It was my turn to walk the dogs this morning so I took them over to Clothie, my separate five acre croft, to run around while I pottered about in full anti-midge gear.  They were in a terrible biting mood (the midges, not the dogs).

The grass is now very long and there is an abundance of wild flowers everywhere.  Clothie is my Icelandic horses’ winter grazing and is perfect for them offering lots of space, food and shelter in the harsh Shetland winter.

In six months’ time, it will be the end of January.  That gave me a shock when I said it out loud.

The cotton-grass is just about over and is draped over every plant like small stringy white ghosts.

The purple Devil’s-bit scabious is a favourite of mine and everywhere.

But, meanwhile, in duck world I am really swithering between letting Family Duck out so they can get some exercise.

The ducklings are big and robust but still an edible portion for some so I am just not sure.  I feel mean for restricting them but also know it is the only way I can ensure their safety. I don’t think Pepper would eat them but I just can’t be sure.  These days, she is quite the keen little hunter with no remorse.

I also think I have a boy and a girl duckling but we shall see……