I had been walking on the Greenbelt for 20 years, but somehow I managed to not know until a few years ago that our wise leaders had expanded it beyond the old library to courthouse loop. (It was a great use of tax dollars in my opinion).
Eight years ago Daphne, a one-of-a-kind dog (that's what I say when people ask about her breeding), came to live with us. She is 45 pounds and long legged, so she really appreciates a good walk. I am somewhat more than 45 pounds and short legged, so I really need a good walk.
One day Daphne and I were following our usual route down our road when a neighbor walking her poodle asked if I had tried out the Greenbelt extension. It was news to me that there was one, but several days later Daphne and I loaded into the car and drove to the courthouse to see about this new trail.
I, frankly, wasn't impressed with the first section, walking along the busy road, but then when we found the turn into the section off Montvale, we entered a beautiful world. We walked over to Sandy Springs Park and back, and both Daphne and I knew we had found a new favorite place.
We go as often as I can drag myself out, and have tried out various sections. We usually walk 3 to 4 miles each trip, because I cease to have fun after that. Our favorite section is from the parking area near Kmart to the road crossing near the Alcoa Duck Pond, because it tends to be not as crowded. Daphne feels obligated to greet every dog we come upon, and I know that some of the humans aren't that happy to have the interaction.
If you see us, it is easy to tell whether we are outbound or inbound. On outbound trips Daphne's preferred speed is about twice mine, so she is at the far end of the line in front. We always appreciate when bicyclists ding a bell for us, because we often get lost in thought and our line is strung across the path. Returning home, Daphne walks like a star graduate of obedience school, right at my side. I doubt that she's tired; she just doesn't feel the need to get home first. Daphne and I (and often my husband, Pete, and occasionally a grandchild) have spent many happy hours together power walking and strolling along the Greenbelt. Thanks city fathers!
