So, we are back here in this wonderful land. Severe weather and my succumbing to a short lived virus has meant our first few days have been fairly quiet. Just what was needed though, as the busyness of the last couple of weeks has begun to be replaced with a feeling of calm and serenity. As the days have progressed, so the strong winds outside have eased and we have slowly stirred from our nest to explore our new world again. First stop as always has to be the Stones.
James has enjoyed trying out his baking skills in his new kitchen - very delicious cinnamon, date and cranberry scones they were too.
And, of course, Robbie, the dog is with us this time. Getting over his infection - the good fresh air will see to that. James is delighted to be able to show his old friend his favourite sights.
Oh, and we have joined the Library - imagine having to walk that far though!
Finally, down to the Croft. We have a fair number of tumble down buildings on the land. Among other things there is an old lambing shed, a workshop and what was known as the Tup's house (a tup is a ram), but we think it will be rebuilt as a hen coop. Most exciting of all, is the barn. This was the original croft house - a tradtional but and ben - where the family lived in a room at one end, and the animals were housed at the other. Somehow I forgot to take a picture of the outside of the building, but the bottom row is just a few snaps from inside. Quite a few old tools have been left for us. Am I the only person who would get so excited at the sight of a bunch of old pitchforks and hay rakes? What about that huge ditching spade - isn't it wonderful? There are boxes and shelves full of treasures waiting to be discovered over the next few weeks and months. I am also thrilled by this fireplace - there are bars through the chimney, to smoke hams from and a chain hanging down for pots to boil over the peat fire. My mind is whirling with the possibilities for this old place.
I am so glad to be here again.
Thank you all so much for your good wishes - and for sharing the journey with us.
lol -- i'd skipped ahead to the pics and was getting all excited to see the old tools!! so - no -- you're not the only one!
ReplyDeleteah, this is brilliant, just brilliant. So glad to be along for the ride....
:)
Welcome back. The photos are lovely as always. I am looking forward to following you over the coming winter.
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What a wonderful place - full of beauty, mystery, and just plain interesting.
ReplyDeleteOld tools - magic, hope some will still be usuable; and your adventure reminds me of ours that began here over 40 years ago. All the best; I am so enjoying your journey.
ReplyDeleteI love old tools, you can feel the history in them when you use them. My favourite rake is one made by Grandad during the war, out of some metal and screws for the prongs.
ReplyDeleteOh, and the prospect of smoking your own hams etc, fantastic!!
Oh gosh yes what wonderful old tools :-)
ReplyDeleteGosh the Island does look so beautiful. I am really looking forward to seeing photos over the coming winter months too - the wild ruggedness, oohhhhhh (tingling with excitement). :-)
What wonders to discover on your Island. Such beautiful pictures and I love your little chief so gorgeous!
ReplyDeleteHave a beautiful day. xxx
Wonderful post - I love old tools too xxx
ReplyDeletewonderful wonderful wonderful, is that a new blue hat I spy xxx
ReplyDeleteWow those old tools are amazing, Ben spotted the original peat cutting tool straight away :) What a magical place...can see why you love it so much (not least the proximity of the mobile library!) xx
ReplyDeleteI love old tools too! We have inherited a selection of tools at the farm we're moving to, in particular, lots of scythes and potato riddling circles. I just love imagining all the hands that have worked them in the past. Wonderful photos as always, those stones are just magical.
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