24 hour long weekend

Took the evening boat up to Eday yesterday.

Eday is one of the northernmost Orkney islands. We've not been before and were yet again amazed at how it and the other isles all have a totally different character. A beautiful island, especially in the glorious sunshine we were lucky enough to get.

Had a bit of work to do today but we also managed to fit in:

Staying in the hostel (place to ourself, basic accom. but cosy and well kitted out).

Forgetting to take towels... duh!

Wondering what Steven was doing lurking around on the moors outside before 7am. Turned out he was trying to creep up on a Snipe to take its pic but it wasn't being co-operative.

Hosing down Campbell with ice cold water in the middle of a field (after he and his new found pal decided playing in the mud was a good idea).

Meeting 2 owls which starred in the first two Harry Potter films. Plus various other owls, falcons, a vulture, parrots, a cockatiel and a 5m long python.

Scoffing our lunch in a great wee bird hide beside a loch.

Watching Red Throated Divers, various ducks and a posse of Bonxies whilst we did so.

Messing about on a spectacular beach with no one else in sight.

Building an awesome sand fort.

Being bewildered as to how Campbell can spend so long in the sea at this latitude, at this time of year and not freeze to death.

Stuffing our faces with some great veggie curry and fish pie at a great wee pub.

Coming home and trying to remember how long we've been a way!