Third time's a charm

This year there have been several visitors to my little flat - and unfortunately, I am yet to be one of them! Patience is a virtue, I know. However, my recent guests have now made their third trip to stay in my Kyles of Bute flat, and I couldn't be happier!

Ange and Rich have just completed their third annual pilgrimage to Bute and I must say that their photos are amazing. They are adventurous souls and have found many different ways to explore the island. I learn a lot from their visits and I am definitely keen to return and put my knowledge to good use.

Ange and I first became friends over 30 years ago, whilst working together in Debenhams in Guildford, Surrey. And I think our personalities have not changed a bit - we still crack each other up and we can still talk for hours and not get bored. And although Debenhams in Guildford is sadly no more, our friendship is still going strong.

As keen sailors, it was no surprise to see that they were out and about on the water. This is something that I am yet to do - as I don't think my trips on the ferry count!

But it sounds like they spent a lot of time exploring Bute on foot. I have completed a few small hikes, but nothing like these two. I am so inspired to get out and explore on my next trip, as these photos are just amazing.

And check out this video of a seal that Ange sent me one morning. And even though he looks like he is having a great time in that water, it still looks pretty chilly to me...

One of the locals having a whale of a time in the seas around Bute!

So, imagine my shock when Ange casually mentioned that she and Rich had been swimming in the very same seas as that seal?! Although, I have to admit that it does look pretty appealing in these beautiful photos. Even if it is freezing!

But it was also great to see that they were enjoying some of the culinary delights that Bute offers, along with the fun to be had at Bute Yard. All of that hiking and swimming should definitely be rewarded.

And of course, Ange sent me plenty of photos of the inside of the flat, as she knows how much I am missing it. I won't bore you with those, but I will share the obligatory view from the kitchen, which all visitors seem to take photos of - including me!

The next stop for these two was a small aircraft to take them to Barra, an island in the Outer Hebrides of Scotland. Aside from a minor hiccup, they made it safely - and in time to celebrate Ange's birthday.

Happy birthday to you Ange! I am so glad that you and Rich love spending time in my flat and exploring Bute - you will always be welcome. x