Who needs a GPS?

So here I am near the start of our Sunday walk with M and J. (Yes that's them on the path some way behind me; they're taking photos in which I don't feature, and so will obviously be of no interest to anyone...)

No doubt you want to know exactly where I am. 

I'll give you a few clues. 

The path is a disused railway line, and on one side we have the North Sea.

The geographers among you will recognise that it is low tide, and between the path and the sea is a 'wave cut platform' of rock.

(Gail says this particular clue will be of absolutely no help to anyone, but I contend it's always a mistake to underestimate one's readers). 

Anyway, looking inland we have fields and low hills (so clearly not the Highlands, duh!)

The walk begins and ends in a fishing village with a restaurant overlooking the harbour. By the way, I would like to point out it did not escape my notice how two handsome golden retrievers entered the restaurant with their owners, while I was left in the car when Gail, M and J went in to dine...

OK, I'm sure you've worked out where I am by now.

But just in case you're still struggling, here are some helpful signs... 

Leader of the pack

Things have been looking up since my last post.

Long time readers will know that I have been a regular participant in the annual Grampian Tibet Support Group sponsored walk.

Traditionally, the event has taken place in early July, but this year they waited until September, last Sunday in fact, so the University of Aberdeen students could attend. And what a good idea that turned out to be. 

We always have a lovely day, and this one was no exception.

The walk started in Gourdon, a wee fishing village about 25 miles south of Aberdeen.

Look, here I am, leading out the merry pack, young and old.

We headed south along the coastal path to Johnshaven, where the weather was warm enough (just) for the group to enjoy a picnic lunch.

From Johnshaven we turned inland and uphill and walked along a grassy footpath. I was way ahead of slowcoach Gail at this point, so do not feature in the photo.

Where the path was too overgrown, we tramped through the adjacent field. I want you to know that the only reason I am not still leading the pack here is that barley stubble is mighty uncomfortable on WFT paws.

It was thirsty work too, but I'm pleased to say the students were all being so kind an encouraging.

We had a snoop around the old mill at Benholm before returning to the coast path.

And of course I posed nicely for more photos at the end of the walk, still looking sprightly and relatively clean after nine miles!