A Stroll Around The Butt Of Lewis

Good morning, what a beautiful morning it is here on the Isle of Lewis.  The sun is shining and the skies are blue, full of promise for the day to come.  The only disappointment there is no breeze and anywhere else I would be delighted.  But for those that know the Islands and indeed Scotland that can only mean one thing MIDGES.  Yes, they are out in force, biting and attacking everyone and everything in their path.  There are a lot of insects about and both Gerard and I are covered in bites...who knows from what.  We really do need to do some research on these biting creatures.  Locals have told us Avon Skin so Soft deters them but I am yet to be convinced.

Anyway, back to this morning rub in some sunscreen and jump into the car for a short drive up to the Butt of Lewis and the lighthouse.  I have taken you up there many times but today we are going to take a walk in the other direction.  Instead of the front and right, come with me and we will take a stroll to the left. 

There are still some of the gulls nesting, so they certainly make a racket as you approach.  Screeching to one another and warning each other of approaching danger.  We did try to limit any upset and kept well away.  It is a little bit of a climb but it is a gradual slope, so just take your time.

There was a lot of foam around but we couldn't work out from where.  It certainly wasn't the usual foam that evolved from thrashing against the rocks and stacks in the ocean.  There were waves but they certainly were not thrashing as usual but gently lapping against the formations creating a calming, serene and unassuming atmosphere.

A little bit further, so you need some stout shoes but the beauty never ceases to amaze.  The rock formations are a delight and it does encourage you to think about the different layers and colours.  It also makes you wonder who has walked in the steps you are taking before you.

I hope you have worked up an appetite for lunch, boiled ham fresh from the slow cooker with boiled eggs and salad.   The kettle is on for tea...

See you soon.

A Week Of Reflection

Last weekend saw the first anniversary of my nephews death, he chose to take his own life.  As a family we have had a week of what ifs?  In the end, the final decision was his and we can only respect that.  I can only hope and pray that he is at last at peace, the stress and anxiety he had in life gone forever.  It has certainly been a week of reflection with so many other happenings around the world.   He will be forever in our hearts, gone but never forgotten.

On a lighter note there has certainly been an Autumnal note to the weather here, the temperatures are dropping earlier each day.  The stove has now had the flue cleaned and is good to go so we have had a fire the last couple of evenings.   The stove gives a cosy warmth and a rosy glow.  Add the beautiful sunsets and it is an idyllic place to be.

Idyllic...sadly the midges were rife yesterday so difficult to be out and about.  We had a trip into Stornoway to pick up some supplies and they were unbearable.  Who knew something so small could be so irritating?  I have already been using some skin-so-soft that was recommended by the locals so hopefully I will remain bite free.

Whilst out and about I did call into the Charity shops and picked up a couple of patterns to add to my ever growing collection for 5p each...

..and a Winter quilt magazine for 30p.  I had a lovely hour last night browsing and dreaming.  There are some beautiful creations, if only I had the skill.  I am realistic about my limitations but at 30p it was lovely to look through.

I had some soap compound left over from a previous project, so put it to good use this week, making a soap each for the Grandchildren.  The centre of each holding a small dinosaur, they will have fun with them.  

I also made a couple adding some dried lavender, they smell wonderful.  I have added a cotton crochet facecloth into an organza bag.  All ready for gifts.

Both Wilbur and Daisy started school this week, Daisy is loving it.  Long may that last.  Wilbur told his Mummy he has better things to do with his life.  Thankfully he is still going in without tears or a tantrum.  He needed a project bag so one was dutifully made, filled with love and posted.

Finally Mickey has been constantly in the garden this week, standing and guarding us for hours on end...

...keeping a wary eye on the Canadian geese, they are prolific at the moment.  Although for obvious reasons I am unable to get a decent photo of them.

It has taken a little adjusting to life on this beautiful Island not least the lack of shopping facilities.  To see so much amazing wildlife in their natural surroundings, the stunning skies and beautiful landscapes more than makes up for it.  We have found our forever home...

Christmas has come early to our household and a start has been made, early due to the fact that we will be visiting family  November.  Visiting and bearing gifts but I will save that for my next post.  At the moment our thoughts are on all those affected by the devastation caused by the fires and hurricane Irma, we have been in touch with friends in Florida to let them know they are in our thoughts and prayers.  All we can do now is watch and wait.

Take care and see you soon.