You’re at a place known as the Quiraing, near the northern end of Skye’s Trotternish Peninsula. John, Skip and I hiked some distance to get here, and the other two had already moved further up the trail. But I (being clearly more discerning and thoughtful than my blockheaded companions) paused to enjoy of the scenic wonder bestowed upon us. Then again, if they’d been carrying my 30-pound camera pack, they too might have been inspired to linger longer at this scenic spot.

Anyway, here’s a damn fine view of some cows (or “coos,” in Scottish), Staffin Island, and the Little Minch—a waterway that separates Scotland’s Inner Hebrides (a chain of islands, of which Skye is the largest) from the Outer Hebrides, or Western Isles. And since I consider it my duty to share important information for everyday living, here’s another valuable tidbit: geologists say the oldest rocks in Europe are found on the Outer Hebrides. Really, what would you do without me?