Grandchildren trips.

'Jedburgh' Caravan and camping club site in the beautiful but at present wet, Scottish Borders. Sadie is full of son in law Chris, two young uns, Aiden and Rebecca plus of course yours truly with Tanya.

The large pull down bed over the cab area is in use which means driver and passenger seats have to be folded down making a cosy little nest for Tanya in the dark and 'cannot be got at' drivers footwell. She disapeared in there last night as soon as the bed was lowered and did not emerge until after eight this morning. She is not used to our limited floor space being invaded by another six randomly moving sock clad feet. Mind you, she was quite happy to run the gauntlet and dodge all sock clad feet this morning once she got a whiff of sausages being cooked for breakfast.

The sun soon re appeared and the delights of Jedburgh's magnificent and skeletal Augustine monastry, its Castle and Gaol and the local swimming pool were all enjoyed.

A few days later it was 'Auchingarrich' wildlife park near 'Comrie'.  Only this time my travelling companions were Mia and Jenna. We had such a good time there and Tanya, on a lead, was able to accompany us everywhere. Mum Kirsten was happy too as I delivered the two girls safely back in plenty of time to dress up and show off their new school clothes ready for the next days school term start. Mia in particular with her brand new local high school uniform looked really cool. Is it me getting old or do children grow up far faster than they used to?

So. Here we are once again a Tanya and I twosome. We are on the edge of Loch Lomond walking in the beautiful Cashel Forest amid skudding showers and forever changing light scapes. Lunch was enjoyed sprawled out on the purple heather right by the small Rowan tree marking the spot where Kate's ashes were interred. I am so glad we chose this stunning viewpoint. Seeing that the sturdy memorial seat is being well used is heartening too. It is still in very good condition with a well trodden path leading to it.

The only dampener to an otherwise worthwhile day was the local C & C C campsite cost me double this year. £18.00! So much for their 'careful review' of fees.  Is it any wonder I free or wild camp whenever I can.
Rant over!