Sun 30/1/05

  The force 5 to 7 wind predicted in the Shipping Forecast returned the usual sound of the wind in the cracks to me. It’s intermittently sunny, but a dark cloud in the northwest just before 12. At 12.10, a very bright rainbow arcs over Laxay, fading gradually as the shower crosses the loch. The alternating pattern of rain and sun continues through the afternoon. At 2.10, I go out for a moorland walk, starting up the track halfway to Garyvard, then to the flattened moorland gate. Veering west to cross the low ridge, and traverse past the north end of Loch T.A. and the south end of Loch Leathann. A shower passes by on the brisk westerly wind (force 5 to 6), but no major problems encountered up to Loch Ealaidh. Head north downstream, and manage to cross the river. It’s easier and not so wet on the western shore of the Abhainn Ealaidh. The route on the eastern shore finishes up two muddy tracks and one unbelievably muddy field. Return to Ravenspoint at 4.42 in a blaze of colour, above the grey low-level cloud. Did laundry after dark. The wind picks up during the evening. Tomorrow it won’t be cold, 10C. Put two items in the recycling bank, and that made one racket!