Botanical book group

Here's a book group back selfie. Pictured from left to right on the new viewing platform in the Royal Botanic Garden Dawyck this afternoon are hazelh, M, C, Winsford, ArcLight, Ridgeback13, LauraMuir, and Emma. Even though I only visited the garden just a few days ago on 31st October, much has changed in this short time. nadinepierce's favourite tree, for example, is now bald and completely unremarkable.

The trip to the garden was our second of the day. First thing this morning seven of us set off by car to take part in the Lanark Moor Parkrun on a course that had been modified due to the icy conditions. In places it was quite challenging with short, sharp uphill and downhill sections along narrow tracks through woodland. Four of us ran it, and the other three walked. My time wasn't impressive, but I was the third fastest person in my category :-)

Back at the house we have enjoyed sitting in the large drawing room, admiring the views across the Tweed valley (extra) and the log fire. This evening we'll be back in the dining room for dinner. This is currently being prepared by our two youngest members. Whenever we step out on to the landing, we are struck by the wonderful aromas coming up from the kitchen.

Exercise today: 5k Parkrun; walking (19,258 steps, including run).