Day 81 of the End to End was a lovely walk from Boglestone to Gourock. Bob got me onto route 75 behind the shops at Boglestone roundabout. It provided an interesting set of contrasts: the derelict factory alongside the extensive wildflower meadows with views over the Clyde thrown in.
The flowers did, of course include orchids. Mostly early spotted orchids but one amazing butterfly orchid, the first I’ve ever seen.
Early spotted (above) and Butterfly (below)
The path continued via some green shady sections and crossed Devol burn. It wasn’t very busy and Bob soon met me not far from where we had a meal last night, having left the car back at our accommodation.
We came down towards the coast where route 75 and the Clyde Coastal path combine. This took us alongside many historical features of the area like the Custom’s House. There was also a large cruise ship docked at Clyde Port.
For lunch we popped into Cafe Mor, formerly a church with hymn board and font still evident.
The soup option was Scotch Broth. It was at this point that I had to revisit my opinion of pearl barley, something I’d pretty much loathed since childhood. The soup was very good, as was the Strawberry Tart to follow.
We continued around the Clyde Coastal path, which went around the Esplanade, a 19th century walkway along the riverside. The houses facing the river here have been home to many historical characters from Greenock’s past and still look very comfortable.
We approached Gourock via the Pier that I will use tomorrow. Having checked that out we had a brief walk around Gourock Pierhead. This included a photograph outside the swimming pool I went to yesterday and an ice cream, before getting the train back to Carsdyke.
From Genesis 25
Then Jacob gave him some bread and some of the soup. Esau ate and drank and then got up and left.
Two brothers and a bowl of soup! The stuff of soap operas: scenes like this pepper the Bible. Sibling rivalry is seen the world over and Jacob and Esau are little different from many other examples, from ancient to contemporary.
God, help us to put old rivalries aside and build mature relationships instead of battling over soup.
Grant us a quiet night and a peaceful end.
JAL 04.07.2019
Day 81 of the End to End, Boglestone to Gourock.