Much of of the last few days has been spent avoiding getting soaked. The Thunder and lightening have been spectacular, particularly from our Selsey caravan. The clear night when we stood with cricked necks watching for meteorites gave way to yet another day of bouncing, flooding water and a slow journey from the south back to East Lothian. The abundant water reminded me of this monkey we saw on the Isle of Wight, licking the dripping cage for a drink.

We have only been away from our home for just over two weeks yet we both found ourselves feeling a little homesick as we came over Soutra and saw Edinburgh and the Lothians laid out before us. It feels good to be ‘home’ if only for a short while.

A weekend in Gifford, where Clare will judge the children’s competitions in the local Flower Show, and chance to see our church friends again in Haddington on Sunday, will be followed by a journey to the Isle of Lismore.

The island is one of our favourite places. As soon as we set out by ferry from Port Appin we start to feel the tension dropping away. The lush vegetation, wonderful walks and constantly changing light as we look right up Loch Linnhe from our friend’s kitchen, makes it a truly special place.