Summer Time And...

At last summer appears to have arrived. Edinburgh basked in warm temperatures today so the Ranter took to the sun. It doesn't happen too often...

Leith, looking down from Calton Hill, across the Firth of Forth to Fife (try saying that after a few Drambuies...)

Youngest grandson Max had his first visit to the beach - and his first ice cream cone. Do you want hundreds and thousands, sir? No thanks - just the one...

Doesn't seem five minutes since I took Michaela in her buggy to Portobello beach. Where does time go?

Small footsteps in the sand...

George Clooney wanders into shot (there's always one...)

Calton Hill - Far From the Madding Crowd

The first day of March saw Edinburgh bathed in chilly winter sunshine. It's easy for those of us who live and work in and around Scotland's capital city to sometimes forget just what a wonderful city Auld Reekie is. Still enjoying some time off work, I decided on some solitude today and headed for Calton Hill, an oasis of calm in a vibrant city. A gloriously sunny day meant the conditions were ideal for taking the odd snap or two. There were the inevitable tourists milling around but I sat and and enjoyed the magnificent views while listening to the buzz of ceaseless activity on the streets below.

It was the perfect location to gather one's thoughts. With screaming schoolchildren now back at school after their 'half-term' break, Monday morning seemed the perfect time. I switched off my mobile phone, sat back and took it all in. No interruptions, no phones ringing, no hassle. Much as I love my family, everyone needs a little time on their own. And I'm thankful for being in such a beautiful city that affords its citizens the opportunity to do just that.

I know what you're thinking, dear reader. The Ranter is suffering from an uncharacteristic moment of enthusiasm. On Wednesday I'll be back at work with all the stress and pressure it brings.

But for a glorious hour or so today, I enjoyed that rare occasion in my life - tranquility!