The End - of 2011, Ben Cleuch at last and a topographical survey for Christmas

This is it then; the end of a year of change, including along the way - shock at having to make myself and a good team of people redundant; excitement at selling the house; finding the perfect plot of land on Skye then finding out we could buy the tenancy of the surrounding land too; two visits to the stunningly beautiful Isle of Harris; enjoying not working for almost six months; two trips to the Lake District; experiencing some extremes of weather; finding a new job (even when everything you read and hear says there are none); setting up my own company; moving to Scotland and above all moving towards achieving our dream of building our own house in a beautiful location.

As the title would have you believe, we finally made it to the summit of Ben Cleuch this week.  Tuesday arrived with clear skies and we were off. Good progress to the top of the track where we turned back last week and steeply up to the top of the hill where we had our first view of Ben Cleuch looming above and beyond us. Turning back last week was the right decision; neither of us has realised quite how much further on or up it was. We carried on, sliding over the last remaining patches of icy, hard snow and climbed the last steep bit to reach the summit plateau. What a difference a few hundred feet makes - it was absolutely freezing up there with the wind blowing from the north and the temperature much lower than when we had started out. All layers on, a quick cup of coffee, a couple of photos and we were off back down again. A wonderful view from the top across to the higher hills and mountains, most of them still covered in snow. 

View from summit of Ben Cleuch, slippery old snow encountered on ascent in middle distance

We met several fell runners (totally mad) mostly wiry, older gentlemen apparently enjoying the day. Gloves and hats firmly on for us on the return journey. My recent purchase of "Youth's waterproof, thermal gloves, size L" proving their worth and a bargain at only £18. Hands toasty and dry.

Returned home happy that we had climbed the mountain and planning a different route next time - a circular route that is even steeper on the ups but gives a longer ridge walk to the top. However for the next three days, I'm not sure if the local hills even emerged from the cloud cover.

We did venture out to the Trossachs again to climb Ben A'an. This is a small, perfectly shaped mountain about 45 minutes away. We drove past flooded fields and at one point were almost in the loch. Much more rain or snow and this road would become impassable. As we sat in the car park listening to the torrential rain we couldn't decide whether to get out and go or not. A break in the weather and the shelter of the woods for the first part of the walk decided us, gaiters on and we were off. Up steeply through the forest, across the burn, through the boggy bits and eventually out of the trees to a stunning view across Loch Katrine to Ben Venue (remember that one from 5 November ?) and further afield. 

Ben Venue looking just as steep as I remembered it!

 At this point, the light rain became sleety then wet snow then a full-on snow storm. We carried on as far as the shoulder of the hill then, after talking to others also climbing up, we agreed to continue as the view was promised to be worth it. Despite looking like it would be a scramble to the top, it was just another steep climb. A small child scrambling down told us "it was nice up there"  It turned out to be worth every out of breath moment as we reached the top. Views stretched down over Loch Katrine and across to the Southern Highlands. Very snowy in places with Ben Venue looking unrecognisable covered in snow. 

Ben Venue across Loch Katrine - memories of a very long day here in November

We dodged the blizzards, watched the light play across the loch and took many, many photos. For such a small hill (1,500ft) there were simply stunning views. No wonder the car park is so big. Ate lunch out of the blizzards, sheltered on the east side of the summit.

View east to Ben Ledi - plans to climb this one sometime soon

Then back to the car and a drive home via The Dukes Pass (later closed due to the snow) a scenic winding road that takes you through Aberfoyle and home.

The next day, we received our copy of the topographical survey for the house plot. Very impressed that Richard managed to get to Skye, carry out the survey and get it all done by 27 December. It will be waiting for Mary on her return. Good news!


And so we find ourselves at the end of an interesting 12 months with plenty learned and plenty to look forward to over the next year.

Happy Hogmany to all

Observations on living north of the border & good news at last

First the good news - we have had it confirmed (in writing) that the seller has accepted our revised offer (missives) on the basis of us applying for planning permission. So the missives are concluded and now we have just over five months to submit and hopefully receive detailed planning permission. 

We need the topographical survey report before Mary can get going on the design. Have commissioned the man from Glasgow and he is certain that he can do that before Christmas. Seems a bit unfair to hassle him given the weather of late. The next week or so is set fair (by Scottish winter standards) so we hope he will   a) be able to drive there - landslips and snow permitting and   b) get over the Skye bridge - high winds permitting.

Looks as if January will be busy making key decisions about the house design in order to get the planning permission submitted. Then we wait, hopefully not for too long.

Now for the observations on life almost 10 weeks after moving north.
1: We are in the land of the vertical blinds - rented house included - it seems they are de rigeur!
2: Another favourite is the garden statue, in granite, usually of cute animals or cartoon like people including a bride and groom version - no we are not joining in with this one.
3: Hats - of all shapes and varieties with the key attribute of keeping one's head warm - are the thing. No one goes out without one and the version with ear flaps are the most popular. Gary is searching for a genuine Russian hat complete with fur and a badge.
4: You need a selection of cold weather gear to hand as each day brings a different challenge. Icy rain, snow, gales force winds, ice, more snow. It's amazing the variety required, all of our kit is stashed in the hall at the ready.  
5: People generally are very friendly; I have made friends in the post office queue. They are happy to share their knowledge of the area and particularly keen to recommend good places to eat.
6: It does get dark by around 15.30 to 16.00 at the moment depending on cloudy or clear skies but the payback comes in the summer.  

We have settled in well and are comfortable in our rented house. We have explored most of the glens in the Ochils and are now venturing further afield.
Last weekend we traveled to Aberfoyle and walked high up into the forest where we had glimpses of the snow on the high mountains through the mist and ate our lunch on a sloping bench in the rain. Lovely! A nice visitor centre here too, situated up a winding road high above the town.

Yesterday we headed to Stirling for a spot of shopping. I was so distracted by the view as we drove in that we climbed up to the castle where we could see for miles. The mountains of the Trossachs and further afield were heavy with snow and lit by the sun. It was like being in the Alps.

The sun was out today, Ben Cleuch was on the agenda. We knew the track to take and hit the snowline after an hour's walking (climbing). At the same time as we hit the snowline, we also hit the wind or to be precise, it hit us like a sledgehammer. The temperature had not risen above freezing all day; add in a 20 - 30 mph wind from the north-west and you might be able to get an idea of the wind-chill factor. Suffice to say that all layers were on but, as I had forgotten my windstopper, we decided to turn it around and find somewhere sheltered for lunch. It was just too cold for me to carry on. We tried climbing a smaller hill for the view but the ground was frozen solid with ice and old snow and while we could go up easily, coming back down in one piece may not have been so easy. Turned back again and sat in the lee of the hill for food and hot drinks.

Thinking it may be time to get some training in the use of crampons and ice axes or we might be restricted as to where we can walk during the winter. Sounds quite exciting learning to self-arrest on an icy slope.

Photos from today's walk

View back across the Forth showing the Clackmannanshire Bridge especially for the Radio Two listeners amongst you!

Snowy hills beyond Edinburgh complete with the ubiquitous windfarm

The snowline from today's walk. Hit the snow at around 1,200 ft.

Back home now with a Ragdale treat in the offing this week.  A couple of days to work before the Council closes down for Christmas and we have a few more days off. I have been working for almost eight weeks now with only the weekends off so it will be nice to have a real break.

Fingers crossed that the survey is completed and waiting for Mary when she returns from her cycling jaunt to somewhere hot and sunny (Sri Lanka?)
Keep watching the blog for progress updates and perhaps some house designs in the not too distant future.

And finally, we felt we were letting the side down by not decking out our house with multi-coloured lights, lit up figures and garlands / wreaths so we have compromised and brought out our two fibre optic trees. Not quite up to the standard of the other 11 houses in the close but at least there will be a glimmer of flickering lights of a Christmassy nature in number eight too.

Taking matters into our own hands

OK, so despite numerous phone calls it turns out (through a call to the very helpful planning department on Skye) that there has been no submission to renew the Outline Planning Permission for the plot at Fernilea.
Enough is enough and it is decided that we will apply for detailed planning permission ourselves.  The conversation with the planners is positive and the plot apparently sits within a settlement development area so any proposals to build a new house will be looked on favourably.
Discussions take place with our solicitor, the estate agent and the vendor's solicitor. All agree that we should progress matters this way. The missives will be changed to reflect this. Confirm that the vendor really does want to sell (not sufficiently to apply for PP to be renewed apparently) and decision made!
We have contacted Mary this weekend so finally the exciting bit - of designing our dream house - is about to start. Just need to sign the contract and get the ball rolling.

Meanwhile, we have been exploring the Ochil Hills close to the house over the last few weekends.

We haven't yet made it to Ben Cleuch (highest point) as it has been either too wet, too cloudy or too windy. There are plenty of other hills, glens, woods and reservoirs to seek out.

We have visited Dollar Glen with its Castle Campbell and steeply wooded paths, carrying on along a temporary and pretty wet footpath to the reservoir at Glen Quey.  Managed to stay just below the level of the clouds but the views were non existent.

Castle Campbell from the north side of the Glen. Our route for the day lays behind it at this point.

Last weekend it was a circular walk on decent tracks back of Dumyat which is a great viewpoint  close to Stirling. Good views of the Wallace Memorial, the Campsie Fells and back across the River Forth to Edinburgh in the distance. Unfortunately as we approached the ridge to climb to the summit, down came the clag and not long after, down came the rain.  Lunch in the shelter of some rocks but once again a swift lunch to be sure that we were down off the plateau well before the light faded. This meant re-tracing some of this morning's walk and adding a few miles but we were back to the car just as daylight started to disappear.

Today we considered Ben Cleuch again but the winds, as forecast, were blowing between 30 and 40mph and that was in our back garden. Casualties of the storm included the bird table and a full recycling bin, both blown over. It is also a little on the cool side today. So decided to try Alva Glen - a good choice with the approach via woods and then a steep-sided gorge. Plenty of warnings about being careful but nothing to stop you striding out on a thin plank of wood suspended over a raging torrent. Alva Glen is a beautiful place with the gorge carved out by the Alva Burn which is roaring its way down to the flood plain of the River Devon today. The path crosses the Burn a few times then takes you curving up the hillside until you are high above the white water and can hear but not see it. There are several, very old, benches to perch on and take in the view back along the glen. 

View back along Alva Glen to the flood plain of the River Devon (path on RHS of hill)

We admire the fitness of a young lad and his father who are running up this path then continue at our own pace. As we reach the top they run past us again and decide to go straight up the hill behind us "as it's a nice day!" Consider a descent on a narrow path to the burn which flows through a water-carved tunnel here but decide we have walked far enough and turn back after a few photos of the hills looking lovely in the low autumn light. 

View into the Ochils with our two shadows on the far hillside. Very steep!

As we are making our way back by the raging burn, Gary spots eight or nine people IN the water. Helmets and wetsuits, bright red hands and they appear to be enjoying themselves. Assume they are canyoning and are there voluntarily. Exchange smiles and the odd comment then leave them to their fun.
A further 40 minutes walking brings us back to the car and the five minute drive home. A  short walk but one that has identified some nice looking routes for future walks. 

We have learned: - always take more food than you think you will need; don't under-estimate the steepness of the Ochils, they may only reach 2,000ft but you are starting from sea level; accept that you will be very muddy at the end of the walk; put on gaiters at the beginning of the walk or don't bother; take plenty of extra clothing in a variety of thicknesses; take your walking poles as there will be slippy downs and rocky ups; don't expect a view but have your camera ready as these hills will always surprise you.

Insufficient exercise today to justify wine with dinner tonight so will prepare for the week ahead with a roast dinner and a non-alcoholic cocktail. 


If the forecast is to be believed, this week will see temperatures drop and we could see the first real snow of the winter. Could it be time to buy that snow shovel??

There was a little snow on the tops of the hills on Friday but nothing lasting. The locals up here are convinced it's on its way - and because there has been none so far, when it arrives it will be with a vengeance. We shall see.

Settling in and exploring the area around our new home.

Three weeks in the new job and getting used to the early get ups. Enjoying the short drive to work (5 minutes), have even walked in once (30 minutes). The bike may be out soon! (anticipated to be 12 minutes)
We have had the benefit of two weekends of absolutely glorious weather so took advantage and got out and about. 
There is a reservoir / woodland walk within easy reach of our door. So did that one last Saturday. Good views of the Ochils and reflections in the water.

Then decided to try our first real mountain. Researched and read up on options and went for Ben Venue which is close to Callendar and around 45 minutes drive away. Although less than 2,500ft in height, it is steep and craggy and not a walk in the park. Wary of the reduced light, we were up and off at an early hour on Sunday morning. Drove through the fog which kept clearing and re-forming to give us glimpses of the surrounding hills. Past Loch Vorlich with its early fishermen fishing then parked up in the car park, boots on and we were off.

Ben Vorlich floats above the early morning mists. Looking much higher than 2,500ft.

Warning - for those who might be considering walking in the Scottish hills - beware the bogs. We were ankle deep within 10 minutes and it didn't improve all day. At times it was more like a swamp. I have an irrational fear of disappearing into a bog up to my head - time to meet the fear head on so to speak - and plough on. We tramped our wet feet up ever-steepening slopes and took the direct route up. There were times when I honestly thought we would never see the top but we connected with the main path eventually.

Our reward was the far reaching views, blue skies and a cloud inversion in the valleys. We could see for miles to the west, all of the peaks standing clear against the sky. 

Views west beyond Ben Lomond to the hills of Arran. Cloud inversion over the lochs.

However, the climb had taken its toll on us and after a quick lunch in the sun it was time to descend. A good path although very muddy and slippy with the occasional tricky, rocky bit to keep you alert. We followed a trio down the hill that included a lady with a sight impairment - she put us to shame with the speed of her descent and clearly trusted the guidance and instructions of her companions. Inspiring and amazing.  Eventually the path dropped into the trees, where we encountered vastly reduced light levels and an easy trek back to the car. A quick change into clean, dry clothes (we are learning and always take a change of clothing now) and a slow drive home due to the large number of people on the hills and cars on the A84. Home to a roast dinner and reward of a nice bottle of vino.

Both of us were shattered and very hungry the next day!

I am now back in work mode and getting to know the people and places. Working reasonable hours, plenty to do but no major pressures (yet)

The house is looking more like home; just the garage to sort out and the final few boxes to unpack. We are back in a routine. The house is warm and comfortable and the oven door has been fixed by a man with a hammer.

Our Scottish is coming on nicely - Gary automatically responded to a casual question with an "Aye" today and I find myself saying "aha" quite a lot.  Both mean yes.

Today we walked from Dunblane to Bridge of Allen and back. A nice, if muddy, 6 mile walk alongside the Water of Allen. We like the small town of Bridge of Allen and will return to explore the cafes and shops when we are more respectable in appearance.

Tomorrow an exploration of the Ochil hills is on the cards, weather permitting. (Was told that if I insist on waiting for the weather to permit our walking jaunts, it might never happen) The plan is to walk up one glen, a climb to the highest point then back down through another glen to make a circular walk. If the cloud is on the tops then we will head east to Dollar and walk through the Dollar Glen to another reservior.

Meanwhile we understand that all is progressing well (if slowly) with the purchase of the plot and we wait to hear that planning has been renewed. I believe it is known as "Skye pace" 
Gary is now chasing with weekly phone calls.

(Another) week in the Lakes, Progress on the plot and Starting a new job

Started writing this in the Lakes.
Finished writing this during my first week in the new job.

What a difference living north of the border makes when driving to the Lakes. Up at a reasonable time, pack up, drive for two and a half hours then arrive at holiday home. Very civilised. We have a cosy double room in The Watergarden Suite near Ambleside. Room for the two of us and we have a "spare" bedroom for the overflow of our walking gear.
A nice apartment with views of the Fairfield horseshoe and plenty of slightly complicated gadgets including an oven with a menu of settings, a double shower (two shower heads plus room for two) and lights aplenty.
Wifi also available which is useful.
Saturday was beautiful with sunshine, blue skies and the Fairfield horseshoe calling. So it was completed in just over 6 hours from the door. Just as challenging as memory had it and just as long. Sunday saw us walk from the door via Grasmere and Easedale Tarn to Stickle Tarn in Langdale where we met up with Jacqueline and Ian who had completed a walk in the area. Met at the pub for a well deserved post-walk drink. There was one part of this walk where the path climbed a wet rock face without visible sign that it was in fact a path!  It also included large amounts of lakeland bog - knee deep for Gary and too much of it for comfort for me. However all obstacles dealt with eventually and so ended two good walking days.
A rest day was called for on Monday so Jacqueline and I tested the spa treatments at Underscar in Keswick. (Ambleside's branch was fully booked) Relaxed and looking and smelling gorgeous, we returned through high winds and heavy rain to Ambleside.
Tuesday's forecast was for more rain, hail, thunder and snow on the tops. First signs of winter appearing. Quite a temperature drop too. After a quiet morning, we tramped off acrosss Loughrigg - testing new boots - in the pouring rain, hail and gale force winds, exactly as forecast. 
Wednesday dawned like a day from a different season - bright, sunny, clear blue skies with a bit of an autumnal nip in the air. Off we went to Coniston where we climbed the Old Man and carried on to Dow Crag where we walked the ridge to complete a circular walk from the car. All of this in hats, gloves and several layers. Bright and blue it might be but it was definitely winter temperatures, completed with a howling wind adding a high wind chill factor. So cool was it that second lunch had to wait until after 2pm when we could find some shelter to sit comfortably in. The late afternoon / early evening light was glorious - shadows, golden bracken and a blue, blue sky. Headed home happy to a promise of frost tonight. Luckily, we have all we need for a curry at home.
Thursday was frosty with a cloud inversion across the valley. Walked up and across Loughrigg taking numerous photos as we went. The light was glorious again and the fells looked on fire with clouds rolling along ridges. A few of the best attached below.

View back to Coniston Old Man

Across to The Langdales - fantastic clouds

Early morning cloud inversion from the apartment to Fairfield (Frost on grass)

A fine walk was complemented by a fine meal at Zefforellis that night. Yes it is a vegetarian restaurant; yes we all had an enjoyable meal. Quality food and atmosphere as always.
We packed up and headed back north; another fine drive of less than three hours door to door. 

Return to reality - the boxes were still waiting for us to unpack them!
Some progress from the Scottish solicitor - agreement seems likely on our revised conditional offer for the house plot. All being well, planning permission will be renewed by early 2012 so we should be able to complete the purchase. The croft will take longer but that's to be expected.

So to Tuesday 25th October - a key date as it is when I start to earn a living again. 
My first day back in the world of work goes well although it may take my brain a while to start firing on all cylinders. There will be plenty to do over the next two years which should keep me out of mischief. The drive to work was a delight - it took all of five minutes.


Here's to the next two years.




 

A quick visit to Skye

To get away from the boxes yet to be unpacked and to revisit the plot of land we hope to buy - just to check it's still there as just as nice as we remember it.
Will also be interesting to time the journey from Alloa and check out the options for future trips.
Journey out was via Callandar and Lochearnhead then on to meet the A85 at Crianlarich then on by the "normal" route through Glen Coe, Fort William and Kyle of Lochalsh. As we drove at a reasonable speed through the Kintail / Shiel range, we were caught and overtaken by a large lorry which appeared to be fully loaded with 10 live fish tanks. The driver had no problems with overtaking on a winding A road at more than 60 mph. I was happy to let him!
Stopped for coffee and a 20p pee at Kyle - finally, loos that merit the entrance charge. Plants, posters, information booklets and clean and sweet smelling. And they have their own poem.
Settled into our lochside B&B for the night in a room with windows a stone's throw from the water's edge. You could hear the tide going in and out - very peaceful. Could also hear the main road through but not so that it interrupted a good night's sleep.
Monday morning dawned with sunshine and showers. We decided to visit the north of the island as we hadn't been up there before. Headed out, parked up and climbed up to the "Old Man of Storr" A 45 minute walk up some steep ground through a stunning natural ampitheatre to these amazing rock formations. Even on a cool October morning it was busy with tourists taking a look. The final 50 metres was a scramble on loose scree and rock. We passed a Japanese couple; he with camera and water bottle, she in Harris tweed coat, red trews and riding boots. She appeared to be absolutely terrified and at one point was physically unable to lift one leg to progress. She did make it to the top of the Old Man but whether (or how) she managed on the descent we can only guess. 
Picture shows the Old Man and the sheer cliffs and rock formations behind it.   

The Old Man is the rock spire to the right and in front of the cliffs.

There were many Dutch and German tourists walking and climbing around the Old Man. Some poorly equipped for the ground conditions and the scramble and many wanting to know "How far is it to the top?"
We were lucky and avoided the rain for the time we were out and about. Decided we could have spent the whole day up there and will certainly return another time. The views back across Skye, to the mainland and to the Cuillins were amazing.  Gary is determined to return with camera gear so watch out for some atmospheric photos in the months to come.
Drove across one of the most remote roads on the island, complete with beautifully tended graveyard half way (no habitation at all) and ended up back in Uig.
Checked out a couple of houses for sale (beautiful lochside location) just in case and found a couple that we would consider if it all goes pear-shaped with the plot.


Tuesday was another variable weather day and we drove through a tremendously heavy shower to get to Fernilea. Vivid rainbows to compensate though. Still like the location, still like the plot. Met up with Mary and her oppo, Ian. He lives locally so could tell us about the area / the people etc.
Once they were kitted out in full waterproof gear, we waded onto the house plot and Ian showed us where the corner stakes setting out the plot boundaries were. No wonder we couldn't find them in the summer - it was difficult even with the bracken dying down. Mary and I were shoulder deep at times.
There is a small burn on the plot along with a number of natural trees which will give some shelter from the winds. The site is down below the road so the house will benefit from low visibility and more shelter. All good so far. If we can get the croftland too there is a small wood, plenty of heather and goodness knows what else in the undergrowth. It will be an interesting adventure finding our way to the loch.
Thankfully, the site is even more lovely than we remembered. Mary was already designing and placing the house. I was imagining the views from the floor to ceiling windows and Gary and Ian were being more practical.
Bottom line - now the house is sold and we have moved into our new home, it is time to get this purchase moving.
Calls to solicitors and vendor imminent. We (with Dualchas) can apply for outline planning permission if that unblocks the impasse, so that is our fallback position. 
Photos show the house plot.

View from plot (house) showing loch and trees.

                                If you look really hard, you can just see one of the boundary stakes                                                       (right of centre and in line with river valley across loch)

Back home via the A85 and the A9 - you have to try out the different options but this won't be one we do again in a hurry. Too winding (A85) and too busy / dangerous (A9)


House is looking more like home. Will unpack a few more boxes tomorrow then it's off the the Lakes for a week. Once we return from our final holiday this year I have to start thinking seriously about work!

Driving through rainbows, moving in and house sale completed.

All went to plan on moving day, van locked and loaded and on the road by 09.30. We cleaned up, handed over the house keys to Kevin and followed at 11.00. A clear run to Cumbria via Shap summit and horizontal wind socks warning of high winds. No kidding.  Bad enough in the car, heavens knows what the winds would be like for the van. Passed all of our wordly goods somewhere between Birmingham and Manchester. Everything that defines us - in a single, medium sized, lorry!
A lovely B&B and a good pub meal to end the day.
Woke to stormy weather for the drive to Fishcross. This made for a drive through rainbows as the sun hit the storm clouds. In addition, the spray from other vehicles made for some mobile rainbows - something I had never seen before. Very pretty, almost magical.
No sight of the removals van on the motorways but as we arrived at the house (dead on time) the van and the lettings agents were waiting for us. The heavens opened again just as we arrived and as they opened the tailgate. Paperwork signed, kettle found and on for a brew.
Rain or no rain, the furniture and boxes were being unloaded. Just the two guys to do the unloading - they were both excellent and were happy to move things around, help with reconstructing the furniture and lifted and shifted as required. 
Within four hours, with only a short break for lunch, everything was unloaded, van checked (found three small pots and a bucket of cleaning products in the locker) and they were off back to Devon.
So we were in our new temporary home surrounded by boxes and falling over various items  every time we decided to move anywhere. Time for some logic and some food. Then to work sorting out the lounge (somewhere to sit) the bedroom (somewhere to sleep) and the kitchen (food and drink)
Some time later, TV set up and settled in for the night. It was as quiet as we hoped it might be. We had no internet or phone - all due to be connected tomorrow. Luckily all the windows have blinds (but no curtains) so we shut out the night and slept the sleep of the really tired.
Friday -  the shifting and organising and tidying continued with order gradually being restored. There were many instances of finding something, putting it down / back in a box then losing it for a couple of hours only to re-discover it later. So far, no breakages to report and we know that everything is here somewhere. 
Then, late morning came the call we were waiting for - the house sale was complete and the cash was with the solicitors. Well, you never really believe it's going to go to plan until you get that call. If only the bank had played the game and confirmed the redemption figure as promised, we would have had the cash transfer today. However, unusually for First Direct, they were a bit tardy and we missed the bank deadline for transferring the money. Will be first thing on Mondy then - not concerned as the balance is with solicitors and the buyer has coughed up (something that had been in doubt in our minds following the chaos that was the exchange process)
After unloading yet more boxes we went out for a short stroll. The photo below shows the view from the cycle / footpath five minutes walk from the house.

The hills are the Ochils and we will be exploring them from our door over the next few weeks. A beautiful evening with clear skies, sunshine if a little cool. Anticipating phone and internet connections to be completed by the end of today; meanwhile we have mobile internet that works just fine.

Moving on - with a bit of help

Today was the day that we found out how many boxes all of our possessions would fit into. It took quite a few as it happened.
After a 08.00 start, the Wotton boys (and they were all boys) had our books, clothes, computers, knick-knacks, kitchen equipment and various assorted treasures out of our cupboards / wardrobes and into tidy boxes. 
Our (my) clothes fit neatly into 7 boxes, 4 suitcases and a few holdalls. And this was after a pretty severe culling prior to moving. Will have to reassess when we unpack. Luckily the rental house has plenty of wardrobe space and it seems that we will be using most of it. Obviously the shoe collection merited its own boxes.
Furniture followed and the van filled up although it seemed to be a bit tardis-like and always had lots of space available.
The removals firm started off with two lads on the early shift then a hoard of willing helpers turned up at 10.30. Lots of sweat, radio two and no bad language.
Result - by 1pm everything that wasn't tied down or in the "going with us in the car" pile had been packed away.

So we are sitting here now on two lone chairs, watching the TV (no remote, it was packed) eating a last meal, thanks to Tesco, and enjoying a bottle of red - well deserved after that hard work keeping an eye on what was being packed and what wasn't. 
Another 08.00 start tomorrow when they return to pick up the last few bits and pieces. Then we can finish the cleaning and follow our stuff up the motorway.

B&B booked for tomorrow night near Penrith so with a fair wind, we should only have a couple of hours of driving on Thursday morning. Probably shouldn't tempt fate and mention winds of any kind - having just watched the forecast for tomorrow I have a feeling that it might be a little on the breezy side. I also think I heard a forecast for snow on the top of Scottish hills at the weekend. That's proper autumn weather!

It feels very odd to be sitting in a virtually empty house which echoes to any sound made. We have had some good times here but it is time to move on. Time to re-invent ourselves and our lifestyle and time to leave the hustle and bustle of cities, motorways and busy, noisy streets behind us.
Whatever the future holds, it will be exciting and we will enjoy it.

Next post will be from north of the border and our temporary home.
 

And relax .....

We finally did it!
Contracts exchanged today so it's all go for next week without having to worry about how to sell an empty house from 450 miles away. We would have found a way but this is so much easier.

The deal is done.
Realised that my problem with the last couple of weeks is that I had absolutely no control over what was happening (or not happening) Didn't like that at all.

So to celebrate we have booked a couple of nights in Perelandra, a lochside B&B on Skye - which means that we will get at least one day's walking in as well as meeting up with Mary and hopefully progress the purchase of the plot and the design of the house.   

Just the packing to finish off, a few places to visit in Devon to say a fond and final farewell to and it's off to pastures new. 

A final note of caution - you have to let an awful lot of people / organisations know that you are moving. A standard email / letter goes a long way to making this less painful but you will have to phone some of them, often through a call centre and repeat the same old security stuff again and again. Tonight, all of that seems worth it.

Looking to sell your house and follow your dream ???

 Some advice based on our recent experience.

1: Never, ever, believe what you are told by a) the purchaser; b) your estate agent; c) solicitors acting for your buyer

2: Your house is not sold until the deposit is in the bank - even then you could be on dodgy ground

3: No matter how flexible you are as a seller - yes we will wait all summer until you are ready to move / yes we can be flexible as far as completion dates go / yes you can visit and measure up etc etc -  don't expect any payback (karma) it just doesn't happen.

4: Get used to waiting around for all of those important calls and waiting then waiting some more.

5: Never lose sight of exactly why you are doing this!  It is so easy to get lost in the brain maze of who is supposed to be doing what, when.

6: Very early on, make a list of who needs to know you are moving. At least this will give you something to do while you are waiting - see 4 above.

7: Be prepared to prove your identity so many times that you can answer all of the questions in your sleep. (I am sick and tired of proving who I am and that I have the right to live / work in the UK)

8: Remember that you are not your agent's / solicitor's only client. Therefore you will only receive priority attention if you nag them just a bit and chase them relentlessly to do the job you are paying them to do.



Otherwise, all is going well!!

The removals lorry and men are booked, we are dismantling the house around us, B&B booked for the night of 5th October, made arrangements to meet with the chap from the lettings agency to get the keys to our rented house, all non essential stuff either recycled, given to charity or binned, last hair appointment made ( new hairdresser one of the important issues to be resolved) and change of address messages drafted ready to be sent.

On a more positive note - we will be spending a couple of days on Skye to see and stomp around on the plot, meet with Mary at Dualchas and discuss what we could build. (The purchase of the croft and house site is proceeding at Skye pace with a couple of issues remaining outstanding) We also have a week in the Lakes to look forward to in mid-October then a final few days of rest and relaxation before I  enter the world of work once again.


It's been an interesting experience and, compared to some, a relatively easy process I suppose. However, I am so pleased that we won't be doing it again for some time.


Exchange finally expected tomorrow with completion due on 7th October - everything crossed.
Very therapeutic writing this.

House hunting, not as simple as it might seem!

After a straightforward and trouble free journey to Scotland on Friday morning, we were early for our first viewing so I was able to visit the council and prove my ID and sign some documents before we headed into the countryside to start the business of deciding where we would be living for the next two years.
As an aside, probably not the way I would choose to spend my birthday, we were up at 06.15!,  but needs must.
So today we viewed four properties, two of which we wrote off pretty quickly, one of which we liked very much and the remaining one would have done for us but there was a dodgy approach lane!
We had booked into a B&B close to Stirling - this turned out to be part of a small estate complete with animals, huge grounds and situated down a very long drive so nice and quiet. A large bedroom and separate bathroom both of which were comfortable and well kitted out. West Plean House is part of "Stay on a Farm" B&Bs and we would choose one of these again based on our experience here.
Gary suggested a supermarket cafe for dinner (I think he was having a laugh) but we ended up eating in Cabes, a lovely shack with excellent food in Stirling.
Slept reasonably well but both brains on overdrive with details of houses. Decided we both liked the first property we saw - a steading in Saline.
Breakfast on Saturday morning could be described as Farmhouse and was really good. Many of our previous B&Bs could learn from this one. Quality food, no limit on juice, coffee, toast etc and a good choice of cooked breakfast if required.
Four more houses to view today - again one written off quite quickly, one no show and two possibilities. Much thinking to do. Both of us agreed that the first and last properties we had viewed were our favourites. Which one to go for?
After much discussion it was the steading from Friday. Decision made.
After another fine breakfast on Sunday morning, the long drive home was waiting for us.
As it turned out, not a bad day to travel. Made it home in under 7 hours including stops. A cloudburst at Bristol slowing us up on the last leg.
Monday morning and most of the day was spent on the phone to various agencies, landlords etc; the steading was ours if we could fill in ten pages worth of forms, prove our IDs, prove I would be working etc etc. Many hours later the forms were sent by email, the deposit was sent by bank transfer and we could cross that one off the list. Oh and at the same time the washing was on so Gary spent his birthday unpacking, washing, drying and generally having fun.
Another decision made - birthdays celebrations would be deferred this year to a date not too far in the future when we could actually take time out to enjoy ourselves.
(as if we haven't been doing just that all summer)
So to bed thinking that at least we had sorted out our accommodation, just the exchange of contracts (due on Tuesday) and the removals firm to confirm.


If only ..... a call this morning from the letting agents to confirm all info received as needed but and it's a big BUT - the property owner had just received an offer from a purchaser who wants to buy the steading. *!$** and many other phrases were uttered when I could manage to speak that is. Oh dear and we had happily told all other property owners and agencies that we were sorted. And then there was the matter of money exchanging hands. 
Several quick phone calls later (and a bit of sweet talking from Gary) and we had agreed that we did want to rent our second choice of property. At least it was still available. Liz, the owner was happy to proceed with us as tenants. A very efficient lady called Kate sorted out the details and we filled out all of the forms again. Money to be transferred tomorrow - let's hope the other agency return the cash as quickly as they took it.

So, a quick re-group and we end the day once again looking forward to living in Clackmannanshire. This time within 1.5 miles of my place of work so I can be truly "green" and walk or cycle to work. Must check out the shower facilities first though!

Mentally exhausted, brains stuffed full of stuff whizzing around, signing off for now.
Hopefully no more drama for the next couple of weeks - at least we have booked the Wotton boys to pack for us as well as to move all of our stuff. 

The Lakes - side Blog 9.9.11 - 16.9.11

As promised, the Lakes Blog - not quite as many photos as there might have been due to the rain and the tail end of Hurricane Katia. 
And before you wonder if I stayed up all night blogging to get this published - not a chance - I was scribing each day on a word document then copied and pasted.

Diary of a week in the Lake District

Friday / Saturday 9 and 10 September

Arrived in a break between the heavy showers to “check in” to our accommodation for the next week. House very nice but we have had to bring our own towels and pay for the power / gas / logs we use. Previously been spoilt by all inclusive holiday lets.

Hint to holiday property owners – just add £50 to the rental cost; we would never know and you would more than cover your costs and we would all be happy with no fiddling around reading meters and feeling just a little resentful. Also no internet access at the house could be viewed as a good thing by some but we like to have the option to connect. There are plenty of wifi spots in Grasmere if we need them and the phone picks up an intermittent signal so we can access emails and the web on that.

So this week is a week to relax before heading to Scotland to find somewhere to live close to Alloa.

Had a very nice first evening meal testing most of the equipment in the kitchen here – all satisfactory.

A relatively early night and a long and comfortable sleep. The house is down a quiet lane with no street lights, the sound of silence and complete darkness outside. Something most of us just don’t experience any more.

Saturday morning woke to heavy rain but the MWIS forecast this easing to leave drier periods with heavy rain showers. Had planned several options from the door of the cottage depending on the reality when we were ready to leave. A late start but the rain had stopped.

Decided to try a route via Alcock Tarn that would give us a turnback option if the weather came in again. Set off past Dove Cottage (plenty of tourists crowding in and we counted two coaches in the parking area) and up the hill to a point where most of the other walkers carried on with the “Coffin Route” to Rydal. Our route was steeply uphill through woods then onto open hillside. Here the first heavy shower hit us so waterproofs on and carry on upwards. Periods of no rain and sudden views interspersed with the promised heavy showers continued until we reached the tarn in the middle of one of the showers. Watched as a large group of very wet walkers tried (and failed) to find some shelter behind a stone wall for their lunch break. 

At this height (approx. 380 metres) the promised buffeting from the wind also made itself known.

Decision made, we could just about see the ridge that we could have aimed for but it would only be wetter, windier and colder up there so we took the route back down to Grasmere. We did manage to find a suitable bench (of the leg swinging type) and a break in the weather for our lunch but the rain was back with a vengeance by the time coffee was poured. Passed several people sheltering in ferns and under trees as we made our way back to the village.

As we were eating lunch we were passed by a small group wearing t-shirts, jeans and carrying golf umbrellas – can’t quite imagine where they thought they were going when they set out.

I also had to pick a small leech, presumably seeking a meal, off my trousers and the forest had a good number of flying ants to contend with.

Back to the cottage where we started the drying off process and thought about a quick trip into Grasmere (walking) but more heavy rain deterred us.

The forecast for tomorrow is more of the same with the winds increasing and a storm for Monday. Looks like low level walking for at least a couple of days. Perhaps some shopping….. and lunches out??

Sunday / Monday 11 & 12 September

Sunday dawned wet and windy so a decision was made to wait out the morning, have a long read and a drawn out breakfast and see how the weather was. Answer – still wet and windy. A quick trip to Ambleside where Gary found and bought his new coat (all research done before we travelled) No let up in the weather so a short walk from the door was decided on and we headed up through the village towards the Easedale Road. Two options – Easedale Tarn or the “Lion and the Lamb” AKA Helm Crag.

We reached the point where the two routes diverged. Neither of us could see any pleasure in climbing over 1,000 ft in driving rain so we headed down the track to Easedale. The path had deteriorated into a small river in places, especially where the new path had been laid. Undeterred we carried on and could hear the roar of Sour Milk Gill from a distance. We had now been out for just over an hour – I was soaked and Gary had given the new coat a good testing. If he had zipped up the pockets we think it would have passed!

Took a quick look at the waterfall then turned it round and headed for home.

The amount of water raging down the hill and into the river was immense; fields, paths all flooded.

We made our way back to the house where it was a marathon drying session for clothes and people. This ritual was to become a bit of a feature of this trip.

Almost as we arrived back at the house, Jacqueline called to say that they (her and Ian) were parked up in the layby at Grasmere so we issued directions and they arrived to spend a couple of nights.

We went out for a very nice meal at the Swan Inn – after making short shrift of the bottle of champagne they had brought with them for a toast to the future. We walked out between showers but got caught in more heavy rain as we reached the pub and on the way back.

Monday brought the delights of the tail end of Hurricane Katia – thanks for the storm force winds -although it did remain dry for much of the day. However only a fool would have ventured higher than 20 ft up a hill so we visited the Bowder Stone in Borrowdale, dodging the large branches blown off trees then drove over to Ullswater where we took a look at Aira Force which was indeed travelling down the hill at some force. No sun to add rainbows but the amount of water, spray and the noise was stunning. Managed a couple of photos including one of Ian and Jacqueline at the top bridge.

Aira Force

Bowder Stone in windy conditions

After a nice afternoon tea at the café it was home for dinner and a cosy night in. A large branch had fallen and blocked the A595 close to Ambleside but the lone policeman was directing traffic around it just fine.

Tuesday 13^th

Although not as windy, the forecast was for winds gusting to 50mph so low level walking once again. Ian and Jacqueline headed for home and we headed for the coffin route to Rydal. This is a relatively low level route from Grasmere to Rydal, We then picked up the Loughrigg terrace path back to Grasmere. There were many people out walking this route and others around the two lakes. More umbrellas in evidence – several blown inside out.  We visited the cave at Rydal which was completely flooded although the stepping stones were just about useable. Headed on back to Grasmere dodging the showers as we went. A very nice circular walk but not too challenging.

Having managed to download the mountain weather forecast on my mobile, we decided to go for the Crinkle Crags circuit tomorrow as the showers would be brief and there could even be some sunshine.

Wednesday 14 September

After hearing the heavy rain in the night we looked out of the window in trepidation this morning but the clouds were clearing and the wind had dropped. So it was up and off to the Langdale valley. The Crinkle Crags is a challenging round with very steep ascent and descents and a high point of over 2,700 ft. We have, in the past, badly misjudged the route across the tops and ended up in the wrong valley leaving us to re-ascend to the top to go back down again. Only if the weather looks good then and the clouds are high giving us good visibility. Famous last words.

On arrival at the Old Dungeon Hotel car park we decided to wait for the heavy shower to pass before setting out. Gave helpful directions to a couple of Americans walking the Cumbria Way and looking for the path to Stake Pass. The start of this walk is along an interminable farm road before reaching the valley floor and the start of the uphill bit. Crossed the river on a footbridge – I have only ever seen this river as a trickle with easy route across over boulders scattered in the river bed. Not today – it was like a Himalayan river with snow melt, rushing down to flood the valley and fields. So we started the uphill heave which was not as bad as I remembered it. Perhaps all of those hills around Sidmouth were paying dividends? Rain blew across the valley but we were in brilliant sunshine – result? A vivid rainbow then a second fainter rainbow. A brief photo opportunity then. 

Sunshine and showers and rainbows

We were following a watercourse, the outlet from a high tarn. As we progressed upwards, this became very lively indeed. A thought struck me – at some point we would have to cross this raging torrent. Later.

Just as we crested the ridge the rain returned with a vengeance but we were already committed so carried on.  

The outlet from the tarn did have stepping stones, about 12” under water plus the water was rushing down the hill. Back downstream where we bravely jumped across from bank to bank. A little soggy under foot but not too bad.

The second part of the climb; not too steep but relentlessly upwards all the same. By this time we were leap frogging with three other groups of walkers. Decided to stop while it was relatively dry and eat lunch number one. Enjoyed in the dry with a view – one of the last we would have!

Carried on upwards until we reached the first Crinkle – a scramble required to make the top then over and down into a gully from where we could see the obstacle known as the “bad step” This is a huge rock face that must be climbed to reach the second top. It had now started to rain again and the wind was howling around the rocks. Luckily we happened to know how to find the bypass path which although steep does not threaten to send you back to the valley very quickly. Off we went and reached the second top.

Hatches were being battened at this point as the rain turned into a downpour – too late for the waterproof trousers so we relied on our lightweight trousers to dry out quickly when the sun returned. Such optimism, no sight of the sun and no let up in the rain until we were back on the farm road at the bottom of the hill.

The last three tops (there are five Crinkles) passed in a blur of rock, cloud cover, water, boggy bits, steep drops and a couple of slips (me). Eventually we reached the three tarns and turned right to head back down. Amazingly, we met several people heading UP the hill in these conditions.

By now we had wet legs (both) wet feet (me) and water was wicking up my sleeves. Decided we could wait until we reached the car for food and drink, thankful for number one lunch giving us the energy boost needed.

So eventually back to the car, six hours after we had left it. Our leap frogging friends also made it back around the same time as us. Coffee and food in the car in clean dry clothes that were waiting for us.

Feet tired this evening and a few muscle grumbles but tomorrow is forecast to be the best day of the week so we are heading for Hellvelyn from Thirlmere. There might even be some photos but I’ll wait to see it with my own eyes rather than believe the forecast.

Thursday 15 September

Raining again as we turned in for the night but this morning it was another world – blue skies, a slight breath of wind and brilliant sunshine – and a little cool.

Early breakfast and we were packed and off. Drove to the layby where you DON’T have to pay £6.50 to park for the day, found a space – there were plenty to choose from that early – and set off. We had decided to add some miles by heading east before going up. We know that this side of Helvellyn was very very steep so were mentally prepared for the challenge to come. Unfortunately the path we had seen on the map and plotted on the GPS, despite being a large line on the map didn’t exist in reality so we walked rather further than planned and headed up and up and up Sticks Pass.

Looking back down the path with Skiddaw in the background

This eventually took us up to the meeting point of many paths on the broad ridge approaching the Helvellyn range. Helvellyn could be seen in the distance looking high and brooding. There was a magnificent view of Striding Edge complete with ant like figures walking the ridge.

Striding Edge in the distance with Swirral Edge closer to the camera. Both quite challenging and both with queues of people today.

After climbing Helvellyn Little Man (a misnomer as this was far steeper than anything else so far) we continued along the relatively flat edge of  Helvellyn itself and to the trig point. Many other people had decided to climb the mountain today so it was a bit like a convention on the summit.

Swirral Edge from our summit lunch spot. The coloured dots are people climbing up.

We had lunch with our feet dangling over the steep drop to Red Tarn, enjoyed the sun and then took the direct route back to the car. The knees were feeling it by the time we hit the bottom of the path.

All in all, a glorious end to our week in the Lakes.
Oh and when we read the meters we owed a grand total of £12.66 for the week.  Not bad for all of that drying out. £50 on the rental would have had it covered easily.

Packed and ready for an early start tomorrow as we head north to find somewhere to live.  

Playing the waiting game .....

Waiting


1: For the moment when we actually exchange contracts on the house in Devon - everything is in order with our paperwork signed and at the solicitors; the buyers paperwork is in the post; cash transfer being arranged. (Completion is already agreed as 14th October)


2: To head to the Lakes for some walking, good food and drink and hopefully some good weather - well we can hope on the last one. (Pics and blog to follow) 

3: To find out where we are actually going to live when we move to Scotland. Short list is now running at 7 or 8 houses with viewings arranged over the 16th / 17th September. 

4: To hear that the sale of the croft and house site to be finalised. Our Scottish solicitor is chasing the very slow formal written response from the vendor.

5: To go back to Skye and meet up with Mary so that we can start the design process. So far all that we have is an option for drains - a very good start but we do need more!  Planning to do that during w/c 10 October - after we have moved house and before we head to the lakes for a second week with Jacqueline and Ian and before I start my new job. Simples!


In the meantime we enjoyed my niece Charlotte's wedding to Richard last Friday. A day of blue skies, a beautiful bride, friends and family, good food all in a lovely setting at the China Fleet Club in Saltash. Marie played the perfect mother of the bride and John gave a wonderful speech.
We all looked fantastic and scrubbed up well.

Charlotte & Richard 2.9.11

Proud mother and daughter

Have spent the last couple of weeks throwing out the rubbish from every conceivable corner of the house; packing up the stuff we don't use every day; dismantling shelves etc and enjoying the odd walking day.  Good walks from Beer to Branscombe including the 99 steps and also a Sidmouth circuit where we tested our vastly improved lungs by going steeply up through the woods then doing Soldiers Hill on the same walk. 

So, things are looking good at the moment - what a difference a year makes! 
It was this time last year that the rumblings about project cancellation and redundancies started.
I could never have imagined how things would work out - every cloud and all that.


Look out for some gorgeous photos and the walking diaries from the Lakes next week - weather permitting.