Burial

Big David drove us over to Kirkwall where we met up with Ogatodomar's hearse and followed it back to Stromness. Its route took in Dundas St (1st extra), winding past all those places where he'd spent so many happy times. We met a few kith and kin waiting at the cemetery. (He was actually 5 minutes late for his own funeral - he'd be most amused!).

Mary read a poem chosen by her sister, the minister said a few short prayers, and on the spur of the moment I sang Tom Bowling, for the dear old sea cat. It was very good to meet blipper Poppy (in the red coat), who came up from Ronaldsay to say goodbye to him. There were curlews burbling in the next field and oystercatchers wheep-ing overhead.

Then D drove us on an excursion to Yesnaby, O's favourite place. Mouse and I walked to the cliffs (2nd extra), although we didn't quite get as far as the Old Lady. It was too early to find his favourite Primula scotica, but there were some lovely kingcups in the little burn (3rd extra).