Tuesday 12/09/06

Another grey day in Stornoway, with low cloud and the odd spot of drizzle. The two folk from Inverness (father and son) set out for a days' fishing along the Creed River and nearby lochs. The Australian lady is working on the computer this morning, continuing where she left off last night. She is not feeling too happy, but asks mrs B if she can accompany the young lady on a cartrip. Mrs B can't, but on asking I can. The young lady is due to catch the 6.30 plane to Glasgow tonight. Leave Stornoway along the Pentland Road at midday, heading towards Carloway. Cloudlevels are very low, and there is occasional drizzle. Cannot make out any of the distant hills. A man stands up to his thighs in the loch near the Achmore turn-off. Carry on to Carloway, meeting 8 cars coming the other way. Once in Garenin, we walk through the Blackhouse Village and go up the hill to enjoy the view west towards Bernera and Uig. We tackle a bit of bog along the way. A container at the bottom of the village smells of dead sheep. The young lady, mid 20's, has been on a tour of Europe which did not go down terribly well. Have to say that I'm unimpressed with tourguides who show people round Amsterdam, pointing out all the cannabis dens. Fortunately, my current companion had the sense to visit Anne Frank's House. Methinks, she is homesick and travelweary. Her course at the university finishes in February, and she's counting down the days. After Gearrannan, we go to Dalmore. There was NO wind there, and the midges on the beach were hellish. Next village is Dalbeg, one of the prettiest places in Lewis. After admiring the lilypond and the beach, it's back to Stornoway via Breascleit. The sun comes out and it turns into a pleasantly warm afternoon. Final call: the Iolaire Monument behind Holm. We finished with a cuppa at mrs B's, after which the young Australian heads off on her plane to Glasgow. She's due to stay in a hostel in the city centre. Her course starts on Thursday. I was extensively thanked for my companionship. Travelling is not everybody's cup of tea. Tonight's supper: well, have a look at this entry in the Recipe Book.