Saturday, 3 August 2002

Youth Hostel, South Uist

Another perfect day comes to an end. I sat on the bench out the front of the kitchen this morning and chatted with all and sundry as the sun shone on us from on high. Went for a walk with Jane from Pembrokeshire and we had a lovely day together in a perfect place. Walked around the top of the island and down the west coast then cut back through to the east. The magnificent drive down here took less than an hour.

Looking at the sunset, sipping my tea, I could see Tìr nan Òg in the wine-red clouds and along the horizon. Yes, I looked and saw hills and passes and valleys and the shore of the everliving ones. I saw it with my own eyes.

Youth Hostel, Isle of Berneray

Another perfect day – light breeze, warm sun, clarity. Quietness – only the sound of a pipe gurgling out its contents onto the kelp-covered rocks below. Soft voices in conversation. A tabby cat stalking the waving grass.