New boots

Can you tell we are getting near Giant’s Causeway?

This image is looking back toward Ballycastle. I didn’t take any photos of Giant’s Causeway itself because I figured the sun would be higher on the way back and I’d get a better photo then. However, after soup and scones at the causeway, we came back on the road (2 miles shorter) rather than the path so I missed my chance.

I fell three times on this hike--unlike me, I’m usually sure footed. However the ground was pretty slippery and if you were enjoying the view or turning your camera on or chatting with friends, instead of focusing on your feet, it was easy enough to go down.
I had invited a friend from swing dance, Maria, to join us on the hike, which she did. She lives in Portrush so, after the hike, I went home with her instead of back to Belfast. We had a proper natter, including a visit to the Harbour Bar for G&Ts and live music. This morning we went into Portstewart, where I bought a new pair of hiking boots. The ones I had on yesterday are past their sell-by date, as we would say here.
Then we went into Coleraine to a store that sells swing dance clothes--reproduction dresses from the 1940s. I didn’t get anything but it was great to see Moore’s department store, Tweedy Achesons (purveyor of lovely wool jackets), and Bishop’s shoes all going strong 40 years after my mother went there to shop. I hope shopping malls and big box stores die a quick death and market towns enjoy a resurgence.
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