It never rains but it pours....

It all started out as an evening walk.

Began along the Windrush River crossing fields and stiles, following footpaths. (Think Elizabeth Bennett)

After a few miles, realization map is vague, missing details and not to scale. Footpath signs are cleverly hidden.

Begin to wonder if church being sought has been passed.

Dark black cloud discretely forms behind us but deceptively begins with gentle drops of rain. 

Church appears in the distance. Cow-filled field between us and it. 

Black cloud dumps on us. Raindrops on camera lenses and glasses, and drips from hair, makes picture-taking and enjoyment tricky.

Map reading becomes topic of debate: Continue, even if not sure where we are? (His vote) (he actually says he does kind of know where we are) Retreat to route we came by? (Her vote)

Rain stops. Rainbow comes out. All is good.

Map seems to indicate path crosses field which bypasses church. Walk through beautiful meadow mostly dodging cow pies. 

Visit church - fabulous, ancient building with story attached. 

Come out to see cows have gathered at gate to greet us. Chat with curious cows who gather round us as we move from gate, down path to stile.

Rain begins again, serious downpour. Soaked rat becomes drowned. 

“Path" joins road. New church and farmhouses appear, Wrong town.

Desperation sets in. Light in farmhouse, Debate continues - knock on door? (Her Vote) Continue up hill to look for signposts and call for Taxi on cell phone? (His) (No comment just incredulity on her part)

Car appears around corner. A Taxi!!!! 

Driver and tourists from St. Louis startled to have two rain-soaked strangers flag them down and ask to be picked up on the way back. Taxi not coming back. Our town is behind us.
Tourists move over and wet Canadians squeeze in. Map reader feels miracle has saved him from short-term hysteria and long-term disgrace. 

Huge relief sets in. Laughter starts. Conclusion? Now that was a fabulous hike!

Footnote. Jackets and runners mostly dry by next morning….