Gardening is a bit of a challenge on Tiree; something I’ve learned the hard way. Each spring, I wring my hands impatiently – waiting for the bulbs lurking my boarders to flower. I live in a traditional thatched cottage, with
One Petal Left
Blow-Ins
Our migrant birds are returning, and with them, came the first guests of the season. After months of relative quiet, it felt strange to watch Clansman disgorge a line of glinting vehicles and smiling faces. Surf boards and bicycles wobbled
The Wheel Turns
I opened the door, stepped out into the morning sunshine, and heard it. A satisfying “snick” – the sound of a cog tooth settling into a new groove. Everything was in a new groove. Overnight, the wheel had turned and
Sea People
The water came almost to the rim of my wellington boots… and that was all it took to make them feel bold. Under the milky surface, shadows slipped between drifting knots of weed. They ventured close to where I stood,
A Cold Wind Blows
Incredibly, it has already been a month since I moved to Tiree. The island has changed in that short time – and it has changed me. Lamentably, not all modifications have been for the better. Living on Tiree in winter