February 20, 2016

It has been a busy month to date. I had exterior work being done at 35 Harbour Street, used by Dolan's sisters and brother for holidays and let out too, to pay for it's upkeep. That's nearly finished – only one window still to renew... The house is in a conservation area, so little is done to change it's outside appearance ever.....

At Heron's Flight I've had the wall above the fireplace “gouged out” and re-plastered. Despite many many dust-sheets, the mess was indescribable.. Dust settled in the dust-sheeted hall and dining room too – anywhere it floated to, actually!

Last week when the plaster work was finished, room cleaned and repainted, the rest of the house was similarly cleaned and the carpets were shampooed......

The workmen will be back to renew the fascia boards and rones before the outside of the house is painted in April/May.

This was all just done in time, as Moira and the two boys, Sean and Daniel arrived on Wednesday! Colin managed up a couple of days later, leaving Catriona cleaning down in Edinburgh by the sound of it! She also is studying for her O grades, if the exams are still called that! They are early next school term, after the Easter break and holidays which are in early April.

The family must leave today, as school resumes on Monday. It has been a really lovely time, despite quite dreadful weather. Colin was hoping to tidy up bits of the garden, but that has been out of the question. I know they have a few hours today so perhaps it may calm down enough and dry up sufficiently to get the electric hedge clippers out! Happily Moira can work sometimes with email and phone, and she does here – but we had several outings including a meal at Plockton Inn, which we always enjoy!

And for some weeks Ruah and I will have the company of little Duncan – Daniel's eight month Shih Tzu. Ruah is to train him to ask out! I have already begun (with Ruah and Ryan, the black lab helping!) So to the door we ALL traipse, out we go, rain hail, wind or snow!!!

Then we shall go to Edinburgh or the family may come here again, and Daniel will have his beloved little companion back – and I shall probably hear the sigh of relief from Ruah!

I am looking forward to the first visitors of 2016 – around Easter time next month.

I am also delighted to know that several old friends are coming north again!

Perhaps you too may travel this way in 2016. I hope so!

Best wishes, Ann