First day of R&R

Today Friday 28 December was our first full day at the cottage we drove up yesterday and we were pleased that Christine was there and had the stove on in the Red Room.we had a pretty hectic time this week and the week before so wer looking forward to some R&R. I had brought two 'big'interesting books with me 'Labyrinth' and 'The Killing' so was looking forward to some reading. Friday The wind blew and the rain lashed down -- a wee break and The Wonder Dog and moi went down to the woods. The river and burns were in full flow so we were limited to where we could go--then the rain started again. On the way home we saw two wee puppies, Misty Ruaridh's chum had become a mother! {Nothing to do with the Wonder Dog I hasten to add:)} They are lovely only seems days ago that Misty was a pup! The stoves are roaring, hoping to sample the Damson Port tonight:) Monday we spent at mums, lovely walk on a misty isolated beach this morning with Ruaridh then a quick drive to Lytham to buy fish for Christmas Eve dinner. Bought some lovely halibut and scallops which Graham cooked to perfection with potatoes and peas--washed down with a lovely Chablis. Mum had opened most of her presents as she had a quite early start on Christmas morning. Church then on to friends for Christmas lunch as we were heading to Edinburgh to be with the family. Had breakfast then took mum to church before hitting the road. Great drive North, lovely to be with the family, Bella was so excited she had got lovely gifts from Santa, as had we all. Today is Ruaridh's Birthday--Happy One wee pal. We made the crackers for the dinner table--Christmas Dinner was delicious. We watched 'Room on the Broom' played games and read stories. Finished the evening off by the 'big' people watching 'The Royale Family' excellent. Goodnight. Wednesdayslept until 1200 h. Delicious breakfast made by G. Walk along the shore and beach with the family. Getting ready to go to the cottage. Two of our oldest chums have become grandparents today --Hurrah and Congratulations all round:) Saturday 29 Dec After a stormy night with the wind howling around the gables we awoke quite late! Breakfast of scrambled eggs and smoked salmon with a big mug of coffee and we were set to brave whatever the elements could throw our way:) The beach was practically deserted and the watery sun played on the incoming tide. Had a chat to one of our dog walker chums, then carried on in the hope of finding some mussels for dinner-- no joy as we had chatted the tide had covered the rocks--tomorrow maybe! At last after a couple previous attempts am reading 'Labyrinth' by Kate Mosse and am enjoying it -- good holiday read!