SNOW ON THE HILLS DAY 5 30 NOVEMBER 2025
Jackie writes: Cold frosty night and so many stars because there is no light pollution. This morning there was snow on the far hills . . . I've unpacked all the boxes and filled the cupboards;. now I need to start going through each cupboard to see if I can get rid of stuff or use the space more efficiently. I'm not getting much done; I keep looking at the view and scanning for wildlife.

	A SCOTTISH SUNRISE (OF SORTS) DAY 7 2 DECEMBER 2025
It's interesting to look back at the first pics of the new home. It looks like that neighbour is quite close. There are two homes between us. Here is a pic of the plot plan . . . This is part of the official document that I sign to allow me to pay ground rent and live here as long as I want. Also to be able to sell and a new owner gets the privileges contained in the document. There are 32 pages of legal jargon. I've read through it several times; we were given blank copies back in April, which by law we must have 28 days before you move in or purchase. Everyone said get a solicitor, but in Scotland they won't deal with it. There is nothing really contentious. Summary is: Pay on time. Don't be a nuisance. Keep the area tidy and home maintained. On the site owners' part: Keep the site clean, tidy and well-maintained and don't enter plots except for required maintenance. It's 7.50 and I'm watching day break over the hills. I'd love to have said sunrise, but it is raining again. The men are supposed to be starting on Mike & Ann's drive today. It's the one between their home and mine, so the one we [will] use the most. LATER THAT DAY: I've been busy today; registered the dogs with a vet. They have a check-up visit on Monday. I can't believe I've been here a week already. This time last week we were cleaning round the houses, ready to lock up and leave. The driveway for Mike & Ann was started today; mine tomorrow. It looks really good, or it will when finished. ANDREA ASKS: HAS THE HOUSE SOLD? I accepted an offer in October. It takes 10 to 12 weeks for the conveyancing to go through. The house is not sold till the paperwork is complete and they sign the contract. Up to that point, they can pull out [of the deal]. It's 9.30 at night; this is the view from my back door step . . . Tomorrow's forecast: Raining till Sunday.

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JACKIE McGUINNESS GOES HOME HERE