Back home....

(above: flying over Orphir, Walkmill Bay (sandy part) and Kirbister Loch)

Yes, I've been away for a few days (again), though I left you a couple of posts to entertain you ;-)  This time I've been to York (Northern England).  I've worked for the University of York for over 5 years now, and fortunately can do it all "at a distance". I'm a health researcher, and with the help of broadband it's possible to do most things online these days. I can keep in touch via phone and Skype, but a couple of times a year I visit the campus for a course or just to catch up with folk.

No sight-seeing time available this time. Though over the years I've "done" most of the sights. I did manage a trip to Betty's Tea Room. This has become something of a ritual when I visit, English Afternoon Tea with a few colleagues. Tea is served in silver tea pots, cakes on a stand, and a piano player too!  MMmmmmm lovely!  Though this time I think I overfaced myself with cake........

I'd hoped to glimpse a bit of "summer" - but the North of England is having a tough time this year, as is the rest of the UK.  It was warm (22 degrees C, 72 F) but NO SUN! Just lots of cloud, high humidity so it felt hot and sticky, and heavy thundery showers.  We've had a better summer in Orkney than York, and that is saying something given how changeable *our* weather has been! Anyway it was good to catch up with colleagues, and visit Betty's.


It was a joy to arrive home in Orkney on Friday night to blue skies, warmth and FRESH air.

Flying over Kirkwall

 I'd put on warmer clothing for coming home, but I didn't need it. I had a bit of a wait for the ferry home (we get a "late boat" at 9.30 on a Friday night) so joined neighbours in the upstairs bar of the Stromness Hotel for a quick drink. The Stromness Pipe Band were playing outside for folk walking about the town.

Button was pleased to see me, but after travelling for 12 hours all I wanted to do was fall into bed. So....some catching up to do (again) before another holiday due shortly. It's all go......