The sun is shining as we take the A9 east, then meander narrow, windy side roads.
"I can see the water!"
The North Sea glistens under the rare Scottish sun, which has just popped its head over the horizon. The roads follow the sea, gulls squealing overhead, circling before diving, plunging deep hoping to catch a fresh tasty herring from the freezing cold water.
Going north, the wild Scottish coastline changes, now miles of white sandy beaches edge a clear blue sea. Staycationing bliss.