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Day 11

Day 11 - 20km (walk 1 - 13km, walk 2 - 7km) The challenge today is to either get photo's of the sunrise or sunset which I totally forgot about. Luckily I woke up and 6.15am and quickly got ready and ran out the door. Oh no.....looks like I have missed it, only the moon is in the sky and it's very moody looking morning. Well, it looks like I will be walking again tonight, I think to myself. I think I will walk to Jells Park, google says 6km each way. Righto, that' doable, and still can be home in time to go walking with my OFF buddies again. Over the horizon and far away I spot a little bit of the sunrise and in my head I hear Sophie say, run Grandma, run. Nope not running today, but I walked as fast as my little legs would take me to go up the hill, around the corner, over the road and into the park, where yes I did get to see some of the sunrise. So no need for an extra walk tonight for the sunset....phew. As I follow the signs, I see some funny things, like dinosaurs in trees, gnomes buried up to there hats, a terrified looking bunny stuck to a car, some beautiful flowers, girls having fun, a couple of chicks and some glasses lost in the grass. Turns out I didn't even get into Jells Park just waved from the other side of the road, then turned around head home at 6.5km. Heading home I get a message from Andrea are you coming today? At this point I don't think I can get to Seaford in time, but I hurried along, picked up a coffee, stuffed in some breakfast and jumped into the car to meet my mates for some much needed shenanigans. Too funny from not thinking I would make it, it turned out that smelly Deli (because no shower, yesterdays make up, looking a real treat, so I was probably OFF for sure) was the first to arrive with Andrea. Quickly followed by Rachel and Kerryn. Time for selfies and off we go. Today we are walking from Seaford station to Carrum station a distance of about 3km each way, according to someone who will not be named, as we all know judging distances is not her strong point, but after this morning I don't think I can talk either....hahaha Oh my goodness another pair of glasses, at lest I only lose gloves and not glasses. Mind you if I lost my glasses I could see a thing so I would know pretty quick......hahaha Hmmmm....maybe they are Kim's she's always losing her glasses....haha Let's pop down to the beach......wow it's windy....no, no one farted, it was just really windy. Hold onto your hats.......hold on to each other we might blow away. Let's head back to the track where it's warm and wind free. Have a look over there.....SWINGS.....yep, you guessed it......what do grown women do when there are swings........of course we go for it. I have to say, it really was fun, but if you look at my face you would think I was having the worst time of my life.....every photo, grumpy as look on my face.......hahaha, Andrea on the other hand is smiling her little heart out. Oh, look how cute is that statue. Hey, what do you think can we do that too? Of course we can. Yeah, but can you get me off the ground, I might be stuck. Can I tell you when a sign says coffee here.......it's not true, there was no coffee there or anywhere for that matter......very rude! On we trot......steps or ramp......always ramp.......definitely not stairs.... nobody likes stairs, besides ramps give you more steps. How rude the paths keep telling us to slow down, buddy we are not going fast enough to slow down, any slower and we would stop! Andrea bends over and starts walking up the ramp, she said it's good to stretch out her back, so of course we all follow suit. Turns out it looks hilarious and we all get the giggles. Thanks Rachel for the video. Oooo snake, Rachel says, well Kerryn nearly ended up in Andrea's lap. No there wasn't a snake, don't panic, just a resident nature lover and studier, Rachel saw a sign which indicated there COULD be snakes. Crisis averted for now, but look out if we actually see one, we will all be in Rachel's lap. Time for a bit more fun walking back through the bushland track towards Seaford shops for a spot of lunch and COFFEE and, yep, definitely the loo. Thanks for organising another lovely day, Andrea. These days wouldn't happen without you getting us organised. So glad I made it. Bit of a sad story......my runner has worn in one spot and now I have a blister........boo hoo See you tomorrow. Love me xx

Day 10

Day 10 - 5.23km Today is World Mental health Day and the challenge today is to share your WHY! WHY do I do this, when my body says no more! Why do I do this, when my heart is broken without my bestie Sophie! WHY do I do this, spend hours everyday walking and writing stories, on top of working a 10hr day! I do this because you matter. All of you matter. I do what I do to make people smile, to make them feel they are not alone, to make them feel they have someone who will listen. I do this for the ones who didn't feel they could go on and sadly now only live in our hearts. I do this in the hope that no Mother, Father, Grandparent, Brother, Sister, Husband, Wife, Cousins or Mates ever have to go through the lose of a loved one. I do this for my family and for myself. I share my experience in the hope more people will open up and we can remove the stigma of Mental Health. For years I have always thought there was something wrong with me, but I'm happy right. Anyone who knows me would say there's nothing wrong with her, she's always smiling and happy. Discovering I had depression about 5 years ago was a huge shock. Me....no.....you've got it wrong. But dead down it made sense. Depression doesn't have to make you unable to function and fall in a heap, no you can be a highly function person with depression, but on the inside you are dying. Crying in the shower, in the car, anywhere you are alone. Then carry on as if you are fine. I want to share a special moment I had today. As I was having my shower and getting ready for work. I thought I am going to give my last painted rock bee to the drive through coffee place this morning. (I had one extra bee after the anonymous donor didn't come forward). Then I thought no not the coffee place, the young girl who serves me most mornings. A lovely girls, who always smiles and is super friendly. I got outside to go to my car and I though oops I forgot the bee. Went back in to get it, thank goodness it was right on top of the table in all the mess. I pulled into the coffee drive through and a newbie serves me, so I see my girl and wave her over. She comes over and I say, this was put on my heart today to give you this, it's World Mental Health day. She took it, held it to her chest and had to go deal with training her 2 newbies. As I watched her she, she had the bee in both hands, held it out so she could see it and hugged it again. After sorting her newbies, she returned to my car with my coffee and I said sorry it has 2024 on the back I made it last year. She said "I have to tell you, I have been struggling the last couple of weeks, my sister died last year (2024) and her nickname was buzzy, and I have a bee tattoo on my side (which she showed me) and so do all my family. With that she hugged me through my window and we both had a few tears. What a special moment. I had no idea of any of this, I just acted on a prompting to do something for this girl today. We never know what other people are going through and we need to be kind. Kind to ourselves and kind to others! Thank you everyone for your support over the last 5 years, for laughing with me and probably crying with me at time. Take care Love me xx

Day 9

Day 9 - 5km Happy Thursday everyone. Today's challenge is to find animals. Grandma, do you think we will see Bernard today. Sophie used to LOVE Bernard. Yes, she did have a crush on him didn't she. Unfortunately Ollie, we won't be able to see Bernard (the fox) or Peggy, Poppy and Barry (the possums) this year unless we go out in the mornings, in the dark. We can do it Grandma. I'm brave and will protect you. I know you would Ollie, maybe on the weekend when it's not so dark we can head out earlish. Sounds like a plan Grandma. Come on lets get moving and see what we can find out, who knows what we will see after all. Grandma, can you see what I see? What can you see Ollie? I see a really fluffy butt up ahead. Ollie that's a bit rude, the poor lady. No, Grandma the super fluffy puppy dog butt. Can we catch them. I want to catch them. Hurry up Grandma, they are getting away. Ollie, slow down. Grandma seriously hurry up I want to get up and personal. Ollie you just want to sneak up behind them and bark. Yeah of course, who doesn't love a jump scare. Ollie that's a bit naughty. I know but it's hilarious.......I'm still laughing from the man yesterday. I have to say I did giggle too. But Ollie you need to slow down we are going to fast. Ollie, STOP, Ollie..........STOOOPPPPPPPP! Oh dear, I Ollie Stapleton aka Kevin did almost trip Grandma over. Sorry Grandma, do you forgive me? Of course I do, Ollie, but can we be a little bit more careful, Grandma can't afford to get any more injuries until November. Right so until next year then...... Grandma look I found a bunny and look watch me I run like a bunny, bouncing, bouncing and bouncing some more. That is very cute Ollie, you do make a good bunny, you even have the floppy ears....😂 Grandma, I just found a fairy house. Oh that's so cute, do you think anyone is home? Ollie look your favourite garden gnomes...... Nope, get me out of here. Ollie they look so sweet. Sweet, Sweet, I'll give you sweet......don't you remember their plan for an Ollie rump on the BBQ. Ollie, I'm sure they were only joking. Joking, humph, I did not find it funny at all. I'm just glad Sophie was there to protect me. I'm protect you Ollie, I would never let anything happen to you. We can protect each other. Thanks Grandma. Hey, Ollie look over there it's a metal donkey. Well you have to take what you can get, it is technically an animal. Watch out Grandma it's one of those ninja cats hiding in the garden. Quick, Ollie lets get out of here before he spots us. Thank goodness we may it home. See you tomorrow Love Me and Ollie xx Fella Hamilton Malvern School of Art The Flooring Lab Monash Glass Parkinson Dental

Day 8

Day 8 - 5.06km Today's challenge is wheelie bin Wednesday. This is not going to be as fun as the last couple of years. No garbage truck chasing in the early hours of the morning. I guess the garbage truck driver is probably suffering from PTSD after being chased around the streets. He was probably very relieved when he made it through his rounds without a stalker. I Grandma Parkinson, do apologise to the garbage truck driver for the last 4 years of chasing him down. There that's done, lets move on. Well after a days work, it's time to hit the road and get some kilometres under my belt before bedtime. Grandma? Yes, Ollie? Can I come with you. I'm the bestest, well second bestest, no definitely the bestest, smallest, roundest, bodyguard there is. Sure, it's just going to be a little walk tonight. Come on get dressed. Nope! Ollie if you don't get dressed you can't come. Oh, Grandma, you are sooooo bossy. Too right I am, now sit your furry but down so we can get ready to go. Finally out the door and walking down the street, when we see Mummy's snazzy red car coming up the road. Ooooo......Mummy want to come too. Sure, she says. So we walked back home to collect her. Grandma, what are you doing? Stop flapping your arms around. Calm down. Oh, Ollie something flew into my hair....ewwww.....can you see it, get it out. As you serious, Grandma you know how tall I am don't you. Oops, sorry Ollie, I think I got it.....phew I hate it when bugs flew into your hair. Imagine if it was a spider. I think I would have a heart attack. Settle down Grandma, are you seriously scared of something the size of your thumb. Yep.....they are creepy, hairy little suckers. Grandma, you really are weird. I know Ollie, but don't MOVE. What, WHAT, WHAT is it......get it off me. Too funny, who's scared now.....it's only a leaf. Phew.......ok, I get your point. Look here's Mummy. Walking a long and we come across our favourite bin. Look Grandma, those bins have their eyes on you. They sure do Ollie, we had better not pinch any of their rocks. Yeah....their like, wheelie watching you......hahaha Too funny Ollie. As we continue walking we see two little sausage dogs. Ollie look some friends your size. Nope, I'm at least 4 times the size of them. Look can't you see. I'm way way bigger. Yeah, sure, yep, maybe around the middle. Oh Mummy that's a bit rude. Only joking Ollie, yes you are a my big boy. Thank you Mummy. Come on and say hello. Oh dear......I think Killer Kevin just popped out and needs to take a chill pill. Let's try that again..... That's much better Ollie........see we can all be friends. Heading through the park and everything is going smoothly and Killer Kevin hasn't popped out and jump scared anyone for at least 20mins, when a man comes running by unexpectedly and gave us all a fright. Ollie being the super protective super hero he is, leap at the jogger. To which the jogger leap into the air, like he could suddenly fly....saying a few words which we will not repeat as it's not after bedtime yet and took off like a rocket never to be seen again. Ollie what are you doing? Grandma.....he got to close and I'm brave and had to protect you and Mummy. Yes, Ollie you are very brave, but maybe we don't need quite so much protection. Oh, really......well I beg to differ......I think I need to protect you both with my life. Thank you Ollie, you are a real super hero. Come on let go head. Love Me xx Ollie and Mummy xx The Flooring Lab Malvern School of Art Fella Hamilton Monash Glass Parkinson Dental

Day 7

Day 7 - 5.03, 3.14, 2.11 (10.28km total) Walk 1 - 5.03km Our challenge today is to find a bridge. As I am heading over to Oscar and Louie's house today for a much needed Grandma duty fix, I decided to take Ollie out at first light this morning which is 6.20am, a pretty late start by our standards, but it's just what we need to do now. Heading out with the sun also out completely up, we headed for the park, where we know of a few of bridges, which we have not been able to get photos of for a few years due to the no parks in the dark rule. Well it's not hard so we hit the park. Grandma what is that noise? Ollie it's the frogs, they are loud aren't they? Yeah, I'm not sure I like them, they sound weird. They are fine Ollie, they won't come out to play with you. Can you get up on the bridge so I can get a photo. Grandma I really don't like this, what if one of the frogs jumps on me.......ewwww, they're slippery little suckers. Oh, Ollie they won't, anyway I got the photo, lets go to the next bridge. Grandma, yes Ollie? I can still hear the frog.....what was that? Was that what I think it was? Yep, it was a hoppy happy little frog. Hi Ollie, want to come and play in the puddles? Nope, not today, not tomorrow, not ever will I play in puddles...yuck. I don't like it in my toes or up my nose! Come on Ollie, let's keep going we have another bridge up ahead. The BIG one? Yes the big one. Will you pose for me on that one too. Yep, I'm gunna strike a pose that would make a super model proud. Good for you Ollie. Come on, we had better head home. Grandma look out! What Ollie? Ollie, what are you doing, stop, slow down, stop, oh my goodness what was that all about? Did you see that Grandma those bikes nearly took my nose off. Ollie they were on the other side of the road. I know right they nearly got me! Seriously, Ollie, I think your super hero name needs to be Killer Kevin........hahaha Come on time for me to go home and get ready to go to Oscar and Louie's. Walk 2 - 3.14km After a morning of Gymbaroo and a couple of naps. Unfortunately not my nap....it was time to take the fam out for a walk. Steph walking Bella, while I took charge of the double pram with Oscar and Louie. Oh happy days, the sun is shining and it's a beautiful day to be outside. I wonder if we will see any bridges, maybe in the playground? Oscar is not really sure of my driving, so as soon as we hit the park he bails out of the pram and ops for walking instead. Today we go through our normal park and head to a new park. Guess what, yes there was a bridge in there. Of course a photo of Oscar is required......well maybe about 20 photos, on the bridge, on the swings, the rocky thingamjig and ...nope sorry Arma (Grandma to Oscar) to slow to get the slide. Lets head to another new park, says Steph, Arma needs to get her steps up. Arma? Yes, Oscar? Play? Oh course Oscar......quick run.....I'm going to get you.... Arma, swing? Arma, BIG Ok, this big? Yes Arma..... Oh, you are just the cutest. Not to be left out little Louie enjoys a swing with Mummy too. Time to head home. On the way back we go through the parkland where some kids have built up mounts of dirt to create jumps. Oscar loves running up and down and sliding down on his bum, getting lovely and dirty. Lucky we managed to keep him out of the puddles......Oscar like Sophie, loves puddles. Once home we had a lovely play in the backyard with the trucks and shovelling dirt and rocks into trip trucks and wheeling them around the yard. Arma, play? Time for dinner, we had better go inside. Walk 3 - 2.11km Once head a quick walk around the block to get up to a 10km total. See you tomorrow Love me x Ollie, Oscar, Louie, Steph and Bella

Day 6

Day 6 - 6km To start today's post I have to tell you about a beautiful lady I know, Kylie Barber. She runs a successful candle and giftware's business, Enchanted Soy Candles and Gifts up in lovely Cockatoo. Today I got home to find a parcel on the kitchen bench, without my glasses I said to Andrew, has my tea arrive and he said it's from Cockatoo. Well I only know one person who lives up there and I knew that this very special lady had done something. I said maybe it's a mistake, but knew in my heart it would not be. Inside the box was a black box and just tucked into the top I could already see something sticking out. Taking the black box out, I straight feel emotional when I see a label with LOVE - but the O is a paw print. Kylie had written a card Dear Del & family I made you a little something in memory of your precious Sophie. I hope it brings some comfort. With Love, Kylie xxxx Included is a heart with the following printed on it. When tomorrow starts without me we're not so far apart, just remember happy paw prints that I left within your heart. Then I have opened the black box and pulled out the candle. The beautiful photo of Sophie with her reindeer headband on......yep you guessed it lots of tears. Thank you Kylie Barber, you are so beautiful, what a lovely gift. Time to pull myself together as I do have to do some walking today and guess what we have to do today. Rocks, rocks and more rocks! Shania Stapleton is home so I ask her if she would like to come with me and Ollie too. Amazing some company, it's so much more fun walking with a friend. Well it seems that without Sophie, Ollie feels he needs to protect us from everything, the people, the bikes, the trees, the dogs.....yep, he's on full on guard duty. Maybe I could go walking in the morning with Ollie. He just barked at one man, who nearly leap up a tree. Yes, I did get the giggles.....have you seen the size of Ollie. Seriously though his bark is like a Rottweiler. So funny to watch, he's all quiet then just as the person has gone passed (they obviously think they are save) he barks really loudly at them. I think we heard some interesting words come out of these startled bystanders......hahaha Yep, sorry it really was too funny. You know what it is really hard to pinch rocks when it's daylight! The past years, Sophie and I have stealthily crept around gardens and come home with pockets exploding with all shapes and sides. But in daylight.....yeah, well maybe I'm a chicken......hahaha Ollie found a few he wanted to take home. We had to say no. He was really disappointed because he wanted them in the backyard to do parkour. Sorry Ollie but we really can't carry them they would be far too heavy......yes even for you. Hump.........Ollie's not happy, but finds something else to bark at so all is forgotten quick enough. Grandma look at me...... What are you doing Ollie? I'm going to run and fly over the bike ramp. Watch me Grandma. Hang on, wait I need to get my camera. Too slow.....you missed it.......weeee Ollie, do it again. Ok, ready Ready......go. Got it.....you really are a funny little thing. Thanks Grandma. Right well you and mummy had better go home and I will finish my walk. Just a short one today, my body really doesn't like after work walks. On the rest of my walk I spot a lot of rock which Sophie would say have prepared for my coming and cemented them in place.....yep lots of trapped rocks in Mt Waverley. One house had a whole bowl of rocks just waiting for me but I didn't pinch any as they all looked like they were perfectly placed. I did find one rock that would really make a great monster rock, but though I had better just take a selfie with it. So I crept into someone's front yard, heart racing, snapped a selfie and took off like a rocket.....hahaha Not so brave without my Super Sophie..... Bronwyn Sanford would you look at that! A sock.......well at least I don't loose my socks when I'm walking.....hahaha Not sure how that could happen but who knows. Just gloves for me I'm afraid. But I think Sophie hid my gloves as they have gone missing completely this year......somewhere safe probably. See you tomorrow Love Me xx Shania and Ollie The Flooring Lab Malvern School of Art Monash Glass Fella Hamilton

Day 5

Day 5 - 10.66km (Ollie 1.5km) Howdy folks, todays challenge is selfie Sunday. And let me tell you it is definitely a challenge to get a good one, especially without Sophie to hide behind and without double chins and excessive wrinkles....... Yes I know, I hear you saying, well you are getting older! But serious where did all that come from.....hahaha Well here goes, I've got my OFF uniform on and am ready to hit the road, just a side note white doesn't really help the selfie cause as it's not really my colour. So yep, I'm taking one for the team! Off I trot for an expected 2.5km walk to Syndal Baptist according to Google maps. I'm taking my time taking photos knowing I have 30mins to get inside. 2.5km in 30mins easy peasy even stopping to take photos......... Well that's not something you see everyday. A house in Mt Waverley with seahorses for the door handles, weird, probably better suited to the beach. Google it Grandma, I hear Sophie say. What a good idea. So here's the answer, seahorses symbolise good luck, masculinity, strength, persistence and peace. Ok, well that's sounds like a good reason for seahorses on your front doors.......Yep, I approve.....hahaha Moving along I spot something that really doesn't make any sense to me at all......yep, you guessed it, it's another gate with zero fence either side! Seriously when I saw 1 the other day I though, Ok, maybe someone had a moment and just forgot to build the fence....not sure how that's possible but anyho.....you never know. But now seeing another one, I think maybe there are a bunch of crazy people out there who just get side tracked and move onto other things.... Like me......Oooooo.....shiny thing Time to keep moving and would you look at that! It's another family name.....Fiander! Ok this is seriously getting a bit strange, I think every day except one I have found a different family name. This one though is actually named after family. The Fiander's used to own a lot of the land around this street in Syndal. Guess what? What, I hear you say. Google maps is worse than Andrea Taylor at estimating distance. Sorry Andrea it had to be said ........hahaha.....you know I love ya.....hahaha Oh my goodness is that the time! How can I still have so far to go when Google maps said 2.5km and I'm already at 2.5km! Dear me, I'm going to have to run......yeah.......nah......seriously, I tried but it's just not going to happen......not today, not tomorrow, not ever should I try to run......hahaha Arrrrrrh....make it! Only a couple of minutes late, no thanks to Google. After a quick chat with Rosemary and Jake Belousoff and then Mandy Cocking Stark I headed off the long way home, via Mt Waverley shops. Oh my goodness another heart shaped rock. Yep you guessed it, it's coming home with me. Don't worry Sophie, I know, just one. Hello, Mr Tin Man Hello, Delwyn What are you doing out here on this windy day? I am waiting for the lion, the scarecrow and Dorothy, do you know where they are? No, sorry I don't think so. I do know a Dorothy that lives by the beach. Do you mean her? Nope, I mean Dorothy! Ok, well I'm not sure I can help you with that but I did find you a heart. You are so kind, do you want a selfie with me. Yes please! Alright, I had better keep moving, I'll look out for scarecrow, lion and Dorothy and tell them you are waiting. After our waves goodbye, I ventured on getting lots of photos of flowers, hearts, flags and birds, before hitting the shops. Nice window at Fella Hamilton, well done Narelle O'Brien Off to the chemist and yes please to black jelly beans........oh I'm sorry Gello beans.......well the name maybe be all kinds of wrong, but man they are yummy, yummy, yummy in my tummy, tummy, tummy...... Off I go heading towards home, past Bruce St, hello Bruce in heaven. Down the road and through the park land. Yes, it is ok for me to go through the park, it wasn't dark. Oh look, I'm not the only one to lose my glove........see Sophie, not just silly one Grandma. Past the ducks, up the hill, past grumpy Graham the garden gnome with his new buddy.....don't tell Ollie.....he doesn't like Graham or any garden gnomes for that matter. He thinks they are going to BBQ him......hahaha As I get close to home I realise I am not going to get to 10Km so I decided to take Ollie out to finish off the walk. Hey Ollie, Yes, Grandma, what? Ollie are you grumpy? Yes, Grandma, you always go out without me. Sorry Ollie would you like to go now. Nah....... What are you serious? Nope, just tricking.....does a bear poop in the woods? Of course I want to go out with you. Ok, let's go. Grandma? Yes Ollie? I miss Sophie. So do I Ollie, she was a very special girl. And a very special big sister to me. Yes, Ollie she was. Grandma Look at me, I'll king of the world. Do you think I can keep my superhero name, even though I am no longer Super Sophie's sidekick? You will always be Super Sophie's side kick Ollie, oops I mean Kevin as will I. Grandma? Yes, Ollie? Can we please go home now, my little legs are getting tired. Only after we get some Sunday selfies. See you tomorrow Love me and Ollie Business Sponsorship Malvern School of Art Fella Hamilton The Flooring Lab Monash Glass

Day 4

Day 4 - 14.01km (4.9km on my own before meeting the lovely flower pots) the rest with my crazy OFF friends, I'll leave you to do the maths. Today is a going to be a little different, time to meet up with my lovely OFF friends, no they're not smelly, well maybe by the end, 5km says Andrea Taylor.......hmmmm, I think Andrea has an issue with maths too.....😂 They are my One Foot Forward buddies. Over the last 5 years I have been lucky enough to share live with these lovely ladies and some others who couldn't make it today. I don't see them very often but they are there if ever I need them. Well, what a beautiful day! Couldn't have asked for better weather to head off to Seaford for a sneaky 5km (well almost) before meeting up with the ladies. Today's challenge was take a photo of our water bottle and supply our hydration tips. After arriving at Seaford and parking the car I head off to the shops and to find the most important place first. You will know it when you see it........🤣 My hydration, ladies always know where the loo's are.........🤣 Oh yep and don't drink sea water.......😂 Would you look at that.....another family name on a street sign....Chapman.......I think my family are following me everywhere. Parkinson, Usher and now Chapman, could be a sign.........😂 Sorry that was lame....but I did giggle. After doing all the touristy things like taking photos of all the art about the place, I headed towards the beach. Wow it is so peaceful down here. I think I have walked into drift wood heaven. When we were kids, mum used to collect drift wood and take it home. She would always be dragging something around with her........yes we used to think she was mad, but hey we were kids! Now an adult I can see the appeal. Look out Andrew, who knows what I could bring home. The first piece looks like a lion, the second like a seal and the third my favourite, has a heart in the centre. Oh dear I have wandered a long way and I'm starting to get messages that my OFF buddies are arriving at the meeting place soon, I had better head back. I crossed the road and started to jog......well I don't really think you could call what I was doing a jog....but I needed to speed up to get back. Oh look a sign for OAK - my little Oscar, awww a cute boy holding a balloon.......focus Delwyn your friends will be waiting. Ooooo I love that, a sign, Love, Learn, Grow......that's what we all need to keep doing. But I need to move it, move it, move it! Yes! A number 4, got it, keep going. But there's a sunflower....ok, get the photo, but hurry up. Well as you know I am easily distracted my shiny things, so yes when I saw a cute little man sitting on the fence with his bubble wand, I definitely had to stop. Right that is it.......now run so you are not late......yeah, nah not going to happen, alright then walk faster! As I come around the shops I spot Andrea Taylor in the distance and do a big wave......sorry mate wasn't waving at you, but hi..... One minute she's there and then the next she's gone..... Oh she's trying to ditch me already.....😂.....nope, there she is in the library, can't get away from me that easily. While she's dropping off her book, I head down to the water, hilarious, 5 sea gulls are floating around on the water on I have no idea what, but they are having a wonderful time. Time for selfies. First there was 2.... Then there was 3...... Then there was 4...... Righto....where to Andrea? Off to the wetlands for a 5km walk and some shenanigans. Yes there is always shenanigans when Andrea is involved. This year we didn't have a slide, but the steps will do, yep these are my weirdos. Of course there is always something to climb or some ballet to be done (still have no idea how you got your leg up there Andrea Taylor) Photo ops of our One Foot Forward uniforms, flowers, puppies, more selfies doing weird stuff, love hearts in the sky, the wetlands. A strange person who looks like he is peeing over the bridge, nope he is fishing......I know right......odd.....😂.....probably belongs with us. Walking, walking and walking some more when Andrea says to me in a whisper, "I think it's more than 5km"....I said "you think?" At this point we had already gone 5.5km and probably had another 3km to go..... see I told you she is not very good maths......🤣 More photos of birds.....oh don't fall in....🤣 While trying to be sensible and take a selfie with the sign of the wetlands and my position, these two rat bags gave me the biggest jump scare, Kerryn De Battista and Andrea Taylor were right behind me and I turn right into their faces......yep scared the poop out of me..... After lots of giggles and sore knee we are on the home stretch and heading for coffee......always coffee! Time for more selfies with our cups of water to rehydrate before food, coffee and home time. What a gorgeous day! Thanks Andrea Taylor for organising us all😘😍🧡 See you tomorrow Love Me xx

Day 3

Day 3 - 12.09km Good morning folks, today is World SMILE day. So my challenge to you is to smile at everyone you see. Yes, don't worry some of them will think you are a weirdo, but be a happy weirdo and smile even bigger.....😆 Today I thought I would make the most of the last day before daylight savings kicks and and walked to work again. For the first time since Sophie has been gone Mr Ollie got up with me at 4.30am, he is not an early riser at all, usually staying tucked in bed with mummy and daddy. He was bouncing around, following me everywhere and looking all cute until I had to burst his bubble by telling him he couldn't come with me today either. He was not impressed and gave me a lot of side eye action while I finished up getting ready to go. Sorry buddy, maybe tomorrow we can go on a little walk together. So my mission and challenge today is to find smiles and do a random act of kindness, yes I know a random act of kindness would have been to take Ollie, but his tiny little legs would not have made and and I don't have a baby carrier.....😆 Time to go, still pretty dark, but it will get lighter soon enough, sticking to the main road, no parks in the dark, that's the rules. Well that's a bit rude....the footpath is telling me I'm too slow. Give me a break I haven't woken up yet or had coffee. Time for a quick selfie, its a bit chilly, I'm hoping the sun comes out soon and warms me up. Do you know how hard it is to find smiles when you need them... all these years I have been able to find smiley faces and pictures, but today 4km in and nothing.....oh dear, fingers crossed. At least a child care center....oh so cute a beautiful smiley face and my favourite thing finger painting. Well that's a start.....what else will we find today. Some pretty flowers, a lovely message for mum Dorothy Parkinson , some magpies who are looking at starting a footy team in the future, a gate to stop I don't know what and more smiling faces, thank goodness! After being told off by Jen at work yesterday, I walked a different way so I didn't go over the Warragal Rd train bridge with no foot path and went through over and the bridge over the train with a path and a barrier to keep me in or the cars out.......probably to keep me in....😂 I took a sneaky pic of the man walking his dogs, I did ask to pat them when he was on my side of the road...which he said yes, then quickly ran over the road.....getting away from the crazy lady...hmmm maybe. Yes I did get a bit teary....and yes I probably looked like a nutter...so I will give him that. Along the way a caravan told me not to panic, which is great as I did still have another 6kms before getting coffee and I think my pace is slipping. All good I can do this! If not there is always UBER....😆 Oh dear, parked cars have stopped the garbage truck man from being able to get the bin....woo hoo my chance, first random act of kindness coming up! I saay, would you like me to room the bin for you, he smiles the biggest smile and says that would be awesome. Isn't it nice to make someone happy......so good! Hopefully he will pay it forward to someone else. Walking, walking, walking some more.....oh goodie I can see coffee over the horizon.....yippee....so good....that got my pace back up. Walk into the coffee drive through and no one is there except me. As I pay for my coffee a man pulls in behind me, so I say I'll pay for he! He was so excited and decided to pay for the coffee of the man who pulled in behind him........oh happy days....everyone is feeling good on a cloudy, chilly morning, even before coffee....😄 Off I wander, a quick toot from the man with the coffee and I'm heading the last 1km to work. Yay....I make it only 15mins slower than Wednesday, not too bad considering. Happy days!!! Remember to smile at random people today and see what happens. See you tomorrow. Love Me 🩷 The Flooring Lab Fella Hamilton Malvern School of Art Monash Glass

Day 2

Day 2 - 9.11km Well walking after work is poo! This is really going to take some getting used to. I really miss the peace and quiet of the early mornings, when the world was our own. No one to bother us, no cars on the road, just maybe the odd jump scare here and there and a few ninja cats. Man is it noisy out there at peak hour, everyone is rushing to get home for dinner. Anyway, whinge over lets get down to business! I get home a little bit early so I can do as much of a walk before it gets dark. Today we, sorry I have to find 3 things starting with the letter "D" for Delwyn. Hard to stop looking for S for Sophie..... Ollie is bouncing around thinking, Oooo are we going for a walk? Sorry Ollie not today, Grandma has to go to far for your tiny little legs. Well there's the first D, disappointed dog........hahaha Ok time to head off, down the road, around the corner and oh dear, to my surprise it seems Pinewood shops, Jells Park and Monash Uni have all moved to middle earth......hahaha Time to get serious, come one find something staring with D and don't forget the number of the day. As I'm looking about of course I find a dummy....plenty of them around, with all the building sites. Oooo a dandelion...that's getting better. Right I think I'll head to the shops and see what's there. But first a trip down memory lane and through the playground. Oh Sophie's favourite sand pit has gone, that's sad, she loved to roll around and around and get all sandy, before shaking it all over me. The new space is very cute now for the kids, with flowers and butterflies and colourful shapes scattered around the place. Time to move on, ok, off to the primary school, there will definitely be lots of D things there. Oh my goodness.....rocks......rocks and more rocks, all painted and looking pretty......no you cannot pinch any Grandma, I can hear Sophie say, nope, definitely not. Don't worry they are all cemented in nice and tight.......yep...I checked.......hahaha Yippee I found the number 2, lots of them, that was easy. Not going to forget today.....phew. I found a D for digger (as Oscar would say) and was disappointed to see that Darren the Dragon (the mosaic dragon on the art room) has gone, the whole building has gone! Seriously nothing stays the same around here! Found some daisies on a window and moved onto the shops, where I found a dragon, some dumplings, a Deli and a duck.....yes I can hear you all say, 3 things Delwyn, just 3 things.......hahahaha never going to happen. Heading over to the lake area I see lots of duck, mummy, daddy and heaps of babies. Mummy or daddy, I'm not sure which one, was not impressed with me getting up close and personal and got a bit chatty and telling me to back off. Ok, I get it move aside or lose a limb, I'm going already....they were very cute though. I found a daffodil, a diary, a doll.....yep laying in the grass, like she'd had a big day at the races and didn't quite make it home. Well yes, you guessed it I may have made her do a few poses before moving on. Yes I did leave her in the tree, she looked like she was having more fun up there. I found a dog, a real daisy, a donkey and thank goodness the best door I could have ever wished for....my own. Yeah home for dinner and a sit down. See you tomorrow xx Ps thanking the following business sponsors The Flooring Lab Monash Glass Malvern School of Art Fella Hamilton

Day 1

Day 1 - 12.19km Well I'm back, walking again for the Black Dog Institute, One Foot Forward Challenge. This year I will be walking 300km......I know, I know, I hear you saying "are you mad", well yes, obviously I am! But really that's no surprise is it? As you know my beautiful Sophie crossed the rainbow bridge a month ago, I am sure she is joining me in spirit and taking every step with me. This does mean that the very early morning walks will no longer take place and all week day walks will be after work, once daylight savings kicks in, so story time will be night time instead of the morning. I hope I will be able to keep you all entertained without Grandma and Sophie stories. But who knows we will probably have quite a few flash backs. Well today I decided to kick off October by walking to work. I had though it was going to be 15km and take 3hrs, but it turned out to only be 12.19km and 2 1/2hrs........winner winner chicken dinner! So today we had to take a photo of our first steps. I little less difficult that the last 4 years with only me. But Sophie will always walk with me with her paw print permanently on my leg forever. Heading out at 5am it was still a little dark, but I put my big girls pants on and decided to be brave. I was doing really well until I got about 500mts down the road and I burst into tears, thinking of Sophie, missing my walks, stories and fun times with her. I could imagine Sophie say "Silly old Grandma please don't cry". So I pulled myself together and wandered on. After a while I thought Oh Grandma don't forget the number of the day! Oh yes, thanks Sophie. Oooooo... look Parkinson St, that's one for the fam. Need a photo in front of that.....oops sorry buddy.......just distracted a driver by taking selfies. He was probably thinking the nuts are out this morning. He would probably be right! All good no accidents occurred. Further down the road, after taking some photos of flowers and some weird circles on the ground, I found a garden FULL of ROCKS. Yes all shapes and sizes, can I pinch one?........It's not collecting rock day......but just one.....look it looks like a heart. Ok just one. So it turns out I ended up in the dead centre of Oakleigh.......yes a cemetery.........yes I know....I have driven pass this intersection for probably 25 years and have never seen it before. In between the footy oval and the police station right near Oakleigh shops. Well of course one must have a sticky beak and would you look at that.........there are Ushers in there (old family name). So that was a bit of a surprise. As I wonder up Warringal Rd I come to the bridge over the railway line.....oh poo.....no footpath. What to do? Walk all the way out of my way to try find an overpass or a crossing or risk it and cross over the bridge on the tiny edge of the road.....yep you guessed it, over we go. May have had to wait for cars to go by to get around a few poles, tripped on something sticking out of the ground and nearly wobbled into traffic.....but all good safely made it to the other side. As a keep going heading closer to work I spot a man with a staffy and lost it again. Pulling myself together and getting nearer to work I think, oops still haven't got the number one. How silly am I, I have the word ONE on my T Shirt! Found a one as well, a really boring one at that. Time for coffee....thank goodness......drive through......today walk through.....thank you Southside 6 for my usual! I made it! Past building 1 and into my building, two doors up. No time to put the feet up it's straight into work while eating my breakfast! Thank you Andrew Henderson for picking me up and taking me home. Thank you to the everyone who has sponsored me so far and to the following businesses, I really appreciate the support. Fella Hamilton The Flooring Lab Malvern School of Art

Support Our Walk for Mental Health Research

Did you know that 1 in 5 Australians experience symptoms of mental illness each year?

This October, our team is taking part in One Foot Forward to help Australians impacted by mental illness and suicide.

We're walking to raise funds for Black Dog Institute to put ground-breaking new mental health treatment, education, and digital services into the hands of the people who need them most.

We’re excited to be part of the virtual community team, alongside Michelle Wheatley, Delwyn Parkinson, Paul Rudd, Ryan Timeus, and Julia O’Keefe. This is a space for everyone taking part to feel supported – because truly, no one has to walk alone.

It would mean so much to me if you donated to support our walk:
https://www.onefootforward.org.au/fundraisers/OneFootFurther

Together, we can create better mental health for all Australians.

Our Achievements

Thank you to our supporters

$520

The Flooring Lab

Very proud of you Del 💕

$317

Dorothy Parkinson

I love your care for others Del, and am so proud of you. Love and blessings, Mum xx

$317

Delwyn Parkinson

$255

Lisa H

You’re amazing, Julia. Walking beside you in spirit. Stay hydrated.❤️

$255

Sharon And David Hamilton

Del you are raising money for an amazing cause, so sorry you are doing it without Sophie but know Sophie will be in spirit when you are walking

$255

Anonymous

$253

Phillip Mcintosh

Go Jules

$253

Safety Mate Matched Contribution

$253

Sharwood Shanty Dwellers

$211

Anne & Doug Henderson

Delwyn, you are ane ever-shining star and we are forever so proud of you. Please take care on your walk.

$211

Paul & Liz

Go Juba

$211

Josh & Elle

Get it Jules!!

$211

Safety Mate Matched Contribution

$200

Jan Mccowan

$200

Tull Suwannakit

All the best for reaching that goal!

$200

Gary Sanford

So proud of you Del. Love Bron and Gary ❤️

$158

Mayah Mcintosh

Yeah the Julsey!!!!!

$158

Safety Mate Matched Contribution

$150

Parkinson Dental Pty Ltd

You're doing great Del 🚶‍♀️🩷

$150

Mark Lennox

Well done Delwyn, amazing work the last 5 years.

$148

Lis Clough

Gooooo You! Xox

$111

Nath Chelse Edi.

Go julsey love Chelse Edi and I.

$111

Safety Mate Matched Contribution

$111

Paul O’keefe

Mammoth effort Jules. We’re really proud of you..🥰

$111

Safety Mate Matched Contribution

$111

Jeanette And Geoff Martin

Good luck Tyrone! A great cause.

$111

Anonymous

Well done Del!! Sophie will be with you every step of the way. 😘

$111

A&a Mcintosh

Go Jules!!! Yeah da pasta!

$111

Peter & Loz Burgess/lett

Great work jules !! Massive effort

$111

Safety Mate Matched Contribution

$107

Jess, Denbot And Little Wizard

You got this!! You’ll smash that 600km exactly how you approach life in style and while having the best time!

$107

Jenny Dunford

$107

Kayla O'brien

Go get em, superstar!

$107

Mandy

Go Del!! You’re amazing!! 🩷

$106

Kristian Swart

This is the type of activity that promotes mental health, thanks for sharing. What an achievement. Best wishes witht he 600 - what a goal!

$106

Maegan Pathinather

Amazing work Jules!

$106

Owen Neochi

Proud of you - continuing with this each year.

$106

Luke Deliman

Go Julia !!!! 🫶🙌🙌

$106

Warren Chapman

$105

B Ok

Go Julesy. Proud of you.

$105

Safety Mate Matched Contribution

$100

Linda Rudd

You've got this

$71

Mayah

Start stretching those hammies!!! It’s almost go time!!

$70

The Browns

Walk, Julesy. Walk!!

$70

Safety Mate Matched Contribution

$70

Adam Maundrell

Awesome work!

$70

Yvonne Maundrell

Well done Julia!

$70

The Pooles

Go Julesy. You got this!

$70

Safety Mate Matched Contribution

$70

Janine Okeefe

Go sister!

$70

Safety Mate Matched Contribution

$68

Paul Rudd

$65

John Gibbs

$55

Mat Larkin

$55

Jo Danes

Cheering you on Del.

$54

Sarah Steele

You are inspirational Del! This time around you will have your fur angel buoying you up and onwards. Remembering Sophie one step at a time.

$54

Tammy Tait

You’re amazing xx

$54

Pamela Jennion

This is one worthy cause that needs to be supported. Thanks Del for your commitment again .

$54

Sylvi Sanders

Go girl, you’re doing good things. 💛🥰

$54

Roirda Harper

You are truly inspirational lovely lady

$54

Kane & Jenna Hart

You go legend! Love your work like always Harts xx

$54

Amy Love

Amazing work Julia! All the best for the walking over this month.

$54

Mike Ehrmantraut

$54

Safety Mate Matched Contribution

$54

Kim Grogan

$54

Cheryl Bergin

Tyrone!!! Doing an incredible job to slay this challenge to raise money for better health outcomes!! 😎❤️

$54

Jannelle And Ralf Kreinberg

Good job Delwyn and Sofiie can't wait to hear your stories

$54

Kelly Austin

Go Del! In honour of beautiful Sophie 🐾

$54

Ark Clothing Team

Well done Del! Incredible effort for a great cause

$53

Eve

Thank you for all you do Delly

$50

Jillian D

Thoughtful of you to do this, Delwyn.... One foot forward at a time... and you will reach your goal.

$44

Michael Cramp

Great job Julia

$44

Kate Norris

Great cause Del! Cheering you on! Kate - The Ark

$44

Melissa Carson

$44

Catherine Carnegie

Go Del! You are an inspiration. While we are asleep you will be making a difference.

$44

Libby Lawler

Congratulations Paul. Thanks for being an inspiration

$44

Donele Overton

Fantastic effort for a great cause. You are amazing Dxx

$44

Angelika Proctor

$44

Dianne Johns

Keep going 🦋

$44

Cheryl Bergin

Tyrone!!! Good luck in raising and creating awareness! ! We like to call it brain health

$36

Sharon Kanarek

Del, you are doing so well despite the loss of your gorgeous companion Sophie ❤️ I know her spirit is alongside you, and Ollie when he comes along. It is a very important cause to be supporting ✨️

$33

Ann Collins

Del this is a great reason to get out and walk, helping to support and raise awareness. Well done you xx

$28

Mel P

Legend! Been so good to walk these 6 years with you.

$27

Debbie Stewart-henderson

$23

Trish Van Den Enden

Hi Del, Thanks for sharing

$23

Roslynne Denham

Awesome Tyrone👌👌👌

$23

Tiffany Harris

Go you, fantastic achievement xxx

$23

Paula Taylor

$23

Anonymous

$23

Anonymous

You are an inspiration sharing your story. Happy walking :)

$23

Shelli Squires

So proud and grateful to you Delwyn

$23

Zoey Alder

Thanks for all your generous support and being the brightness in someone else’s darkness.

$23

Tiffany Harris

Congrats on 6 years- hope we see a tutu

$23

Dee Kerr

Go Del and Sophie, you two are superstars 💞

$23

Julia O'keefe

$20

Michelle

$20

Safety Mate Matched Contribution

$20

Paul Rudd

Keep on walking 😊

$20

Belinda Plunkett

$20

Candace Loane

Been great doing this with you the past 6 years. What an inspiration you are! Keep it up 😊

$20

Safety Mate Matched Contribution

$17

Phoebe Robinson

Thanks for all you do as part of the One Foot Foward community!

$17

Safety Mate Matched Contribution

$17

Chelsea Mcmillan

Thanks for keeping us all motivated Paul

$17

Safety Mate Matched Contribution

$15

Kristy Ashley

😁

$12

Anonymous

Good luck Julia, your mum told me about your fundraiser Lizzy

$12

Sally

Go getem steps, Tiger!

$12

Jane

Sorry I can’t donate more. ❤️

$10

Luna

🐾❤️

$10

Safety Mate Matched Contribution

$6

Sue

Cash donation from Sue, thank you! ❤️

Our Team Members