I live in one of the most walkable cities in the world, Washington, DC. But going for a walk, especially with Athena, takes some prep work.
First, we have to go out at the right time if we really want to enjoy our walk. This means getting up early and getting out before everyone else. Lucky for Athena, I’m an early riser. Our preferred time to go for a walk is between 4 and 5 a.m. We’re definitely up and out before most of the rest of the city. This allows us to avoid runners/joggers, cyclists, and people riding those irritating scooters.
Second, I have to prep for the season. Right now, we’re heading out of Autumn into Winter. This means I need to have my thermal underwear, thick socks, thick leggings, a thick top or jacket, gloves, a hat, and ear bags. All of that is just to keep me warm. Athena is good with just her fur coat. This means that before I go to bed at night put together what I need the next morning and stack it neatly in the bathroom where I will change. If the weather forecast calls for rain or snow, well we have to add appropriate outer wear for that.
After getting my clothes ready, I need a couple of other things because Athena and I are going to be out for a while. What do we need? A water bottle for me, a water bottle for Athena, and the treat bag full of dried beef liver for her. These things are also prepped and made ready the night before.
Last, we need lighting. Athena wears a lighted harness, we use a lighted extendable leash, and I add “runners lights” to me. Yes, we live in an urban environment that is well lit but there are places where the lighting isn’t so good. We need to make sure runners/joggers, cyclists, and scooter riders can see us if we’re in a place that isn’t so well lit.
After all that, plus something I’m sure I’ve forgotten to mention, we’re ready to go for a walk. Now, which route do we take? Do we walk along the Potomac River? Maybe we should walk through all the monuments on the National Mall? We might even walk down toward the Pentagon and back up. No matter which route we take, we’ll walk a minimum of 3 miles. That’s a minimum! We’ve been known to walk 9 or more miles in a day.
Do you take walks? If so, where and how far do you walk? Do you go with a buddy, or do you go alone? Let me know in the comments.
