Appalling weather

We knew that the weather would be rainy today for the annual hill walking club mince pies outing, but the driving rain which soaked us to the skin still took me by surprise. We were well equipped with waterproof boots and clothing, but the rain got in anyway, probably running down from our faces or soaking up from our bootlaces. It was truly appalling! Despite all this James, Ally, Cat, Davie and I enjoyed getting some exercise. Our walk was The Three Lochs Walk from Loch Lomond Shores to Helensburgh and I think that on a good day it would be a very pleasant walk. We also took a wrong turning and climbed too far up a hill; I suspected that we were going the wrong way when I ended up crawling up the muddy slope on hands and knees because it was so steep. However we eventually made our way back to the path. As we descended down the other side of the hill into Helensburgh we got the full force of the wind blowing in from the sea, which made the rain feel even worse. The group was scattered all up and down the hill by now but Andy phoned ahead and the bus picked us up at the foot of the hill and drove us along the front to a pleasant hostelry where mulled wine and mince pies awaited us. Thank goodness I had brought a complete change of clothing, and soon I was warming my hands on a hot cup of coffee and singing along to Christmas songs. Steven did a fine job as Santa; our reluctant "James Santa" was only too happy to hand the role back over! There were quite a few children present and some gorgeous babies including Abigail Lily who was born while we were at Lochinver at the September weekend, and her pretty curly-haired big sister Katie. I also met Miriam's beautiful 16 month old grand daughter Ruby - I love that name, and she is a bright little girl who was very interested in Santa although a little unsure of him! After some more festive fun we headed back to Cathcart on the bus and all had a nap on the way. I am now in a hot bath but I had better get out because Grandma is coming round for dinner any minute.