As this summer has been such a wash/wind out. As you suggest Mike it would be a good idea to do summat like that again (mind you I only did 300oddish miles ((can't remember seeing loch Ness pass so quick

)) ). I was looking forward to going out on the tartan tour but the crappy weather takes the enjoyment off things. So I have booked better weather for June-August 2011 and here is hoping we all get the chance to head out for a jaunt. Might even get off for a weekend down the Lakes as well, as the young fella (my apprentice ) is coming along nicely and hopefully by next year, will be driving and will be able to manage a few jobs on his own. As at the moment if i took time off he would have to as well.
As for being lucky to live up here it has its disadvantages as well, it takes about 3 hours to get anywhere

, high fuel costs

, being unable to get to sleep at night because it dont get dark

and finally the roads are so empty you can get bored when there is nobody to pass when you are out on the bike
cheers
A.M.