More wild pansies

I planned to be up and out before 0800 this morning so that I could walk in the relative cool of the day. I didn't manage it, so I started walking from Allenheads at about 1030.

I wanted to try out a route on the North Pennines AONB (Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty) website before recommending it to friends. Although the wild flowers and views were spectacular, it was a frustrating experience.

"Go through the gate". Which gate? "Take the track towards a house". Which house? And so on.

I hoped to do it without the map but it was impossible. I like to think that my English comprehension is good, but it defeated me.

There were wonderful pansies in large numbers. The hay meadows and other meadows were amazing, but hard to walk through. 

It was hot!

I was helped by 3 different people who showed me where the paths were lying hidden!

Despite taking a lot of liquid with me, I was more than ready for tea, cake and water at the café in Allenheads.  Then I visited Ann and Al in Catton on my way home. They arrived home yesterday after a great tour of the Outer Hebrides (and Applecross). To say they enjoyed it would be a large understatement.

Tonight I watched Molly Hollman talking about flower photography on Camversation. Excellent. I loved her approach. She showed us some photographs that nearly made it and explained what went wrong. Very helpful.

I may be stiff tomorrow. I had a nasty sock rash so I know it was a hot day!!