60: Underneath Decades of Dirt Lies an Old Relic. Islands & Highlands, Scotland I The Scottish Isle

In our attempt to fix a waterlogged path, we unearth a surprise from inches of dirt. Scott finds another artefact in the woods. We lose a familiar friend. Scott begins to lay by wood for next winter.
Welcome to The Scottish Isle. A 'fly-on-the-wall' channel where we share the captivating world of our life on this private island in the Hebrides. Our channel is your window to the rich treasures of this unique way of life, showcasing Scotland's beauty, local traditions, and the enchanting, old-fashioned lifestyle we embrace. Join us on this exciting journey as we explore the stories and wonders that shape our island life, from breath-taking landscapes to cherished traditions; the renovation of a 300-year-old cottage, and the restoration of antiques. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay up-to-date with our latest episodes. Let's embark on this remarkable adventure together!
Disclaimer: The comments and opinions expressed within 'The Scottish Isle' vlogs are solely those of Scott and Katie. They do not represent the beliefs, thinking or judgements of the owners of the island.
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Background music:
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01: 'Sí Bheag Sí Mhor' - attributed to Turlough O'Carolan (1670-1738). Performed by Lily Neill on harp. Reproduced with her kind permission.
The original performance can be found here: • Sí Bheag Sí Mhor - Lil...
02: 'The Clergyman's Lamentation' - attributed to Turlough O'Carolan (1670-1738). Performed by unknown on harp. Reproduced with kind permission.
03: 'Martese e Lumtun'. Performed by Lily Neill on harp. Reproduced with her kind permission. Reproduced with her kind permission.
The original performance can be found here: • Lily Neill - Martese e...
04: 'O'Carolan's Welcome & Castle Kelly' - attributed to Turlough O'Carolan (1670-1738). Performed by Reidun Schlesinger on harp. Reproduced with her kind permission.
The original performance can be found here: • Carolan’s Welcome & Ca...
05: 'Sí Bheag Sí Mhor' - attributed to Turlough O'Carolan (1670-1738). Performed by Lily Neill on harp. Reproduced with her kind permission.
The original performance can be found here: • Sí Bheag Sí Mhor - Lil...
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Please support all of the talented musicians who kindly give their music to be featured in 'The Scottish Isle':
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Reidun Schlesinger's KZbin channel can be found here:
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Reidun Schlesinger's website can be found here: harpmusic.ie/
Reidun Schlesinger's Facebook page can be found here:
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Lily Neill's KZbin channel can be found here:
/ @lilyneill8169
Lily Neill's website can be found here: www.lilyneill.com/index.html
Lily Neill's Facebook page can be found here:
/ lilyneillmusic
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Maija Lindaas' KZbin channel can be found here:
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Maija Lindaas Turlough O' Carolan performances can be found here (reproduced with the kind permission of Land O' Lakes Arts (LOLA)):
• Turlough O' Carolan
Maija Lindaas website can be found here:
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Land O' Lakes Arts' website can be found here:
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[@TheScottishIsle]

Please support our channel at www.ko-fi.com/thescottishisle Paypal: [e-mail] Patreon subscription: www.patreon.com/TheScottishIsle 4K Ultra High Definition Camera campaign: ko-fi.com/thescottishisle Please follow The Scottish Isle on Instagram: instagram.com/thescottishisle?igshid=NGExMmI2YTkyZg%3D%3D Amazon Wishlist: www.amazon.co.uk/hz/wishlist/ls/1TD40LOSIWHIH?ref_=wl_share For further information please contact us at: [e-mail]

[@thewatchman6074]

That's not a pick axe, it's a Mattock", and they were used for digging, tilling a garden, doing drains etc,, and when sharpened could be used for carving rough timber beams, such as in ribs for boat building, or door lintels.. A wonderful tool.

[@mariedeyo7399]

When I saw it , I was thinking it could help in the garden.

[@Dracobear13]

We called them grub hoes in the US. Even tho they were mattocks.

[@smiley9872]

I am shouting, that is not a spade, that’s a shovel, swap it out quick! I do admire these folk, living the dream.

[@shadowette1950]

I have one... great for garden

[@jwoodzman]

Used a Mattock for years; Great bit of kit!

[@brendakilberg5727]

In native culture, a heron represents strong willed, self-reliant, and self-determination character. It's also a symbol of strength and patience. I feel it's very fitting for your island as you uncover many layers of mystery and history! ❤

[@meganeth2310]

“Native” where? Such poetry and respect for nature seems to be shared across all pre colonial nations / pre christian etc ideas of dominion over lands instead of connection with 💚

[@user-ms6fz7hk4w]

Rest in peace, dear heron. Such a special tribute. Such a special view. Kx

[@Sag3w0man]

I am recovering from knee surgery and your video became available just in time! Music is very soothing and I felt my heart swell when the heron was buried with honors. That was so sweet of you! Keep up the good works!

[@cormacbailey775]

Greetings from lreland, 6 weeks after hip replacement. Great way to relax, hope you're doing well, summers just around the corner

[@staceyalbert3523]

My eyes are leaking for a heron that I never knew existed and who lived on the other side of the world. 😢 Thank you Scott for being so very kind and sweet and picking such a lovely resting place. Fly free beautiful heron, you passed in a far away land as close to heaven as there ever was. 🇨🇦

[@smiley9872]

It was wonderfully kind of Scot to lay the heron in such a beautiful place.

[@lilybats7215]

I was thinking the same thing. In my head I said, "Well, that is now Heron Hill." 😢😭

[@davidprice1356]

From an older man to a younger man, watch your back when lifting those heavy logs. Grand demonstration of reverence for a inhabitant of the island and a majestic bird, overlooking that beautiful channel.

[@hanneliewiese3477]

Love your dry sense of humor. Beautiful to see how you guys care about animals. Enjoyed this episode very much thank you.

[@dellamcconnochie]

Great video Rest in Peace Mr Heron lovely resting place over looking the bay very respectful 🕊️🦤

[@tnareau]

Thank YOU 2! for doing these videos twice a week...don't know that I could survive one whole week without you 2! ♥

[@baykittygirls9520]

Giving the heron a peaceful, final resting place was a beautiful and fitting tribute.

[@lieuwina]

So sorry about the Heron and what a beautiful spot you chose Scott for his resting place over looking his favourite place to fly over. A beautiful tribute to the Heron. The tool you found was a very good find. Enjoy your day Scott and Katie.

[@adelinefinlay1582]

It’s always sad when you lose an old friend…..😢 yet another nicely varied vlog….thanks for sharing x

[@sandraearly4083]

I loved that you gave him a great final resting place. I love your videos and I am binge watching to catch up. Take care

[@user-zi7ly5cw1o]

Such a sweet thing to do burying the heron at a beautiful place it would love. Your love and kindness of nature is beautiful to see. The 2 of you work well together indeed!

[@sandfly60]

Thankyou for giving the heron a fitting resting place. And I guess that’s how place names are born. Herons Rest.

[@piatheiltoft67]

Very sweet of you Scott to bury the Heron in such a nice spot ❤

[@lindabaker2905]

Such respect, thank you Scott.

[@lauraautry6992]

The stones you uncovered on the pathway look so pretty. So sorry about the heron and really nice you buried him. Much love to you both.

[@StBridgit]

How lovely and gracious a resting place you gave to your neighbor the heron. May another fair feathered friend make their home amongst your reeds and pond soon.

[@sandfly60]

I have become very fond of your sheepies.

[@glennwing4214]

You know you've had a brilliant idea about water drainage when you dig down to install it, and it's already there! What a nice variety of birds came for the breadcrumbs - do they think Spring is on the way, maybe? It's sad to lose the heron. How good of you to lay him to rest overlooking the bay. Katie, you're absolutely right about living creatures having a measure of choice about when they die. Years ago, I worked in a nursing home, and watched many people postpone their death, up to several days, until the family could get there to say their last goodbyes.

[@robertdonaldson6584]

I am fiddling "Swinging on a Gate" on my Violin. I was hatched in Fort Gary, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, in 1952, So I am now 72 years old. Hello from Brunswick, Maine, US. on March 20th, 2024. The military melted down all iron for the war effort during WWII.

[@megmills4798]

O no i am so so so sorry for your loss,God will give you peace in this time,and take the ashes and make something beautiful❤

[@melaniehoshall6942]

That beautiful heron chose to spend his last days in a place of peace and I shed seawater tears. Not because I knew him, but because I didn't and will never get the chance to. His final perch stands sentinal over a place he called home and as a gentle reminder for me to appreciate the here and now.

[@julietprentice1103]

Thank you for caring so much for the heron...I had a little tear when Scott buried him. Rural life can be harsh, but I believe that heron drew you into its Life knowing you would take care of him because you are kind people who care about Nature. ❤

[@meldrumgray8248]

My wife wondered if you put a tarp under your sawing rack you would have a lot of sawdust and shavings for sheep bedding.

[@mr.underhill7072]

The reverence and dignity with which you laid the Heron to rest was lovely

[@lindsayblundall8140]

Great blog again, so sad for the heron and so thoughtful of you to bury him in such a lovely place.

[@myownlittlehouse471]

That was such a kind thing to do for such a beautiful bird.

[@judithstonier9872]

Katie's expressions over the pickaxe, sorry ,matlock,was like mine when my late husband would enthuse about some tool he had found I have kept some around the house which make me smile when I look at them . The heron was guven a lovely resting place so well done Scott and watch your back lifting those logs ! Thank you both for another lovely glimpse into your lives 😊❤

[@irmibullinger1421]

The pickaxe will work as good as new when you replace the handle. That was lovely of you Scott, to build a cairn for the Heron!

[@leigh7776]

🤣😂🤣😂 I love the backwards over the head toss with the word

[@normannewton3468]

Another fantastic episode and not for the first time tears were shed. But Humour/humor and hard work are great ways of dealing with loss. The commentariat are in great form, as they were in Episode 59 with their thoughts on the folklore of shoes - not just a load of old cobblers - and again tonight with sensitive reactions to the heron's demise and helpful suggestions about the mattock, jet-washing and drainage. And a great idea to ask us for advice, in this case about gloves. Listening to advice is good too - quite a few people are worrying about chainsaw and axe-chopping procedures. I couldn't listen 'live' tonight but after a rather intense day this was the perfect antidote. Thanks!

[@haroldtrujillo8017]

It was very moving and honorable to bury the heron. I must admit that I shed a tear or two. Thank you for sharing with us. I used to play Shebeg and Shemore on the mandolin. forgive the spelling.

[@OceanBlue2023]

Aww that was so thoughtful of you to bury the heron. I love your channel & have watched from, very nearly, the start of your channel.

[@janetmackinnon3411]

Always a pleasure to watch you both working...

[@judymcgovern8454]

Aww, what a lovely thing to do Scott giving the Heron a special resting place. Think the slabs on the path look great and so much cleaner/easier for you. Will look amazing if taken right up to the cottage ❤️x

[@KevinTaylor-kv2bj]

Great tribute to the heron well done Scott very emotional x

[@Autumnbreeze3000]

Scott, you've become obviously more athletic, stronger and bolder living on the island. Well done! What a pleasure to watch you two complementing each other.

[@ColinMaxwell-oc1ok]

Great scenery abundant wildlife and lovely people 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿😍

[@slowstitchersue8838]

Thank you! Your care for the heron touched my heart!

[@suzannetodaro5494]

Great video, sad to see such a majestic bird pass but I was moved at your burial of Gary. Good find on the footpath, here's hoping the flagstones are the full length.

[@annamariebeaty4206]

Thank you for sharing. Your beautiful Island. That stone pathway is going to look amazing when you uncover it. Rest in peace Heron. 💙🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

[@tessakhalil6686]

You’re both so lovely and quirky x I do enjoy your podcasts xxx

[@gaylerobison9518]

Great blue herons are one of my favorite birds. So sad for you to lose him.

[@beverlyethridge5084]

I remember all older men especially farmers had these around. We called them pickaxes. I remember grandad using his in the garden.

[@goossensmarianne5940]

Hey Scott, every time you lift something I’m scared you’ll hurt your back again. It’s like watching a thriller. 😱👀😱

[@tricial4330]

Well, that was unexpected! I have laughed, learned new things, marveled, been awestruck watching the two of you. I've even fallen in love with your sheep. But, I never expected to cry! The burying of the heron overlooking his incredibly beautiful territory...I had to start over getting myself ready for work (note to self, don't watch whilst putting on non-waterproof mascara!). As I always say, thank you for sharing your island and your thoughts/experiences.

[@TheScottishIsle]

Our pleasure! Kx

[@damienk5011]

Hiya 🌞 IMO the tool you found is a mattock,mainly the guys on one of the farms lve been on used them for digging down around rocks ect and prising up stones-depending on which side you use. Also often broke up clods of earth when hedging and ditching,or dry stone walling.Had a myraid of uses (I was born in 1950)and they were in common usage,even today,have seen them used for prying up tree roots etc in (usually) areas that have limited sources of electricity/batteries/ commercial power. Am enjoying your productions,having only come across them recently.Wishing you all the very best in your endeavours J.I.M.K Mrs. Australia ❤ 🇦🇺 😀 👍 Re the gloves.,heavy-duty leather -oiled,and inner canvas with soft leather& cotton inner gloves-sounds bulky,but still can be obtained commercially from stone masons accessories outlets.Back in the day a good layer of vaseline/ petroleum jelly first would keep the hands softer& if blisters did occur helped in the quicker healing.All used together got the gloves to mould to the shape of ones hands and last longer😊

[@user-tz7du2cy4g]

Another wonderful episode! The birds are beautiful. We live in East Gippsland Victoria Australia in a lovely rural setting with hundreds of frogs and birds we both say it is like living in paradise. It was sad to bury such a noble bird. You can call it Heron Point and add to the map with The Cave of Soles! Scott can add log tosser to his profession as well as moss tickler which came in handy when he tickled the moss to release the mattock! His skill is proving useful!😉 Regards from Ann & Wayne from downunder

[@marypasco2213]

Sorry for your loss (the heron). When you put your leaf rake down, or lean it up against something, please put it tines down, so you don't accidently step on them and flip the handle into your face. Shovel as much dirt as you can off the path first. Then pressure wash the rest, to your satisfaction. Gloves with bull hide palms & fingers, with stiff cloth backs work well. ❤

[@LB-gr7gu]

Scott.. glad you survived that " Alfred Hickcup " moment .. she must be nesting 😳

[@stevenclarke2592]

That matock just needs a good clean a bit of file work and new handle and it will last a few years yet. Good find.

[@megmills4798]

The Heron is a beautiful bird😊

[@goossensmarianne5940]

Loved the part with the little birds and harp music. It was also such a lovely what you did for the heron. 🌺

[@Toni-rp3hs]

Ah Scott you are so sweet . 🐦‍⬛ You are both living the life enjoy 😀

[@thehighlandlife2023]

So interesting watching you guys work your magic on this island. You guys have such a wild sense of humour together. Hope you have had some lovely Spring weather like we have up in the far north of the Scottish Highlands! We pray has been glorious.

[@pip-woollycwtches]

Oh soo sad to see that the heron died. But he has a peaceful resting place. With the jet washing it will be an awful mess on the side of the path unless you can wash it further down the bank. But the path underneath is definitely worth recovering xx

[@barbarakloise6790]

Blue herons like in the USA too. They look exactly like that. And then there's green herons which are beautiful. But rarely do we see them? They're kind of elusive. That's a nice little pickaxe that you found. It's got a nice short nose on it. That's a keeper.

[@tdezyn]

When it is dryer weather it would be easier to remove the soil. Check if the path end is close to the house by a little dig and see if you find the same stones.

[@TheScottishIsle]

Good idea!

[@mintsky-pq6sy]

Been through many a garden grip gloves aswell. I would recommend kevlar, cut resistant grip gloves. They are similar to the garden gloves but dont wear holes in... For waterproof gloves for use in the rain and jet washing etc, PVC coated work gloves are good, and for heavy duty gloves for brambles, lifting slabs and clearance, cow hide riggers gloves.

[@garylovattlovatt193]

Love these episodes. So envious 😊😊

[@colleenmckinlay2916]

Such a kind and genuinely caring act of love to bury that beautiful bird so close to his loch. Brought me to tears. Your videos are so inspirational. 💕👍🏻

[@jenniferfarrah3134]

Lovely video again . How great to have a pet Heron , beautiful birds , & giving him a perfect place to rest . Your view from your garden is amazing . I could just watch you both for ages . Thankyou . 🤗

[@emilyflotilla931]

Your tenacity brought me here. Your humor keeps me here, and your compassion for our furry and feathered friends has sealed the deal to keep me coming back. Sorry, i've not been leaving comments, busy time for me with Lent. Happy Easter to come!

[@TheScottishIsle]

Nice to see you again. x

[@vickieyoung7122]

What a beautiful island and a splendid lifestyle.

[@irenefitzpatrick6480]

I really loved this episode! 😢❤❤❤❤

[@balla6010]

Always enjoy your videos, such a BEAUTIFUL environment in which to live.

[@shellypontz4155]

I really love the life you and Scott are living. Do you both ever get lonely on the island? Keep up the hard work. you're doing great!

[@lotsapockets]

When jet washing, it might be an idea to dig a drain at the side for run off every 5 yards or so and use sandbags to create a dam to divert the water/spoil to the drain to keep the lower parts of the path clear as you work your way up.

[@annettemurielle]

How lovely that Gary chose to adopt you and your island as his final home. And how kindly you treated him. I think this will be one of my favourites among your videos. Thank you for sharing your peaceful home with us.

[@carolaspinall1562]

Scot I think your a big softy at heart, and such a touching thing to do for your 'pet' heron over looking the bay. Now Scot what are you thinking struggling with heavy timber!?, your no use once your back has gone, I know I have a husband suffering the consequences!! Look after your health and you will gain a strong back, use don't abuse, take your saw with you.

[@terrybull1043]

Nice highland fling you got there 😂😂

[@vidinwoodworker]

If it doesnt get muddy then I would be inclined to leave the path as gravelly cover. If its all flat slabs it will be very slippy when icy.

[@ehpeachylove]

I was very touched by your consideration Scott for that special place that looks over the water for that beautiful heron to have his final resting place. Peace be with you and Katie. You both work so hard and the current homestead is beautiful no matter the weather. I enjoy your channel very much. Thank you for all the efforts to produce these views into your life. ❤❤❤

[@LillyEve1]

The flagstone path looks beautiful, hopefully it goes all the way to the end.

[@annehicks9992]

Lovely video as always, path is starting to look good. Lovely birdsong, spring is coming. RIP mr heron.

[@gjmiller138]

Gary is such a beautiful bird, his time on this earth was valued and how very kind of you to give him his dos with a proper burial near his favorite place Scott. . One of the many things I love about you two is your love and kindness toward animals. My father-in-law swore by these Carhartt Men's System 5 Work Glove with Safety Cuff. He was a landscaper so put a lot of hard and heavy work into his hands. I think they are sold in the UK

[@iamshotty]

And with a face full of tears I say, Rest well Gary the Heron. Thank you for giving Gary such a dignified burial xx Teresa ❤🇦🇺

[@shannonbailey8201]

The pathway is great with the stone. Amazing how deep it’s buried. Sad about the bird.

[@pgthatisnotthefortitisthew7368]

That ground tool is called a Cross Chisel Grubbing Mattock. There is also a Cross Chisel Pick Mattock. I used to sell them to the Forestry Commision. A standard Pick Axe handle will fit. I believe nowadays you can buy a fibreglass handle if you want to cash in your pension !!

[@emtboss]

I am sad for the loss of the heron, but so touched by your caring for him. Such kindness!

[@beth_winegarner]

I was so moved by your reverent burial and portrayal of the heron (Gary!). Thanks for caring for him in his last moments.

[@joettabraddock9480]

I suggest you add broken to the "Cave of Soles" and make it "Cave of Broken Soles". Also I like your episodes better since Scott is more involved. We now see 2 people being help mates to each other. The story is much richer. We already have too many women in the world trying to be the woman and the man. It's refreshing to see a couple working together to support each other. This has turned into a beautiful story of love of a simple, but full lives.

[@latemcire8387]

I think digging will be better than jet washing because you would need a really high volume of water to move that much dirt. Like a fire hose. As far as gloves, heavy cowhide or pig skin if you can find them. Gloves I had that lasted the longest were pig hide that got covered in tar. The leather wouldn’t wear through where there was tar. I’ve considered making another pair using boiled pine pitch.

[@headron66]

So sad for the little Heron😔 what a lovely thing to do, burying him. That’s some fire roaring up the lum! Oh you pull the damper in Oh you pull the damper out And the smoke goes up the chimney just the same🎼❤

[@laurelscott4466]

Yes, Cave of Soles…great name! Lovely episode.

[@patriciacolie3895]

I so enjoy your videos…. Sad when it’s over

[@lindachenoweth9002]

Loved this video, thank you! Take care.

[@irishdancer2753]

Beautiful surroundings! So peaceful and scenic! Lovely!

[@mrrobinsj2]

Love the respect you guys have given to the Heron 👏👏

[@barbarawhittall2311]

Enjoying your day sad about the heron but a fitting burial was given❤

[@sandfly60]

Nice old mattock.

[@tinawelch3005]

holy cow!! you two are a modern vaudeville act!! thank you for sharing your precious time. God continue to bless and protect you and those in your care.

[@madelynparsons9013]

Just beautiful I love you guys and I’m so sad about the heron friend xx

[@hatcherhollerhoodlum4418]

Good job guys ,now make us another one to watch please.

[@tinawelch3005]

18.59. lovely!!!

[@melodyc6363]

Hi Scott and Katie, Regarding the boggy pathway, with water rushing down the hill, comes dirt, causing mud to accumulate over the slabs already there. It really needs a pipe or culvert under the path, probably either side of the stone wall or a little bridge over. That particular area is a low point, I think it's going to end up with mud accumulating again. It does look better, but it will return to a muddy bog next winter.

[@deirdrepasko9056]

I'm so sorry about your Heron. What a tremendous loss. A proper burial was fitting. I love your discoveries, the pick-ax, and the slab walkway. I think you should uncover it to see how far it goes, but I would not use water as that will make a muddy mess. I would use a snow or coal shovel instead to remove the mud and dirt, then dump that dirt over the hill. Thank you for another lovely video, I just love the calming, beautiful music.

[@lesliehamilton6151]

Hopefully the heron lived a long life with a belly full of local fish. I see photos of the heron that lives on the canal in Bath - his name is Alan. I have one in my pond behind my house in central Texas…I should name him. Thanks for filming, I love watching.

[@allonesame6467]

May condolences from friends ease the hearts of the grieving. Rest In Peace, Heron and Godspeed.