I was due for my sixth hormone implant on January 1st (Every 12 weeks, supposed to be to the day) but I guess they figure New Year's Day is more important than getting medication when you're supposed to get it! Anyway, 3rd January and implant is implanted and blood taken to check PSA with enough extra taken to do a full blood count (They're still checking the anaemia thing).
Friday 11th, sat in the Bothy having just called at the doc's, blood seems to be behaving at the moment, PSA remains low and stable and the check for anaemia gave the same result as last month; within the 'normal' range but on the low side. I see the doc again on Thursday just to go through the blood test results to see whether I need to do anything other than eat more liver, I certainly don't want to have to take any more pills!
January 11th is a significant night in Burghead; it's the 'Old' New Year and is celebrated with the burning of the Clavie. The Clavie is a barrel filled with flammable stuff which is ignited by The Clavie King and is then carried on a set route around the village ending at the Dourie Hill where the Clavie is set up, frequently doused with paraffin and is allowed to burn until it collapses. At this point the crowd disperses to one of three bars or to the community hall for the ceilidh, festivities continuing into the early hours.
Sunset and Clavie time approaches, time to dig out an old jacket and hat, lots of sparks tend to fly about!
The Clavie is lit on top of the wall of the old manse.
The Clavie King (In the hat) about to get off the wall to start the walk to the Dourie Hill.
The Clavie on the move.
Dodging the crowd as the Clavie comes up from the harbour.
Going up the Dourie Hill.
Who's got the marshmallows?
The Clavie King watching over events takes water before his dram.
Still going well!
The last blast, a big bucket of paraffin helps light up the sky!
Time for the pub or ceilidh (or both)!
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