up

Not the best quality photo, because it was hard to keep the camera still (and Fiona had to hold the cups down to stop them blowing away). This is the summit of Hart Fell (808m) with a cold North wind blowing.

We had set out early to walk the Blackhope Round, north of Moffat. It's a horseshoe walk of just under 10 miles. The first part, leading up to Saddle Yoke, was pretty steep, and the ending, next to the dark chasm of Hanging Gill, demanded almost more concentration than our tired brains (and legs) could muster. In between, we had a lovely high level walk with wonderful views (extras) and we met not a single other person all day.

Sadly, Jess couldn't be with us today as I discovered this morning that she has cut one of her pads. It will heal on its own, but I couldn't have had her limping over the hills. In the end, we were glad we had left her at home because we would have had to lift her over some gates and fences, and also there was a sign at the beginning of the walk saying that dogs would be shot if they caused any trouble with sheep (not that she ever does, but hey ho).

Now resting my feet before 8 hours of standing on them at work tomorrow...