Hello [smile]

[Muppetminder]

I will be moving to Shetland in the near future. I have been on MN for many years, so just introducing myself

Hello Muppet! I'm moving to Lewis in 2 weeks (very excited!).

I know that doesn't exactly make us neighbours, but didn't want you to be lonely.

I appreciate there prob isn't a huge number of MNers in H&I, but calling it a "local" site is a bit daft - possibly they don't realise how massive the region is. I hoped there'd be a site for Western Isles, but I suppose there might only be 5 members

Anyway, are you looking forward to the move? Have you got work there? We are taking on a croft with a view to becoming self-sufficient

Hello, good luck with the move both. You're right, it IS very quiet here. There used to be separate boards I believe, but they were even more quiet, so lumping together H&I was an attempt to get some activity going... That didn't really work out either I guess

I love Lewis Ginfox, though have only been once - very brave to take on a croft, tough environment to become self sufficient, unless you eat a lot of sheep! Was listening to a really interesting slot on the BBC gardening programme a few weeks back where they had someone on from one of the islands talking about growing under sea-salt conditions. I can't find the link, but I think the upshot was to forget about strawberries...

Thanks Sotalia, will try and find the program. Yes, DH has lots of crazy ambitious plans for growing stuff, but I am the gardener in the household. And I think he is going to have to get used to neeps with every meal

But we have lots of ideas for income streams. Just need to get there so we can decide what might work. If all else fails I can always go and get a proper job (NHS).

Whereabouts are you Sot?

I am very excited I have a job to go to, but do not have accommodation sorted yet, and with three small children, that is a little daunting. We will not be living off the land sadly. That sounds like fun.

Slightly puzzled by the fact my name is different. I think the names are different on local sites though. To protect identities I guess.

Hi Muppetminder. Have you moved yet? We've had glorious weather for the two weeks since we moved. Can't help thinking we're being lulled into a false sense of security, and winter could be here any minute

Yes, winter is here. I am in the H&I but not near Shetland or Lewis. I do hope both your moves go well. I think "living off the land" sounds really exciting. I would love to do it but the time is not right and I'm not sure it ever will be. I might try chickens!