Sunday, 8 June 2014

Water Mills & Adventures in the Rain. BLAIRGOWRIE

Sue wanted to drive to a ceramic fest near Scone, and I didn't want to get in the car for a day. So we went walking by the river, which is only a block away. It gushes and gurgles, racing to the estuary at Dundee. There are numerous defunct old mills on the river, some wheat and corn, some linen mills, using imported flax. Some of these have been renovated into apartments, with tiny balconies overlooking the rushing stream.

It was a promising start. And when the path deteriorated into flat boring fields, we thought it would be temporary. There were fields of potatoes and pea crops, and huge expanses of polytunnels where berry fruits are grown. No humans in sight, and few sheep.

 

Some tunnels were derelict. And others had signs - " Private Property: Shooting in Progress". I guess they were purchased in the Huntin' Shootin' and Fishin' Shop. Then the path became more overgrown, less defined, isolated.

Sue was stung by the nettles crowding in on us.

From a bright sunny morning, the weather changed. It began to rain, heavily. The path was as ambiguous as our sense of direction. Why had we not brought the map!? We turned back: better the devil you know! The one family we had seen picnicking by the stream were sure to have left with the rain. But no, they had packed up but not yet gone. Hurrah, directions!! And not only directions, but a ride home to our B&B all safe and dry again, saving us the 2.5 hour return through the nettles.

Tune in tomorrow for a Special Edition:..... A surprising Encounter!!! I can't wait!!

 

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