled with sleeping bag, change of clothes, wet weather gear, food and water... with a smile on our faces. The weather cleared for the whole three days we were out. Gorgeous blue sunny skies! We felt so blessed.

As we start our walk we take a moment to dedicate it to our children. We invite a mindfulness into our steps and with each step a prayer for inner peace and joy for our beloved family. Throughout the walk I conjure up the image of them and send them thoughts of love and peace.

Whether you take a long walk or just a quick walk with the dogs around the block - dedicate your walk to someone who may need a prayer or some loving thoughts - and hold them as you walk.

This photograph is looking back over the Routeburn Valley before getting to Harris Saddle. It was a huge climb - and brings to mind the song made famous in the Sound of Music - Climb every mountain, ford every stream, follow every rainbow till you find your dream.'

This time to walk and just 'be' is a precious dream come true.