Alone

There was some excitement at Caerlaverock Wetlands Centre this morning as a group of swans flew in and amongst them was their first Whooper cygnet of the season. Sadly it would seem from watching it that it may be an orphan. It did not seem to be part of a family group, spent most of its time on its own and was shunned by some of the other swans. They will be watching it quite closely. 
 


The day started foggy, but then the day started foggy 49 years ago when we were married. We decided, after having had a number of really nice meals out in recent weeks, we would cook ourselves a celebratory meal, which we like to do anyway. 

However, it seemed that this involved a foraging trip – in South West Scotland! And what a beautiful day it turned out to be – lots of sunshine and no wind. We had several adventures:

- A visit to see the Ruthwell Cross – the number of times we have driven past the signs to this little church with its 8th century cross and not been in. Today we went in and we were fascinated by the beautiful carving (see extra 1). I was interested in the runic markings along the edges, as they read out a poem written by Caedman, a 7th century poet whose work we are studying in my course.

- A visit to Caerlaverock Wetland Centre to see the geese and swans. 

- A walk along the shore at Sandylands, beautiful in the sunshine (see extra 2). Just a pity the sea was so far out. Hazelina used the low tide for a walk to Rough Island – she was looking back towards us at one point. 
 
And eventually we found a wonderful farm shop, where we bought what we needed for our meal, which Gordon is just preparing – Arbroath Smokies, fillet steak (Galloway beef) and a selection of local cheeses. A bottle of Cremant d’Alsace (bought in Alsace) and a bottle of Gigondas (bought in Provence) might be opened.