PDA

View Full Version : I'll be back...



John Little
17-Sep-11, 17:31
John Little, on here a lot, begs pardon for being back - for now at least, being ower-full wi numpty..... and a wee bit sick of the taste.

But when in Caithness, do what the Orgers do - and there's far more plain nice folk among 'em than the other sort.

Here the drizzle blows in gently off the sea and grey waves come over Caithness stone slabs covered in orange, just below us. It's a dreich sort of a day but is forecast to get better so we may be able to get out on our bikes tomorrow or go for a wee walk on Dunnet Sands.

We're about to have our dinner, courtesy of Tescos in Thurso, and then we're off to meet a few folks and have a good evening.

Saw people playing bowls in Thurso - a hardy folk live up here. Lots of cyclists on the road towards John O Groats; and we are snug and warm facing the Pentland Firth.

Isn't this a lovely place?

Isn't this just a beautiful part of the world?

You lucky people.

Gronnuck
17-Sep-11, 17:35
Isn't this a lovely place?

Isn't this just a beautiful part of the world?

You lucky people.

It is and we count our blessings - bide a while John.

ducati
17-Sep-11, 17:37
You're right there John. Sorry we couldnt organise better weather for you, its been like this for a week :(


Hope you enjoy the Cailigh tonight, sorry not to be there but the boss is away and not a lot of point without a partner. Looking forward to meeting up for a pint though.

Cheers

Corrie 3
17-Sep-11, 17:38
Nice to see you back John, enjoy your stay and don't worry about the Numpties, let them just fly over your head!!
You are bigger than that, don't let them win!!!

C3.................:roll:;);)

bekisman
17-Sep-11, 17:56
"The drizzle blows in gently off the sea" strange, but that sounds homely somehow..

Anyway John look forward to seeing you in a couple of hours for tiffin!

Torvaig
17-Sep-11, 20:32
I've only been at a shindig in Strathy a couple of times but my goodness they make you welcome! Everybody is there; grannie and grandad and all the bairns.

The quality of music is great too; some locals are very musical and good to listen/dance to and they also invite quality musicians i.e. Ian McFarlane (fiddle) and many others.

Lively dancing and lots of blethering; a great night awaits you John and Mrs. John; enjoy!

oldmarine
17-Sep-11, 21:58
Caithness is a lovely place. My wife wants to remain in Arizona where all our family is located so we will stay in AZ.

John Little
18-Sep-11, 08:58
What a grand evening that was!

We went over while it was still light and took tiffin with Bekisman and Mrs Beks and were very pleased that Marwill was there as well. A very snug and well appointed fastness, a warm welcome and the tiffin tasty; a nice way to meet our first Orgers in the real world and not the virtual one. It was also reassurance that we all, actually, do exist.

As all good occasions do, the time went in a blink and we had to leave to go and meet Mr and Mrs Anfield at Strathy and to the hall there.
They met us in the carpark, saving us having to go in through the gaze of people wondering who we were, and escorted us into a large modern facility where played a group called Island Ceilidh.

They were good! Very good.
Lovely lilting Gaelic melody is their speciality - and can they sing! Two guys and a girl who sang like angels, with an accordionist whose fingers flit so fast over the keys I could not follow them. Very virtuoso and more than pleasant.

There was some dancing; the Strip the Willow and the Gay Gordon were variants of what I know and I think dance must be regional to some extent, so we did not dance and I'm glad of it.

We both want to thank the Anfields again for what was a very pleasant way to spend our first evening in Caithness.

Then dark across the moors, through wet Thurso, deserted Castletown and back to this wee cottage.

Today we cycle out and aim for Halkirk.

It looks a good day for it.

Corrie 3
18-Sep-11, 10:43
Sounds like a grand evening John, glad you enjoyed it !!!

C3.............:)

Torvaig
18-Sep-11, 10:58
Oops John, I hope you were not caught in that last downpour..... it was such a beautiful morning! Glad to hear you enjoyed the ceilidh and the company! Strathy folks know how to party!

John Little
18-Sep-11, 14:15
Nice place this :alkirk.

ducati
18-Sep-11, 16:08
Nice place this :alkirk.

I've just got this vision of two mad cyclists, heads down against the rain, orging on a tablet. [lol]

John Little
18-Sep-11, 18:00
It was my new phone - which I evidently ain't used to yet. We are pretty tired. 38 miles may not sound too much but we ain't young and there's a lot of air about.

See you later.

John Little
18-Sep-11, 20:03
Well that was quite a day. As we set off we found a young Scorrie in the middle of the road but he seemed to be okay – and able to do everything that Scorries do, but he was exhausted. So we put him into the side of a field to rest up and left him there.

We cycled up over past Bower as they were about to have their Boot fair but did not go in, for being on bikes, even if we had liked something we could not have carried it. The wind was with us at that point and we made Halkirk in good time and had lunch perched on a bench outside the Spar shop. Mrs L was not amused when she bit into one of my sandwiches by mistake for she does not like mustard.

Halkirk to Thurso was more of an amble than a ride for the wind was fair against us and it rained a bit. But the sky was big, the scenery was Caithness beautiful and it did us the power of good.
What more can you ask?

At Tesco’s we got a wee bit plaice in case the Scorrie was there when we got back, and a few bits and pieces then off, very slowly towards Castletown. Between Castletown and Dunnet we got overtaken, (never hard) by two LEJOG ters who said it had been a B of a day but their tails were high in the air for they were finishing today. I laughed and told them we were doing it next year and they told us it would be something we would enjoy.
I know that anyway cos I have done it before.

The Scorrie was not there and no feathers or ought else – but there was a huge flock of them just down the field so I guess ours must have recovered some energy.

Tomorrow to Mey and the castle.

Charlie’s not in residence is he? :O

Bazeye
18-Sep-11, 20:14
Mrs L was not amused when she bit into one of my sandwiches by mistake for she does not like mustard.

She must be weird John, not liking mustard. Unless it was that French stuff with all the bits in it.

John Little
18-Sep-11, 21:38
Baz I agree 100 per cent. Mustard, like good beer, is a spice of life. Speaking of which, the Red Mcgregor bitter at Castletown hotel is superb!

Moira
19-Sep-11, 01:08
She must be weird John, not liking mustard. Unless it was that French stuff with all the bits in it.

It's the wholegrain mustard which has the bits in it, nothing to do with the French stuff which is darker in colour and has more taste than the English stuff.
I like all of them. :)

Rheghead
19-Sep-11, 01:17
what about that dear John mustard? :roll:

John Little
19-Sep-11, 08:10
Weel I.m passing your hoose the nicht- so if ye hev some we could pop in and try it? :)

Rheghead
19-Sep-11, 11:45
you would have been welcome to try it but I'm working shifts tonight so won't be in sorry. Always nice to meet another orger though.

John Little
19-Sep-11, 17:15
And today was a wee walk of a few miles to the Castle of Mey through Scarfskerry - a nice little spot strung along a fantastic coast. Not living locally we thought that the pay desk might be on the main road so we walked a few miles further than we might, but eventually got to the castle.
Nice comfy sort of place really but I'm not sure I'd like to be there in the winter in that situation with single glazing. I liked the fluffy toys all over the place and Nessie on the tapestry. The plesiosaurus climbing out of the box of tissues made me laugh, as did the Tyrannosaur in the kitchen.

The haunted room is really quite spooky feeling...

Food was good, the staff were great and our guide was superb. We walked away from the place feeling we had really enjoyed the visit and impressed with the garden they created behind that wall.

Mrs L got some cards and fudge at Peedie Puckles and then off to Dunnet for a walk on the beach - only a few folk about with a few dogs, but it's a fine place for a stroll.

Now getting ready to go out at the warm and inviting home of another Orger.

Busy time we're having.

bekisman
19-Sep-11, 23:13
you would have been welcome to try it but I'm working shifts tonight so won't be in sorry. Always nice to meet another orger though.See you were on the 'I predict a riot'' thread at 19.17, John could have dropped in on his way here, he passed your place at c18.00 - he's not scary you know!

John Little
20-Sep-11, 08:15
...until I turn green and burst out of my clothes and look for girders to bend....

Thanks to all at Chateau Bekisman- it was a grand evening with good food, good company and good craic. :)

John Little
20-Sep-11, 22:55
Another fine day when Caithness could put and did put many places to shame; the sun came out and she showed her shining face; a lovely day.

Thumper - you are a star - thankyou for something we shall never forget - those seals are wonderful- and so well cared for.

Then to Thurso where something moving, beautiful and so good that I shall never forget it, but was glad I was there. My respect for those involved knows no bounds.


Then a brief visit to the bike shop in Thurso which has one of the best ranges of stock that I have ever seen in a bike shop - and I've seen a few; good friendly staff too.

Visiting friends and new acquaintances in Thurso was how most of the afternoon went, then to Wick to meet Moira at Spoons and a nice chat over a good steak. What more could I ask?

Nothing save then we went to Wick High School and saw Scottish Youth Opera doing Orpheus in the Underworld.

Talk about racy! It was downright excellent and I have not laughed so much for years.

So much to do up here.

Tomorrow we cycle out past Loch More and up the track towards the hills. I pray for no rain.

Torvaig
21-Sep-11, 00:58
Sounds like a great day out John; you're certainly getting around! Glad you enjoyed Orpheus; a good laugh is good for the soul!

That's a bonnie run you're planning tomorrow; we will all keep our fingers crossed that the weather stays fair for you both. Enjoy....

Aaldtimer
21-Sep-11, 03:17
A visit to the Comm in Thurso Wednesday night and you might find some agreeable music to your tastes John.;)

John Little
21-Sep-11, 08:46
Ah - we are in Thurso tonight and this night belongs to Mrs L - and Mrs L wants to go dancing.

So dancing it shall be...

Torvaig
21-Sep-11, 10:05
Ah - we are in Thurso tonight and this night belongs to Mrs L - and Mrs L wants to go dancing.

So dancing it shall be...

John, I do hope you can keep up with Mrs L; takes a lot of stamina that sort of thing you know! :lol:

Thumper
21-Sep-11, 14:43
I have been lucky enough to meet John and his good wife twice now,a truely wonderful,caring couple! I really hope you enjoy the rest of your stay and that we meet again soon!x

ducati
21-Sep-11, 17:40
It doesn't look like we're going to meet up this time John. This weeks gone a bit Bananas!

You haven't missed much, I'm not very cultured, Opera? A lot of bucolic mooing and lowing, Dancing? Gammy leg, Steak? Don't do that :eek:


(unless I can drag therealducati away from work to drop in at e Comm tonight).

John Little
21-Sep-11, 18:32
I’m smiling here Thumper – thanks for having us back since we forgot the camera first time. I might put some of their little faces on the org when we get home.

Up and away to Loch More this morning where we sat a while peering at the rain, deciding that we would wait a wee while and trying to work out how to use the new car cd/radio thingy that we bought in Inverness- to kill the time. Eventually the rain decided to stop and we assembled the bikes- cos we have to take the wheels off to get em into the car.

Then we set out for Glutt Lodge; the first bit was a shallow up hill, but the wind blew and blew some more. At times it almost brought me to a stop. At Dalwhinan Lodge we stopped for a breather and then on, against the wind until a small bungalow a couple of miles from Glutt Lodge. Mrs L had ran out of steam and suggested, since it was my own particular target, that I go the last two miles – which I did. They were hard miles because the rain came with the wind, but I was back with her in 25 minutes.

Then idle curiosity got the better of me, and as I ate my apple I wandered over to look at the abandoned bungalow. I am glad that I did, for inside looked like a sheep version of Belsen, Somebody had kicked in the front door – short term wish to shelter perhaps- and sheep had got in. Trouble is that I was looking into a bedroom, the door was shut, there were dead sheep and three live ones looked out at me.

I went in there and had to heave the doors open for the weight against them; and had to keep going out for air. Eventually Mrs L and I managed to get the three out and one of them was very feeble indeed – but grass and water will fix that. They were lucky – in three closed rooms were I think 10 dead sheep. As we shooed the live ones out one of them ran into the door and closed it – which of course is how they got trapped. When we had finished we closed the door as best we could and told a man at the first house we came to. He swore and said he would phone the farmer. Golgotha is up towards Glutt Lodge. If it were me I would not secure the door – I’d douse it in petrol and burn it down.

As for whoever kicked the door in and caused this- I have no words. If you are reading this, then ‘Scum’ is the least thing that you are.

The wind cleaned my nostrils and blew us back to the car in very short time. Now we go dancing – and I am not very good at it…. :(

Moira
21-Sep-11, 21:55
It was a real pleasure to meet you and your wife last night. The pity was that our diaries and time constraints did not allow longer so "Spoons" was the quick & easy option. Next time I'll treat you both to some real, fine dining at Bord De L'Eau in Wick.

Enjoy the rest of your trip to our fine County and have a safe journey home.

And......
Haste Ye Back....
x

John Little
21-Sep-11, 22:25
Aye - it was really nice meeting you and to have such a good chat. It is a pity it was not longer indeed but we both liked Spoons. It's not a bit like a Wetherspoons doon south- we would not go to one there but the Alexander Bain is a real community centre with a good feel to it and has not been taken over by lagered up numpties being obnoxious.

And I was right.

I can't dance....!

Dadie
21-Sep-11, 22:29
Glad you both had a good night!
I cant dance too.....
And the weather is supposed to get worse this week...

John Little
21-Sep-11, 22:36
Well Dadie I think we must take Caithness as we find her. Tomorrow we cycle to John O Groats, Duncansby and Freswick bay; if the weather is appalling then we'll do Caithness Horizons which I am trying to squeeze in. Friday we hope to do a boat trip from Wick - and that very much depends on weather.

Caithness has a vibrant community with so many people to see and so many things to do.

A week is such a short time- but we will be back!

Dadie
21-Sep-11, 22:40
Well im free (ish) depending on school/nursery runs on friday.....

John Little
21-Sep-11, 22:48
Friday is boat in Wick (we hope) meet Phill, Heritage centre, meet Trix, meet Anfield - maybe or maybe not Ducati, dinner in evening in Scrabster. We passed through Watten today...

John Little
22-Sep-11, 12:57
There is a tone in Mrs L which must not be argued with. When I stepped outside this morning the wind blew my hat off my head and she said 'I'm not cycling in THAT!'

So we did not - call me a wimp if you like.

We have 'done' Caithness Horizons and are going to walk over to the harbour to see if there are any seals there. Then to Mary Ann's cottage and a walk (on the advice of an Orger) through Dunnet Forest.

The best laid plans of mice and men....
but in truth with a headwind like that we would have been all day going to JoG.

You have to adapt to circumstances now - don't you?

John Little
22-Sep-11, 17:21
The walk round the bit of coast near our cottage was excellent but we found no seals and no buckies- so we went in search of them in the car.

We found seals alright - 10 of them - huge ones at Brough. There were 3 enormous grey ones on the slipway and 7 common seals keeping well away from them, all basking in the sun in such a sheltered bay. I could not tear Mrs L away. I do not know how many pictures she has taken but there are a lot. It took a lot of afternoon.

So to Mary Ann's which was fascinating and we met her grand-daughter who told us loads of stuff about the place. T'was great! Then we got shown round by one of the regular guides who was truly excellent; I loved the smell of the peat smoke which took me back years.

Then decision time - Dunnet forest or not?

The answer was not - it's been a busy week and we are out tonight painting the town red with Torvaig- so the attractions of a good cuppa tay were too much to resist. Feet up with tea and a biscuit - beats fighting the wind on two wheels.

It's a hard life...

John Little
22-Sep-11, 23:12
Lyth Arts Centre is a remarkable place and good for a visit. The whole place is a leap of faith, imagination and enterprise that is inspiring, indicative of what determination and dedication can achieve.

We saw Ewan McLennan in the company of Torvaig and friends and we are so grateful for the invitation to do so.

What a treat!

This guy is a troubadour of quality and virtuosity and gave us an evening of melody, song and style which was just refreshing and nice.

Lyth Arts Centre -- Reeee- spect!

Moira
23-Sep-11, 22:24
Calling John Little, please check in soon and let us know that you and your wife are safe.

You've been silent for more than a few hours and now I am worried.

Did Torvaig feed you enough pancakes last night and did your last full day in Caithness meet all your expectations?

John Little
23-Sep-11, 22:39
Well that was our final day and as plans do - they alter according to wind and weather.

John O Groats got the ritual tour and I was glad to see work going ahead on the old Hotel- I'm sure that what is done there will be a vast improvement on the poor derelict that it became. And I hope the revamp that HIE have planned brightens up the old place; like a grand dame that's seen better days the place needs a bit of cheering up. Or maybe it was just the weather. One real distinction it has in that it has the only public convenience in Caithness where you have to feed a turnstile to get in; struck me as an alien sight for all the others I have seen in Thurso and Wick were clean and well cared for- but no turnstiles.

Thence to Duncansby Stacks but did not linger as wind and rain pelted us back to the car. And so to Whaligoe Steps and coffee at the cafe. They have new owners there and at least 10 different types of coffee- we tried the Ethiopian long bean and it was excellent. The huge window looking out over the sea took us aback as we went in with a certain awe at the view. Apparently they intend to serve mid Mediterranean food there - and with a wood burning stove and their enthusiasm we shall certainly go there when next we are up. We went down the steps and I clambered over the rocks onto the wee beach at the back; but no doubloons or moidores or interesting flotsam did we find but an old anchor, a lost fender and lots of kelp.

At the distillery I sinned.

Greatly.

I bought a bottle of 12 year old. I could not resist it. Mrs L got a bottle of the liqueur. It shall be rationed in good measures as what it is - which is a real treat.

At Wicker's World we met Phill and had a good craic about the world in general and things in particular- then we both went off to do maritime things. We however, were disappointed for the Geo-explorer was fully booked and we did not get a coastal cruise. Serves us right for not booking earlier. But we have their card and the cruise looks fantastic. We will be up next May/June and they told us that is the best time for birds and we will do it then.

The Heritage Centre at Wick is fantastic. We spent a lot longer in there than at Caithness Horizons and we thought it more in touch with how folk live. The old schoolroom reminded me of the Mlller and one of the guides got us out a tawse to look at and handle - I got it all the time at the Miller. But the objects from everyday life, the machines, the furniture and the clothes - it was hard to leave.

But we had an appointment - with Trix - who gave us some grand coffee and a nice chat- and it was champion to meet her in reality rather than just as a page of type. She gave us a fine welcome. We had to leave all too soon and go back to the cottage to change and then out again where we met Ducati at Castletown over a pint or so and another social hour or so. Another friendly face and good conversation; and left reluctantly for I swear we could have talked half the night the way things were going. But having sorted some, if not all, the world, Mrs L and I had a dinner reservation at the Upper Deck to end our wee holiday from which we have just returned, Now to bed and in the morning it will be away to the soft south.

I have really liked meeting lots of people this week. To the Orgers and others we have seen, met, talked and socialised with, all of who have made this a holiday not ever to be forgotten - THANKYOU.

A nicer bunch of people I may never hope to meet; you personify Caithness as I know it - courteous, friendly, hospitable and warm. I wish all communities were as good.

And thankyou for all who have read my 'blog' of this holiday. It's a bit presumptuous of me I know to think that what we got up to could be of any interest at all but I wanted to reflect what a lively time we have had. Caithness is a dynamic and interesting place to be, with lots to do, see, meet and just uplifts and regenerates the spirit.

We shall be back.

Ciao - for now.

ducati
23-Sep-11, 22:47
Bon Voyage and haste ye back (as the sign says) do not dally in Portgower as you suggested, a more reckless course of action would be hard to imagine.:eek:

John Little
23-Sep-11, 22:50
LOL! I shall post the pictures I took in Portgower when I get home.....MWAH-Hah_hah!!

Dadie
23-Sep-11, 22:52
Glad you liked your trip!
We went for a bat walk tonight at achvarasdal..but the bats were hiding tonight!
But we did find a very small toad which kept the girls happy....they saw something and actually got to hold it!
Mucky tired kids at the end so worth it!
What did you think of the art work at JOG?
And did you find and keep any Groatie Buckies on your travels..they are a must have find.

John Little
23-Sep-11, 22:53
And also thankyou - I do not know about 'haste' me back for next time it will be ambling up from Lands End on two wheels, but I do appreciate the sentiment. :)

John Little
23-Sep-11, 22:55
Dadie - to quote Mrs L when she saw the art work 'It looks like a Disney Castle' which I agreed with - very picturesque.

Then she asked why they did it - and I could not remember :(

And I looked hard for Groatie Buckies yesterday - but at Scarfskerry- I am told they are particular to JoG and we should have looked there. Next time!! But Mrs L got a pocket full of pretty cockle shells.

Moira
23-Sep-11, 22:58
I think you've captured the true spirit of Caithness during your self-imposed punishing schedule this week. Very well done to you and your wife. It was my pleasure and privilege to meet you both. Our time together was much too short.....

I've thoroughly enjoyed your "blog", stay in touch please. Btw, when are you writing the book? ;)

Dadie
23-Sep-11, 23:01
Try the peedie beach at duncansby(you walk along a good bit over the rocks until you hit the shelly bit) for the elusive groatie buckie or as I have found they are plentiful at sandside east..but I have the right sort of kit when on sandside for if you want to remove anything to put your mind at rest...

John Little
23-Sep-11, 23:03
I have started my book but I do not really want to get stuck into it until we move to Somerset. The bits I've done is kind of a stream of consciousness at the moment- things I know to be so but have to back up- sort of thing. But I want to spread out across a new and larger room before I really get going.
So life is a bit of a holiday right now.

I'm finding out some good stuff though.

Well it's good if you like History. Otherwise it might send you off to sleep.

But I did find a story last week they should make a film of.

John Little
23-Sep-11, 23:04
Try the peedie beach at duncansby(you walk along a good bit over the rocks until you hit the shelly bit) for the elusive groatie buckie or as I have found they are plentiful at sandside east..but I have the right sort of kit when on sandside for if you want to remove anything to put your mind at rest...

We passed by that beach this morning in the rain and I said 'Shall we stop?" to R who was driving. And she said 'NEXT TIME!'

I blame the rain.

And if I found a buckie at Sandside then I'd take it hame - nae bother!

Torvaig
24-Sep-11, 01:30
LOL! I shall post the pictures I took in Portgower when I get home.....MWAH-Hah_hah!!

Sorry John but you will be disappointed; photographs of Portgower have never developed in the past but of course maybe they will with this new-fangled digital thingy-ma-jigs!

Glad you saw fit to treat yourselves to some Old Pulteney especially the liqueur; it is delicious!

It was lovely to meet you both and it's good to know you have enjoyed your break in the Costa del Kaitness.

Have a safe journey home Mr. and Mrs. Little; we have enjoyed being part of your holiday.

P.S. see you next year!

John Little
24-Sep-11, 06:53
Thankyou!!

It is Saturday morning and we shall be off soon. It's been wonderful.

Now it's time to pack up the 'puter and go. :(

Next time I post will be from Englandshire. :(

Bye -bye beautiful Caithness- see you again soon.

Corrie 3
24-Sep-11, 09:33
LOL! I shall post the pictures I took in Portgower when I get home.....MWAH-Hah_hah!!
If you take pictures in Portgower John you wont get home!!!!!....:eek:
Glad you enjoyed your visit, I have enjoyed reading your blog and hope all goes well with the move to Somerset and the LE to JO'G next year!!

C3..............:)

John Little
24-Sep-11, 22:36
Ah C3 - we were very cunning when we went into Portgower - we did not get out of the car!! So I got mainstreet Portgower through the car window - streaked with rain. And of course vamps do not like rain so they all stayed indoors...

Bazeye
25-Sep-11, 11:53
Got a link for your blog, John?

Torvaig
25-Sep-11, 21:51
I think this is John's blog. He is keeping us up to date on his holiday in Caithness etc.

Bazeye
26-Sep-11, 11:14
Oh right then, Ive read it. Thought I was missing out on something.

John Little
26-Sep-11, 18:48
Correct Torvaig.We are missing the roads of Caithness right now as we dance in filthy weather along the M25. An hour or two should see us home. But there is a lot of traffic and monsoon like rain!

trix
26-Sep-11, 18:55
iv enjoyed readin yer 'blog' o' caithness john, an it wis a pleasure meetin yersel an' yer wife. only, it wis all too short!!

i didna ken ye were goin til 'e arts centre or i wid o' bin lookin for ye. safe travellin an' il look forward til yer return next year - luv x x

bekisman
26-Sep-11, 21:39
Correct Torvaig.We are missing the roads of Caithness right now as we dance in filthy weather along the M25. An hour or two should see us home. But there is a lot of traffic and monsoon like rain!
Hi John what's a 'M'? and no idea what 'traffic' means..;)

John Little
26-Sep-11, 21:53
Aye - none of those up there... we are home safe thought and feeling sort of floaty.

How on earth do lorry drivers do that for day after day?

Torvaig
26-Sep-11, 22:35
Aye - none of those up there... we are home safe thought and feeling sort of floaty.

How on earth do lorry drivers do that for day after day?

Good to hear you are home safely; is the floaty feeling down to the Old Pulteney?

Would you like to come back to Caithness for the next concert at Dunnet Lighthouse? Now there's an interesting road on a wet and windy night!

trix
26-Sep-11, 22:45
gled yer home safely mr an' mrs little, haste ye back, as wis mentioned earlier...:D

torvaig, div ye ken 'e name o' 'e band thats playin next week? isaac telt me but i cana mind, i lek til check them oot on utube first.

Torvaig
26-Sep-11, 22:51
gled yer home safely mr an' mrs little, haste ye back, as wis mentioned earlier...:D

torvaig, div ye ken 'e name o' 'e band thats playin next week? isaac telt me but i cana mind, i lek til check them oot on utube first.

Sorry, I can't remember! My memory is atrocious and unless I write down the band's name, I've had it! But I am sure it will be as enjoyable as ever.....see you there!

John Little
27-Sep-11, 07:22
LOL! I bet it is. (The Dunnet road at night)

We would love to come to the concert at Wick, but unfortunately distance is a sovereign preventative...

Which is weird really cos the next time we arrive it will be by bike.

Apparently the way to go to Caithness after that is with two suitcases, a train and hire a car at Thurso or Wick...

I'm working on getting herself to think about the plane but I think it will be an uphill struggle.

Thanks Trix and Ducati - we will' haste us back' - if our bike riding can be described as 'haste'- which I doubt...

John Little
27-Sep-11, 16:43
One of the high spots of our visit to Caithness was meeting Thumper and her seals. So here are a few of their wee faces to look at - and thanks again Thumper - it was excellent!

http://i927.photobucket.com/albums/ad118/johnlittle21/DSCN3365.jpg

http://i927.photobucket.com/albums/ad118/johnlittle21/DSCN3364.jpg

http://i927.photobucket.com/albums/ad118/johnlittle21/DSCN3358.jpg

Torvaig
27-Sep-11, 16:52
They are beautiful; no wonder they were a special highlight of your visit.
It's the big eyes that get you; irresistable!
Thanks for sharing them with us.

ducati
27-Sep-11, 17:46
In the footsteps of Little

I met therealducati today on her way back from the Western Isles at Walligoe. We had a late lunch in the cafe and I finished off with the dense chocolate cake. The density and weight of a Caithness flag :lol:

I was so hyped up we went down then back up the steps in about 10 minutes.

Highly recommend the cafe and highly recommend the cake.

John Little
27-Sep-11, 17:59
Th cinnamon and apple cake is a pretty toothsome thing too. They deserve to succeed in that place - I hope they put a sign out on the road soon!

So you met the real Ducati eh? Whizzing about all over the place she is!

Well maybe we shall meet her next year :)

Birons
27-Sep-11, 21:38
Hi John
I have only just read through this thread and I am disappointed that I did not get a chance to say hi.

Trix popped in the shop when I was out and told Mr's Biron that you were in the parish, but I have only just got around to reading your thread, ( I seem to spend far too much time working nowadays.)

It sounds like that your visit was enjoyable and I hope to meet you the next time your up.

John Little
27-Sep-11, 21:44
That's a pity for we passed by your shop - I popped in with Mrs L to say hi to Brandy in her shop too. The place was doing very well and herself started to have a browse ... but we were due elsewhere to meet Phill.

Aye - it would be nice to meet next time. We plan to cycle up from Lands End in the early summer and rent again for a week or so and hire a car.

I did also pop into Woodys at Wick for Mr Cannop asked me to be a Facebook friend of the shop - so I had to buy something there.

Birons
27-Sep-11, 21:58
That's a pity for we passed by your shop - I popped in with Mrs L to say hi to Brandy in her shop too. The place was doing very well and herself started to have a browse ... but we were due elsewhere to meet Phill.

Aye - it would be nice to meet next time. We plan to cycle up from Lands End in the early summer and rent again for a week or so and hire a car.

I did also pop into Woodys at Wick for Mr Cannop asked me to be a Facebook friend of the shop - so I had to buy something there.

Look forward to next visit and we sell puncture repair kits. lol

John Little
27-Sep-11, 22:03
http://i927.photobucket.com/albums/ad118/johnlittle21/DSCN3357.jpg

Torvaig
27-Sep-11, 23:04
The one on the right looks as if it has fallen asleep!

John Little
28-Sep-11, 17:30
Now there's me thinking he was going to sneak a kiss with his wee lass...

Torvaig
28-Sep-11, 17:38
Haha, you could be right! :lol:

Alice in Blunderland
29-Sep-11, 08:51
Sorry to have missed your visit John. I could have met up with you at Whalligoe cafe as I live quite close to it. Haste ye back :D

John Little
29-Sep-11, 09:15
That would be nice Alice. I have no doubt that early next summer we shall be struggling past you on the penultimate day of our LEJoG and Whalligoe is a good place for lunch.

Unless Madam decides she prefers the route up the centre of Sutherland...