January so far, has been very mild with only a few frosty days (like the one pictured in the middle photo blow). Today was dull but dry. Spent the early part of the afternoon at the RSPB Lochwinnoch reserve (not much to report except a fishing Great crested Grebe) and the later part walking up Windy Hill. The walk was very straightforward - most of it on a boardwalk made of railway sleepers (bottom photo). The view from the top must be great on a clear day. Today it was easy to see Craig Minnan (where up to 100 Ravens have been known to congregate in summer) and Kilbarchan beyond (top photo), but anything further off was shrouded in the gloom. Never mind. It was great to be outdoors, and to stay dry, and to enjoy the company of lots of enthusiastic walkers.... and to know that with the lengthening of the days already apparent, there should be lots more to come.