Reboot

A good boot, like a good heart, can be hard to find...certainly the lasting kind. These days, boots are my preferred everyday foot attire. Not the neat black knee high type with a kitten heel; the rugged comfy sort that I can drive in, wear on the allotment and walk a few miles without blisters or broken ankles. I do still own some of the kitten heel sort but since leaving life as a 'professional' three years ago, they only get worn for weddings, funerals and nights out, that is to say rarely.

I have been saddened recently by the loss of two good pairs. Firstly, my all-time favourite pair had to be retired. They made their first tour of duty on a camping trip to Scotland in 2004, and then saw my feet safely around Canada in 2006 and Snowdonia in 2009. They were comfortable, stable, waterproof and not too bulky. Perfect.

Today, another pair bit the dust. These not quite so special but they have seen service on many a dog walk, including traipsing through mud and streams on one memorable occasion when I got lost in the Forest of Dean! They are also notable as they were a lucky charity shop find - brand new and only a few pounds. Sadly, there is only one sensible destination for a boot that lets in more water than it keeps out.

Onwards and upwards though, another pair has been found. By some amazing luck, my mum had bought the exact same pair as the all-time favourites back in 2004 but had never got around to wearing them! They had been languishing at the back of the cupboard, unloved, never walked. Now their time has come...I have been gently breaking them in for the last couple of weeks and now they are ready. Together, we shall stride across fields and through copses, up hills and over stiles. Our first big expedition is planned for May when we set off on a family trip to Snowdonia (we loved it so much, we're going back). Until then they are in training walking Monty and Ted.