Every morning now, I walk the dog. It is another of the many tasks that have fallen to me these days. I am only beginning to realise just how much John did, as our life begins to unfold into it's new shape. Anyway, I digress - and I am not really complaining, because an early morning walk in Summer is indeed a glorious way to start the day. Just being out there in nature is so - sensual.
As I walk, I see colours all around, and with each step, clouds of little white moths and red admiral butterflies burst up from the grass. I see a yacht moored in the bay, and as I climb up the steep path, a rabbit is sitting perfectly still just on the horizon. The tide is low and I smell the tang of the exposed seaweed as it begins to dry in the already warm sun. There is a slight breeze though, and it blows cool on my arms, sunburned from the previous day. I pass through the stone circle, and stop to touch one - feeling it's ancient worn surface and wondering... A warbler scolds me as I walk on - following me from a distance, chattering away as it flits along the fence posts. I hear gulls wheeling over the sea-loch, and the village cockerels trying to out-crow one another. I head home for breakfast - its going to be another lovely day. x
Early morning walks on a summer day are an excellent way for a lovely day to begin.
ReplyDeleteYou, John and James are always in my heart!
Such a beautiful place. Lucky you to see it everyday!
ReplyDeleteWhat a wonderful way to start the day, especially when followed by that delicious salmon and cream cheese.
ReplyDeleteGreat way to start the day - surrounded by nature! Keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers.
ReplyDeleteAmazing, a beautiful start to the day.
ReplyDeleteOh to have the joy of this kind of view on an early morning jaunt with my own dog. Hope the beauty calms you during your difficult time.
ReplyDeleteAhh, reading this, sitting at my grim desk, I was transported for a second and it was lovely. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteYou write so beautifully. Have a wonderful day. x
ReplyDeleteThanks for taking us along with you on your walk this morning. :) I woke early to rain falling! It's been a dry summer so far here in my corner of the world. We've taken many morning walks up the local logging roads -- so invigorating to both mind and body! Sending wishes and prayers for health and peace your way. xo Lisa :)
ReplyDeleteAh I was transported as well from my work desk....
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing your early morning with us. You've given my morning something beautiful.
ReplyDeletexo
lovely how you are expanding your moments to incorporate your husband's tasks. You both remain in my prayers and I hope you find peace and reassurance in the beautiful world you see each day.
ReplyDeletebeautiful and restful. thanks, Jacqui. :)
ReplyDeleteDear Jacqui - I came across your blog some time ago, and having just visited eight of the beautiful western isles decided to try and locate you - luckily I remembered the "barefoot" in the title. I wondered if you lived in any of the beautiful locations that have been filling my vision over the past couple of weeks. However, instead, I now find myself reflecting on the very sad road which you, your husband, and your family are journeying along.
ReplyDeletePlease know that I am thinking about you and especially your husband at this very difficult time.
Thank you Rosemary. I am sorry to have missed you - i am sure you would have been in our village at some point during your trip, if you were on lewis, anyway. Thanks so much for your kind wishes. xxx
DeleteFrom Margie in Toronto - what wonderful photos - you live in such a beautiful spot - it's Lewis isn't it? I hear so much about the Western Isles as I study Scots Gaelic. Many of my friends have visited and most of the teachers follow the Lewis pronunciations. I'm originally from Edinburgh and have travelled all over Scotland but not the islands as yet - they are on the agenda for my next trip over. I hope the beauty that surrounds you helps to give you strength during this difficult time.
ReplyDeleteHi Margie - I am impressed that you are studying the Gaelic - especially Lewis Gaelic too, as usually Harris Gaelic is said to the the purest (we dont think so) My husband and son speak it, I dont but can understand a fair bit xx
DeleteThank you all everyone - please know that we are continuing to draw strength from your prayers and good wishes xxx
ReplyDeleteYour words and photos are very atmospheric and capture the beauty of the land you are enjoying.
ReplyDeleteDear Jacqui,
ReplyDeleteIt was a pleasure to read this, and of course to become acquainted with your blog. I'm from the West Side of the island but have been in the city (Glasgow) now for almost 15 years. The environment and landscape I grew up in is under my skin and with me wherever I happen to be...but it's hard to grasp sometimes and when I read this I was there on your morning walk. Nowhere like it in summer or winter. The comhradh of the birds coming down from the sky is beautifully put. I was scared of terns growing up and this time of year (or was it later?) it was a challenge to get down to the machair.
Many thanks for sharing this with me in the East of Glasgow. It's busy round here just now so refreshing to spend some moments under a bluer sky with your words.
I wish you all the best during hard times; am going through tough times with someone close to me just now. Life isn't easy but it's got joy enough. Hope the same for you,
Le gach durachd,
Ruairidh
Ruairidh - thank you so much for that lovely message. I have a wee tear in my eye after reading it. I so know how the place gets into your soul - and how you can feel it in your skin when away. I am glad this post brought you back.
DeleteWe are watching the games on TV and there seems to be a real buzz about the place. I wish you and your loved one well and send healing thoughts down to you.
Le deagh durachd