Another change of scene

We're home again, but the day seems to have been quite full once more... Beginning with a hearty breakfast - my son's a great believer in the values of a protein-filled brekkie, especially when kick-off's at noon, which is what we had as our agenda today. First we had to restore order to our bedroom and pack the bags and - partly - the car, all the while ensuring that we'd be poised and waiting to get James out of the door in time to be at the ground for team whatsits (you know, tough inspirational talks and a bit of punting a ball around) before the match. Turns out this was James's first Spartans match on the main pitch - exciting for him and a godsend for us, as by this time it was raining and we were able to sit under cover of the stand and listen to the rain on the roof. We all went, including his brother, and sat with the Spartans people - a clear space between us and the vociferous support for the visiting opposition.

In the end, the visitors won. We all felt James had played well, though he was cross when he got into the car. My photo shows him (no 30) heading for the opposite goal, and though it didn't lead to anything I think it's a nice action shot.

After that it was back to the house for a quick, late lunch and off as the Rangers-Hearts match began on the telly. We pondered the different interests of our two families and left Edinburgh by the disliked but speedy southern route as directed by Waze, noting that by the time we were in Glasgow the rain had stopped and there was sun and pale blue bits of sky, and the temperature had risen by some 3 degrees. 

Back in Dunoon, we heaved ourselves stiffly from the car and - you've guessed - decided we needed a walk. Bags in the house but still untouched, we drove to Toward and walked the mile and a half out the Ardyne and back under a pale golden sky with the low-tide wet sands gleaming on our left and two chaps fishing in the shallows. And then dinner - a fish pie from my daughter-in-law, who also gave me flowers to take home - a kind touch which was seriously appreciated. 

Caught Kenneth Clarke on BBC4, in a re-showing of his Civilisation. I was amused at Mary Beard's comment beforehand that he read the whole lot from autocue - once I knew that, it seemed totally obvious. I have to admit I thought it had been in monochrome - we didn't have the colour telly chez nous back then!