PAUSE FOR THOUGHT

Reading your feature 'So That Was 2021' [January 2022] brought a welcome bit of respite from the noise of the wider world. After such a trying spell – with lockdowns dictating our ability to see one another and go about our daily lives – reflecting on the positives of the past twelve months, and indeed on our hopes for the future, was the bit of escapism our household needed.

As well as completing your 'Big Scottish Field Quiz of the Year 2021', we sat down to ponder what our New Year's resolutions would be. My wife has resolved to walk more and tackle a few Munros in the process, taking Old Pongo (George, our labrador) along for the ride. I'm not sure how pleased he will be to learn of her new-found enthusiasm for hiking. He has rather taken to lounging by the fire, and – when our backs are turned – curling up in my armchair which he knows is strictly off limits. (In truth, if I were him, I too would take the telling off in exchange for an hour in prime bird-watching position).

My own resolution may seem rather more mundane, and indeed easier to accomplish, but to me it will prove nigh on impossible: eat less cheese. I adore it in all its forms. Blue, brie, comté, roquefort, cheddar, emmental... It's the food of the gods, it truly is, but its impact on my waistline since this lockdown malarkey began is clear as day. Perhaps I should join my wife on those Munros. Perhaps. I fear, however, that the temptation of resuming my position in the armchair while old George isn't there to steal it holds greater appeal.

Alisdair Munro, Moray