From Dec. 2006, my free-online email address will cease.
So please contact me at annheronsflight@btinternet.com
Please do!!
Hello
It’ll soon be time for me to pack the car and head to Edinburgh for Christmas. We’ll go there on the 22nd, probably, and come back two or three days before New Year. Perhaps Sam or Catriona, or better still both of them, will fancy a few days here.
Christmas will be a good time for our family. John and I will spend the days with Moira, Colin and the four children. It is usually a time of quite a bit of excitement, as you can imagine! Meal times fit round children’s routines at this time and that avoids quite a bit of stress, when the ages range from me to one!
I’ll be quite happy to wend my way home, with or without children in tow. Yarrow’s activities are curtailed of necessity in Edinburgh – he does not shine when on the lead! So he will be glad to be home. He just gets comfortable and sleeps away the journey and, when I take the sharp right off the main road at Balmacara, he usually “comes round” and gets excited – only 4 miles to go! Dolan used to tease me hinting that it was not the dog’s “second sense” but the driver’s speed round the acute corner!!
New Year Dolan and I always spent at Heron’s Flight. Nothing changes….. I’ll visit family and friends and have visitors too. Dolan’s sister and brother will be at “35”, the family home. Katie, the eldest of the family, stays there while Janet and John visit frequently, from Inverness. Janet’s daughter Sandra lives near Plockton too. And that is just some of the close family. There can be plenty of visiting…….
This year I hope my email greetings will reach you. Rather than send cards in 2006 I made up an email list and decided to send a donation to charity. Well, the electrical surge in October wiped all my data in the desktop……. I had bits and pieces saved on the laptop and have spent time “resurrecting” lists, which I am sure are not complete. So, if a card usually arrives from me and does not – and you do not get an electronic message, I’m so sorry – and please get in touch with by email, if you wish.
I wish you all a Happy Christmas and a Good New Year.
Ann
Sunday, December 17, 2006
Thursday, November 23, 2006
Late November in Plockton
Hello
A while ago I said that I would update you on the electrical surge which rather upset four households in our little corner of Plockton.
Today I had a letter from the head office of Scottish Power, apologising for the “interruption” in power - I never thought to call it such a gentle word! You can decide!!
Catriona, my 6 year old grand daughter, was here on holiday and we got up at just after 7.00am. I noticed that the clock on the microwave was black – not flashing as if there had been a temporary loss of power. All the room lights seemed unnaturally bright. Then the tube of the kitchen light went “bang”, followed by a pop from the bathroom! Early though it was I decided to phone the electrician as the 3 outdoor security lights were now far too bright. As I was being assured that he would come – I thought it was just Heron’s Flight that was affected – Richard from “Tigh an Fhaing” next door came in and said they were being blitzed too! And HE knew why!
As he walked up from the pier and turned in our drive, he had to walk over a large cable which had become severed from the hydro pole.
Richard told me to switch off the security lights but, before I took a step we watched them explode….. There being no more fireworks, Richard went home and we had breakfast in the semi dark. Catriona then went to do her teeth in the bathroom and found the carpet strewn with bits of bulb – and a neat little burn too.
The young electrician from beautiful Glenelg, 26 miles away did a thorough tour of Heron’s Flight and checked all the electrical appliances, etc. Off he went to the other 2 houses and the Post Office and, when he had four lists, he handed them into the Hydro shop in Kyle of Lochalsh. We were then told to replace everything, all expenses paid by Scottish Hydro Electric Power – I think that is their title!
For the first few days, this was good fun - but it is not any more. I know others are similarly fed up, finding replacements, getting equipment installed, etc. BUT we will never again be offered new for sometimes rather old, with no increase in our insurance premiums!! My list of replacements reads……
Complete desktop computer – I’ve lost all the data that I was careless enough not to copy…….
Microwave
Gas hob with electric ignition
Kitchen strip light and fitting
Phones
Fax/ansaphone
Digital TV and Sky connection
2 radios
Rechargeable fluorescent torch
Bathroom carpet
All three outdoor security lights
I think that is all……….
Heron’s Flight will soon be “restored” – all that should remain to be done shortly will be the carpet and it has been chosen.
My thoughts are now turning to Sam’s birthday on December 10th – he’ll be 14 and of course he has a very proud granny! We’ve always been on the same wave length – and we aim to keep it that way!
Yarrow and I shall spend Christmas in Edinburgh – amid the excitement of the children. We’ll stay with John, as usual. But we’ll be home for New Year.
The plan for 2006 was to have a Xmas list so I would email everyone festive greetings – well, the list is somewhat incomplete now, but hopefully some friends will have best wishes from Heron’s Flight at the press of a button! I shall be in touch before December 25th……
Best Wishes
Ann
A while ago I said that I would update you on the electrical surge which rather upset four households in our little corner of Plockton.
Today I had a letter from the head office of Scottish Power, apologising for the “interruption” in power - I never thought to call it such a gentle word! You can decide!!
Catriona, my 6 year old grand daughter, was here on holiday and we got up at just after 7.00am. I noticed that the clock on the microwave was black – not flashing as if there had been a temporary loss of power. All the room lights seemed unnaturally bright. Then the tube of the kitchen light went “bang”, followed by a pop from the bathroom! Early though it was I decided to phone the electrician as the 3 outdoor security lights were now far too bright. As I was being assured that he would come – I thought it was just Heron’s Flight that was affected – Richard from “Tigh an Fhaing” next door came in and said they were being blitzed too! And HE knew why!
As he walked up from the pier and turned in our drive, he had to walk over a large cable which had become severed from the hydro pole.
Richard told me to switch off the security lights but, before I took a step we watched them explode….. There being no more fireworks, Richard went home and we had breakfast in the semi dark. Catriona then went to do her teeth in the bathroom and found the carpet strewn with bits of bulb – and a neat little burn too.
The young electrician from beautiful Glenelg, 26 miles away did a thorough tour of Heron’s Flight and checked all the electrical appliances, etc. Off he went to the other 2 houses and the Post Office and, when he had four lists, he handed them into the Hydro shop in Kyle of Lochalsh. We were then told to replace everything, all expenses paid by Scottish Hydro Electric Power – I think that is their title!
For the first few days, this was good fun - but it is not any more. I know others are similarly fed up, finding replacements, getting equipment installed, etc. BUT we will never again be offered new for sometimes rather old, with no increase in our insurance premiums!! My list of replacements reads……
Complete desktop computer – I’ve lost all the data that I was careless enough not to copy…….
Microwave
Gas hob with electric ignition
Kitchen strip light and fitting
Phones
Fax/ansaphone
Digital TV and Sky connection
2 radios
Rechargeable fluorescent torch
Bathroom carpet
All three outdoor security lights
I think that is all……….
Heron’s Flight will soon be “restored” – all that should remain to be done shortly will be the carpet and it has been chosen.
My thoughts are now turning to Sam’s birthday on December 10th – he’ll be 14 and of course he has a very proud granny! We’ve always been on the same wave length – and we aim to keep it that way!
Yarrow and I shall spend Christmas in Edinburgh – amid the excitement of the children. We’ll stay with John, as usual. But we’ll be home for New Year.
The plan for 2006 was to have a Xmas list so I would email everyone festive greetings – well, the list is somewhat incomplete now, but hopefully some friends will have best wishes from Heron’s Flight at the press of a button! I shall be in touch before December 25th……
Best Wishes
Ann
Saturday, November 04, 2006
October 2006 - where did it go?
October News – it’s Nov.4th now….
I have been sitting “chatting “ to you for at least an hour and, as all too often happens, my musings have vanished, with the exception of paragraph one and the last two letters of the last word in paragraph 20, or thereabouts. I have searched………….Off I go again……….
Last time I wrote I was telling you of my “spell of breakages”. Well, that has paled into insignificance! But I’ll bring you up to date with other news first, as this saga is still ongoing and will be till my return from Edinburgh in about 10 days…….
I’m back to normal living, if such a thing exists, at Heron’s Flight, It is quite difficult to re-adjust, having had, from mid March, guests from all over the world and family and friends too. Yarrow and Sponge too have suddenly found the house very empty and quiet and have agreed, at least for the time being, to be best friends and even share the one beanbag!!
Cheque has gone back to his breeder for hibernation, so I’ll not be setting the alarm nightly, to “check” that the temperature is correct (6C) in the old fridge!
It seems so long since Sam was here and we were on the water in “Piglet”. She’s now covered for the winter. Another skill Sam learned was boomerang throwing! Geraldine and Neville from Australia stayed a few days and Neville instructed Sam in a few minutes – and sent lovely photos too. I kept the boomerang here, Neville, as Sam’s Granny did not see it approaching at speed and just ducked in time! We’ll be careful.
Three weeks ago, Yarrow and I went to Edinburgh and stayed the night with John. I was delighted to see that our Auntie Mima, now 97, was progressing well after having a stroke. I heard last night that she’ll be home next Wednesday – wonderful!
I captured Catriona, having had a little but not enough time with the family, then we headed north for a week of fun. Each evening, rain, wind or shine we went to the pier to fish. Most times we are satisfied when crabs are caught. Well, Catriona’s catch included TWO crabs on the one hook and TWO (little) fish on separate expeditions – the latter were no doubt delight ed to be re-united very soon after with their Mums…..The secret of successful pier fishing - a tiny hook and a piece of good guality unsmoked raw bacon!
A fortnight ago Catriona and I welcomed Ian and then John! Ian had four days only….. He and Catriona drove south and Ian flew from Turnhouse (Edinburgh) that afternoon, home to Toowoomba. John stayed a week and cleared my “to do, have tried, can’t” list. His industry spurred me, after his departure, to try my hand at sugar soaping, sanding, dusting, white spiriting and finally satin varnishing the kitchen cupboard doors, out and in – I’m quite pleased with the result, but, as there were 16 (smallish) doors, I’ll tackle something else next!!
Actually, I’m going to Edinburgh next weekend and will probably stay a few days. I want Moira to help choose a microwave oven, a gas hob with electric ignition and a radio with tape facility. If I was worth my salt I’d do it all sitting here – but I really prefer seeing the actual article – don’t you? When I come home I’ll write soon again and tell you how to procure new electrical goods for sometimes very old – at no cost!!! Sounds too good to be true and I admit there are a few drawbacks to this way of renewing household goods. But that’s my next tale!
I hope all is well with you.
Ann
I have been sitting “chatting “ to you for at least an hour and, as all too often happens, my musings have vanished, with the exception of paragraph one and the last two letters of the last word in paragraph 20, or thereabouts. I have searched………….Off I go again……….
Last time I wrote I was telling you of my “spell of breakages”. Well, that has paled into insignificance! But I’ll bring you up to date with other news first, as this saga is still ongoing and will be till my return from Edinburgh in about 10 days…….
I’m back to normal living, if such a thing exists, at Heron’s Flight, It is quite difficult to re-adjust, having had, from mid March, guests from all over the world and family and friends too. Yarrow and Sponge too have suddenly found the house very empty and quiet and have agreed, at least for the time being, to be best friends and even share the one beanbag!!
Cheque has gone back to his breeder for hibernation, so I’ll not be setting the alarm nightly, to “check” that the temperature is correct (6C) in the old fridge!
It seems so long since Sam was here and we were on the water in “Piglet”. She’s now covered for the winter. Another skill Sam learned was boomerang throwing! Geraldine and Neville from Australia stayed a few days and Neville instructed Sam in a few minutes – and sent lovely photos too. I kept the boomerang here, Neville, as Sam’s Granny did not see it approaching at speed and just ducked in time! We’ll be careful.
Three weeks ago, Yarrow and I went to Edinburgh and stayed the night with John. I was delighted to see that our Auntie Mima, now 97, was progressing well after having a stroke. I heard last night that she’ll be home next Wednesday – wonderful!
I captured Catriona, having had a little but not enough time with the family, then we headed north for a week of fun. Each evening, rain, wind or shine we went to the pier to fish. Most times we are satisfied when crabs are caught. Well, Catriona’s catch included TWO crabs on the one hook and TWO (little) fish on separate expeditions – the latter were no doubt delight ed to be re-united very soon after with their Mums…..The secret of successful pier fishing - a tiny hook and a piece of good guality unsmoked raw bacon!
A fortnight ago Catriona and I welcomed Ian and then John! Ian had four days only….. He and Catriona drove south and Ian flew from Turnhouse (Edinburgh) that afternoon, home to Toowoomba. John stayed a week and cleared my “to do, have tried, can’t” list. His industry spurred me, after his departure, to try my hand at sugar soaping, sanding, dusting, white spiriting and finally satin varnishing the kitchen cupboard doors, out and in – I’m quite pleased with the result, but, as there were 16 (smallish) doors, I’ll tackle something else next!!
Actually, I’m going to Edinburgh next weekend and will probably stay a few days. I want Moira to help choose a microwave oven, a gas hob with electric ignition and a radio with tape facility. If I was worth my salt I’d do it all sitting here – but I really prefer seeing the actual article – don’t you? When I come home I’ll write soon again and tell you how to procure new electrical goods for sometimes very old – at no cost!!! Sounds too good to be true and I admit there are a few drawbacks to this way of renewing household goods. But that’s my next tale!
I hope all is well with you.
Ann
Friday, November 03, 2006
Electric news!
Dear all,
Ann is back on the air again, after an exciting week or three. She experienced an extreme power surge, and lots of her electrical appliances were 'fried'. Ann will tell you more in her own words in a few days. In the meantime, she took a gorgeous photo of a heron from her front lawn the other day - and the photo is now at the bottom of her home page. Here's a small small version!
Best wishes, from Alison (Ann's sister-in-law)
Tuesday, October 24, 2006
Fame at last!
There's a good photo of Heron's Flight in one of the key tourism textbooks on the market. The book is The Business of Tourism,7th edition, by Chris Holloway and Neil Taylor, published by Addison Wesley this year.
Chris and his wife have stayed here several times while he's been visiting north-west Scotland doing research for his books over the years. I'm delighted to see a photo appear on page 292. If you do find his book, do you see Yarrow in the photo?
Chris and his wife have stayed here several times while he's been visiting north-west Scotland doing research for his books over the years. I'm delighted to see a photo appear on page 292. If you do find his book, do you see Yarrow in the photo?
Sunday, October 22, 2006
Message about email
Dear all,
Heron's Flight had a problem with a power surge last week and some of my electrical equipment blew up! As a result, I can't read or send email at the moment. If you need to contact me, please phone me. I'll let you know when I'm back in email contact.
Ann
Heron's Flight had a problem with a power surge last week and some of my electrical equipment blew up! As a result, I can't read or send email at the moment. If you need to contact me, please phone me. I'll let you know when I'm back in email contact.
Ann
Monday, October 02, 2006
Thea & Graeme , special visitors
Thea did a lot of work to build this website with Alison, my sister-in-law. So it was great to welcome them to stay recently.
Ann
Monday, September 11, 2006
September News
September News.
Only recently I finally got all the little finger and palm prints off the windows and shiny surfaces – the truth is I really liked seeing them and was loath to remove them! Next month the Edinburgh schools have a week off, so I hope to have Catriona at least.
It is getting a real autumn feel now and it is dark around 8.45pm. We have had quite warm weather and a fair bit of sun, so everything in the garden is still shooting up – the grass too, unfortunately…. There is still a lot of colour, with roses and sweet peas doing especially well. In the down garden the potatoes are long finished, but there are plenty of leeks, a few lettuces and a forest of kale! The onions are drying and the first grapes were picked today. There are about 30 bunches in varying stages of readiness, so they should last a good few weeks.
The animals are all well. Yarrow is still at the ready daily to show guests round the village, while Sponge lounges around in prominent places, knowing full well that visitors are going to stop and comment on his size/markings/loud purr, etc. Wee Cheque is slowing down (he CAN trot along at a fair speed) with the cooler days and earlier dark evenings. So he’s indoors on his heated blanket, with a lamp above him and a selection of food nearby – today he has a choice of lettuce, cucumber, cabbage, celery and a grape or two. Yarrow’s own web page had been a source of much chit chat and several really good photos have been sent to us!
I went through a few days when everything I touched fell apart! One coffee machine, the microwave and the weather station were mended. But the knob of my washing machine still parts company with base and a food processor went in the bin along with a second coffee machine!
Now everything seems to have settled down again – for a while anyway…..
I must report that progress on this summer’s jig saw has been very good recently. Kate and Steve along with Victorine and Didier began what may well be the final push three weeks ago. Fay and Paul then tackled the sky and commented “wish we could have stayed to finish it”. Orietta and Davide did their level best next and a few days ago Bill re-arranged the outline, put in a lot of pieces and said “Wish I had more time…” So, the end is in sight and I thank you all. I’ll photo it when it’s framed.
I have had such good company recently. Now I look forward to meeting guests from Scandinavia, America, Australia, France and Britain. And in 5 weeks Ian is paying a flying visit, en route home to Toowoomba from America – I look forward so much to that time, when John too hopes to be home for a little spell.
I’ll write again after their visit Ann
Only recently I finally got all the little finger and palm prints off the windows and shiny surfaces – the truth is I really liked seeing them and was loath to remove them! Next month the Edinburgh schools have a week off, so I hope to have Catriona at least.
It is getting a real autumn feel now and it is dark around 8.45pm. We have had quite warm weather and a fair bit of sun, so everything in the garden is still shooting up – the grass too, unfortunately…. There is still a lot of colour, with roses and sweet peas doing especially well. In the down garden the potatoes are long finished, but there are plenty of leeks, a few lettuces and a forest of kale! The onions are drying and the first grapes were picked today. There are about 30 bunches in varying stages of readiness, so they should last a good few weeks.
The animals are all well. Yarrow is still at the ready daily to show guests round the village, while Sponge lounges around in prominent places, knowing full well that visitors are going to stop and comment on his size/markings/loud purr, etc. Wee Cheque is slowing down (he CAN trot along at a fair speed) with the cooler days and earlier dark evenings. So he’s indoors on his heated blanket, with a lamp above him and a selection of food nearby – today he has a choice of lettuce, cucumber, cabbage, celery and a grape or two. Yarrow’s own web page had been a source of much chit chat and several really good photos have been sent to us!
I went through a few days when everything I touched fell apart! One coffee machine, the microwave and the weather station were mended. But the knob of my washing machine still parts company with base and a food processor went in the bin along with a second coffee machine!
Now everything seems to have settled down again – for a while anyway…..
I must report that progress on this summer’s jig saw has been very good recently. Kate and Steve along with Victorine and Didier began what may well be the final push three weeks ago. Fay and Paul then tackled the sky and commented “wish we could have stayed to finish it”. Orietta and Davide did their level best next and a few days ago Bill re-arranged the outline, put in a lot of pieces and said “Wish I had more time…” So, the end is in sight and I thank you all. I’ll photo it when it’s framed.
I have had such good company recently. Now I look forward to meeting guests from Scandinavia, America, Australia, France and Britain. And in 5 weeks Ian is paying a flying visit, en route home to Toowoomba from America – I look forward so much to that time, when John too hopes to be home for a little spell.
I’ll write again after their visit Ann
Sunday, August 13, 2006
August News
August News
It’s the 9th and I have had family and friends staying since I last wrote. Our bridesmaid all those years ago was school friend Dorothy and she brought another close friend Irene and Catriona north on the 24th. We had six days of marvellous weather and such good company. Most evenings saw us all at the pier, fishing – every one of us intent on catching something!!
Catriona stayed on and we greeted the rest of the family on the 31st - a lovely, lovely time, though the weather was more unsettled. Colin and Sam managed to coat the three garden benches with Sadolin – a good job done! Colin had two rounds of golf at Sconser on the Isle of Skye and the rest of us visited family and friends, went to the Highland Farm nearby and had a trip on Argus, with Skipper Calum. We fished off the pier for crabs and “gooble” fish AND went out in the new boat, with Sam at the helm. I think that three year old Sean, in particular, was delighted to be in the boat, finally named “PIGLET”.
On August 3rd two loaded cars headed back to Edinburgh – Colin had Sam and Daniel, who is very nearly at little boy stage, a very good one year old. Charlie the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel completed the first car load. Moira had Catriona and Sean and a car load of luggage. Sean loved being here and having a bit more freedom outside. Catriona and he went visiting neighbours one day - great fun. Sean arrived home with a little plaster – despite, or perhaps because of, clinging on to Catriona’s hand (“SEAN, hold Catriona’s hand ALL the time”) he tripped on a step. They had a good journey home and this house was far too quiet for days after!
However, Sam came back on the train, on Monday and he’ll stay till Friday. Unfortunately the weather so far has been stormy, so Piglet remains on shore. Two days ago the wind blew up quite dramatically in the late afternoon and several large yachts came into the bay for shelter. It was exciting to watch them dropping anchor and dragging back till it gripped - some had several attempts before they were secure The wind blew all yesterday too, so only the largest vessels went out,
Today, however, we had Piglet out three times as it was finally calm, though a bit damp. Sam’s rowing came on well. After tea we walked across to the Pink House to a house warming. Then Sam rowed Yarrow and me to the Green Shed launching area, where we put Piglet on her trolley and pulled her the 100 yards home. She’ll be cleaned and her cover fastened on now. Sam leaves for Edinburgh on the morning (7.38am) train.
It’s now the 13th and I am once again “back to auld clues and parridge”. The schools resume on 16th. So the next family visitor may well be Ian, who will drop in for very few days in October – I am not complaining about the “very few days”, as I am delighted that he can make it at all. I think he will be en route to Toowoomba from America when he drops in here. Ian thinks nothing about shooting here, there and everywhere with alarming regularity, while I find a trip to Inverness daunting!
We have had our usual wonderful mix of guests, with Italy heading the Continental and Australia the far away visitors. Sam benefited from Neville and Geraldine making the long journey – he now throws a boomerang with style and quite a bit of accuracy (no windows broken in the learning, I am pleased to report) Thank you too, Neville, for all the photos some of which I have posted on to Toowoomba. Our friend “Big John” brought flowers when he came on July 17th – they have been pruned a bit but are still lovely – thank you, John.
The garden took a back seat for a while and gallop along it did! Some serous pruning and chopping are now fairly essential – then I’ll find the weeds! My potato shaws just stopped growing and withered – maybe it was the drought and shallow poor soil combination? Anyway, the resultant many, many “marbles” taste good! The onions, lettuce and leeks are all doing well, but the star of the vege garden is the double row of kale – enough to feed the village! I wish seed companies sold packets of 50, not 500!!! I sow the lot and plant what comes up….
The animals are thriving, though they do miss the attention of the children! Sam took some good photos of them and one of Yarrow has resulted in him now having his own web page! Sponge of course takes a pretty dim view of this favouritism and is punishing the only human he can, by sleeping on her pillow, if he gets there first….. Cheque has taken the extreme step of running away from home a second time…..
So, life has not been dull since my last letter – and I do not anticipate it being so! The next five weeks promise to be very busy with guests - I look forward to meeting some old friends and making more new!
Best Wishes
Ann
PS Yarrow is quite willing to share his page a little, with Sponge and Cheque. But what he would like best is for any of you to email a picture, with perhaps a little comment. He’s been for hundreds of walks up the village – did you take him and did he abandon you half way through?!
It’s the 9th and I have had family and friends staying since I last wrote. Our bridesmaid all those years ago was school friend Dorothy and she brought another close friend Irene and Catriona north on the 24th. We had six days of marvellous weather and such good company. Most evenings saw us all at the pier, fishing – every one of us intent on catching something!!
Catriona stayed on and we greeted the rest of the family on the 31st - a lovely, lovely time, though the weather was more unsettled. Colin and Sam managed to coat the three garden benches with Sadolin – a good job done! Colin had two rounds of golf at Sconser on the Isle of Skye and the rest of us visited family and friends, went to the Highland Farm nearby and had a trip on Argus, with Skipper Calum. We fished off the pier for crabs and “gooble” fish AND went out in the new boat, with Sam at the helm. I think that three year old Sean, in particular, was delighted to be in the boat, finally named “PIGLET”.
On August 3rd two loaded cars headed back to Edinburgh – Colin had Sam and Daniel, who is very nearly at little boy stage, a very good one year old. Charlie the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel completed the first car load. Moira had Catriona and Sean and a car load of luggage. Sean loved being here and having a bit more freedom outside. Catriona and he went visiting neighbours one day - great fun. Sean arrived home with a little plaster – despite, or perhaps because of, clinging on to Catriona’s hand (“SEAN, hold Catriona’s hand ALL the time”) he tripped on a step. They had a good journey home and this house was far too quiet for days after!
However, Sam came back on the train, on Monday and he’ll stay till Friday. Unfortunately the weather so far has been stormy, so Piglet remains on shore. Two days ago the wind blew up quite dramatically in the late afternoon and several large yachts came into the bay for shelter. It was exciting to watch them dropping anchor and dragging back till it gripped - some had several attempts before they were secure The wind blew all yesterday too, so only the largest vessels went out,
Today, however, we had Piglet out three times as it was finally calm, though a bit damp. Sam’s rowing came on well. After tea we walked across to the Pink House to a house warming. Then Sam rowed Yarrow and me to the Green Shed launching area, where we put Piglet on her trolley and pulled her the 100 yards home. She’ll be cleaned and her cover fastened on now. Sam leaves for Edinburgh on the morning (7.38am) train.
It’s now the 13th and I am once again “back to auld clues and parridge”. The schools resume on 16th. So the next family visitor may well be Ian, who will drop in for very few days in October – I am not complaining about the “very few days”, as I am delighted that he can make it at all. I think he will be en route to Toowoomba from America when he drops in here. Ian thinks nothing about shooting here, there and everywhere with alarming regularity, while I find a trip to Inverness daunting!
We have had our usual wonderful mix of guests, with Italy heading the Continental and Australia the far away visitors. Sam benefited from Neville and Geraldine making the long journey – he now throws a boomerang with style and quite a bit of accuracy (no windows broken in the learning, I am pleased to report) Thank you too, Neville, for all the photos some of which I have posted on to Toowoomba. Our friend “Big John” brought flowers when he came on July 17th – they have been pruned a bit but are still lovely – thank you, John.
The garden took a back seat for a while and gallop along it did! Some serous pruning and chopping are now fairly essential – then I’ll find the weeds! My potato shaws just stopped growing and withered – maybe it was the drought and shallow poor soil combination? Anyway, the resultant many, many “marbles” taste good! The onions, lettuce and leeks are all doing well, but the star of the vege garden is the double row of kale – enough to feed the village! I wish seed companies sold packets of 50, not 500!!! I sow the lot and plant what comes up….
The animals are thriving, though they do miss the attention of the children! Sam took some good photos of them and one of Yarrow has resulted in him now having his own web page! Sponge of course takes a pretty dim view of this favouritism and is punishing the only human he can, by sleeping on her pillow, if he gets there first….. Cheque has taken the extreme step of running away from home a second time…..
So, life has not been dull since my last letter – and I do not anticipate it being so! The next five weeks promise to be very busy with guests - I look forward to meeting some old friends and making more new!
Best Wishes
Ann
PS Yarrow is quite willing to share his page a little, with Sponge and Cheque. But what he would like best is for any of you to email a picture, with perhaps a little comment. He’s been for hundreds of walks up the village – did you take him and did he abandon you half way through?!
My granddaughter Catriona, flowergirl
(Thanks to Neville Peterkin for this photo)In my July letter I told you about the wedding at which my granddaughter Catriona was a flower girl. I've finally gotten around to showing you one of the many photos of the day. She's the sunny lass on the right, and her partner is Eilidh - a year and a quarter younger than Catriona and a serious wee soul throughout!
Sunday, July 16, 2006
Sam and Beano
Do you know how old Shetland ponies live? I don't either, but Beano is 44! He came to us when my daughter Moira was young, and has lived with several families all over northern Scotland since then. We found him recently at Upper Breakish on Skye. Moira's son Sam and I have been visiting him and I am delighted to see him again. He came immediately when I called - you would have thought he remembered the voice - maybe he did!
He is very spry, though we have not seen him trotting or getting up any speed - don't blame him!
Tuesday, July 11, 2006
July news - guests, family, a wedding!
Dear all,
[July 3] I am going to Edinburgh tomorrow to collect two of my grandchildren, Sam and Catriona. I am also very pleased that my trip lands on their brother Sean’s third birthday! He has asked for a rabbit for quite a while, so a black floppy ear will join the family. Sean is a gentle wee soul (when he’s not taking penalty kicks!), so the rabbit will have a kind little master.
When Sam, Catriona and I arrive back here on Wednesday, we’ll treat ourselves to a "Take Away Tea" and no doubt catch up on the latest at the World Cup and Wimbledon, though neither holds any special interest now. Catriona will get her Plockton books out and choose which we shall read at bed time – and then she’ll probably visit the neighbours – her usual routine. Sam will no doubt want to have a good look at the new boat and her engine. He’s very interested in engines and so his reading can be the manuals! The last time I used an outboard was years ago – we had a trusty "Seagull" which never failed to start! It will be fun to go rowing, with the new engine as backup. The mackerel are in just now – we might catch a fish or two...
[July 11] It’s now July 11th and I have a little time to "re-group". We still have not got the boat in the water – but it will happen soon! Yesterday we went to Inverness and Sam and Catriona are staying a day or two with Dolan's sister Janet. Sam will come back by train tomorrow and Janet will meet Moira and hand over Catriona. Then my daughter's family - Moira, Colin, Sean, Daniel and Catriona (but minus Sam) will come later on in the month – Regatta time. That will be fun!
Catriona was a flower girl (with 3 other little girls) at a wedding in Plockton last Friday. It was rainy when the bridal party arrived at the church (4.00pm) but, by the time we all came out, the sun was shining and it kept on doing so. Everyone walked through the village to the bride's home and, after light refreshments, wandered the 150 metres to the village hall. A marvellous buffet was laid out and Catriona had a good look at all the dishes then whispered to me "I only like the bread". So I took myself the short distance home and heated sausage rolls which all the children – and Yarrow! – willingly demolished!
Dancing to a celidh band went on from 9.00pm till the wee small hours. Everyone enjoyed that! Sam and I eventually persuaded Catriona to give up at 11.00pm – the first of the flower girls to retire! We had all the groom's immediate family staying here, so only Catriona slept in – Sam was up to offer help at 8.00am. The family had to go their own ways – some to the Isle of Lewis that afternoon, so they had not the luxury of a long lie either! Their festivities had not finished till very late…….
I have only a few photos of the day, taken by Sam. As we were "in the wedding crowd" so to speak, we have none of the group. I shall get hold of one or two and send them to Alison and Ian. Alison may put them on the news page for me!
Today a group of four guests come from Denmark and will be here for four days. I am looking forward to meeting them. Then "Big John" drops in for three days – he’ll be sorry his friend Catriona is not here, but he should meet Sam. The diary is full till Regatta starts on Monday 24th - two very good friends come then and may have Catriona tucked in the car! After that it’s family time – my son John is busy, busy and will come later in the year.
I’m away over to Broadford now to visit Katie, my sister-in-law. She’s in the cottage hospital. We hope her chest infection will soon be cleared up and she’ll be back home in Plockton.
As you can tell, it's a very busy time!
Best wishes
Ann
PS Yarrow thoroughly enjoyed the wedding!
[July 3] I am going to Edinburgh tomorrow to collect two of my grandchildren, Sam and Catriona. I am also very pleased that my trip lands on their brother Sean’s third birthday! He has asked for a rabbit for quite a while, so a black floppy ear will join the family. Sean is a gentle wee soul (when he’s not taking penalty kicks!), so the rabbit will have a kind little master.
When Sam, Catriona and I arrive back here on Wednesday, we’ll treat ourselves to a "Take Away Tea" and no doubt catch up on the latest at the World Cup and Wimbledon, though neither holds any special interest now. Catriona will get her Plockton books out and choose which we shall read at bed time – and then she’ll probably visit the neighbours – her usual routine. Sam will no doubt want to have a good look at the new boat and her engine. He’s very interested in engines and so his reading can be the manuals! The last time I used an outboard was years ago – we had a trusty "Seagull" which never failed to start! It will be fun to go rowing, with the new engine as backup. The mackerel are in just now – we might catch a fish or two...
[July 11] It’s now July 11th and I have a little time to "re-group". We still have not got the boat in the water – but it will happen soon! Yesterday we went to Inverness and Sam and Catriona are staying a day or two with Dolan's sister Janet. Sam will come back by train tomorrow and Janet will meet Moira and hand over Catriona. Then my daughter's family - Moira, Colin, Sean, Daniel and Catriona (but minus Sam) will come later on in the month – Regatta time. That will be fun!
Catriona was a flower girl (with 3 other little girls) at a wedding in Plockton last Friday. It was rainy when the bridal party arrived at the church (4.00pm) but, by the time we all came out, the sun was shining and it kept on doing so. Everyone walked through the village to the bride's home and, after light refreshments, wandered the 150 metres to the village hall. A marvellous buffet was laid out and Catriona had a good look at all the dishes then whispered to me "I only like the bread". So I took myself the short distance home and heated sausage rolls which all the children – and Yarrow! – willingly demolished!
Dancing to a celidh band went on from 9.00pm till the wee small hours. Everyone enjoyed that! Sam and I eventually persuaded Catriona to give up at 11.00pm – the first of the flower girls to retire! We had all the groom's immediate family staying here, so only Catriona slept in – Sam was up to offer help at 8.00am. The family had to go their own ways – some to the Isle of Lewis that afternoon, so they had not the luxury of a long lie either! Their festivities had not finished till very late…….
I have only a few photos of the day, taken by Sam. As we were "in the wedding crowd" so to speak, we have none of the group. I shall get hold of one or two and send them to Alison and Ian. Alison may put them on the news page for me!
Today a group of four guests come from Denmark and will be here for four days. I am looking forward to meeting them. Then "Big John" drops in for three days – he’ll be sorry his friend Catriona is not here, but he should meet Sam. The diary is full till Regatta starts on Monday 24th - two very good friends come then and may have Catriona tucked in the car! After that it’s family time – my son John is busy, busy and will come later in the year.
I’m away over to Broadford now to visit Katie, my sister-in-law. She’s in the cottage hospital. We hope her chest infection will soon be cleared up and she’ll be back home in Plockton.
As you can tell, it's a very busy time!
Best wishes
Ann
PS Yarrow thoroughly enjoyed the wedding!
Tuesday, June 13, 2006
June News
There are times when I really dislike computers!! Had I been writing longhand and used a “rubber” I would have erased a word or two. Well, I have just obliterated a whole letter to you – a momentary lapse, with savage consequences!
It is blowing a real gale tonight and there have been some wild rain showers. This is a complete contrast to the last few days, which were very hot, sunny and calm. A couple of days ago, the temp. at the back of the house was 29C, in the shade. However, round the front there was a little breeze from the sea. It was just enough to keep the midges at bay, but not enough to help the Plockton small sailing boats finish a race.
The animals did enjoy the heat! Yarrow was to be found quite often stretched out on the tarmac. Sponge had more sense and tucked himself under a bush. Cheque reacted most dramatically of all – she legged it round the “down garden”, ate loads of dandelion and cabbage leaves in particular and gathered her strength again while dozing under a clump of mombretia, with it’s waving, cooling leaves. I’m pleased to say she has gained 80g. since coming out of hibernation.
The flower garden does not need much attention at present – all my shades of green are doing well and the odd colour is dotted around. I must thank recent visitors for gifts of plants and flowers – they obviously thought I did not have enough to do! Seriously, they are much appreciated and I have remembered you, Wendy, Carole and Brian and Jean and Graham when I have been lugging great watering cans to them, to keep them alive!!
The still nameless little boat now has a small electric outboard engine, complete with huge battery, and will have a launching trolly and cover soon. She’ll be kept just beside the workshop near the PO and will be easy to trail along to the water. I am looking forward very much to having Sam and Catriona row me round the coast for picnics! We have a magical spot near the lighthouse….
I have, as ever, had such kind and considerate guests. Practically all of them have managed a few bits of the jigsaw – albeit with gritted teeth! It was becoming a regular activity to lounge around on the front lawn too, with such amazing good weather. Tonight one would be blown into the loch and away…
We have had people arriving in many different ways – car, motor and push bike, train and bus. The nationalities too are many and varied – several times I have remarked that I am the only Scot in the house! And just as often I have wandered outside to admire marvellous motor bikes - a mode of transport gaining in popularity, I think and not simply with the youngsters.
I’ll report on the Plockton Wedding next time – Catriona is a quarter of the flower girls – excitement is reaching fever pitch……….Ann
It is blowing a real gale tonight and there have been some wild rain showers. This is a complete contrast to the last few days, which were very hot, sunny and calm. A couple of days ago, the temp. at the back of the house was 29C, in the shade. However, round the front there was a little breeze from the sea. It was just enough to keep the midges at bay, but not enough to help the Plockton small sailing boats finish a race.
The animals did enjoy the heat! Yarrow was to be found quite often stretched out on the tarmac. Sponge had more sense and tucked himself under a bush. Cheque reacted most dramatically of all – she legged it round the “down garden”, ate loads of dandelion and cabbage leaves in particular and gathered her strength again while dozing under a clump of mombretia, with it’s waving, cooling leaves. I’m pleased to say she has gained 80g. since coming out of hibernation.
The flower garden does not need much attention at present – all my shades of green are doing well and the odd colour is dotted around. I must thank recent visitors for gifts of plants and flowers – they obviously thought I did not have enough to do! Seriously, they are much appreciated and I have remembered you, Wendy, Carole and Brian and Jean and Graham when I have been lugging great watering cans to them, to keep them alive!!
The still nameless little boat now has a small electric outboard engine, complete with huge battery, and will have a launching trolly and cover soon. She’ll be kept just beside the workshop near the PO and will be easy to trail along to the water. I am looking forward very much to having Sam and Catriona row me round the coast for picnics! We have a magical spot near the lighthouse….
I have, as ever, had such kind and considerate guests. Practically all of them have managed a few bits of the jigsaw – albeit with gritted teeth! It was becoming a regular activity to lounge around on the front lawn too, with such amazing good weather. Tonight one would be blown into the loch and away…
We have had people arriving in many different ways – car, motor and push bike, train and bus. The nationalities too are many and varied – several times I have remarked that I am the only Scot in the house! And just as often I have wandered outside to admire marvellous motor bikes - a mode of transport gaining in popularity, I think and not simply with the youngsters.
I’ll report on the Plockton Wedding next time – Catriona is a quarter of the flower girls – excitement is reaching fever pitch……….Ann
Wednesday, May 24, 2006
Sylvie's Painting
Today's photo is of a painting done by one of my guests - Sylvie. She's just one of dozens of artists who are inspired by this area. Thanks Sylvie!
Ann
Monday, May 22, 2006
The Great 2006 Jigsaw Challenge
Dear all,
I like to have a jigsaw 'on the go' at Heron's Flight, and challenge all interested guests to help complete it.
Here are Geert and Ann, all the way from Belgium to start this year's jigsaw - and enjoy being in Plockton for their 15th Wedding Anniversary.
They are sitting in the front porch, where I keep binoculars for us all to watch the doings in Plockton Bay and Loch Carron and where there are brochures about the history, wildlife, walks of the area.
Can you see Yarrow in this photo?
Ann.
Tuesday, May 16, 2006
May News
All of a sudden it’s long past time for me to keep you up to date with happenings at Heron’s Flight!
On the whole, till this week, the weather has been very good – temps. last week were in the middle 20’s and we were all outside planting, weed killing on a grand scale, mowing great areas of mossy (in my case anyway) grass and the occasional gardener was spotted actually sitting enjoying the warm sunny garden! I have now followed Sam’s carefully drawn plan and have (straight) rows of potatoes and leeks, broccoli, spinach, lettuce, parsley and room still for kale and leeks. The plan left space between veges and so keeping the weeds down will be easier this year, I think……
Last Saturday was the Plockton Horti Socy’s open day and plant sale – several miss-guided souls did do a tour around Heron’s Flight – knowing the standard of the gardens on the main street, I retaliated by having tea with my visitors – that took their minds off why they were here!
All the animals are in good form – Cheque especially enjoyed roaming around in the down garden – she did not discover the little vege plants, but that day will surely come! As this week is cool and damp so far, she has not been out of doors, but is very active in the front porch!
After the departure of the bikers from Germany the drive was graced by 2 lovely MG cars – I did try a photo but it was not a success, as the cars were “littered” at angles. So, Noble MacPherson and party, if you read this please send on one of the (many!) photos you took! It was good to meet you again, Noble. Remember to give Fiona my best wishes.
My little 10’ Pioneer boat arrived at the weekend. It came on top of a friend’s Cherokee, which housed everything imaginable needed for a yachting weekend and more. This weekend it also had precious cargo – Cameron, age 2, came with Dad and they stayed the night and pottered about on several boats. So now my Edinburgh contingent will name the little blue Pioneer and I’ll set about getting a little engine and trolley. Then, during the summer holidays, we and others too can take easily to the water……I shall show her to you when she is “ready for action”.
I have quite a busy time ahead - for several weeks in fact. If you are coming I’ll hope for lovely summer days and long warm evenings – and NO midges!!!
Best wishes
Ann
On the whole, till this week, the weather has been very good – temps. last week were in the middle 20’s and we were all outside planting, weed killing on a grand scale, mowing great areas of mossy (in my case anyway) grass and the occasional gardener was spotted actually sitting enjoying the warm sunny garden! I have now followed Sam’s carefully drawn plan and have (straight) rows of potatoes and leeks, broccoli, spinach, lettuce, parsley and room still for kale and leeks. The plan left space between veges and so keeping the weeds down will be easier this year, I think……
Last Saturday was the Plockton Horti Socy’s open day and plant sale – several miss-guided souls did do a tour around Heron’s Flight – knowing the standard of the gardens on the main street, I retaliated by having tea with my visitors – that took their minds off why they were here!
All the animals are in good form – Cheque especially enjoyed roaming around in the down garden – she did not discover the little vege plants, but that day will surely come! As this week is cool and damp so far, she has not been out of doors, but is very active in the front porch!
After the departure of the bikers from Germany the drive was graced by 2 lovely MG cars – I did try a photo but it was not a success, as the cars were “littered” at angles. So, Noble MacPherson and party, if you read this please send on one of the (many!) photos you took! It was good to meet you again, Noble. Remember to give Fiona my best wishes.
My little 10’ Pioneer boat arrived at the weekend. It came on top of a friend’s Cherokee, which housed everything imaginable needed for a yachting weekend and more. This weekend it also had precious cargo – Cameron, age 2, came with Dad and they stayed the night and pottered about on several boats. So now my Edinburgh contingent will name the little blue Pioneer and I’ll set about getting a little engine and trolley. Then, during the summer holidays, we and others too can take easily to the water……I shall show her to you when she is “ready for action”.
I have quite a busy time ahead - for several weeks in fact. If you are coming I’ll hope for lovely summer days and long warm evenings – and NO midges!!!
Best wishes
Ann
Saturday, May 06, 2006
Recent visitors
Hi all, I couldn't resist showing you this photo of recent visitors.
I said to the 4 bikers in the photo that they should watch the website as they might appear in my newspage or elsewhere!
I do like bikers. They are always good fun, have no intention of finding bright lights and carousing into the night and appreciate the off street parking even more than motorists. The 4 in the photo are from Germany - Bavaria I think - and are just loving Scotland. Today they are off over to Applecross and will be somewhere near Durness tonight. They were all good fun and so proud of their lovely BMW bikes!
Ann
Saturday, April 22, 2006
Have you seen the new pier pontoon?
Dear all, The new pontoon on the pier close to Heron's Flight was officially finished today so I went over to take a photo to show you. It helps that it was a beautiful day, Plockton at its best. As the photo shows, the pontoon is completely separate from the existing pier. It is quite a structure. And of course Yarrow is there, testing it out! Ann
Wednesday, April 12, 2006
Mid-April News
Mid-April News.
I have been busy for a few weeks, with visitors initially, then, with school holidays, Catriona, followed by Sam.
Catriona has grown quite a bit in every sense and is a little schoolgirl longing for her 6th birthday in a few days time. She was very happy to trot round the village visiting, collecting the newspaper and shopping. She scooted all over the place on her bike and spent many an hour (rain and sun) on the rock in the front garden – her horse. The same rock was Moira’s pony a generation ago! I sent Alison and Ian a few photos of Catriona’s “doings” and was delighted to see one this news page!
Now I have Sam looking over his shoulder as I have threatened that he will be next to star on the news page! Sam is a huge help and his big bonus is that he is willing!! We had hoped to get the vege. garden planted but the weather is against us – wet, windy and very cold……. But we have not given up and have measured the plot; Sam will work out how many rows of potatoes, onions, leeks and salad crops I can plant and, when the warmer weather does come I’ll have a very easy time following the plan!
Sam will go home on Saturday and then I’ll be busy for the summer! I shall tell you soon of our guests, the exploits of the animals and how the garden is progressing. I’ll enjoy keeping you up to date with the family - Daniel will be 1 this month too while Sean, 3 later in the summer, intimates every time we meet or talk that he is next to come to Plockton with Waddy - I’ve never been “Granny” to any of the children and Sean has altered “Lally” to suit himself!
I hope all is well with you and that, should you happen upon this “neck of the woods”, we may meet……. Best wishes, Ann
I have been busy for a few weeks, with visitors initially, then, with school holidays, Catriona, followed by Sam.
Catriona has grown quite a bit in every sense and is a little schoolgirl longing for her 6th birthday in a few days time. She was very happy to trot round the village visiting, collecting the newspaper and shopping. She scooted all over the place on her bike and spent many an hour (rain and sun) on the rock in the front garden – her horse. The same rock was Moira’s pony a generation ago! I sent Alison and Ian a few photos of Catriona’s “doings” and was delighted to see one this news page!
Now I have Sam looking over his shoulder as I have threatened that he will be next to star on the news page! Sam is a huge help and his big bonus is that he is willing!! We had hoped to get the vege. garden planted but the weather is against us – wet, windy and very cold……. But we have not given up and have measured the plot; Sam will work out how many rows of potatoes, onions, leeks and salad crops I can plant and, when the warmer weather does come I’ll have a very easy time following the plan!
Sam will go home on Saturday and then I’ll be busy for the summer! I shall tell you soon of our guests, the exploits of the animals and how the garden is progressing. I’ll enjoy keeping you up to date with the family - Daniel will be 1 this month too while Sean, 3 later in the summer, intimates every time we meet or talk that he is next to come to Plockton with Waddy - I’ve never been “Granny” to any of the children and Sean has altered “Lally” to suit himself!
I hope all is well with you and that, should you happen upon this “neck of the woods”, we may meet……. Best wishes, Ann
Friday, April 07, 2006
Granddaughter Catriona!
Hi all, This is Ann's granddaughter Catriona on the rocks near our front lawn.
Ann's next newsletter is coming soon.
Best wishes to all,
Alison Hunter (Webmaster, sister-in-law, and also Catriona fan!)
Wednesday, March 08, 2006
Change to Heron's Flight web site
Hi all, You might like to visit and bookmark the new Heron's Flight website, at http://www.heronsflight.org. It looks much the same as it did before, but Ann has her own domain now. Thanks very much to my friend Thea Russell, who has greatly improved the technical quality of the site.
Best wishes to everyone, Alison Hunter (sister-in-law, Website manager and HF fan)
Best wishes to everyone, Alison Hunter (sister-in-law, Website manager and HF fan)
Tuesday, March 07, 2006
March News
March News
Quite often I start with a weather update and it’s no exception this month! February was a good month, exceedingly dry and with many sunny days. Ten days ago it was noticeably a “different” cold - and the snows came. Schools were closed all last week and only the desperate attempted the 6 mile journey to Kyle! The gritters did their best to keep roads clear, but our corner of the village is obviously not part of the contract! So the 7+ inches of pristine snow lay quite undisturbed till a slow thaw began two days ago. Had Alison from Toowoomba been here, Heron’s Flight would have been surrounded by snowmen and Australian whoops of glee would have been heard from as far away (or further) as Edmund’s paper shop!!
Today the drive is almost clear and John could get his van packed for his return this afternoon to Edinburgh. During his week here great works were done, the two of most note being the new wall covering for the west room shower area and new windows in the barn on the Brae. I am delighted to have had so many things done so willingly and how I enjoyed cooking and John’s company….. I was not the only recipient of special treatment - Yarrow and Sponge had a good extra dose of love and attention too.
A week before the snow arrived, Catriona was here and, though she would have enjoyed the snow, I think she had a better time! She and Yarrow were out a lot and all of us put in a few miles when the bicycle came out! As the village was very quiet, Catriona was able to cycle “solo” to the village hall and down to the point at Rhu. I accompanied her many times to the shop, to collect a newspaper and to pop in for a visit to various friends. Catriona also made two trips alone to the shop – she is growing up fast… We had two trips to beaches. At Dubhard Catriona discovered “rockaneering” and her new word will be part of the MacKenzie language from now on! The Coral beach expedition will not be forgotten soon, as the path was no more and we ploughed through thick, clawing, deep mud to get there – perhaps half a mile each way – ugh! We were up to the top of our wellies and poor Yarrow swam along through it (yes, the car WAS a mess when we got home!!) Evenings found us stoking the fire, reading, drawing and playing cards - Catriona’s a demon at Pelminism!! It was a magic time and I was sorry to deliver her to Edinburgh, where I stayed one night only, as the forecast was poor (and correct!) I t was very good seeing all the family, however briefly
John Townend, my first guest of 2006, arrives on the 16th. I am looking forward to that and to two other early bookings. So the long winter hibernation is nearly over…. It is already quite light till nearly 7.00pm and the extra hour of daylight from the 26th will catapult us all into “active mode”!! The garden is wakening too, and, though snowdrops, crocus and iris are presently snow covered, catkins and daffodils bloom bravely.
Till around Easter time, I hope you all keep well………….Ann.
Quite often I start with a weather update and it’s no exception this month! February was a good month, exceedingly dry and with many sunny days. Ten days ago it was noticeably a “different” cold - and the snows came. Schools were closed all last week and only the desperate attempted the 6 mile journey to Kyle! The gritters did their best to keep roads clear, but our corner of the village is obviously not part of the contract! So the 7+ inches of pristine snow lay quite undisturbed till a slow thaw began two days ago. Had Alison from Toowoomba been here, Heron’s Flight would have been surrounded by snowmen and Australian whoops of glee would have been heard from as far away (or further) as Edmund’s paper shop!!
Today the drive is almost clear and John could get his van packed for his return this afternoon to Edinburgh. During his week here great works were done, the two of most note being the new wall covering for the west room shower area and new windows in the barn on the Brae. I am delighted to have had so many things done so willingly and how I enjoyed cooking and John’s company….. I was not the only recipient of special treatment - Yarrow and Sponge had a good extra dose of love and attention too.
A week before the snow arrived, Catriona was here and, though she would have enjoyed the snow, I think she had a better time! She and Yarrow were out a lot and all of us put in a few miles when the bicycle came out! As the village was very quiet, Catriona was able to cycle “solo” to the village hall and down to the point at Rhu. I accompanied her many times to the shop, to collect a newspaper and to pop in for a visit to various friends. Catriona also made two trips alone to the shop – she is growing up fast… We had two trips to beaches. At Dubhard Catriona discovered “rockaneering” and her new word will be part of the MacKenzie language from now on! The Coral beach expedition will not be forgotten soon, as the path was no more and we ploughed through thick, clawing, deep mud to get there – perhaps half a mile each way – ugh! We were up to the top of our wellies and poor Yarrow swam along through it (yes, the car WAS a mess when we got home!!) Evenings found us stoking the fire, reading, drawing and playing cards - Catriona’s a demon at Pelminism!! It was a magic time and I was sorry to deliver her to Edinburgh, where I stayed one night only, as the forecast was poor (and correct!) I t was very good seeing all the family, however briefly
John Townend, my first guest of 2006, arrives on the 16th. I am looking forward to that and to two other early bookings. So the long winter hibernation is nearly over…. It is already quite light till nearly 7.00pm and the extra hour of daylight from the 26th will catapult us all into “active mode”!! The garden is wakening too, and, though snowdrops, crocus and iris are presently snow covered, catkins and daffodils bloom bravely.
Till around Easter time, I hope you all keep well………….Ann.
Monday, February 06, 2006
February News
February News
January was bitterly cold, though we did have some beautiful days, when it felt warm in the sunshine. February has begun dry and a little milder. Last week my niece Sandra and Walter arrived with chainsaw and appropriate gear - at last our two apples, one plum and huge fir tree are down. In thirty five years we did not have a kilo of fruit and Dolan and I said for ages that they had to go. Now the “down garden” will be brighter and the soil will improve when the root systems rot away. This year, however Cheque the tortoise can go on safari there!
Alison in Toowoomba has begun the “revamp” of the website - a lot of work, but I know she’s happy doing it - and I am thrilled..... The site will have a new address and a shake around, if she has her way - and she will!!! My remit to date is to take photos - I’ll do my best, though that is not one of my strong points.. The coral beach is one of my goals - I have not even got there yet as, when the days were sunny, the tides were unsuitable. Now I wait patiently for high tides and sunshine - could wait a while! - then on with the “wellies” again..
I broke off for a wee while to do a touch typing exercise - “speed, 10 words a minute!!! I began on the wrong two keys and scored 100% mistakes, so I’m taking a break altogether and writing this looking at the keyboard! I’m told I am now at level 10 of 20 and I’m still waiting to be taught the fingering for my two most used keys - the back space and exclamation mark!
Moira, Colin and the children are all fighting fit and I hope to have Catriona and maybe Sam here in their February holiday. John is coming very soon and he’ll clad the shower walls in the west room - I shall not be sorry to see the tiles go for good. He’ll also wipe clean my “to do, have tried, can’t” list and hopefully have a couple of days lazing around.
The kitchen floor is now restored and I am very pleased with the warm-feeling, practical lino. It is mottled brown and both Yarrow and Sponge have new green bean bags, which they curl up on in the evenings. So, picture us there - two contented animals in front of the Rayburn cooker and me in a corner, knitting, reading, watching TV or fiddling about with the new laptop - ultra sensitive and keys which have dropped my typing rate even lower!
I am now thinking ahead and looking forward to opening the doors for our guests, the first of whom arrive on March 16th. The sense of pre-season urgency has not hit me yet - it will! 2005, my first solo year, was more “crowded” than I anticipated - more housework, more garden, more forward planning, etc. - so in 2006 I regret that I will be unable to accept single night bookings in advance.
We all hope that we may meet you this year.
From Heron’s Flight’s cosy kitchen, Ann, Yarrow and Sponge.
January was bitterly cold, though we did have some beautiful days, when it felt warm in the sunshine. February has begun dry and a little milder. Last week my niece Sandra and Walter arrived with chainsaw and appropriate gear - at last our two apples, one plum and huge fir tree are down. In thirty five years we did not have a kilo of fruit and Dolan and I said for ages that they had to go. Now the “down garden” will be brighter and the soil will improve when the root systems rot away. This year, however Cheque the tortoise can go on safari there!
Alison in Toowoomba has begun the “revamp” of the website - a lot of work, but I know she’s happy doing it - and I am thrilled..... The site will have a new address and a shake around, if she has her way - and she will!!! My remit to date is to take photos - I’ll do my best, though that is not one of my strong points.. The coral beach is one of my goals - I have not even got there yet as, when the days were sunny, the tides were unsuitable. Now I wait patiently for high tides and sunshine - could wait a while! - then on with the “wellies” again..
I broke off for a wee while to do a touch typing exercise - “speed, 10 words a minute!!! I began on the wrong two keys and scored 100% mistakes, so I’m taking a break altogether and writing this looking at the keyboard! I’m told I am now at level 10 of 20 and I’m still waiting to be taught the fingering for my two most used keys - the back space and exclamation mark!
Moira, Colin and the children are all fighting fit and I hope to have Catriona and maybe Sam here in their February holiday. John is coming very soon and he’ll clad the shower walls in the west room - I shall not be sorry to see the tiles go for good. He’ll also wipe clean my “to do, have tried, can’t” list and hopefully have a couple of days lazing around.
The kitchen floor is now restored and I am very pleased with the warm-feeling, practical lino. It is mottled brown and both Yarrow and Sponge have new green bean bags, which they curl up on in the evenings. So, picture us there - two contented animals in front of the Rayburn cooker and me in a corner, knitting, reading, watching TV or fiddling about with the new laptop - ultra sensitive and keys which have dropped my typing rate even lower!
I am now thinking ahead and looking forward to opening the doors for our guests, the first of whom arrive on March 16th. The sense of pre-season urgency has not hit me yet - it will! 2005, my first solo year, was more “crowded” than I anticipated - more housework, more garden, more forward planning, etc. - so in 2006 I regret that I will be unable to accept single night bookings in advance.
We all hope that we may meet you this year.
From Heron’s Flight’s cosy kitchen, Ann, Yarrow and Sponge.
Tuesday, January 10, 2006
January, 2006
The Christmas visit to Edinburgh is a happy memory now. We all had a lovely time. Baby Daniel had a "nursery snuffle", which he kindly passed on to the rest of the family and they were all laid low. John and I got out in time!
My journey home was horrendous, with freezing fog for 100 miles.
New Year in the Highlands goes on for a few days, with much coming and going between houses. This year I visited a few close friends, as Dolan and I always did.
In the last three days we have had
1 - wonderful blue skies and many hours of sunshine.
2 - a gale accompanied by torrential rain and
3 - a dreary, dull, depressing day.
As those of you who know the north west of Scotland, this is not unusual!
On day one, everyone was so busy out of doors, 2006’s garden plans in mind.
Day two was pure survival.......
Today, as it is possible to move around without being heavily weighted down with warm clothes, we’ll be out and about and most likely ask the usual “why do we live here?” A rhetorical question - I saw an early daffodil blooming the other day.....
I had thought to welcome guests from April on, but now, thanks to a plea from "Big John", who stayed last year and entertained Catriona so brilliantly, I’m opening up around the middle of March. The usual panic of "where did I put X, Y, Z?" - all in sensible, accessible places when the last guests left and "where will I put all my clutter?"- it just grows over the winter - will set in, in a few weeks!
Yarrow, Sponge, hibernating (I hope!) Cheque and I do enjoy the peace, for a time. Soon we shall all be very happy to have a much busier lifestyle, with good company. I hope that Sam and Catriona may get here for a few days in February and that John’s plans to come for a week in early March consolidate soon - hopefully he’ll have good weather, to paint the workshop and supervise the disposal of garden rubbish - mostly prunings, loppings and sawings! John also plans to clad the shower in the west room with the same sheeting as in the east and that will be a great deed done.
I hope soon to have the kitchen floor re-covered, the estimate for exterior painting to the house, my wireless laptop up and running and to stick in at my touch typing before four of my ten fingers are noticibly shorter! This broadband is proving to be a time waster, as I am already looking things up "just out of interest", too often - e.g "miles, as the crow flies from here to Toowoomba" - I did not find the answer, but it took a long time to find that out!! As this computer is, as you know, in a very cold room, I have to go regularly to the kitchen to defrost! And that is where I am heading right now!
I hope to hear from you, or, better still, see you this year.
Ann.
My journey home was horrendous, with freezing fog for 100 miles.
New Year in the Highlands goes on for a few days, with much coming and going between houses. This year I visited a few close friends, as Dolan and I always did.
In the last three days we have had
1 - wonderful blue skies and many hours of sunshine.
2 - a gale accompanied by torrential rain and
3 - a dreary, dull, depressing day.
As those of you who know the north west of Scotland, this is not unusual!
On day one, everyone was so busy out of doors, 2006’s garden plans in mind.
Day two was pure survival.......
Today, as it is possible to move around without being heavily weighted down with warm clothes, we’ll be out and about and most likely ask the usual “why do we live here?” A rhetorical question - I saw an early daffodil blooming the other day.....
I had thought to welcome guests from April on, but now, thanks to a plea from "Big John", who stayed last year and entertained Catriona so brilliantly, I’m opening up around the middle of March. The usual panic of "where did I put X, Y, Z?" - all in sensible, accessible places when the last guests left and "where will I put all my clutter?"- it just grows over the winter - will set in, in a few weeks!
Yarrow, Sponge, hibernating (I hope!) Cheque and I do enjoy the peace, for a time. Soon we shall all be very happy to have a much busier lifestyle, with good company. I hope that Sam and Catriona may get here for a few days in February and that John’s plans to come for a week in early March consolidate soon - hopefully he’ll have good weather, to paint the workshop and supervise the disposal of garden rubbish - mostly prunings, loppings and sawings! John also plans to clad the shower in the west room with the same sheeting as in the east and that will be a great deed done.
I hope soon to have the kitchen floor re-covered, the estimate for exterior painting to the house, my wireless laptop up and running and to stick in at my touch typing before four of my ten fingers are noticibly shorter! This broadband is proving to be a time waster, as I am already looking things up "just out of interest", too often - e.g "miles, as the crow flies from here to Toowoomba" - I did not find the answer, but it took a long time to find that out!! As this computer is, as you know, in a very cold room, I have to go regularly to the kitchen to defrost! And that is where I am heading right now!
I hope to hear from you, or, better still, see you this year.
Ann.
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