Walk To Rivendell" aka "The Eowyn Challenge"

[Hilde Bracegirdle]

Many thanks, Nurumaiel, Linnamalle & Raefindel! And thank you for the coffee!

Nuru, if you do make it today I would suspect that you found a descendant of Shadowfax! That would wonderful. But I hope that your ankle does mend fully soon for you, otherwise I will keep an eye out for a good horse.

ArwenBaggins, I can see you approaching. Looks like Rivendell is going to have a nice group today!

Congratulations Alatariel!

[ August 27, 2003: Message edited by: Hilde Bracegirdle ]

[Linnamalle]

Another good day. Fourteen miles to go! Can't wait for the singing! Can't wait! Can't wait!

[ArwenBaggins]

We reached Rivendell early this morning, and in high spirits. (I had school today, just got home an hour ago.) I can't wait for the feast this weekend, for Lord Elrond says that 'twill be a feast of a hungry hobbit's proportion, and I am a hungry hobbit!
I'll be waiting for everyone in the hotspring with a cup of Elven tea!

[Galenfea of Mirkwood.]

I'd like to greet my fellow walkers, but I'm too far behind them!

Cheer up, you're in front of me! [img]smilies/frown.gif[/img]

[Lyta_Underhill]

Cheeer up, Galenfea! You're ahead of me!!! [img]smilies/wink.gif[/img] Many thanks to Raefindel for the suggestion of moleskin for my poor aching feet! I haven't been able to get any yet and am substituting band-aids, but I plan to get some today! Despite my husband's suggestion I skip a day to heal my feet, the band-aids gave me enough relief so that I could go 3 more miles. It has become rather a compulsion! I only wish I had more time to walk! If I don't get it soon, I may have to start running! [img]smilies/eek.gif[/img] (And that would be a return to one of my teenage obsessions that eventually ruined my knees--maybe I can be smarter this time!)

Cheers,
Lyta (still working on becoming the "bold, hard halfling" with strong legs and endless endurance...uh, are we there yet? [img]smilies/wink.gif[/img] ) OK, so I'm still part of the Hobbit walking tour! [img]smilies/biggrin.gif[/img]

[Nurumaiel]

Congratulations, Arwen, for your success in reaching Rivendell. I should be there in the next month or so, if I can make myself start walking.

Unfortunately no horse sired by Shadowfax came my way, so I'm not there yet. [img]smilies/biggrin.gif[/img] Tomorrow I'm going on a three-hour trail ride, however, and that should get some pretty good mileage, especially if I'm riding my Acorn, the perfect horse for any Hobbit.

The blister is still bothering me, but the ankle is healed! After making that discovery I went to tell Strider. He got up and started walking after giving me a strange look. I hope he doesn't think I was faking it. The blister is no problem. With my Elven boots (and the aid of a band-aid) it doesn't bother me at all. Maybe I can get to mile 260 today. Well, maybe not. Strider told me that was what he wanted to do, so I guess I'll have to try, right?

Anyone in the area of 250 miles? Curious if I've got a walking companion of one sort.

Wonder how mark12_30 is doing on the road. I really should email her...

[ArwenBaggins]

Thanks for the Congrats Nuru!
***
I'm still in Rivendell, waiting for the others. I'm walking, but not going anywhere until I've eaten everything I can.
I can't wait to see some new people here!

[Hilde Bracegirdle]

Nice to see you ArwenBaggins! Have a cup of tea, and when your finished I have discovered a very well stocked larder, to which I have been told to help myself… [img]smilies/biggrin.gif[/img]

Where is Linnamalle? I think we will have some more company very soon!

[Eärendil]

Nurumaiel - We are very near eachother, at least for now. I have walked 255 miles, struggling (ok, not really) on my own. (No Elwing with me...) Getting closer Weathertop and will soon leave it behind me.
Wave and shout a little (if you´re not afraid of drawing the Black Riders´ attention to yourself) and I might discover where you are! *smiles*

[Linnamalle]

Linnamalle is here! I have ten miles to go... Today looks terribly busy, but I'll see what progress I can make. Perhaps this evening!

It's ironic that I finally wrote a walking song at the END of my walk to Rivendell. But it's more of a life-walking song, so I guess it's okay! And I want to keep the copyright... so I guess I'm glad I didn't enter it into the contest. I'll put a link to it, once it's posted... I need to figure out how I'm going to post the tune. (You know how these things go-- the tune may be revised without warning... Then again, the tune works also for The Road Goes Ever On, so maybe I'll keep it...? Decisions, decisions! Lol!)

[ August 28, 2003: Message edited by: Linnamalle ]

[Alatáriël Lossëhelin]

If it isn't replicating earlier discussion, can anyone tell me what shoes/boots they use to walk for this endeavor?

Lyta: I learned the hard way...don't wear dwarf boots! I wear some lovely elven slippers that I got at ElfMart, with some inserts that have heel and ball of foot cushions and arch supports. I also use the Dr. Scholl's moleskin pads. When I have blister problems, I cut small pieces of foam cosmetic wedges and secure with adhesive tape. Very cushiony socks also help.

Hilde: Come join Arwen and the rest of us in the hot spring..it does wonders for sore and aching muscles and feet.

Nurumaiel: Glad your ankle is better. Try some moleskin or bits of foam cosmetic wedges for those blisters.

Linnamalle: We're saving a spot in the hot spring for you! (not to mention a seat at the feast [img]smilies/rolleyes.gif[/img] )

Welcome to Rivendell Alatáriël & Hilde! Have some coffee. Look, here is a hot spring where you can soak your feet while you watch the arrival of other adventurers.

Oooh, thanks, Rae! Absolutely delicious! It's been wonderful the past few days, just lazing around in the hot spring with the twins, and watching TTT. Since there's two of them, I can have both feet massaged at the same time--aaahh!! Fabulous food, hot springs, foot massages, and TTT...what more could an Elf want? [img]smilies/tongue.gif[/img] However, I want to make it to Lórien by December 17, so it's time to swear in the sheriff and get this show back on the road! Mt. Doom isn't getting any closer.

--------------------

...such was the virtue of the land of Rivendell that soon all fear and anxiety was lifted from their minds. The future, good or ill, was not forgotten, but ceased to have any power over the present. Health and hope grew strong in them, and they were content with each good day as it came, taking pleasure in every meal, and in every word and song.

So the days slipped away, as each morning dawned bright and fair, and each evening followed cool and clear. But autumn was waning fast; slowly the golden light faded to pale silver, and the lingering leaves fell from the naked trees. A wind began to blow chill from the Misty Mountains to the east. The Hunter's Moon waxed round in the night sky, and put to flight all the lesser stars. But low in the South one star shone red. Every night, as the Moon waned again, it shone brighter and brighter. Frodo could see it from his window, deep in the heavens, burning like a watchful eye that glared above the trees on the brink of the valley.

[ August 29, 2003: Message edited by: Alatáriël ]

[ August 29, 2003: Message edited by: Alatáriël ]

[Hilde Bracegirdle]

However, I want to make it to Lórien by December 17

[img]smilies/eek.gif[/img] Eek! How many miles is that I wonder? And I was just getting used to it here, too, propping up my feet, watching TTT and eatting some German chocolate cake to celebrate! And yes thank you, I'll just have another piece of that blackberry pie before I set out....

[Nurumaiel]

I plan to walk five more miles today, though how I have no idea. Yesterday I walked 12 miles in all on my Shire pony. As we crossed the Great Road we came to a long stretch of dirt through the trees and Strider gave us permission to canter to the end. Strider and Sam stayed behind with Frodo. I think part of the reason Sam did that was to stay with Frodo, but I also think he was afraid to ride so fast. Do you know that instead of just one pony this time we have a pony for each hobbit and one horse for Strider? [img]smilies/biggrin.gif[/img]

Everyone but Strider was feeling very weary as we came to a stopping point for a meal. I don't know about Strider, but everyone was very hungry. My fellow Hobbits had breakfast but they're Hobbits, and I unwisely missed it. Strider didn't have feelings for any of us besides Frodo and he made us take care of the horses ourselves! Of course he let Sam off to go find herbs and everything for a meal. His horse was still extremely energetic, and while our tired ponies were easy to take care of, the three of us (Merry, Pippin, and myself) had to work together. Poor Merry had to keep becoming a stool for Pippin and I to stand on!

Afterwards we returned wearily to the campsite and found a delicious meal waiting for us. We were so tired we just sat down and began to eat. Sam asked Strider how much longer it was to Rivendell. Strider said 188 miles, and the three workers couldn't even rejoice, we just exchanged delighted looks.

Strider says we have to walk at least 5 miles today. He wants to walk more, but I think he's finally beginning to appreciate the fact that we aren't Rangers like he is. And now I better be off so we can start on our first mile. Strider says we can't ride the ponies this time because they're more exhausted than we are. I'm sure he gets to ride his horse though.

[Alatáriël Lossëhelin]

However, I want to make it to Lórien by December 17

Eek! How many miles is that I wonder? And I was just getting used to it here, too, propping up my feet, watching TTT and eating some German chocolate cake to celebrate! And yes thank you, I'll just have another piece of that blackberry pie before I set out....

Hilde: My atlas shows 285 miles from Rivendell to Lórien; 393 miles from Lórien to Rauros; and 470 miles from Rauros to Mt. Doom--a total of 1,606 miles from Bag End to Mt. Doom. Lórien by December 17...Mt. Doom by September 22, 2004? I think I can! I think I can!

[Hilde Bracegirdle]

Hmmm.... That would be close to 2 3/4 miles a day provided Caradhras will let us pass (hey, a pun), or will we choose Moria? Or then again maybe Redhorn Pass. Such decisions!

At anyrate, many thanks for the goal Nurumaiel!

Come to think of it, Redhorn Pass would be the long way 'round to Lorien wouldn't it? Maybe I can visit it on the return trip to the Shire. [img]smilies/wink.gif[/img]

[ August 29, 2003: Message edited by: Hilde Bracegirdle ]

[Estelyn Telcontar]

Well, folks, the short stories are now up on the Éowyn Challenge site, so we can read them and vote for the best. We don't know which ones are by our members, so the voting will be objective - best wishes to those of you who entered!

[Lyra Greenleaf]

450 miles! I'm nearly there!

[ArwenBaggins]

I'm having a tTT party tonight, and I'm sitting her in a long dress with my blonde hair in Elven braids. I feel stupid, but I'm not the only one!
***
I plan on leaving Rivendell soon for Lòrien, but I'll still cheer ya'll on!

[peony_foxburr]

Peony Foxburr's alter ego sighed, and took another long swallow of ice water. "Every time I have some days off from work, the weather is hot and humid again..."

"Get up earlier, then, you lazy slug!" the hobbit snapped back. "I've been stuck here for days, waiting to reach the Last Bridge! Everyone else is getting to Rivendell before us. If you don't hurry up, all the blackberry pie will be gone."

The alter ego sighed again, and resolved (again) NOT to hit the snooze alarm in the morning...and not to stay up too late the night before...

"No excuses, now," Peony told her, before she hit the "Add Reply" button.

[Lyta_Underhill]

Thanks for the advice, Alatariël! Elf-Mart! I love that name, except I've yet to see an elf inside it (lots of orcs and trolls though-dangerous place)! I shop almost exclusively at thrift stores and yard sales, except for perishables and other modern conveniences. I found a very good pair of barely used Nikes today at a thrift store and wore them for my walk this evening. 200% better on the feet! I will need arch supports for them, but it was SO much easier with proper shoes than it had been! And that's a good thing! I've estimated that I'll have to walk an average of 3.77 miles a day to make it to Rivendell on time! Anyone else wondering how in Middle Earth they're going to make it on time?
[img]smilies/eek.gif[/img]

Cheers,
Lyta (47 miles along--past Woody End now!)

[Nurumaiel]

6 miles yesterday! As we sat down for dinner Strider complimented us, though I don't see what for. I'm sure compared to what he can do, it was absolutely nothing. I take it, however, that we did better than we usually do. [img]smilies/smile.gif[/img] We had a delicious soup and some bread for dinner. Sam is an absolute marvel at cooking, I must say! While he cooked Merry, Pippin, and I discussed Rivendell and what it would be like (actually, the evening consisted of playing a LotR board game).

After dinner we really enjoyed ourselves singing and dancing. Strider, Frodo, and Sam rather just watched, though Sam consented to sing a few songs for us. I don't know what Strider thought of our party before we reached Rivendell. I told him we were celebrating the arrival of our friends.

Now I'm laughing insanely as I think of how Strider, Merry, Pippin, Frodo, and Sam are in so many places at once!

Lyra, good luck! And it's nice to see you around.

Arwen, don't feel ashamed. I plan to invite some friends over some day for a day of watching FotR and tTT, and we shall unashamedly be wearing LotR costumes. I'll also be dressing up when I reach Rivendell. Who says I'm too old to enjyo dressing up?

Peony, I have the same problem. I need an alarm clock that plays LotR music or something. But I have excuses for sleeping in late, because I'm in bed after midnight. Strider doesn't like that very much, naturally. It holds us up a lot. I tried to tell him I was watching The Long and Short of It but he totally ignored me. Even if he did listen he'd tell me it was a short film. But I also had to watch the making of it, the tTT trailers, the special edition preview, and the RotK preview (which looks so awesome).

Lyta, keep up the good work! You're doing much better than I did. It took me a couple months to reach Frodo's campsite at 18 miles! Can you believe it? For me it's all about have enough courage to start the walking for the day, then it's a cinch. I had real walking companions yesterday, not just imaginary Merrys and Pippins, and that made it so much easier.

Better be off now. Strider's calling. I do nothing but grumble about him, but he's actually pretty great... for one of the Big Folk.

[Lyta_Underhill]

Nurumaiel, thanks for the encouragement! I walked 5.3 miles today and I think I have found my daily limit! The old injuries to my hips and back screamed far too loudly at the end of it; I don't think I could have gone another step! If I am lucky, all this walking will eventually lessen the pain all these unfortunate life experiences have given me as daily "gifts!"

Oh, I'm past Stock now! Almost to Buckleberry Ferry! [img]smilies/biggrin.gif[/img] (After today, it'll be a few days before I reach it!)

Cheers,
Lyta

[Nurumaiel]

The list is updated now. You can find it here. I'll probably be updating again next week.

Keep up the good work, everyone!

By the way, Anorial, I thank you for finding the old list.

[Alatáriël Lossëhelin]

Ala, that was beautiful....made me cry like the movie. Congrats on reaching Mordor and finally "throwing in the ring"!

Many congratulations to Alatariel! Praise her with great praise! Now, let's have an Eagle in there to get her out before Orodruin blows! I've really enjoyed your closely written narratives, Alatariel; you must really have walked in two worlds down there in "Moria!" That's as Elvish as it gets, if you take my meaning!

Ala, we really do need to find those Eagles to save you. That was truly a lovely post.

Anorial, Lyta & Nurumaiel: Many thanks for all your kind words (and especially for sending Gandalf with the Eagles to pick us up)!! Without the inspiration of all my fellow walkers (and Frodo and Sam), I would never even have made it out of the Shire, much less reached the end of the journey!

"End? The journey doesn't end here."

I still have to make sure that the hobbits return safely to the Shire (and that Frodo gets on that ship with me). Hopefully, there will be a bit more joy and less danger on the journey home.

I'm considering walking at night again, except for the fact that a VERY LARGE animal tore up part of a building that is about 250 yards from where I live, and I'm still not sure if it was a mad coyote or even a bear! (One can only hope it would be more Beorn-like... It had very large paws, not unlike a very large dog, and it must have very large teeth.

Lyta, be careful!! Sounds like you might have an orc there in your neck of the woods...or possibly even an Uruk-hai! Make sure you take Aragorn and Boromir out walking with you for protection. Those boys can whup anything!!

[Estelyn Telcontar]

Congratulations, Alatáriël! I'm following you from an admiring distance, having reached Parth Galen now. On to the next goal...

[Alatáriël Lossëhelin]

Congratulations, Alatáriël! I'm following you from an admiring distance, having reached Parth Galen now. On to the next goal...

Many thanks for your good wishes, Estelyn! Will you be off with Frodo and Sam, or will you journey with Aragorn & Company? Or perhaps accompany Merry & Pippin to Fangorn? If you go with F & S, watch out for that nassssty Gollum--he's mighty tricksssy...yessss, preciousss, yessss...very tricksssy indeed!!

______________________________

“Why, what a dream I’ve had!….But then I thought I was dead myself. Is everything sad going to come untrue? What’s happened to the world?”

I cannot help but smile at the look of bewilderment and incredulous joy on Sam’s face, as he looks from Frodo sleeping beside him, to me sitting on the edge of the next bed, to Gandalf sitting in a chair beside me, and then back again to Frodo. I had felt just the same when I had awoken two days previously. When I had seen that Frodo and Sam were still with me, as well as the wizard that I had long thought dead, it had seemed as if Ilúvatar had heard my wish and allowed me to travel the mortal path beyond the confines of this world. But I soon discovered that it was not so, for Aragorn was also there, as were Legolas and Gimli, and Merry and Pippin.

I heard the tale of our rescue by Gandalf and the great Eagles from the chaos in Mordor that followed the destruction of the Ring and Sauron’s fall. How we had been taken out of the fire and delivered to the edge of the battlefield before the Morannon. How King Aragorn Elessar had put forth all his healing power to call us back to the lands of the living. How we had slept for many days while others had fought the remnants of the Enemy’s army, and all had been removed into Ithilien. I had heard of all that had happened to our Fellowship after our parting on Amon Hen, and a wondrous tale it was…but to me less so than that of my two valiant companions.

In my turn, I told the others of the hardships endured by the halflings, of their courage, their endurance, their compassion, their indomitable spirits. I told how Sam had cared for and supported Frodo all during our journey, but especially during the last days. How Frodo was somehow able to summon his failing strength each day to carry him further towards the Mountain, although the Ring was consuming more and more of his mind and will. How even when all hope had faded, Sam did not falter in his purpose. And how, in the end, it was pity and compassion—the pity of Bilbo in the caves…the pity of Frodo in the Emyn Muil…the pity of Sam on the slopes of Mount Doom—not great armies, nor strength of arms, nor any power of wizards, that enabled the Quest to be fulfilled and the Ring destroyed.

I watch as my two precious friends dress once again in the stained and tattered clothing that they wore as they journeyed through the Black Land, and Gandalf takes their hands to lead them to the King. As they start to walk away, Frodo stops and turns to me, holding out his hand. “Come on, Alatáriël,” he smiles, “the King is waiting.”

I smile back. “I have already spoken to the King, my friend. He is waiting to greet the two of you now. I will join you later for the feasting, never fear.” When they had spoken to me yesterday of their intent, I had told both Aragorn and Gandalf that I did not wish to be included in the public acclaim that was planned. Aragorn had insisted, but I was adamant. This day should belong solely to the Halflings, for theirs was the chief sacrifice and triumph. I had received unexpected support in this from Gandalf, and Aragorn had reluctantly agreed.

I follow quietly behind them as they walk through the beech wood, and I remain under the trees, watching, as Gandalf leads them onto the green field among the host of men. My heart is full as I watch King Elessar kneel to them and then set them upon his throne, and my own voice is lost amid the shouts and cheers of those assembled. And I, like Sam, both laugh and weep as the minstral begins to sing of “Frodo of the Nine Fingers and the Ring of Doom”.

The Quest is over, but our journey will continue. I will accompany my friends back to their home in the Shire, or wherever fate may take them in the future. I will not seek the Havens with Elrond and the other folk of Rivendell...not now…for as long as these companions of my heart live in Middle-earth, I shall remain.

“Praise them with great praise!”

--------------------

‘Long live the Halflings! Praise them with great praise!
Cuio i Pheriain anann! Aglar’ni Pheriannath!
Praise them with great praise, Frodo and Samwise!
Daur a Berhael, Conin en Annûn! Eglerio!
Praise them!
Eglerio!
A laita te, laita te! Andave laituvalmet!
Praise them!
Cormacolindor, a laita tárienna!
Praise them! The Ring-bearers, praise them with great praise!’

On the throne sat a mail-clad man, a great sword was laid across his knees, but he wore no helm. As they drew near he rose. And then they knew him, changed as he was, so high and glad of face, kingly, lord of Men, dark-haired with eyes of grey.

Frodo ran to meet him, and Sam followed close behind. “Well, if this isn’t the crown of all!” he said. “Strider, or I’m still asleep!”

“Yes, Sam, Strider,” said Aragorn. “It is a long way, is it not, from Bree, where you did not like the look of me? A long way for us all, but yours has been the darkest road."

And then to Sam’s surprise and utter confusion he bowed his knee before them; and taking them by the hand, Frodo upon his right and Sam upon his left, he led them to the throne, and setting them upon it, he turned to the men and captains who stood by and spoke, so that his voice rang over all the host, crying:

“Praise them with great praise!”

And when the glad shout had swelled up and died away again, to Sam’s final and complete satisfaction and pure joy, a minstral of Gondor stood forth, and knelt, and begged leave to sing. And behold! he said:

“Lo! Lords and knights and men of valour unashamed, kings and princes, and fair people of Gondor, and Riders of Rohan, and ye sons of Elrond, and Dúnedain of the North, and Elf and Dwarf, and greathearts of the Shire, and all free folk of the West, now listen to my lay. For I will sing to you of Frodo of the Nine Fingers and the Ring of Doom.”

And when Sam heard that he laughed aloud for sheer delight, and he stood up and cried: “O great glory and splendour! And all of my wishes have come true!” And then he wept.

And all the host laughed and wept, and in the midst of their merriment and tears the clear voice of the minstrel rose like silver and gold, and all men were hushed. And he sang to them, now in the Elven-tongue, now in the speech of the West, until their hearts, wounded with sweet words, overflowed, and their joy was like swords, and they passed in thought out to regions where pain and delight flow together and tears are the very wine of blessedness.

[Alatáriël Lossëhelin]

The weeks spent in Ithilien passed in a blur of feasting and celebration—the days full of talk and laughter and song—the nights filled with peace without fear. But although our Enemy was defeated and our camp filled with valiant soldiers, I discovered I could not rest easy in the tent appointed to me. So each night, after all were drowned in slumber, I found myself still standing watch over Frodo and Sam, unseen in the shadows of the trees surrounding their tent. For their protection no longer, but only for the comfort that their company brings to me. Watching unseen was more difficult in Minas Tirith, and even more unnecessary than in Ithilien, but I was compelled, nonetheless.

It has been balm to my spirit to watch my companions honored by the people that they sacrificed so much for, and to see our Fellowship re-united once more. The crowning of Aragorn Elessar, and his wedding to Arwen Undómiel on Midsummer Day seemed a fitting end to all our labors, but I saw the bitter disappointment on Frodo’s face when the one he had longed to see was not with the company from Rivendell. As the days passed one into another, it was plain to me that the halflings were becoming restless, and I knew they were longing for their own home.

Minas Tirith now lies several days behind us on our long journey, and we travel first to Rohan to return Théoden King to his home. It is a large and splendid company that escorts the fallen to their rest—King Elessar and Queen Undómiel, King Éomer, Prince Faramir of Ithilien, Prince Imrahil of Dol Amroth, Lord Celeborn and Lady Galadriel, my lord Elrond with Elladan and Elrohir, Gandalf, Legolas and Gimli, Merry and Pippin, many of the Firstborn from Rivendell and Lórien, as well as many knights of both Gondor and Rohan. And, of course, the Ringbearer and his devoted Sam. I watch them riding beside Aragorn and Gandalf from my place amidst the folk of Rivendell, and remember the closeness of days past that are now gone...

...but not forgotten.


--------------------

…and Aragorn said: “I know what you have come to say, Frodo; you wish to return to your own home. Well, dearest friend, the tree grows best in the land of its sires; but for you in all the lands of the West there will ever be a welcome…”

“It is true that I wish to go back to the Shire,” said Frodo. “But first I must go to Rivendell. For if there could be anything wanting in a time so blessed, I missed Bilbo; and I was grieved when among all the household of Elrond I saw that he was not come.”

“Do you wonder at that, Ring-bearer?” said Arwen…“He is ancient in years now, according to his kind; and he awaits you, for he will not again make any long journey save one…A gift I will give you. For I am the daughter of Elrond. I shall not go with him now when he departs to the Havens; for mine is the choice of Lúthien, and as she so have I chosen, both the sweet and the bitter. But in my stead you shall go, Ring-bearer, when the time comes, and if you then desire it. If your hurts grieve you still and the memory of your burden is heavy, then you may pass into the West, until all your wounds and weariness are healed. But wear this now in memory of Elfstone and Evenstar with whom your life has been woven!”

And she took a white gem like a star that lay upon her breast hanging upon a silver chain, and she set the chain about Frodo’s neck. “When the memory of the fear and the darkness troubles you,” she said, “this will bring you aid.”

[Joy]

I have been hunting for this thread for a while! I am so glad that I found it. [img]smilies/biggrin.gif[/img]

I have 117 miles so far. I know that I can make it to Bree very soon, I hope to get past Midgewater by Dec.

My health is slowing me down a bit, but I am doing good so far.

I have just gotten over another bought of bronchitits (which comes every two months now due to the Remicade treatments) and dealing with diabetis (due to prednisone, given to combat the side effects of Remicade). [img]smilies/rolleyes.gif[/img]

[ August 31, 2003: Message edited by: Joy ]

[Hilde Bracegirdle]

The alter ego sighed again, and resolved (again) NOT to hit the snooze alarm in the morning...and not to stay up too late the night before...
"No excuses, now," Peony told her…

Oh, this sounds so very like my debate in the morning as well! I have been a slug lately, taking all week off, so I’m still here in Rivendell. Has everyone in the north noticed the sunrise coming later and later!

Lyra Greenleaf , I can see you just around the corner. You are practically here!

[Horse-Maiden of the Shire]

Well, we've finally reached the first camp in the Trollshaws. Frodo is still getting worse, and I fear that without help soon, he will die. And there are 103 miles left to Rivendell! It seems we will never get there! Strider tries to keep us optimistic, but still...

{EDIT} Woohoo! 14 shields! [img]smilies/smile.gif[/img]

[ August 31, 2003: Message edited by: Horse-Maiden of the Shire ]

[Nurumaiel]

Oh, Joy, it's wonderful to hear from you again. I was just reading through the old thread and wondering what had happened to you. You're almost to Strider... that was a happy day for me. How much easier it was with Strider to protect us!

Lyta, 5 miles is wonderful. I can walk that long on some days. If only I had enough time to do it every day.

I'm going to be updating the mileage list again soon, so make sure your mileage is in your 'from' space.

[Lyra Greenleaf]

I'm not really supposed to be on the internet until we got a virus scan, but I couldn't resist...

I'VE REACHED RIVENDELL!!!! [img]smilies/biggrin.gif[/img] [img]smilies/biggrin.gif[/img]

It's actually really exciting. When I saw the magical distance on my pedometer I broke into a huge grin and spontaneously said "Welcome to Rivendell Frodo Baggins" in my best Hugo Weaving voice. Aloud! (Lucky there was no-one near). 285 miles to Lorien, hey? See you there!

PS I'm not convinced we should have to walk from Lorien to Rauros. After all, the Fellowship didn't!

[Alatáriël Lossëhelin]

Lyra: Congratulations! Welcome to Rivendell..come on over and join us in the hot springs.

My atlas shows 285 miles from Rivendell to Lórien; 393 miles from Lórien to Rauros; and 470 miles from Rauros to Mt. Doom--a total of 1,606 miles from Bag End to Mt. Doom.

I am so embarrassed! I would like to apologize to my fellow walkers for grossly miscalculating the distance from Rivendell to Lórien. [img]smilies/frown.gif[/img] I spent several hours yesterday afternoon working on a timetable/mileage chart for the rest of the journey. I discovered that if I follow the Fellowship exactly, it is actually 465 miles from Rivendell to Caras Galadhon (396 to the banks of Nimrodel). I'm not sure where my head was when I originally calculated the distance. The other sections of the journey only required small mileage adjustments: 389 from Caras Galadhon to Rauros; & 468 miles from Rauros to Mt. Doom. A total of 1,780 miles from Bag End to Mt. Doom.

It is still a feasible goal to walk from Rivendell to Caras Galadhon by December 17. It's 108 days till RotK..at 465 miles that's approximately 4.3 miles per day. Or at least to Nimrodel (3.67 miles per day). I'm not sure if I can make it by then, but I'm going to do my best.

[The Barrow-Wight]

Walk to Rivendell is now Walk to Lothlórien, at least on the Downs it is. Continue your discussion on the new topic: Walk To Rivendell" aka "The Eowyn Challenge" (Part 3)

[mark12_30]

Several people have expressed interest in the "Walk To Rivendell", also known as "The Eowyn Challenge."

There is a link below. The idea: between now and the Dec. 17 release of ROTK, walk the equivalent distance that Frodo had to walk from Bag End to Rivendell.

For those who walk or might like to, check it out.
Walk
challenge

This thread is for those who are walking on the Barrow-Downs, to encourage each other, and to track progress.

For example, Frodo walked 18 miles his first walk. Most of us have a life-- it'll take us days to catch him! But... off I go; 12.5 miles so far over the past five days. In a couple more days I'll have hit Frodo's first camping spot. (I may chart progress in Fonstadt's atlas...)

Speaking of the which here are some links to maps:

By Fonstadt: FrodoToRivendellAndBilboToo Frodo's trip is in Tan, Bilbo's trip is in black.

By Barbara Strachey: JourneysOfFrodo The trip to Rivendell is covered on the first five maps.

So-- this thread is for Tolkien-oriented, hobbit/elf/Middle-Earth related discussion, encouragement, and cameraderie "on the road to Rivendell"... a mere 458 miles = 738.7 km. For those starting around the end of March, that's about two miles a day or 3.2 km per day.

I'd also like to encourage posting Tolkien-oriented poetry especially walking songs. Personal anecdotes and progress reports must be voiced as a denizen of Middle Earth! RPG skills may come in handy. If you like handwriting, Nurumaiel has created a printable page to keep a journal of your adventures. Be Hobbit, Elf, Dwarf, Man!
Journal can be found here:
journal page.


Also, see the The Barrow Wight's version of the mileage tracker, in Walking To Rivendell!

Who's in?

The list as of May 28:

MEMBER : MILES

alaklondewen : 139
Alatariel : 144
Annunfuiniel : 119
Arvedui III : 119
Arafangwen : 82
ArwenBaggins : 100
Aylwen Dreamsong : ?
bain_edhel : 12
Bulelainwen : 108
Durlossiel : 90
dragoneyes : 123
Eärendil : 77
Eruwen : 70
Estelyn Telcontar : 150
Faenaduial : 11
Firondoiel : 43
Gorwingel : 289
Hilde Bracegirdle : 237
Horsemaiden Of The Shire : 120
Ilsanie : 5.5
Joy : 14
Kalel : 32
Keowyn : ?
Lalaith : 128
Lindolirian : 170
Linzielf : 270
LotrMaster02 : ?
Lyra Greenleaf : 127
Maiden of the Dry Waterfall : ?
mark12_30 : 236
Naz : ?
Neferchoiren : ?
Niluial : "lots"?
Nurumaiel : 81
peony_foxburr : 166
Raefindel : 225
Ranger Jewel : 35?
red : 52.5
Rochelle : 59?
Salix : 11?
Schmendrick : 70
Sindafalathiel : 8?
Sophia the Thunder Mistress : 93
SwordMaiden of Rohan : ?
Tar-Palantir : ?
Tarvasa : 43
Tefalathiel : Tom's house
The Real Findorfin : ?
Tigerlily Gamgee : 18
Tinuviel of Denton : 100
Tira O Alata : ?
Vanwalossien : 71
Vardamar : 134

Pedometers are **not** required; distance may be estimated by time (est. 3 to 4 miles per hour) or by map or by the odometer on your car, or whaatever other reasonable estimation method you choose. However, several people have expressed interest in getting a pedometer so here is some information about them.

Before You Buy a Pedometer at about.com.

How to Measure Your Stride - Step Length

Enjoy following Frodo!

Still round the corner there may wait
A new road or a secret gate,
And though we pass them by today,
Tomorrow we may come this way,
And take the hidden paths that run
Towards the moon or to the sun.

(LOTR, Fellowship, p. 76 in the Omnibus paperback.)

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[alaklondewen]

All I need is a walking stick. I will be with you all 458 miles! This is a wonderful idea. I've been looking to start a fitness program, but have been lacking the encouragement from others. With your support, I'm sure I can do it with you all.

Now, are there any online sources that give the miles Frodo walked, so we can keep track where we are in ME, or do I need to invest in a book?

*walks away humming to herself..'The road goes ever on and on...'*

[ April 02, 2003: Message edited by: alaklondewen ]

[Arvedui III]

Really cool idea, but 458 miles [img]smilies/frown.gif[/img]
Neh, it will be good to get off my lazy but for once. I'm in.

[mark12_30]

458 miles sounds scarier than it really is-- it averages out to a little under two miles a day from now til Dec. 17. Vaguely 12 miles a week, I think.

(edit) boots calculator: 458 / 264 = 1.73 mi/day. Call it 1.75 mi/day.

1.75 mi/day * 7 days = 12.25 mi/week. Call it 12.5 or 13 for good measure and to give you some future leeway, room for sick days, etc.

Not bad. And if perchance we get there a little late, fortunately the doom of the world isn't hinging on our timely arrival!

(That Frodo was one tough cookie...)

[ March 27, 2003: Message edited by: mark12_30 ]

[Aylwen Dreamsong]

Cool. I walk to school everyday, and I walk through the school hallways...does that count? Or does soccer and track count? I hope so.

Regardless, I'll grab my walking stick, grab a buddy, and get walking! It's about time I start enjoying the spring weather!

Aylwen

[Rochelle]

*takes a deep breath*

458 miles...I think I can do it [img]smilies/wink.gif[/img] I am going to join with the advice of my dear Bilbo Baggins:

"It's a dangerous business...Frodo, going out your door. You step out onto the road, and if you don't keep your feet, there's no knowing where you might be swept off to."

I guess it's off to go download a map!!