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Its grim up north.....

Its been grim up north (again) but full of atmospheric skies and dark scudding clouds delivering a dusting of snow from time to time. There have been some fantastic sunsets, (and probably sunrises too but I seem to miss most of them).  Even on the dull days the big skies of Northumberland make for impressive scenes - its just such a beautiful place to be.   I have been hunkered down making Christmas presents - no photos or it will spoil surprises - and turning the cottage into a Santas grotto in readiness for the Christmas family visit!

Eventually last week we did get out for a wander along the coast and had a really pleasant if bracing walk from Craster to Dunstanburgh Castle. Often a busy walk but that day populated mainly by sheep rather then people.  It was a grey and over cast, the promised forecast of two hours of sunshine never materialised but it was great to get some fresh air.   But golly it was cold - puddles were frozen and even some of the rock pools had ice in them.  We saw a brief glimpse of a Kingfisher - a sudden blue flash diving on the coast and then gone.... The tide was well in and the waves rolling the pebbles made a lovely sound which I will always associate with that bit of the coast line. The rain came in and what seemed to be a fine drizzle made us surprisingly wet so we headed for the sanctuary and warmth of the cafe.

The cafe was closed!!! No scones for us, we had to make do with a cup of coffee in the pub instead, and then a quick visit to Barter Books just in case there was a bargain to be had..... out of luck there as well but still a wonderful place to browse and a nice end to a pleasant afternoon.

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