“He is very Cooperative and Humble. Am looking forward to working with him again" (from Pakistan, 18/3/24)

“Outstanding! Looking forward to working together again. Highly recommended.” (from Belarus, 18/3/24)

(2106) “You are very quick. Smart. I've not spoken to anyone like you … ever."

"Wow . A polymath. I feel abit star struck. What kind of books do you write. I'm tempted to google you lol joking!"

"If my name was typed , you would only get evidence from house of lords reform committee reports lol boring but my style of writing"

"I think you're a true intellectual and a very busy person I can tell."

"I love the way you talk lol puts a smile on my face"

"I have to say I adore your pictures though. You’ve really captured the essence of love in the couples pics and I think lust in one of them. The other pictures are also very powerful"

(2100 approx.) "You sound like such an incredible man but what’s the real story Dave.
What’s the real story behind you?

"Oh my god. I hope you’re having these published. So good!!! So good!!
I haven’t the words."

"How much would you charge to paint me. It is not an ego thing."

"You are a diamond in amongst so many fake gemstones"

"Wow!!! This is seriously something else and I’m going to tell you something now which may make you run for the hills.
I can’t get over what you’ve just written. I actually felt I was there with you."

"I am very spiritual. Deeply so. There’s a reason for everything. I believe your writing is showing me something."

"You are very talented. I had a children’s short story/poem self published at the end of last year. Did ok but now onto an adult comedy book. The first line? How the fuck did I get here again! (Excuse the language)"

"have to say. I’ve just read your story again. I’m being serious now
Wow! Wow! Just wow!!! Those paintings. I’m trying to think of a word but I can’t. I’m in awe"

"How apt when I can't access some of my memories. I love the descriptive writing, it's so easy to picture what you have written."

"Well some of us have mundane office jobs not the life of Riley as a fine artist so cheerio the noo"

“Although not a nice thing that a person for a person dying at such a young age, but is amazing and lovely that he is still remembered and to this day.”

“Sometimes things are only meant to be embedded in your memory and not for the world to see.”

“you have travelled a lot over Scotland and seeing it by walking and cycling. It must make you really appreciate what is on your doorstep (so to speak). You have some amount of knowledge about where you have been, which is amazing in itself, it is great to take such an interest in history- my Great Uncle was a great historian and use to travel all over giving talks about Scotland”

“You mention the climate change and I do believe Scotland was once a very sunny and dry place and I think we could all play witness to the fact that when lockdown first happened the traffic was less and big industries had shut down as well as a number of other changes, but look at how the brilliant the weather was and then when everything started up again... the weather started to deteriorate.”

“Moving from bicycle to motorbike to car, must mean that you get to see it from a different perspective as your focus would change?
Was Loch Quoich better in real life than William Arthur Poucher's photographs?”

“you put the Gettier Problem in your conversation starters and you completely changed my mind. The JTB and its refutation is the most interesting concept I've read in about a month, and I would like to thank you for it, even if you decide not to respond to this message.”

“I love ur pictures and ur life has been so varied,you must have lots of stories to tell

“Well you certainly have had a very versatile life style/career choice up to now. Interesting read.”

“Hello, I really like your pictures - did you do them yourself? You have an eye for detail, colour, light and body language! You have been on a very interesting career journey.”

“Thought provoking , and how I felt about lockdown. I spent long days in solitude and I really loved it , it’s made me appreciate life and human contact far more , and I think , has made me a kinder person”

“My goodness your knowledge knows no bounds”

“You’re obviously oozing creativity”

“Wow. I'm very impressed blown away by your intellect, and that's rare”

“I believe your a unique divine beauty, the way you express yourself and talk”

“Think I would like listening to you and watch you painting while I'm lying down naked with a hot coffee and observe your suavity and burning desire to connect with the source”

“Imagination is everything. Encircles the world. Logic just takes you A to B. Everything about this world starts from imagination. I self educated myself. Has more value self education than formal education. I'm not delusional but it's a spiritual food to imagine, dream, feel and accordingly can become reality. I understand the mind and soul of those powerful artists like Jim Morrison, such a suave poet, musician, Beethoven, being deaf, he creates amazing work just by imagination and feeling. And list goes on.
People are so disconnected and estranged from beauty and appreciation.”

“Oh wow. Your amazing! I would love listen to you as I said. While you painting naked you can tell me a mystical story or a thrilling one. And I will just sip a lil wine or cognac. Awesome.”

“Sounds hot actually, and then nice and slow you coming towards me like a smooth cat that is looking for something. Cats being so independent , only when they want something they become needy lol”

“Imagine that scene, and your covered in paint and we don't care, we just sink in the moment and run like a river....and I bet your imagination is impressive!”

“Your far ahead with style and values in a jungle of weird creatures”

“It's something about you. I can nearly touch it and feel it. Mystical and inspiring, intellectually”

“I liked your pictures - am more of an appreciator of art than an artist! I have an eye - well I actually have two - but in photography and art terms I see what others sometimes cannot. My sense of humour and way of life keep me amused anyway”

“It's funny, reading your writing I guessed you weren't much of a reader. I'll need to try to find you something you might find interesting. Is there a particular then that interests you?”

“You’re the first. I love the pictures, you’re amazingly talented.”

“Your landscape photos are very good. Did you use a bit of photoshop to enhance the colours?”

“Ahhh so you take them to the next level!”

“Wow are they your own work? Wow you are very talented. They're amazing”

“I keep looking at your work you are talented”

“There is so much thought and effort put in.....lovely. I'm artistic too.”

“You have an amazing talent ( love that you like cats, I have three) and so diverse in your interests and achievements.”

“you’re a very good artist especially portraits definitely have a talent.i love Patrice Marciano”

“You sounds as if you has many stories to tell and lived quite a full life.
you sounds like someone you want to get to know ;)”

“Hi David, it's really impressive you've cycled all round Scotland and camped out every night. We rely on mobiles to much and we could all do with a break from them - to much time gets spent on them (I'm guilty of it).”

“I grew up in the country and you forget the simple living - you had a power cut there, you were out for weeks, you just accepted that, you don't have a phone for a day and you feel you've lost a limb!”

“You make your adventure so idyllic too. camping by a stream sounds so relaxing - love listening to water, love sitting in the house listening to the rain in silence.”

“A 1000 miles by bike - that is amazing.”

“Durness youre very lucky to be alive. Water you have to have a great awareness for. I use to sail when I was younger and sailed the West Coast stopping at most of the islands and seeing Fingals cave was amazing, but you knew where you could jump in to the sea and where you shouldn't, also grew up having Loch Lomond on my doorstep and made aware of under currents and how quickly the depth of the water could change.”

“you can certainly meet some very interesting people throughout your life. you really have a great way of describing things, making it so vivid that you can actually visualise what you're writing about.”

"Goodness Dave, I'm assuming you painted all those pictures, what a talent. . . beautiful!"

“Your story made me laugh and I really like your taste in music.”

“And can I say if that is all your own art work I’m very impressed. Those are some stunning pieces of work. I like the quiet thoughtfulness of some of them.”

“Ive read yre story you have a grrreat sense of humour pmsl
Im still laughing”

“Well my life sounds pretty boring compared to everything you’ve done”

“just WOW.. thats amazing and very impressive
I love to just live in the Now, meditate and just be with Nature”

“what a story! Made me smile numerous times! I'm a cat lover too and love F1.”

“Loving your wicked sense of humour!! Gotta have a laugh!”

“Lovely paintings by the way. I don’t know anything about art, but I can appreciate the results”

“I have to say that your stories and photos are really good, you have a way with words as well as with a paint brush or camera.”

“I’ve just read your story and you’ve managed to turn my frown upside down! You’re quite humourous aren’t you?”

“you choose your words well!”

“thank you for your writing.”

“You made me laugh! Certainly not the usual boring stuff”

(2000) "I have come across as a man who has some similar qualities to myself but I will never achieve anything like you. You must be so creative and have a great mind.”

“If you think I might still be worthy enough to read one or more of your stories I would feel honoured and blessed as I do truly enjoy reading them. They do nourish my soul.”

“I like your art, especially the ones with water and boats.”

“I write poetry...just had one published and one exhibited in an art gallery, where are you at in relation to your spiritual development?”

"I studied photography in France, when the good old-fashioned B&W dark room was still fashionable, and I loved it. I enjoy art, anything vintage, upcycling furniture, photography.... and I love cheese and wine ( had to put that in there!)."

"Hello David, your stories are the most interesting I have ever read…fascinating…! Learning fascinates me, from Common law to ‘portals’ existence… ( only just found out about them..!) wow, fair plait to you with your interests…! Stunning art…!"

"Hi David, I work as a kitchen designer but I love to write although not getting much of a chance to do that at the moment. I am really into writing spiritual books lately with emphasis on the new earth. You are ridiculously talented! I really admire those who have already mastered being their authentic selves in everything that they do."

"My goodness a real smorgasbord of stories to tell and tales to be told. . Good on ye lad, you keep being you."

"Hey David! I think your artwork is amazing. I particularly enjoyed your landscape pieces."

"Think your art work is really good by the way. I gave that side of me up for the study many years ago. Side of me I need to find again one day."

"did you go to some kind of art school, your illustrations are very good"

"you've taught yourself very well
I don't have any artistic talent but I can appreciate good art.”
"You are so talented. Love your paintings especially the one of the Kelpies."

"A man of many talents it seems. Anything you would like to get better at?"

"I've just been looking through your paintings I'm very impressed"

"your paintings are excellent nice one well cool"

"Very emotional. Until now these short stories do not frighten me at all. I do very much enjoy reading them. Are some of the origins of them self experienced?"

"Hi David. I must say I like your artwork. Especially the one of the Kelpies."

Great musical tastes. You got me on Steely Dan, John Martyn & Pink Floyd. I would definitely like to get to know you more.

"You seem to have a lot fingers in a lot of pies....artist and author amongst other things."

"You sound like a very interesting person. Have you actually written in all of those genres? That is a lot of work. I love your artwork, great colours."

"So perfect.....So beautiful Really.....you are amazing You have the talent How easy is it for you to write? This is natural, no effort, all from inside you...So many stories.....you have a lot of imagination I an reading the Three Friends now.......I am so impressed.....amazing
Oh its so perfect....i love it....I have no words.....its so perfect.”

"I’m very intrigued. I absolutely love your artwork wish I could have gone down that route."

"In getting the chance to read your stories. I do feel very honoured and blessed.

"I do think you are a very interesting person. Certainly more than I could ever be."

"You do have a very good way with words and I definitely would love reading more."

"Being speechless and sure I won't be able to find the right words anyway."

"I am very much impressed. I love the way it's written. Very well worded and a sign of a deep awe for live, nature and all its creatures (humanly and beastly). Sorry if I do not write it down very well."

"I want to find out why being a atmospheric scientist caused you to become such a prolific writer. Your subjects are vast.What your favourite topic to cover?"

"You are a very interesting, intelligent and talented guy. Albeit your website is somewhat intimidating just in terms of the breadth of your abilities and experiences!"
.
“I'm a complete amateur compared to your professional status.”

“Wow. That is amazing, your mind and outlook to life is amazing.”

“Like yourself I love animals and my last dog was the first dog to have a pace maker fitted. I'd love your stories and 3 laws rule.”

“I have to admit I'm feeling a distinct under-achiever, having read your story.”

“I've had a varied life (in comparison to most folk) having worked in a traveling carnival for 6 months in the US after Uni, plus a sales job in Australia, among others odd job, then many years of IT contracting in financial services (I have a computer science degree) to downshifting and running an organic B&B about 10 yrs ago. I took up riding as a hobby 8 years ago and have gone from beginner to capable of schooling the basics into a young horse. It's a passion for me.”

"Who are your favorite philosophers, I like to listen to a few and have some books too that I'm reading at the moment."

"your writing is way out of my league"

"multi-dimensional wouldn't cover it! .your interest in psychology (I did an OU degree in that a few years ago and love learning about the mind (my Dad was a meteorologist and was based in Farnborough for a while) and your photography"

“It's astonishing how many people have no real interest in anything.”

“Your work is super interesting!”

“I LOVE Kate Bush and all your music choices. I imagine that you would be very interesting to talk to, a real treat.”

“You have a talented mind, perhaps even genius, and on the verge of crazy. Very good indeed.”

“Reading your stuff and thinking, your far too intelligent for the average person. You have a rare combination”

“That was such a wonderful read, so much achievements and well written, almost, almost to unbelievable.”

“You appear to have a versatile character in many ways from being an academic to an interest in how people think to creativity and music”

“Wow. I've read through your story. What a fantastic life you've had to date. I'm more than a little envious.”

“I didn't have to Google the definition of polymath and you'll never find me wearing football colours of any variety. I've been lucky enough to have lived, loved, spent two years living in France, travelled to most of the places I always wanted to visit and change careers several times.”

“I have reached a point in my life where I can call myself genuinely content. The only thing I would wish to add is to write a crime story like yours”

“I'll be delighted to read more from you”

“Your is literally far and away the most fascinating story I have ever seen. I'd be honoured to have the chance to get to know more”

“I have to say that I have just read the most interesting story in the history of the internet. I sincerely hope you are having an enjoyable start to 2021.”

“Are you omnipotent. After reading your article I believe you might well be the light”

“Amazing stories you have, must have taken a lifetime to have typed that.”

“you have done a lot in your life! And devoting so much time to work every day…I tend to balance my work life with, with my free time, I am also a cyclist, both on road and off road, last year i did over 13,000 miles.. I also like photography, especially landscape, and like swimming and yoga too..”

“hats off to you for being a cat person, i love cats and often find myself talking to them on a walk out…”

"you can certainly meet some very interesting people throughout your life. you really have a great way of describing things, making it so vivid that you can actually visualise what you're writing about."

"Although not a nice thing that a person for a person dying at such a young age, but is amazing and lovely that he is still remembered and looked after to this day."

"Sometimes things are only meant to be embedded in your memory and not for the world to see."

"you have travelled a lot over Scotland and seeing it by walking and cycling. It must make you really appreciate what is on your doorstep (so to speak)."

"Dave, thank you ever so much for my photos. The colours look so much better but natural and the clarity, particularly on the horses coats, is amazing, makes you want to put your hand out and touch them! They just pop out of the photo at you."
- DF Elgin

The printing is excellent. They were much better than my last ones.
- SA, Aviemore

“Branding is tremendously important in business these days. We rebranded a few years back using a more modern design and colour and it has definitely worked for us. People locally recognise our brand. We’re working on a new look website again just to keep it fresh”
- MC, Ayrshire

"Received your cards today, Wish I had ordered more as I've sold six already"
- JB, Lossiemouth

"Just brilliant" - GS, Inverness

"Thank you David. Great service, your cheque is in the post. regards "
- LG Aberdeen

"Hi David,
My cards have just arrived, they are just perfect, thank you so much for all your help. I will be in touch soon for some new cards for the shop. Regards, "
AS, Aberdeenshire

"Received painting. Thankyou once again for amazing service. "
- SM, Lossiemouth

1

"Hi David

Got both deliveries yesterday really pleased with them, thank you once
again for getting them done such short notice. Be sure to send me some
of your own packs I can hand them out to friends.

Regards"

- LG Aberdeen


(1900) “Thank You so much for the picture David, really happy with it”
- LS, Lossiemouth

"Thank you the painting is perfect"
- MH, Inverness

"I received my paintings today and I am very happy with them"
- RM, Elgin

"Wonderful! Thank you David :)"
- TD, Forres

“Thanks for your prompt response and your info leaflets, I especially liked the sample of the swan at sunrise”
- J

“Thank you for the test prints which arrived today. I am very pleased with the quality. Thanks for your prompt reply.”
- ML, Buckie

"It's brilliant. In fact it's one of the best prints of my work I've seen and that's no exaggeration!"
- MG, East Kilbride

Hi David
Thank you very much for the prints they arrived today. I am very happy with them. I'm sure I will be in touch in the future.
Thanks again
- ML, Buchan

"I was very pleased with the results"
- CL

“The paintings arrived today and they are just lovely....exactly the way they were described and so very vibrant.”
- PJ, Whitehaven

“Post arrived half an hour ago with your excellent paintings! Thank you so much”
- EM, Glasgow

“Thank you for getting back to me so quickly. Please find enclosed a painting which I would like prints of. I hope that the picture is in the correct format to enable a free test print.”
- CM, Portessie

"Hi David,
Thank you very much for your excellent service. The print is beautiful and we are delighted with it."
- MM, Lossiemouth

"It is just perfect"
- AL, Findhorn

“I'm delighted to receive my painting of Scotland. I would like to thank you and will let my 400 colleagues in my department know about your work by email. Best Regards. F H, Tunisia.”

"Thank you for my canvas of West Beach. The picture looks lovely."
- LO, Lossiemouth

2

"You have been really helpful. The leaflets look brilliant!"o
- DA, Lossiemouth

"Thank you for getting the picture for me. I had a hard job picking which one as they are all great"
"Picture arrived yesterday, it was just what we wanted, delighted, my husband was chuffed"
- ES, Workington

"Dear David, many thanks for your very prompt and efficient service"
- SA, Aberlour

“Stunning Service”
- AF, Liverpool

"Hi David thank you so much for the updates, we received the canvas today and are absolutely delighted with it, it is stunning and beyond what I could have imagined. The quality of the picture is amazing as is the canvas. I am so delighted with the print.
Regards
- SR, Lanark

"Hi David
My Mum visited Portsoy and fell in love with the place. Can you let me know when you have any prints of Portsoy for sale (any size). Was thinking of getting one for xmas present if one ready to purchase before then. Thanks for getting back to me and love your pictures. Fantastic.
Kind regards"
- Rachel, Cheshire

"I received your sample-pack, thank you. I thought the miniature canvases were lovely. May be going to France to visit a friend who loves Cullen and am looking for a picture. Can you do canvases from my own pics too?"
- LD, Keith

"Hi David
Everything arrived thanks and the print is lovely! Cheque on the way
Thanks again"
- Mrs G C, North Shields

"Thanks David
If only everyone was as pleasant to deal with as you!
When I give my friend his print I am going to pass over all your samples to him as well as I think he may be very interested in purchasing more.
Thanks again"
- Mrs CG

"Hi David
I picked the cards up on Friday as they didn't fit through the letter box. They look just fine and that was very quick.
Many thanks"
- Mr CW, Inverness

"Excellent! Thanks again"
- Mr DC, Nairn

3

"Great Stuff David! Many thanks. Delivery on Thursday will be great as I will be in the shop myself then Regards"
Mrs CF, Elgin

"Just to let you know that I am very happy with my cards and I will recommend you"
Mrs BF, Buckie

"I love my cards"
Mrs AT, Lossiemouth

"Great Service! Look forward to receiving the leaflets and if you bring in the invoice I will pay you in cash when you deliver.
Regards"
- Graham, Elgin

"Hi David
I'm really happy with the design, front and reverse - please go ahead with the print run.
Thanks"
- Robert, Inverness

"Just to say I see via Facebook that Margaret has her Lossie painting and she is just to happy with it.
“words cannot describe how pleased I am with it” – quote. I’ve had so many great comments from friends of her in work too."
- Mrs CG, Lanark

"hi david,here is my address
if that photograph is not suitable for using i would be quite happy having a different one
that will work,even a nice daylight one would be nice(if you have one on file)
thanks for your help david.
ps,would love to have a look at some of your samples"
- Mr SL, Bolton

"Wow that was speedy.
Thanks David"
- Mrs JW, Clacton

"I just thought I'd send a quick message from your website as I am
looking at it now :)
There's some great work here and some beautiful images.
It was great chatting with you Cheers"
- Steve B, Coventry

"Dave It's great!"
- Anne

"Thanks David, if it's ok to enlarge, I'd prefer it to be more rectangular, i.e 3ft length around 18inch - 20inch's width. The last lossiemouth canvas we got from you of east beach was perfect, 3 feet by 2 feet, but because it's the bridge, I'd prefer it with less depth. The Lossie beach canvas still stands with pride and place above the fireplace. Look forward to hearing from you soon.
Kind Regards"
- Mrs SR, East Kilbride

"GOT IT
i cannot put into words how i feel,but it is absolutely wonderful,i love it.
it did arrive yesterday,but they tried delivering while i was at work,so i
have just been into town to collect it,and when i get some time i will go
a look for a frame for it.
once again many many thanks for doing this for me and for all the emails
that have been flying between us.
you are one nice gentleman
MANY THANKS
steve"
- Mr SL, Bolton

4

"Hi David
Thanks so much .. all sounds great and very, very reasonable! I look forward to seeing the samples and then I will certainly be going ahead with an order"
Regards
- Mrs NS

"Wonderful David!
Thanks very much for all your help and advice
Kind regards"
- Mrs J McC
Accounts Manager, Ballater

"hi david,i thought the image you sent me looked brilliant,could you do it for me?
please let me know your address and i will send a cheque"
thanks"
- Mr JS, Southport

"Hi David, Just to let you know the picuture has taken pride and place above the fire place. It looks stunning I have to say. There are so many angles in the picture and in different light shades the waves and colours are magnificent. Again I would like to thank you for sharing your fantastic photography and I hope you have some satisfaction knowing your pictures are inspired by the watching eye."
- Mrs McL, Lanarkshire

"Thank you David
Hopefully we’ll have chosen a better picture and with your magic it will look even better!
Speak to you soon
Kind regards"
- J M, Braemar

"hello david,i wondered if you could help me,i love going up to
the highlands but it is not often i get chance these days,but nothing
puts a bigger smile on on my face when i see ballachulish bridge and
drive over it,then i feel that i have finally arrived in the
highlands.i have been trying to locate a photograph of the bridge so
that i can have it mounted and put on my wall,but upto now i have had
no luck.i have noticed you have a lovely photo of it in your scottish
landscapes gallery 4,no 367,i wondered if you sell copies of the photo
and do enlargements,please could you let me know if you could help me
and how much they cost,look forward to hearing from you.thanks"
- Mr SB, Midlands

"Just a wee note to say thanks for sending me the prints, life has been rather hectic, so haven't got round to thanking you. Still love the canvas and look forward to browsing your website for my next print."
- Mrs R, Hamilton

"Hello David,
Thank you for your quick response, I have attached the photographs I would like printing and I'm more than happy to accept your experience to achieve the effect I want."
- Mark, Lincoln

5

"David,
Its a breath of fresh air to be trusted to make a payment after the item has bee received, I will pay via BACS when I receive the details, I'm basck home this weekend so it will be done by then at the latest.
I'm looking forward to seeing the 2 versions of my g.grandfather and the family shot.
Many Thanks"
- Mr M I, Mansfield

"Hello,
Finally got home today and the photos are great quality, is it possible to reproduce one of the photos in a 3.5" x 5"? (the original size?). I can send it again if needs be.
Thanks"
Mike, Nottingham

"Thanks David. My husband and I take family holidays on North Uist and I think it is Bur-Eaval we have climbed. I also know my husband and his parents have done the 5 sister of Kintail and the photo you have is astounding. I am already thinking ahead to Christmas presents and may be in touch again
Thanks for getting back in touch with me. Much appreciated."
- Tracey

"They look absolutly marvelous"
- Tom, Cawdor

"That would be great thanks Dave. I would be keen to buy one of the long horizontal ones (not sure if this is termed landscape or just the scenery is landscape - not that clued up on the terminology!) I'd seen some whisky barrel frames which I thought I would get a nice picture of North Uist for. No rush to get them emailed!
Thanks,"!
- Morven

"Hi Dave,
Those photos are amazing! We will take your recommendation and choose image 4 for the enlargement. If you let me know when you think you will deliver the photos, I will make sure that Mum knows you are coming. I will leave the money with her to give to you.
Thanks again,"
- Lillian

"Dear Dave,
Many thanks for your recent submission.
I’ve had a good look at the cards and your website and like what I’ve seen so far."
- BW
Editor

6

(1800) "Hello David,
Thank you very much for the Print which I received on Tuesday, its looks superb! I have just done a bank transfer which should be in your bank account in the next few hours. Once again thanks for your help David and I am sure this will make a great Christmas present for my father.
Regards"
- GJ
Senior Sales & Commercial Co-ordinator
Aberdeen

"Hi Dave,
That all looks great. If you would just change “accessories” to black print (sorry my mistake) and add “At” in front at the start of the second section. Otherwise its perfect
Thanks"
CF, Elgin

"Hi David,
Thank you for the postcards which arrived safely. I would be interested to see what the The Cullins postcard would be like with a view to getting a print in due course so would be grateful to receive one when it is available.
Thank you for your assistance with this.
Kind Regards"
- Evelyn, Glasgow

"I am interested in purchasing a mounted copy of the above photograph at your special offer price. It's a place I know very well and you have captured the 'essence' very well!"
- Janet, Glasgow

"Hi David,
Many thanks for that information and I look forward to hearing if you have the other pictures available. I would prefer to pay by cheque and can send this to you for the total cost. Many thanks and I look forward to receiving the cards.
Best Regards"
Janet, Fraserburgh

"many thanks david i will put my picture on the wall next to the computer sp whenever i look at it, it will put a smile on my face, thanks once again"
- steve

"Dear David, Thank you very much for the photographs they are just what I required, grateful thanks"
- Alan F, Southport

7

"Hi Dave
I have just received your wee parcel containing 2 photographs and am almost speechless at how good good they look. I will be looking again with interest at your Gallery and hope to purchase some more very soon.
Again My Thanks.
Slainte"
- Mrs McD, Oban

"Hi Mary
I had a wee look at your friend's website this morning and you did not exaggerate!
Lovely images!
So much so that I have ordered one as a pressie for my daughter who just got one of her short stories published in an anthology this week .It's one from Gallery 12 in North Uist- been having picnics there since Carol was a baby..."
- Mrs EM, Clarkston

"your work is fantastic, did you train anywhere ? "

"Your work reminds me of one I like by hamish blakesly"

"Really intrigued by your writing and I'm in awe at your photography. Would love to be able to take photographs like that one day. I'm very much an amateur with loads to learn".

"Your photos are beautiful some of which looked like paintings, quite awe inspiring:) "

“I just had to let you know your abstract pictures are beautiful”

“Is that a real castle? but your pics etc are good on the eye”

“Love the photos. Did you take them or steal them?”

“you are very creative. I did some pencil drawing in my early years and I guess I am more of a copy artist and yes no where near as creative as yourself. ;)”

“Amazing paintings! are you an artist?”

“wow I really like your art, pretty impressive, have you been painting very long or something you took up recently?”

“Beauty is in the eye of the beholder but I do love your work.”

“Fantastic photographs - I would buy them' (2 of them would look really good with the colour scheme in my house).”

“The pictures on your website are wonderful. They show Scotland in such a wonderful light.”

"Love your pics... They say a lot about you"

8

“Some of the landscape shots on your website are amazing - did you take them?”

“Fab photos! Evoked so many memories. Love the Outer Hebrides - solo cycled their length a couple of times. Stayed on North Uist. Happy days!”

“I’ve enjoyed looking at your photography. Makes me want to explore Scotland more - but not on a bike.”

"I thought your photos were beautiful, are you a professional photographer?"

"Great work! I wish my shots were as good :)"

"Like the picture with the campfire, like the outdoors myself."

“I'm ashamed to say I've not explored Scotland at all but I really must, lock Laggan looks wonderful"

“Your photographs are wonderful and you really have some talent. I have dabbled in photography and even won the odd prize in the Sony Photography Competition, one with a picture of the aurora which proudly hangs on the wall. “

“I have a friend who takes Downhill photos just like yours.”

"I loved your photos, especially the one of Findhorn, I discovered it last year, amazing place."

"Love the pictures on your website!!! Art and creating is my passion. I can tell you study Art as you've managed to capture the mood and the colours beautifully in your photos. Be great to paint those too!"

"Your pictures really caught my eye...not literally!"

“I like your photos, I wish I understood how to produce good photography and had the patience to put it into practice”

"Fab photos. I'd love to go and see all the places now too!"

I have a degree in the History of Art. I love your photos.

"Your photos are beautiful. You have a good eye for composition. When I have more time I will snap away more. I like taking snaps with human interest and architecture. Working in London this is a huge area of contrasts which I love snapping"

"your photos totally got me - captivating”

“I run a holiday lodge business and I do some freelance marketing work. Your shots of Scotland are stunning and makes me wish I still had a decent camera to get back into that again"

"Hi, you've taken some stunning photos of Scotland and you seem to be an entrepreneur too?"

“Your pictures are lovely...you are very talented ....the feeling of tranquility and peace oozes from them”

9

“did you do those paintings? They are really nice”

“Love your photos by the way. Love painting of Eilean Donan castle. Its got a magic that captures your soul. l put my brothers ashes there as he loved that castle.”

"Hello, just had to say - your scenic photos are amazing! You really manage to catch the light"

“Gosh I love that painting mountains and railway bridge beautiful”

“Wow i wish i could achieve something nearly as good as your pics. I tried using the night mode on my camera last fireworks night in helensburgh and got some interesting results. Ive taken pictures of icecubes in black and white and can see the oxygen bubbles suspended in the ice like in a string. Have shone a light through my metal table with holes underneath a bottle of bubble bath and captured the bubbles on camera. Mad i suppose but light has amazing properties when applying it when taking images. Well your the expert”

“I like photography dont have a posh SLR just an ordinary digital.like landscape and nature photography and I write poetry“.

“After viewing your pictures I’ve just had a wee photography lesson before I take my camera on holiday. I hope to be able to take better pics soon as I’m def not a natural like you”

“I love landscape photography, just returned from Scotland to Spain. Scotland is my second home and the place I would love to live. I keep on applying for jobs, but not lucky for 17 years now :-( When I returned I had hundreds of photos. You are so lucky to be Scottish and live in Scotland”

“I live in Germany but my second home is Scotland, have been everywhere. My dream is to live in a little cottage with my husband and a dog an offer B&B J. Your photographs inspire me to do this”

“With your knowledge of Scotland you could be the ultimate tour guide”

“I felt inspired when I viewed your pictures. need to thank you for so much. thank you”

“Your photographs are stunning and its obvious you've spent a lot of time in the wilderness. I’ve been lucky enough to spend some time in the outdoors and love the true tired and relaxed feeling after a good day out”.

“Your pictures are great! The one with the bike is awesome, was it taken here in Scotland? At first glance I thought the bike photo looked like Patagonia or somewhere... I've been doing a daft thing with my phone camera, I've taken a photo every day so far this year... it's funny how because it's become a wee habit I'm looking for interesting pictures during the day... sometimes I get a really good one”

“like your pics some smashing scenic ones eh :)”

(1700) “I love all your pictures. I haunt the same places”

“Visited the moray coast 4 years ago, very nice. Find the north west hard to beat though”.

“Fascinating writing. I am afraid I am not comparable. Your photographs are truly amazing and inspirational. Have you ever put poetry or inspirational messages printed on top for sale?”

10

"I like the bench by the river photo. Very inviting, yet no one is sitting there. Makes me feel I should find it and sit a while."

"Love your photos...my mum worked at Inverewe Gardens years back ...Poolewe , Red Sands etc....and I like your Columbo stories"

"I love your landscapes, especially the one of Laggam Dam, very mystical. Of course it caught my attention as I am an artist and love black and white photography."

“Wow!!!!! Photography is my hobby ;-) “

"The bench by the Spey is unique. I can see it though on those 'posters of reflection' type thing with a phrase but it would ruin it. What's your view on aesthetics, how do you approach it?"

“i love your photography - you have a great eye. I too love exploring the Highlands and did so for many years in camper vans - a great upgrade from tents! I used to love mountaineering - but injured my knee on the five sisters of Kintail (one of your photos) so am now a low level walker - mainly around the coast with my wee dog.”

“i like your pictures. I enjoy painting and pottery - mostly impressionist landscape stuff. I am mainly doing pottery at the moment and really enjoying it.”

“Your photos inspire me. I went to art college |in Liverpool many moons ago and draw and paint , Sometimes I sell a few . What is important to me is being in quiet places . I spent a night last summer high above Torrisdale Bay and shared my camp site with an owl . I work in a woodlands project and somedays I think am very lucky”

“I am from Jackson Mississippi and I was in Scotland almost a year ago and have wondered ever since WHY my crazy relatives left! Your pictures are GORGEOUS.”

“Wow what a lot of photos you have beautiful views in lots of them. I don't have a single landscape photo wouldn't know where to start!”

“You have some lovely photos. I like the painting of the sunset / sunrise with the ocean crashing on the rock.”

“Thought I would look around your site until the sun starts to shine out there a bit more and I can go down to the beach which is beautiful in all weathers. Last night it was so misty and the haar was down but it still makes me feel so good. “

“I LOVE your landscapes, would like to do more of it myself this coming year now that I have a car. Always wanted to do Eilean Donan, so beautiful.”

“Your photos are great. I love Findhorn. . The sunset at Findhorn is captured beautifully by you”

“You are artistic .. Good pictures those. “

“Your landscapes are inspiring.......i adore our countryside and its beauty.......love driving or walking when weather good. I need to get out there.”

“Love your photo of the Royal Marines, Did you Serve yourself? “

“Hey David, absolutely stunning photos!! you're making a difference too, with your photographs!”

“I’d like to say your photographs are AMAZING. Photography's where I'm going next with things, it'll be a process but gotta start somewhere. Your writing also stands out frfomm most others, you're clearly an emotionally articulate soul with a great quirky sense of humour”

“think those photos are amazing! My father used to do a lot of photography, and I like to have a go too. Am I right in thinking you did digital stuff? Dad and I did a bit of fractal art (and tried to sell it - too 'different' for this area, lol).”

“Wow ur pics are fab ..........and yes I have read your novels”

“Lovely pictures. Did you paint them?”

11

“The Laggan Dam one of your own photographs, it's a very haunting one”

“when I look at your photographs I get a wanderlust and want to set out on the camper van which is so much better in the rain than a tent...”

“Your photos are gorgeous - I like what you have to say in your writing too”

“I like your cat stories and I love your pics they look so tranquil and beautiful”

“From your pictures it looks like you love Scotland! There are lots of places that I'd still love to visit and I think I'd put Orkney top of the list.”

“you do take a rather good pic”

“Love your website Ive travelled a fair bit of Scotland and the west coast is my favourite part of Scotland Although i spend my days staying in the East which is different More sea cliffs and beaches still pretty but not as hauntingly beautiful as the West side.”

“Your pictures show dedication and love and of course artistic beauty i am in awe.”

" love your photographs you have a keen eye for the landscapes Ive been to Skye a truly beautiful place and one of my favourite places in Scotland Try to get there at least once in a while every few years Magical and mysterious and a great place to travel to"

"I am admiring your loaded bicycle photo. I really like the photographs and am presuming you took them all?"

“I work as a volunteer manager for a museum. I have a background in art & design though so that's why I found your photos apart from being good very nice.”

"appreciated the lovely scenery in Scotland your photos are great! & a sense of humour."

“I've only travelled through Scotland so I have no clue what it's like. Your pictures and stories make it seem magical and mysterious. Makes me want to really explore the country”

“Do you get to see many shooting stars in Scotland due to the lack of light pollution? One of my ultimate favourite things is watching the stars. This is what I do during the evenings on my Cornish holidays.”

“Great! recognised a few places in your pictures . eillean donan castle pass that on my way to my best place ever skye”

“Hi David, hope you don't mind me saying that you have some great places and fab piccies on your website, did you take them during your travels?”

“Fantastic pics. You have a lovely sunset Hosta beach photo, Your Eilean Donan photo is most unusual....isn't it stunning lit up on dark night...very magical and one of my favourite stopping places for a break when travelling North. I see a pic of Uist, have you been over to Harris too?
I have a passion for the West Coast, Highlands and islands too”

“When I came across your website I would just like to say I was immediately inspired!”

"Hi, what a fabulous website!
We share some similar photographic and other interests.....I think I have some catching up to do though!"

12

"It has taken me a while to view your website :) Is it just an introduction of your many facets/identities? Joking :) You do seem very self-confident is it because you have studied psychology? I looked at your pictures and wanted to ask whether they were taken by you... but then I realised that it had to be the case. You're a very good photographer! I will go now back to my academic research - it requires so much detail-ness which in turn demands time."

“great piccy's on your website i see you have ones from Elgin. Thats on my list of things to do this year. Did you see the dolphins? Isn't Scotland a beautiful country. We are lucky”

“Those pictures you have on your website are fantastic! Did you take them yourself?”

“I am an artist and I really enjoyed connecting with your web site. Thank you.”

“I smiled so much when I looked at your photographs. Thank you.”

“I stumbled across your website today and have fallen in love with your picture of Loch Loman. I wonder if you would kindly give me permission to paint this please. It is such a beautiful picture and I would love to capture it in paint. It is exactly the type of image I love to paint and will inspire me to pick up my paint brushes again after a long absence from the easel.”

“Your pictures are wonderfully appealling to me. I live in the Highlands and the scenery is stunning, whether on a beautiful summer's day or wild winter's day. You have been to some great and interesting places.”

"Hi I clicked on your website, spent ages looking at it - interesting - love the scenery pics - I went to laggan dam today but the water was too low :( "

"Like your website - although I have to say I have an even better photo of Eilen Donan Castle ! ha ha"

"I was in Sky a few weeks ago, and went a bit mad with the camera!"

"Your photographs are beautiful. Im presuming they are yours. I dabble in photography a bit and do paintings from them"

"I love your photos did you take them all yourself?"

"If you took all those photos then I want to meet you..."

13

"I love your photos of Morayshire, it's where I come from, spent 26 years of my life there and hoping to return in the not too distant future. I used to take my children to roseisle beach many a time on a summers evening, do you no it ?"

"Lovely work, it is on my to do list to get up that way, my sister has lived in Scotland for about 20 years and I still havent been up yet!"

"Sometimes less is more...sometimes it definitely isn‘t when I look at your photos. Stunning"

(1600) " Liked your photographs, some very beautiful scenery too. Some of the places I have been to and really enjoyed."

"just had a browse thru ur photo's and have to compliment you on them, they are excellent"

"some fab pictures :-) you've inspired me and made me smile "

"I thought your scenic pictures were great - did you take them ?"

"I’m impressed by your Scotland photos. I live in Norway close to the Swedish border. You have some fantastic nature pics. Love them."

"I see from your site that you have done some wild camping, Its made me think you may know about wild water swimming, its something ive had in mind to do for some time but im at a loss how to go about it"

“I really enjoyed looking through your website. I love your photo's, did you take them all? What sort of camera did you use? It must have been an expensive one I think.”

“I’ve looked your website. Well done on your photo’s, they really are good.”

“I am so impressed with the lighting in your pictures David. You have the insight and imagination of what will work. My brother has that ability but it sadly not in me. It is much easier these days with digital cameras to take photos, do you remember in the old days paying an arm and a leg to have them developed not knowing if the photos were worth printing? My passion is making cards for friends, I'm a frustrated artist so this is the next best thing for me, That is the best I can do.”

“What amazing photos. Did you really take them all? if you did you are a very talented photographer. Do you mind me asking what camera you have? I am looking for a good one but I suspect yours might be more than I can spend. Having said that, it does not matter how good the camera is if the person does not have an eye for a good photo and sadly although I try really hard this is something I just don't have.”

“Love your photos..some of my favourite places are in them. My second home is Glencoe and I love Scotland (have lived there lots).”

"..Absolutely stunning pictures you are very talented. For someone who was always led to believe Scotland is forever bathed in rain and mist...I am pleasantly surprised it's not!"

14

"just looked through your pictures some stunning scenery silly question did you take them all"

"really impressed some really spectacular scenery of course does help that the places you photographed always look good in photos unlike me who never takes a good photo only good for keeping on the mantelshelf to scare the kids away from the fire"

"I'm sure everyone who contacts your website says they like your photos but they are rather good...I recognise a few shots of the West Highlands. I used to own and house near Glencoe which had the most fantastic views...the east coast is nice but can't compete with it's big brother!"

"The fairy fantasy colours in some of the pictures I found a wee bit odd as having not long come back down from Inverness I love the lush green of the highlands especially during snow storms. Technically I expect you have done a marvellous job. I tend to speak my mind and as I'm from an artistic background and criticise probably too much. I have consumed and digested your pictures over a few days. They aren’t too bad actually."

"Hi, just wanted to say I love your photos my favourite is the one with the swan, I could live with that one!!"

"I just want to compliment you with regard to your lovely photo's & paintings!"

"What lovely photos, you live in a beautiful part of the world."

"Just wanted to say you have some lovely photographs and its a hobby you obviously enjoy!"

"You have been to some of the lovely places in Scotland and we are so lucky to have it all in this country!"

"Hi David I have been to most of your favourite places."

"did you take all these pictures as some of them are awesome. Especially like the ones of Loch Laggan its beautiful. If you took these you are very talented."

"Have to say your photos are amazing"

“I work at a photographic studio. It's so cosmopolitan. I work with all nationalities and it's brilliant. You’re photos are cool.”

15

“Very interesting. I love your photography!”

“STUNNING PICTURES! I hope you get many commissions. Good Luck!”

“I l-o-v-e the fact that you've shared such spectacular photos on your website. Thank you. Very inspiring.”

"i'm going to look at your highland & islands photos again. cool photos"

I"f you took all those pictures you are very talented, they a're great."

“the lighthouse pictures you emailed me are amazing, i always think they are very atmospheric.”

“I am from Belgium. I like so much Scotland. I see this in yur photos. My favourite holydays destination : Scotland of course ! I apologize for my English :-( it's easier to speak than to write ! I've been once in Edinburgh, last year ! The best place for me in Scotland is Skye ! but i hope going to see more next year ! do you sometimes wear a kilt ???? hope I'm not shoking you ?”

“hello david, i love your photos. some look like paintings? they are pretty impressive though. i once walked 7 islands in 7 days on the uists. it was in the month of may - no midges!!! and the weather was magnificent”

“love your photos. Do you cycle round the highlands and take them? DO you camp then?”

“I must have another look at your gallery. I need to see your photo's again. How miniature are they?”

"One of the best walks I ever had was on a beach near Ullapool in early January. Towards the end of the walk we could see the sky over the water turning black and the clouds literally seemed to bear down on us, it was very dramatic and spectacular."

“A man who likes his landscape to have atmosphere. I love the ruggedness of Scotland. Some of your favourite places do sound particularly spooky”

“Liking your photos. Are you a Nikon or Canon man or some other brand?!”

"Inspiring photos! I'd love to explore Scotland as much as you have."

"Your scenery pics are breathtaking"

16

"Your doing things that people like me dream about always fancied doing photography always been into pictures and how you get the right picture its not easy is it ?"

"I saw your interesting photos and had to look again."

"WOW David, great pictures! I'm not the best at taking a good photo but have an appreciation for those that do. Have many artistic postcards, cards, prints and canvases dotted around my home, some to help relax, some for quiet contemplation."

"love the photo's - what interesting places you go too."

"When I was in Moray last time I played with my camera it is the first time that I have had the time to work out how to work it. The scenery up there is so awesome you want to capture it and bring it back to Edinburgh so I could savour its oneness, serenity and sublimity. But it never quite works does it?"

"Like your photos. I was up in Morar at the weekend with my neigbours and spen alot of the weekend trying to do more with my camera than just point and shoot. Its a long stroy but I haven't got the instructions. Have been looking for them on the net but no luck as yet."

"I gasped at your photographs. The ones of sunsets and sunrises are simply stunning. I love them."

"Nice pics! You have a good eye - I like the snowy ones. Looking a bit like that today - I travelled down from the North West today through a very snowy Glencoe."

"Just thought i would drop you a wee note to say youre photographs they are stunning, well impressed by youre landscape pics"

"Hello David, the pictures are fabulous, you do indeed seem to be quite bright. My son often uses a 1999 Canon film camera cost £10 from charity shop, and takes great shots. (especially b/w). I borrow his Canon 60d and take some real average shots... :-( I do believe there may just be something in this 'talent' thing they talk of..."

"You're photos...? Are they all taken by you? They're fabulous. are they north west Scotland? Above Lochinver? The road to Stoer Bay perhaps?"

"Scotland is so far away from me but I see that you must love it there from your pictures."

"I was coming back from work late and the sun sets reminded me of your photos... Have you always been a keen photographer? I love taking photos and have done a few courses but not recently. I think you have inspired me to start again...."

17

"I love the photography, and you're obviously also extremely sensible."

"Hi David, love your photographs, I looked at them and decided I can introduce you to people that you may find interesting."

"I see from your pictures that you must love Scotland."

"Hope you don't mind but I have put a painting by myself on my facebook page. Perhaps I should have asked you first, I have credited the image as being inspired from a photograph by yourself."

"Absolutely fantastic pictures especially the ones of the beaches. The colours on the water are amazing. You are such a good photographer."

"Your photos remind me that I really need to get the puncture on my bike sorted. I bought myself a racer not so long ago - I have fallen off a few times and think I may change to something more stable for the winter windy days ahead..."

"You are very lucky to have such wonderful landscapes to photograph in Scotland"

"Because of the snow in Yorkshire I got my paints out. It was your wonderful photography that was the inspiration. Hope you don't mind the artistic licence that added a touch of snow to the mountains of North Uist."

(1500) "Your pictures are awesome! The colours are so vibrant. You are so lucky to have something so beautiful so close by and so brilliant to be able to capture it on film. The Yorkshire Dales where I live is a very beautiful part of the country and does have some really lovely places. You are certainly inspiring me to get back out there and get serious about photography again. I have not really made the most of my digital SLR since buying it last year. Have not done any serious photography for a few years now. Next time I go out I am going to put my walking boots on and take my time and try and get a few pictures but I know they will not be anything like yours. Getting half as good as you will be a goal worth achieving. I was Chairman and President for a local camera club many years ago but was more into portraits than landscapes. Will have to read up more on how to take a good landscape. I enjoyed my time with the camera club and learnt a lot. Entered a few competitions and had a few pictures exhibited at local and national competitions so I was an OK photographer. Just a keen amateur not a professional like you!"

"The photographs of the landscapes are great, but can i ask how can you make something ancient and weather beaten so good"

"let me say how stunning some of those photos ... the kind of places you could lose yourself in... my kind of places...."

"I meant to say that your photos are brilliant. Obviously taken with a very expensive camera. Am I right?"

18

"I'd like to say how much I love your pictures of Scotland. I was very impressed and excited when I visited your website."

"your photos are amazing.... I noticed one was of Findhorn... have you ever visited the commual group that live there?"

"Hi, just wanted to say that your pictures are amazing. I know exactly where you stood to take those pictures in Glen Nevis and Glencoe, because I have taken the same pictures myself"

"love the picture of Laggan Dam, so so eary but can feel yourself being engulfed by it, sorry but had to say your photography, are absolutely amazing"

"your photos are just beautiful, stealing moments in time!"

"your pictures are really really lovely-I could spend ages noticing different things on them."

"think your pictures are fantastic, I love the slow mo and the western isles -slow mo looks magical and western beautiful"

"I just wanted to say I really enjoyed looking at your photos, you have captured some beautiful images and I think you have a true eye for the serene. Thanks for sharing the images"

"Your piccys are fab, I have some good ones too from all over
Scotland, calendars dont come close. I want to get them printed on
to canvas, its a waste just having them on a computer"

"I think you're photos are very beautiful and I aspire to you"

"I just wanted to say i think your photography is simply stunning. I could be there.
And when i see something so powerfully touching i feel compelled to say so. Thanks for sharing."

"wow, tour pictures are amazing, sometimes i think we dont appreciate the beautiful country we live in."

"love your photos my but i really like got the one that looks like an angel in the sky the colours are so beautiful"

"Really liked your pics. Today I was supposed to be decorating....but I just played
with my new Canon 5d mII toy all day (previously had an Olympus)."

"I love your photographs I Love art, not so good at photography, but I love art in general"

19

"I must say your photography skills are magnificent and I would be privileged to have any of these pictures hanging in my home"

"Nice of you to share the beautiful pictures!!! They are wonderful. I must put this place on the bucket list"

"just to say I think your photos are amazing. I love takin pics too and have some crackers from Africa"

"ur photos r lovely and peaceful looking...make u wanna be there"

"Love your photos - dabbling a bit in photography myself at the moment and it is always good to see someone else's work"

"I found myself getting lost in you photo's..now im no critic and (im the kind of person that can sit in a desert for hours just looking at i giant rock) so my opinion may not count for much, but i truly believe it takes a special person to be able to capture something in a photo the way you do..."

"Your pictures of Scotland are beautiful. I know The Spey and Moray Firth but have never been to The Isles. I wish I could paint what I see but although it's in my head and mind it just won't travel down to my hands, perhaps that's why I'm an abstract artist building up layers of paint to create the desired effect and somtimes adding threads or sewing on top of the canvas."

"I am aware of being aware. From your photos you seem to also be a deep, spiritual man. "

"I just wanted to say how much I liked your photographs. you've managed to capture some stunning skylines. I love the different skies and the moods they portray."

"stunning photographs.......Inverness,The Highlands and Islands are beautiful subjects....spent most of my childhood thereabouts & have family on Isle of Harris/Lewis"

"Your pictures are fantastic some of them would even be worth framing."

"Wanted to say that I love some of your photographs, they are really lovely. Photography is something I hope to take up in a more serious way in the future but in the meantime I enjoy playing with my little digital"

20

"your photographs are absolutely amazing! I think you should pass them on to the tourist board as they have grabbed my attention and make me want to visit and experience the beauty spots for real."

"I often think about a place in the world I would most want to visit, having lived in and travelled to many places I couldn't think of anywhere I would truly be inspired by to visit......your pics have led me to that place, they are amazing !"

"I loved your photos. The extent of my photography is an OM10 I was given when I was 17. My favourite shot was of a puddle - ie looking down into a puddle and seeing the reflection above"

"those are some of the most amazing picture do u get your feet wet, stunning,you are a great photographer .makes me want to paint them"

"your photographs...they are fantastic!!! I just wanted to express my feelings about your landscapes"

"Great set of photographs, wonderfully captured some of the loveliest parts of Scotland"

"Love your photos. We live in a beautiful (though cold country!) Lived in the South of England for years so probably appreciate it more than most Scots who take it for granted!"

21

"I'm a full time student at Gateshead College and currently studying travel & tourism. I think your pictures of areas in Scotland are lovely, I myself have pictures of Mull, Orkney & the Caledonian Canal."

"Amazing photos. I have spent time in Kyntyre and visiting Morrayshire and I carry my pictures in my head, but you have captured a real feel of the place. The Western Isles sunrise especially is one that I can envision the colours on silk."

"YOUR PHOTOS ARE JUST SO LOVLEY I LOVE SUNRISE'S & SUNSETS YOU
MUST HAVE A GIFT"

"Just want to say that your photography is wonderful amazing photography of the country
that captured my heart many years ago."

"Fab pictures,were they all taken round and about in one country?"

"Really love your pics. I take lots of pics, but I'm not in your league, but I'll keep trying. I always try and redouble my efforts when I see lovely pictures like yours."

"gorgeous pictures you have. I have always wanted to go and visit the Scottish Isles, any tips on which is best for a first timer?"

"Cool photography!"

"Wow what beautiful photographs!!!!!!
Did you cycle to all of these places. I have very fond memories of a wonderful tour of Scotland (in a different lifetime,it seems) and we camped for several days just outside of Malaig with wonderful views of Skye- gorgeous white sand, camp fire and light till nearly midnight."

"u make feel proud to be in
scotland u make it look a
beautifull place thank u"

22

"i see the beaty trough ur eyes and can see u are an
artist ur pis speaks out our beatifull planet keep up the good work
and give us this beatifull pic u see i am some some one who
appreciated ur work"

"intriguing snap shots were breathtaking just made me think of what life has to offer us all if we would take the time to come up and smell the roses."

"what fantastic pics i am suprised the scottish tourist board havent got you working for them"

"You certainly have an eye for capturing those splendid moments that nature has to offer us."

"absolutely the best pictures ive ever had to pleasure to look at"

"May I suggest that you write a book illustrated by your beautiful photography? :)"

"Your photography is very beautiful.. breathtaking! Are they published at all? My eldest brother was an Art teacher for 30 yrs and specialised in photography for his degree, so I'm not easily impressed! :) "

"love your photos, scenery looks amazing and one of my dogs is called Cuillin (cairn terrier), unfortunately I havent been there, which I need to sort"

"I have studied fine art and your photographs are superb"

"Thanks for sharing your stunning photos. I too am a keep photographer, although still learning. I especially like your 'Sunrise' and 'Urquhart Castle' photos, although they are all stunning. I absolutely love Scotland, it is my favourite country. I would love to see more of your photos"

"Wow I love your pictures, I love art and it was like looking at a gallery. The castle and the crashing waves are breathtaking."

"Can I pick your brain..what camera wouls you recommend to a keen but very novice photographer"

"I just wanted to say what an amazing set of photographs - you are very lucky to live somewhere so beautiful"

"Your photos are stunning. You obviously have a real eye for beauty."

"Loved the photo of 'Urquhart Castle, Loch Ness, Moonlight'"

"WOW totally blown away by your photographs, what a talented man you are!"

"Just had to say I really enjoyed browsing your photos - took me back to when I was 18 and toured round Scotland, camping and in a three wheeler robin reliant with my sister and my brother in law. Thank you."

"I have to say those pics are fantastic. Amazing what is so local to us all that we really do not appreciate."

23

"Your pics made me want to come home"

"I just have to congratulate you on your landscape photography. It takes me back to my very happy childhood.My parents had dear friends who lived in Ardelve Dornie near Eilean Donan Castle. I have played on its shores many a time!"

"I'm very into natural beauty and loved your photographs, I went to Urquhart castle last year"

"Your pictures are superb, love em. and you obviously love nature and your beloved Scotland."

"love your photos - I've been to most of them. God's country"

"I think your photo's are wonderful,I keep on trying with photography"

(1400) "You have some wonderful pics on here do you travel to all these places?? I'd love to see more of Scotland but never make the time."

"just wanted to say how fabulous your photos are. I have a sense of belonging when I`m in Scotland and they have given me that warm feeling that makes me smile."

"lovely photos think i should move up to Scotland!!.. "

"I love your photos. I have a soft spot for Scotland"

"I had to write and say your photos have made me a tad homesick today"

"You have some stunning photos here. My brother is a prof. photl down in Southampton. He was in the navy so has photos from all over the world and wildlife pics too. I dabble a little lol but nowhere near your standard."

"jjust wanted to comment on your pics they are fabulous just makes you appreciate what's out there and how beautiful our country is! I have been to a few of the places on your pics but you captured them wonderfully. ! "

"GOD THESE ARE SOME FANTASTIC PICTURES WOULD LOVE TO VISIT SOME OF THE PLACES IN THE PICTURES"

"Just had a look at your pics....stunning thanks for remining us of the beauty we have around us...."

"What fantastic photos and of our own fair land as well - fantastic."

"Love the photos - two of them are my ancestral home!"

"just had to say WOW what fantastic photos. I love landscape pictures. Have to say I stay in a very picturesque village myself, Cromarty. Don't know if you know it but I'm sure you could take some lovely pictures of Cromarty and the Black Isle."

"your pictures are beautiful im greeen with envy they are all the places i would love to see especially Skye but i would love to visit all those places"

"Just had to send u a message think the pics u have are awesome, have had my fair share of camping and still do occasionally love the sights around scotland !."

"sorry to be really cheeky,but can u give me sum hints and tips re camera work?? i know its damn cheeky"

24

"I love your photographs, my favourite place in scotland has to be eilean donan castle"

"so interesting to see all those places i haven't seen before, isn't Scotland a beautiful place?"

"I've been doing photography as a hobby for around 6 years now. I try and get some astro landscapes of the milky way. I liked the pics on your website, nice one.
Thanks,
Chris"

"i just wanted to drop you a line and say how beautiful your pictures are. Each and everyone has something special about them,be it the composition,colour,textures -wow,you really can capture such beauty.Anyway just wanted to say how much i liked them"

"know it will not be wot u use but can u recommend a good digi cam and how many pixels? please bare in my mind that im abig bit of a technophobe"

"u pictures are lovely, they really are, i work in a tourist shop and they should be on a postcard, for visit Scotland"

"how did u manage 2 det so many fotas."

"you have to most amazing photos ive ever seen and they are all the places that mean the world to me. (mind blowing)"

"just loved your pics. I have visited a fair few places in the scottish Isles and have a great fondness for the country and the people"

"Hello, I simply loved the series of photo's. I was hooked by the image of the Moray Firth, I grew up walking on that beach .... so thank you for taking me to one of my favourite places"

" .....the photos are absolutely beautiful...a true credit to your obvious talent..do i want to visit Scotland now..."

"that pic of Urquhart Castle reminds me of New Year's Day this year when I was driving back from Fort William to Inverness. Have been looking for a pic which might depict the sight ever since but nothing's come close!"

"your photos have certainly inspired me to get out and about more and put my camera too better use ..i thank you"

"Your photographs are amazing and I am quite envious of the memories that you must have linked with each one!!"

"I hope this doesn’t sound stupid, your photos are absolutely fantastic - they made me feel quite emotional"

"I would be more than happy to hang your pictures on my walls."

"Enjoyed your photographs. They inspired me."

"Love the photography, I tried photography as part of my art and design course, did not get on well with the subject, I fair better with pencil and pigment"

"great pics. i do i miss scotland!!! my best friends live in fort-william, its so beautiful"

"Wow wow and double wow - the photos are AMAZING. I have been after a canvas for my lounge and bedroom and nothing has jumped out at me yet apart from your pics, they would look great on canvas."

"love your pics, would move to the west coast tomorrow if poss!!"

"just a quick message to say how lovely your photos are ...... the composition of some of them is brilliant. i like to take architectural photos .... old and often not symmetrical buildings really."

"You have the gift you have of deriving pleasure from the boundless, simply stunning beauty all around us"

"I like your photography. Having lived in the Hebrides for 12 years I can vouch for the beauty you have captured."

"your photos are astounding. So impressed. you really could make a fortune"

"i love your beautiful photos, mother earth in all her glory"

"I teach photography up 2 a gcse/a level in a special needs school and i love yr landscapes."

"hi i really moved by you photos and would really lov to paint them, so different and natural"

25

"hi just wanted to say your photographs took my breath away they look so romantic all this on our doorstep and we dont really appreciate it"

"Just wanted to tell you that your photos are gorgeous and made me feel quite homesick"

"I was fortunate to live near Elgin years ago and your pictures brought back some lovely memories for me.You forget how breath taking the views are"

"Your photos are exquisite, made me want to go back to my favorite places The Cullens and the west coast., Thank you"

"i just wanted to say your photos are absolutely fab, the pics make you feel like you are actually at that place or would like to be, very stunning indeed"

"Your photographs are absolutely stunning, taken with a lot of love"

"Love your photo's have you ever climbed the 5 sisters"

"Just wanted to say love the photography . fabulous pictures ! never been to scotland but you have made me think i should now investigate it ..."

"love those pictures urqhart castle waht a site for relaxation"

"I adore your photographs and they are in some of the places I would love to visit, I've never really travelled western scottish isles"

"Can I just say your photo's are beautiful just goes to show we don't need to leave the country for fantastic scenery like that"

"I really wanted to comment on though are the photographs...quite stunning! I looked at them with geunine admiration and awe. Quite simply I want to see these places with my own eyes now; so thank you for that!"

"Your pictures are really beautiful, some of the best landscape shots I've ever seen. A real talent you have there!"

"I just looked at your photographs and having been a keen photographer myself once. Hope to take it up again one day but can;t really get into the digital world. I have fond memories of spending days in a dark room. I shall get to the point. I just wanted to compliment you on some gorgeous photographs."

"You had me sold on the picture of Urquhart Castle alone but I am a member of Historic Scotland so that was to be expected."

"your photography is absolutely stunning. really beautiful and poetic"

"love the photos but i love scotland we used to travel all over when i was a kid"

"the pictures of inverness are really good did you take them yourself the sunset one over lock ness is my fave really like that one lol must be something to do with the fact that i read lots of scary books about vampires and stuff"

"woooooooooooooow gr8 pics!"

26

(1300) "I just wanted to comment on your photographs - they are absolutely awesome. I was very into photography years ago but have never ever taken anything like any of yours. They are superb. I paint landscape and would absolutely love to have a go at painting some of the scenes you have captured."

"Your photographs are truly beautiful & I am amazed by them....Why have i never been to Scotland?"

"I treated myself to a second-hand digital SLR recently and your pictures has made me want to get back out there and take photographs. People are always in a rush rather than able to wait for a while to get the right picture because the light is not right. You are an inspiration."

"your pics are absolutely amazing,.... beautiful landscapes.find your photography amazing"

"love your photos they are fabulous, Scotland is an amazing place I never fail to be moved by the scenery, sometimes it is so unexpected."

"your photos they are brilliant, you are so lucky to have witnessed those sights, i love scenery and have taken some good ones myself but i do think yours are great"

"Looking at your photos has made me want to come to Scotland again, I love the mountains"

"I find your photography amazing"

"I love your photos. in one of the photos is that the northern lights, that is something i would really love to see, my mum and dad have both seen them, it scared her a bit as she didnt know what they were"

"Your photos remind me of Local Hero, one of my favourite films. Thank you so much."

"your photo's are good for the soul...I have visited the west coast of Scotland and found the scenery breathtaking...when driving i kept having to pull over and stare"

"Your photographs are amazing - I hope you dont mind I nicked one of them for a screen saver, the storm one as it quite blew me away - oooh horrid pun!"

"Firstly you must be congratulated on some amazing photography - nothing short of stunning. What sort of camera has produced such images? Not too much knowledge of photography but a basic interest, and my first paid employment was in photofinishing - many years ago when negs were individually assessed for printing and the machines had to be loaded with paper in total darkness ...those were the days my boy ...."

"When I look at you photos, my heart expands and the inner me feels a sense of freedom. The sense of power, beauty and mother natures/ universal power, /God, abilities to create such magnificent colours, shapes and movement is incredible. You have a wonderful ability and thank you for putting them on your site, please keep them coming. It has also given me the drive to one day visit Scotland as I would love to see these sites for my self.

27

Do you know who was Gustavo A dolfo Becquer? He wrote Rhymes and legends. Your writing is very very similar.

“What a wonderful story it was a joy to read and yes it did give an insight into what is important. Very refreshing.”

“Your writing is amazing, you have really put some effort in there”

“What a super interesting story ....very rare! Please make it continued perhaps..?”

“Now THAT'S a story, and a half! A lot of information there, and I'm not going to pretend I've digested it all...may take a couple of read throughs... read it again...and it is even better now!”

“It was a very interesting read, not to mention insight!”

“I find your writing intriguing and sensual. I also like how highly intelligent you are and your relaxed writing style made reading your story very easy. I look forward to reading another story”

“Your writing is very honest down to earth and beautiful”

“Wow I'm impressed! You can write and express yourself very well.”

“I'm intrigued and would like to know more. I'm a fairly well educated and intelligent. I want to know more please.”

“I am really interested in the spiritual and delve into anything. I like all metaphysical things and read and listen to tapes and I read tarot. There are lots off things that I want to know about, just not got enough time.”

“Very interesting. I especially like the cats & ghost stories. I was brought up on ghost stories and have had some interesting encounters. Ghost stories are my favourite topic. All very interesting.”

“I certainly cannot put myself across as well as you do.”

“You have put a lot of thought and effort into your writing”

"Credit where it's due. Amazing!"

“Have to say I loved reading your story, very unique. I thought I'd give you some well deserved feedback. You grabbed my attention!”

28

"Wow! What to say in response to your story? I liked a lot of what I read [truthfully]."

“Your stories about cats and rabbits interested me and I love your photography”

“I read your story and found it interesting I love art and am artistic myself”

“very interesting story...it must have taken a lot of time to write…I do enjoy a good read…you describe the small town mentality exactly as it is”

"Your writing is interesting refreshing and intriguing!"

“You appear to be super confident in your awareness? Come to the dark side? I can train you, all is not lost”

“What a very interesting person with an extremely diverse train of thought. I have lots in common with your thoughts.”

“Very interesting reading and in depth. I read it one line at a time. Nice paintings too.”

“Your romantic story was like reading a lovely book. I'm just saying it how I see it :) Reading it made me smile. you come across really well. Thank you.”

“Wow stayed with your story to the end and got it”

“Great story, it's what I'd love to write but can never find the right words to describe things in the way you do”

“Your writing is quite profound”

"Just being honest your words are very inspiring"

“Great story, you could teach me so much or maybe remind me about life, just with your words”

“What a breath of fresh air! That's what I felt reading your stories. I am very interested.....you have made me curious. I think we are innately creative and social and imaginative and play helps us to move away from judgement and criticism, be present, co-operate and co-create”

“That is one hell of a story, what caught my attention was the love of cats. This is interesting to say the least.”

“I believe your ghost story because I've seen ghosts a few times myself although I was in someone's house and had to leave because I felt like I was being suffocated, it was only when I went outside that they said that it was haunted but they had never felt or seen anything.”

“Such lovely writing and beautiful paintings. You have very much laid yourself bare to the world!”

29

“The Peter Pan part of your story resonated with me because I felt it”

“I’m a feeling sort of person and your work touched me deeply”

“Sorry for not being clever enough to understand your ideas but loved your story - amazing”

“I am genuinely intrigued by what you say!”

"What a truly amazing piece of writing, most definitely heart felt and thought provoking to anyone who reads it"

"What a huge effort you have put in to your writing!"

"you sure have an interesting way of telling a story. Good work on the cat rescue front"

“Loved your story, it made me smile, laugh and awww - it would be good to read more…”

“I have read some of your scary stories and I would also like to see your art, again I am curious I have a high regard for talented people, possibly a wee bit of envy :-)”

“Having read a short story of yours I would like to read one of your books, I am curious, can you suggest one and tell me where I can buy one?”

“Now see I think that's interesting what you say. Are the hidden hands spiritual or physical?"

“Your writing is very interesting, intriguing even, particularly when you talk about alternate realities”

“hhmm re the ghosts, yes I believe you are right, everyone who is honest would admit that but I will give this scary stuff a miss and carry on in oblivious ignorance, probably safer :-)”

"Wow very deep, you have evidence to support this theory?"

“You certainly have a very good ways with words and a quicker mind than me”

"You can’t stop there! I was enjoying that story. I need to know more!"

30

"The photos on the site, which I assume are taken by yourself, are terrific. Your writing makes you sound like more than one person! You are certainly not one-dimensional in thought. I find this all very interesting."

“Wow what a story! You are an interesting man. I am a development manager for a charity, covering all of Scotland. I just wanted to say how refreshing it was to read a well thought out piece of work.”

(1200) "I enjoyed reading your little stories about your wild camping."

“I do love your final quote in The Darkness story … chilling. What could have happened to Willow the cat I wonder?”

“I think your writing must ring true for so many individuals and hope that many others read your books, I certainly relate to them”

"Wow! I am so impressed by your writing! I can't bare the mundane. The human condition is what I paint. The ideas you write about. I have a lot in common with your thinking."

“I so enjoyed reading your story about cats.”

“i loved reading your stories and you sound so informed”

“Your stories are very in-depth...made me laugh...I yearn for a very adventurous life too...and would like to travel on a motorbike”.

“Was nice to read your works. I enjoyed. I am from Trieste. Somehow you made my day! thank you”

“When you communicate it seems so real I have to pinch myself, thank you, I appreciate here in Austria”

“oh la la, thank you. this is very charming writing”

“I like the stories about the North and I find it interesting how someone can survive there ;-)”

“I can imagine, must be wonderful to stay one month without modern communication. I am in the online business... and already in a condition that 1 day without internet is nearly good for a suicide.”

“Your story sounds great for a tough guy.... but rather stressy for me ;-)”

“mamma mia! Shocking!”

31

“Is this lonely bike in the middle of nowhere yours?”

“I live in Italy but you make wonderful scotland make me want to go visit there”

“Your writing is very open and honest. I try to write but you put me to shame”

“Oh my goodness so impressed with your stories, you've put so much in to make them very interesting”

“Your stories sucked me in - I have to say - and then your photos totally got me - captivating”

“Reading your story was rather like a parachute jump. Terrifying as I didn’t know where I was being taken, where I would land!"

“I like to think I know my own mind but you write about the impossible. You certainly don’t follow the crowd”

“You do have a lot of strings to your bow - practically an orchestra's worth! Such a varied bundle of stories”

“I connect with your photos and writing”

“You are someone on my wave length, I'm always explaining your type of ideas to my daughters who are currently in full time education, about history, education, theories of attachment, a persons intelligence, Kids are in school 40 plus hours and are being trained not to think for themselves, imagine what sort of citizens we'd have if we used that time to teach them life skills and how to get on with each other!”

“Your writing is very deep”

“I agree with you that most folk don't realise they're being brainwashed daily. I'm glad you're conscious of all this”

“wow wow wow! hooked on your words! amazing! is it all for real?”

“you are brave adventurous and non-shallow”

“your stories are worth it :)”

“Wonderful original writing!”

“Where do you find the time? I fall into my bed exhausted at the end of most days. I would love to read more of your work”

“What a very diverse set of books on your list. It must be very interesting being you.”

“Do you tell your ghost stories underneath the street in the Royal mile?”

“I read your ghost stories with some interest - you are a very interesting man! In comparison, my writing will seem very dull, but do please have a look and see if you can help me improve it?”

32

“Well....having read every word of your Naked Truth booklet I have to say you sound like a "sorted " individual”

“I am a Middle East researcher turned marketing scientist (it got too dicey to do field-work during wars). I mostly did work for the UN and WHO, now work for an international market research firm as an analyst. Like you I am pretty interested in numbers too…do mostly quantitative analysis/statistics stuff. Your explanation of Fibonacci coding is fascinating”

“really enjoyed reading your book of stories and I have similar beliefs”

“Just browsing through your extensive works of surrealism. Enjoyed your prose but now I need a green tea”

“Wow....what a flippin story that is!!!! Read and thoroughly enjoyed it mind you though it IS a little terrifying”

“I particularly like your points about communication......I got an 'ology and can understand this”

“I was so intrigued by your story that three hours went by quickly and I completely missed dinner & hadn't even realised. It really has made me look at things in a different light”

“Amazing work! Unlike you, I am petrified to put my writing out there.. but the wee quote "feel the fear and do it anyway" comes to mind… Really need to thank you .. you have inspired me…”

“After reading you stories I have completely refocused and set a goal for the first time in a long time.. I feel very confident and I feel very alive…”

“I feel really fortunate and grateful to have read some of your stories. They touched and enhanced my life, thank you”

“I've just read your stories and it made me realise I need to do a lot more work on mine”

“I am naturally drawn to your writing”

“You are so much like Peter Green and John Martyn with your lyrical writing ... may you never lay your head down without a hand to hold…”

“Interesting website. I feel I know a little of what you write about”

“Your writing has to be the best I have read in a while. There is so much thought goes into to it and I admire someone who has a bit of depth and the ability to communicate their feelings on life. Do you write from experience or imagination?”

“I read some of your stories a couple of times...intrigued and possibly tad impressed with the content. Maybe I should think more”

“You seem to be a man who can explain his thoughts. Dont think most people wouldnt know where to begin. I like your art.”

“The Time Machine is one of my favourites books. You write a bit like H G Wells with your predictions about the world. It would be a frightening thought if these things could happen.”

33

“Yes I too believe cats have a telepathic capability.a sixth sense some might say. If yime is a human construction why are there are measurements in nature connected with the moons cycles .the tide.the seasons.bird migration and reproduction of many species which are governed by a natural rhythm.I wrote poem about time a while back that it isnt a real thing as we percieveon a clock. It can be seen on someones face as wrinkles.Even two people can be hdentical age but have more wrinkles than another.”

“Thats very interesting yes our brain cells die and if our memories were stored there they would be lost if that were the case.so memories would have to be stored elsewhere fascinating.The sixth sense yes ive heard of the morphic field. Theres certalnly more to our existance than just been made of flesh and blood.”

“I've just read your ghost story about the graveyard and it made me realise I need to do a lot more work on my own technique”

“You write like the shining.......I once re enacted the here's Johnny scene at work with disastrous results but I thought it was funny”

"Interesting and varied writing and you've been very candid which is admirable. What prompted you to write in this way?"

"Omg that's some story lol but very interesting"

“I have read your stories in depth, you appear to be very versatile in your creativity, with your pictures too”

“Must congratulate you on your stories. You are an interesting man. I'm being truthful”

“Gosh that's a lot of plates to be spinning! I can't imagine how you find the time!”

“Walking the west highland way last year was a great experience for me and I interested in your psychology”

“Shouldn’t you be writing about your own Utopia?”

“Wow your writing is all a bit high-brow! How do you fit all that in a day? Where do you exhibit your paintings?”

“Your writing is so interesting and would love to find out more about the subjects you study”

“Now that story was impressive!”

“I have a great interest in your information as I work in medical research. How do you know that for sure?”

"I had to look up dystopia. My daughter said it is about the Hunger Games. Is this true?"

“Good grief....terrifying forces...control...nightmares...? What is this all about?”

“Your writing reveals the truth of reality and it's not very pretty.”

“Your work is interesting. I will have to read about your dystopia and decide whether I am part of the problem or the solution. I suspect I am the enemy within the conspiracy.”

“Tremendous writing! You obviously have a gift. I envy writers and how they use language to express their thoughts, ideas and feelings. I do this through a different creative form. I love to paint and draw, but know my limitations... and being commercially successful is not one of them. Nonetheless, I know I have a talent.”

“When I read your stories I get scared but find myself laughing!”

“You are very gifted and talented. I pale in your shadow.”

34

“You are a man who knows your own mind! Your writing made me smile...”

“The most entertaining writing I’ve ever read! A man with attitude...it would be great to have a chat with you about all these things...”

"What a lovely, warm style of writing you have"

“Hey that was the best novel ive read in ages. there isnt as many birds in the garden as there used to be, there must be a reason for this?”

"How long did it take to write your story about the Hooded Figure! Impressive I must say!"

“I liked your stories and v interested too that your into philosophy. I'm currently reading Orison Swett Marden. One of My fave's Ralph Waldo Emerson. Interesting too that your into Maths. What do you think about the solution to Fermat’s last Theorem?”

(1100) "Well, that was some story....You seem to have led an interesting life."

“Very interesting writing. I am inclined to believe your simple explanations”

“I do like your writing. So much of what you say resonates with me!”

“I love your intelligent writing. It connects with me”

“Hi reading your stories, it seems that we have the same mindset, I would you be interested in reading more”

“Your psychology course is so fascinating.”

“Tell me some more about the replication technology”

“Your work on the chemical makeup of stones is really interesting.”

“Wow! Had to look up some of those terms. You cover an interesting range of topics - looking forward to finding out more.”

“I am a professional librarian and have worked full time as such for 30 years. Your stories scare the hell out of me. Never read anything like it.”

“I like your paintings, they remind me of Matisse, Percy Kelly and Fred Williams.”

“Some people seem to have the knack of writing, but not me. Your stories are interesting. Maybe I need to listen more to Radio 4 plays. Would you like to read mine and tell me what you think?”

“I used to live in Edinburgh and so I believe you about the secret underground base and the island. Your are very creative”

“I like camping and I love sleeping outdoors, but now that I’ve read your stories about people disappearing in Wales I would be terrified to leave myself isolated and vulnerable”.

“Your stream-of-consciousness writing is overwhelming.”

“You are like a combination of Bryson and Dawkins. Amazing how you managed to craft John Martyn songs into the narrative.”

“I work as a journalist and once interviewed Richard Dawkins ....and I think what you say about evolution is right”

“I really like your stories, especially the ones about philosophy and psychology, and I have read some Dawkins.”

35

“I don't know a lot about the things you write about myself but I do enjoy intelligent writing once in a while. I am always interested to learn new things.”

“Your writing intrigued me by your range of subjects and jobs and just the bravery of it (in a good way). Going from philosophy and Kasparov to cats and Columbo is about as diverse as it gets :-) “

“Do you work for anyone other than the planet's citizens and their wellbeing?”

“The search for truth must keep you exceptionally busy.”

“Thank you for clueing me in to the truth. But I will still read the 'news' if that's ok. My eyes were pretty wide open to mainstream media as it goes”.

“I write occasional strategies and policies for Scottish Govt, Health Scotland etc but never fiction like you do. Be nice to try though...”

“Your point on news is correct of course but news isn't meant to be 'true', is it?”

"You frighten me with some of the things you reveal in your writing but you also make me laugh. You should be a stand up comedian."

“Wow! what a story, very impressed!.Wish I could write like that. You do have a great sense of humour and your stories make me laugh.”

“I laugh when I read your stories, even if you don't mean me to”

“Your writing excites me but they are far too intellectual for me maybe”

"As a lawyer I'm more aware of the power of language than most and what you are saying makes perfect sense"

“I am a professional Astrophysicist. Your points are fair about the introduction of the concepts of Dark Energy and Dark Matter merely to solve the otherwise unsolvable cosmological equations explaining the origins of our Universe as otherwise the numbers simply wouldn't add up. It is also true, like you say, that our Moon shouldn't be there and defies all scientific explanation, apart from “observational error.” I would appreciate that you don’t quote me on this however.”

“I did, really, enjoy reading your stories....thank you, for taking the time, to be honest, unique, and very fascinating (i wish to write but clearly, I need some tips !)”

“I looked at your site this evening and saw your photos and I read your stories with enormous interest. They were so full of meaning. I look forward to reading more.”

“I have read your stories. Do you think people are capable of thinking any more? Free thought seems to be extracted in the classroom at primary level and very few ever seem to regain the ability. We are so ready to toe the party line, swallow whatever rubbish is fed to us and not step outside the box for fear of becoming the next target. I agree with you 100% and this is one of the reasons I home educate.”

“Ah I see, so we are talking Monsanto, Rockafellar (sp) et all? Something everyone should be aware of really. My degree (following music) is in microbiology and biotechnology and the way the big US pharmas control what is and is not available is an absolute disgrace!”

36

“I agree that the school system is dumbing down our kids. They are taught a narrow curriculum and taught to pass exams not to gain knowledge or understanding like you say. I have had experience of most systems available in Edinburgh from Steiner (very scary in it's own right), LA secondary (pure indoctrination and cramming facts into empty vessels and GWC (best of a restricted bunch but not available to all by any means).”

“Yes! The very fact that I passed my university statistics exams with a score of 98% is proof in itself that exams are no indication of what you are capable of as a human being. I tried to give my eldest more in depth information on zoonosis in connection with xenoplasty and all I got thrown back at me was "don't need that to pass the exam" WTF?”

“Loved your writing and it made me laugh. I can see you have a sense of humour and I too love cats. Have you ever been to Bettyhill in Sutherland with your photograohy? Beaches to die for. I try and get there at least once and leave a bit of my soul there when I leave. I love thinking and am interested in philosophy and Columbo too.”

“I so enjoyed reading such an intelligent piece of writing. I cannot remember the last time that happened. “

“Thank you.. Last night I had the best sleep in months maybe because my little old brain was worn out after reading your story. Is it true? I feel as if my soul has been cleansed. Does that make sense to you?

“Love it. Your short story gave me goosepimples all over as it touched me so much. Thanks for sharing it. Would like to read more ...”

“I've never known writing like this and I would like to know more.”

“You are a very intriguing man. That story was really frightening...”

“Your writing is interesting, thought-provoking and articulate.”

“I very much enjoyed reading your work and am delighted to inform you that you have been shortlisted for the position. When can we meet up?”

“The photo it's very nice indeed. I love your comprehensive written works, really nice to read.”

“I’d like to say your photographs are AMAZING. Photography's where I'm going next with things, it'll be a process but gotta start somewhere. Your writing also stands out frfomm most others, you're clearly an emotionally articulate soul with a great quirky sense of humour”

“You are a thinker, your stories are not easy reads they frighten me.”

“Your stories are amazing! Would you like me to translate them into German because I know a lot of people who would be interested in them here in Bayern?”

“Your writing has struck a chord with me. I can relate to many things that you write about Canada.”

“Another masterpiece. I really do like your style of writing - it is a combination of so much.....description. Looking behind the scenes. Feelings. Remarkable power of observation to notice all those little things that make a thought or a moment complete. Whoever may read your stories, will feel what you felt in this moment.”

37

“How did you get out of the water ? And how could you save the SD card ? Where did the camera go ?
And did you get the desired photo of the swans ? You were on the way to approach them when the ice gave way under your feet...”

“Hmmmm...so many fortunate coincidences .... nearly unbelievable ....either you are a very "lucky" or a good writer .... but in both cases, the result is very appealing / emotive .... “

“Your ghost stories are mysterious. The last time I felt so mysterious was when I was in Chipping Campden and walked down the Dover hill in the darkness with a 1000 people with torches in our hands, and we gathered down in the village where the Scottish bagpipes played. Whenever I go there, it gives me goosepimples all over, I feel hundreds of years back and it's like being caught in a dream, not in reality. Every time. All the torches, the flames, the songs full of feelings. These are opportunities where thoughts are open and wide. Everything feels magical. And you set your thoughts free and you're open to all that comes.”

“When I read your stories it gives me a good feeling about you, as you seem to understand. I think in the same direction.”

“I teach business studies to 6th formers and have been doing for 20 years but I have learned more from you in 15 minutes than I could teach my pupils in a whole term. You are so clever and funny. I would love you to take my class one day. I will be laughing all day at some of the things you’ve been saying. Can I use all the stuff you told me in my class?”

"I had to smile when I read that your salesman stories and how you applied the psychology of persuasion and deal-making which you didn't learn at school / academia, but only in real life. I am a Taurus and have a keen interest in photography, graphic design, anything that's artistic. Are you a Taurus? Taurus just love things that have to do with shapes, colours, and especially enjoy it if it all matches together perfectly and all hat leads u to other topics that are closely related to arts. Your art makes my thoughts fly. Once I was in he US. I had been in a state of panic for weeks and I was trying to find a solution for my problem. I had been thinking about it so much, it nearly drove me up the walls with no solution in sight. Then, one evening, I found this peaceful place up on a high hill, with the view over the country, the little village below my feet. And suddenly - it was a feeling like coming home. I just sat there and let my feelings, my thoughts flow, the colours of the sky changed, and the landscape changed with it. It was a permanent change indside me and I noticed how this big ball of panic suddenly started to dissolve. And suddenly - it made "bing!" in my brain, and the solution to my problem stood in front of me, as if it always had been there, and I only had not seen it I felt so - happy, so relieved. I will never forget that. And your art it is the same - it leads you to another world, and sometimes we need to stop and just follow. "

“Thank you for making me laugh so much. You are so funny. In a nice way. You should write material for Little Britian.”

“I'm exhausted after reading your explanation of the geo-political influences on us ;-) But I had a quick chat with Dad (now 82) and he was fascinated with your 'input.' You have friends in Ayrshire ;-)” PS...Dad is a Ham Radio man. Member of Ayrshire club. He has another buddy of same ilk as you in that club. Fascinated...”

38

“It took a whole day, but I have now been vetted and approved as a Prospective Parliamentary Candidate. However, after reading your works, I now realise there is much I do not know and it appears that a lot of people are suffering from cognitive dissonance. I am a language and linguistics professor and would like to meet you to discuss what can be done about this as I teach people who have problems with communication.”

“Read your book very interesting I am a white witch and I have a cat”

“I read your ghost story over 2 cups of coffee lol.. Actually I think it's the best I've read, I just wish I could write something half as interesting.”

“Love your writing. I’ve travelled a fair bit of Scotland and the west coast is my favourite part. i spend my days staying in the East which is different More sea cliffs and beaches still pretty but not as hauntingly beautiful as the West side like your descreiptions.”

“Your stories have drawn me into another dimension of thought about the energy associated with Things.”

“I like your wording I am Journalist in spain, im working on mass media and now im also studing psychology im a writter too. im working on tv and magazines..magazines as freelance and at the begining, before be working in TV i was working in Procter Gamble and DIAGEO. I love marketing. tv is a "SHIT" honestly... i dont enjoy making programmes most of the time. I was very young and i had the dream of tv by ignorance (do you understand this expression, maybe its too much Spanish, lol once inside of TV you now exactly how is this world working and is not as magic as it seems outside do you know what i mean? im totally in love of your wording all very charming do you have a lost castle in Scotland? (tell me yes) you can lie me if you wish but tell me yes!! “

“You have written some amazing stuff on Jane temples were simply amazing.”

“Wow, amazing stories and very interesting. I would like to know more. “

“I am very alike you in your thoughts and I hold the same truths. I am also concerned about the fluoride into there pineal glands the food chain is also responsible for much of this i try and eat as organic as i can and drink plenty of water as a way of filtering out the toxins and i use fluoride free toothpaste made from aloe vera instead i also avoid overuse of the mobile which can also be a calcifier of the same gland Meditation helps to tune the mind and i keep the television to a minimum”

“Your photos are gorgeous - I like what you have to say in your writing too”

“I like your cat stories and I love your pics they look so tranquil and beautiful”

“I see from your stories that one of your interests is in the archaeology of historical landmarks. It is fascinating that the pyramids at Giza actually line up with the Stone circle of Stonehenge and not just those like you say but many others. In fact they form a grid like pattern over the whole Earth.”

“I would agree entirely on your thoughts on the Sumerian race and the Annunaki? Do you really believe that the wisdom was lost when the Library of Alexandria was burnt down? Where is it kept now? Those huge sphere like shapes in the jungle are baffling and the mystery deepens as to what there purpose was but some of them have also been found in Bosnia similar to the ones found in Costa Rica. Be interested in your thoughts on this.”

“Your stories are like music to my ears I have more or less said the same words myself many times. Enriching.”

“I like your idea that the structures built in these energy centres are so precise that they are linked to the natural resonance frequency of the earth and tuned to the hi energy belt that is in between the stratosphere and ionosphere. Tesla know these structures pick up, amplify and direct very high microwave energy at fantastic power levels throughout the grid, fed by the endless power from natural earth ! And they were undoubtably never created with simple tools. I am a former electronics engineer and your explanations make perfect sense. The give away is the recent discovery of gravitational nuclear weak force, which if amplified by as yet an unknown energy ( to us certainly but NOT the builders of these structures ) would render any object as weightless by cancelling out the force and so could be moved and shaped with ease which could verify the antigravity diamond-shape aeroplanes you talk about”

39

“I also believe that Cosmology and ancient history are entwined together. There are so many mysteries in this world that keep those questions alive, it's the labellers that simply relate to what suits the puzzle that stops more people like yourself investigating and seeking truth behind our being in this universe and ridicules those that logically use their mind and thirst for knowledge to complete the jigsaw of who we are and why are we here. I’m impressed by the precision of your writing. You should do a lecture tour”

“Wow. .. gold star for your writing! Very honest and genuine words.”

“Your writing is almost too good to be true. I like!”

(1000) “I love your cat stories! I rescued a stray cat living in my garden, I was never a cat person until this littered ball of fur came into my life just three years ago. I'm such a cat convert now, I would never part with her.”

“That is correct what you say about the alpha theta and beta waves of the mind Ive been using them for years and they really do assist the pineal gland to remain strong There are also isochronic beats available which are also powerful to listen to with headphones”

“You are a deep philosopher and psychologist. Your writing makes me smile.”

“ you are a man who captures beauty with not only his eyes...”

“I am quite touched by the honesty in your writing... you are rather exquisite in the way you put things down.”

“You inspire me to get back into my writing soon - writing can be very therapeutic and liberating don't you think!”

“I yearn to be a published writer - have you had any of your work published?”

“I remember a few years ago i turned into the woods where i live i noticed a pearlescent cloud it was as if it was moving with light inside of it I stopped the car and was mesmerised with it and a neighbour of mine drew up in his car and watched it with me We were both mystified as to what it was”

“I'd like to say your writing intrigues me as it has hidden depths and real understanding.... fantastic”

“you can see through the "mist" and can tell what is real”

“I agree when you say society has become so ruthless... people are so selfish and uncreative... everything is so much about money and all related to it... my senses are hybernating ... like polar bears...”

“Yes i agree there is a lot out there that defies logic and the moon is a base I'm positive of that so being hollow would make sense Again there is much we have yet to discover and seek out Making sense of the Whys is a wonderful starting point as it makes the muscle of the enquiring mind much more stronger. Thank you for writing down and sharing your ideas you are an interesting man and one i enjoy your work”

“ I find your writing exciting...”

“ you make words mean a lot”

“I follow your reasoning in The Gettier Problem, I am trying at least to follow Gandhi's words to 'Be the change that you want to see in the world'. I think a true spiritual, mental revolution starts from within each individual, one at a time.”

40

“I read you stuff and the mystery deepens and i often wonder if these beings exist within our solar system for another event that is yet to happen. One where we will be transported to another dimension on a higher plane, some say this event is drawing us deeper into space towards a black hole where we will be sucked up and then what ? Do it all over again ? Who knows however i do believe we are one of the planets orbiting the Sun are not being pulled by the Sun; we are following the curved space-time deformation caused by the Sun. The reason the planets never fall into the Sun is because of the speed at which they are travelling.”

“I believe you and I could delve deep into the world you have dreamt of ...”

“I find what you say about Kubrick fascinating ...You've got my attention ....I need to know more”

“You have a very interesting collection of stories that you have collected in your travels. I have just finished read 'French Revolutions' by Tim Moore. Was a bit Stephen King fan in my youth. My favourite was 'The Stand'. “

“Totally agree about the moon there is scientific proof that the rocks on the moon are older than those found on the Earth suggesting it was here long before the earth existed “

“I'm fairly bullet proof in terms of these matters and nothing you have written has shocked me yet - I do agree caution is necessary however because of the enormity of your revelations.”

“your perceptive and you're right”

“Amazing what you say ive always wondered about the significance of the planets including the moon How they got there in the first instance? what is there significance of being there ? Do they provide us with an unknown energy system for instance ? Were they once inhabited and then ceased to be used due to the gases. If there is a life-force on there how do they sustain there life if there is a lack of oxygen ?. Gives one food for thought doesn't it and finally where do we fit into the equation of it all ?”

“I admire your writing style and I agree with you about the dangers social media” What was it Lennon said ‘The more unreal the world becomes the more real I feel'? If your illusions have been shattered. In some ways that's a positive step forward”

“you explain things so well you really seem to understand what your talking about you should be a teacher”

“I also think Mars is inhabited I don't have the photography skills to unmask the NASA photos like you do “

“You are so good at writing, aren´t you? You need to be a special type of person to write so sensitively, attractively and in such a talented way. I just love the alliteration, rolling assonancea and the dark, deep imagery of some of your sentences.”

“You are a very clever man, way beyond my comprehension....”

“Such a beautiful story, I wouldn't have pressed the shutter either.”

“Loving the Highland tales: you should compile a collection of them - perhaps you already have.”

“Your story - is that a local legend? It was a tad creepy.”

“I wonder if living in the Highlands helps to foster an imaginative, creative impulse or have you always been an 'alternative' thinker?”

“You write amazingly well...I´d love to have a drink with you...and laugh... I love to laugh...”

“Beautiful writings...so emotional.”

“The way you write denotes a highly educated person...I used to be a teacher of English for many years. Now I am a stained glass artist...your pictures are unique”

“Your words touch deep inside me making me dream of beauty, calm and warmth.”

“Through my tears you make me smile and I find myself singing when I read your words”

41

“Your words calm me. You speak a language full of knowledge...thank you”

“You certainly use the right words... It’s because you work in marketing, right? ha ha”

“What calibre was the gun? This could be important if I am to believe your interesting story”

“I speak five languages but you certainly have a gift with words... I have been to Edinborough, its beautiful. I live in Tenerife and do deep-sea diving each morning. How is it that you always uses the right word, like you can read my mind?”

“not very often I read someone so fine with words... and so interesting.”

“Secret frozen Lochs, swans and being trapped under ice, terrifying, but enveloped in scenic beauty. All so very fascinating. Your writing is too good to be true. It is like I am reading my own thoughts. How can that be? How do you do that? Is it collective consciousness?"

“I experienced an NDE after wrapping my car around a bus in 1998 and had a haematoma from the impact with the windscreen. When I was in the trauma I remember going through this surreal, whirling tunnel in my mind. It was how I imagine time travel, as I seemed to be travelling at the speed of light with all these bizarre visions, including dinosaurs and deserts. Suddenly, I came to with a jolt as a recognizable voice of someone on this side seemed to be shouting, 'Get back, get back, I'm not there!' over and over again. It was all very alarming to say the least.”

“Where can I get more of your stories? I'd love to read some more. I find them quite gripping.”

“I've only travelled through Scotland so I have no clue what it's like. Your pictures and stories make it seem magical and mysterious. Makes me want to really explore the country”

“When I read about your adventures I feel boring by comparison. I have work to do...nothing akin to yours...but work nonetheless. Maybe I need to look up at the stars more often”

“I fell into a deep ten-hour sleep after reading the Loch Garten story. Is this NLP hypnotism in the sentences?”

“You are seriously making me laugh with your witty stories! That's definitely a good thing. I'll smile all day now”

“Your stories certainly made me laugh out loud. I'm still smiling as I'm typing this feedback to you. “

“Your writing has me laughing, smiling and thinking wow this man really does have a sense of humour.”

“I'm intrigued by your story telling and would love to read more, you're definitely different and got me curious “

“Intelligent work - your writing is intriguing and I can't stop smiling at the underlying wit.”

“smiling smiling smiling at your witty words”

“It's. ...I can't find the words....to describe how scary that story is. It must have been terrifying, in a parallel line, I wonder what the outcome would have been!”

“Oh my freaking goodness.....you kept your cool in the graveyard where most would have fainted! More more.....what happened next?????”

"How long did they chase you for??? I almost have to ask...were you hallucinating. ..on some sort of drugs. It's just too scary"

“What a story!!! No wonder you feel so alive now....to experience and survive something that could have taken you away...it must have been terrifying....and how you made it all the way back...you must have a huge inner strength”

"I have also had a hair raising NDE I experienced. I am also fascinated by sychronicity and the collective uncosciousness and how humands unwittingly tap into ideas, thoughts, dreams that they don't necessarily claim ownership to. The source of all creativity, the oneness of us all intrigues me"

"What happened to those hippies who were living in the bunker??? Pray tell"

“You're funny!”

“Amazing! I now believe that people can shield who they really are when they are in 3D as you pointed out in the gettier problem.”

42

“I have a masters and am trying to regain my writing 'mojo' I hope to reach out to people in a meaningful way as you do. I'd love someone to read my book and think: 'YES, I've felt that; I've experienced that. Establishing that kind of close connection with someone would give me immense pleasure. I want fame and fortune. Any tips?”

“Your style of writing is like Paulo Coelho'd The Alchemist. Simple, but passionate and full of magic”

“Your reference to a superior race blocking our DNA way back when - is this your genuine perspective? If so, can I ask what inspired you to take this view i.e. is there any evidence for this? OK: sounds feasible to me. If you can recommend any reading for me that'd be great.”

“Your poems are beautiful, they make me aware of my own breathing, my heartbeat, my inner emotion. Those are beautiful beautiful thoughts David, I almost can't express it in words.....I wish I could.....I want to say more.”

“Hello Do you mind me contacting you ? Hope not. I love deep, intense thinking. I flew to Florence for three days on impulse recently and experienced a bout of Stendhal syndrome from all the beauty and art.”

“you have no idea what a lift you given me when I read your works, thank you”

“My mind goes on overdrive then it shuts down, perhaps then it's some kind of safeguard, but still scary sometimes! I can understand how Stephen King wrote such amazing books...his mind must be far reaching too. Perhaps I should be writing!!!”

“The vibrational aspects sounds fascinating - I hope you expand on this when you have time”

“I'd love to read more of your thoughts on this. I am too intrigued by the intangible aspects of life, beyond our five sense understanding of the world”

“Hey, I am interested in your concept: vibrational frequencies. This is an area of research for me, and something that can be felt and experienced, as well as researched. As Einstein said: 'Everything in life is vibration'. It is an intriguing area and there are many subtleties surrounding vibration and how we perceive and experience this as humans.”

“Boom!!! How interesting! Perhaps you could share more of your writing some time as this is interesting. Do you think there is a reason why and how the DNA has been limited? Do you explore this scientifically or spiritually, or both?”

“From your writing you're obviously a man of many talents with an extraordinary mind.”

“My head is busy, my thoughts never stop....so what is it that causes a mind to run riot. I couldnt speak my mind....it's too fast, too varied and too diverse to be able to talk what I'm thinking quick enough. I've always thought that I'm abnormal as most people don't seem to have this. Does that make sense?”

“WOW! I wasn't expecting that! You have totally blown my mind now! Are you being serious.”

“Wow - that is quite a spine chilling story and I am duly impressed with your survival instincts. So you literally cut your way out of your clothes: sounds like a life changing experience. Do you ever have nightmares or flashbacks? I can imagine the terror and panic that you must have felt”

“I believe that your are right in thinking most people, (including myself unfortunately) are currently operating on a fairly low vibrational frequency which is encouraged and reinforced by many aspects of our politics, culture, history and society and entertainment. Many negative aspects of life are being consistently and relentlessly perpetuated, making it challenging to mentally liberate completely”

“Like your stories, I run my own tuition agency and write novellas - hoping for worldwide success!! And are you of Scottish descent? Is Scotland full of ghosts?”

“Your stories are so chilling I don't think I can make it through the night...your stories are certainly not bedtime sweetdream stories would love to hear more do I have to go out and find your books”

“Your near death experience stories are something of nightmares...I am shaking”

“You sound like your in the Matrix. ...I love that movie! You seem to be able to explain it all, perhaps your books should be made into movies!”

“Tell me of your ghosts David, I've seen many...“

43

“I understand the not asleep and not quite awake...thats the right place to be to see what normally would not be there. I have met people I have never met before...but can tell them things that I could never know just like you say”

“Have you ever had a telepathic link to the person who stands in front of you...like telikenesis (even though nothing is being touched) rather than some ghostly link?”

“I have read you stuff and would love to challenge your thought process?”

“Your words make me curious, just wondering what makes you tick”

“what's outside your window??? An underground bunker....why???”

“your stories scare me a little....but your books are unputdownable!!!”

(900) “...I grew up in age of nuclear fear....now its chemical warfare and worse. Scary... “

“does the New Frontier Surviver have internet in that bunker?”

“your stories make me smile on the way to work”

“I look forward to the day that my 9-5 job is a thing of the past and I can spend my time writing like you do. I do some accountacy / admin / advertising etc. Bit of a workaholic....but all for an end game....and then every day can be a weekend for me. Your writing shows lots of things, which do you prefer? You intrigue me.”

“Hahahaha brilliant....great writing David :0) you describe lovely traits and use nice words”

“I can see from your background you've had a varied and interesting career....been a bit like that myself, even down to the printing and engineering, how bizarre. I have an analytical mind like you and read Andy McNab”

“Hi David, have read your story and just thought I would say hello. What wonderful illustrations.

“I get and feel the journey, I suggest everyone deserves and should set time in there life where they do exactly that, break away from technology, greed, noise, and connect with nature, returning to the roots we were originally designed to be part off. When the hell did it all get so mad in the times we now live, my eyes have seen much, my ears heard much, and my heart felt much. But I reckon I still have to learn much.”

“Hi, well that is some story, you've certainly laid yourself bare!”

“Can i ask how you get the photos to look like that? Did you go to tart school?”

“Wow wow wow...
your story has blown me away.....
such a refreshing thing to be able to read an informative, honest, genuine article... loads of things in there interest me”

“Hi Dave, I have to hold my hat up to you...... great story, probably the best on Story-Time.”

“I read your story which I found really interesting and could relate to a lot of what you said especially about life in general and online communication in particular. You are obviously a very thoughtful person.”

“Your writing is interesting and certainly resonates with me.”

“I note you like fine art. I visited the Botin gallery last week but im not sure i would call their display art of any sort. Whats your thoughts on this modern stuff they call 'art' .”

“What a lovely touching story”

“I'm currently studying classical realist art full-time, and juggling a job to boot lol! I will also admit to not reading all of your book - it's quite extensive! I guess I like the mystery of finding things out as I go”

44

“My word, you have one career and a half Dave, hearty congratulations! I read your book with great interest and there are many similarities to my own life ... Varied.”

“You mention spooky a lot of times, I'm a paranormal investigator and I love it. It also provides a source of income, which can never be sniffed at.”

“I was just reading your story (quite long and interesting). Lovely pictures. Is that the Harry Potter railway bridge?”

“One time, I sat on a bench at riverside of Spey and I said a poem...one of your photoes remind me for that “

“Excellent story....thanks for giving me hope”

David
Wow, thank you for those kind words. It would be very nice if many other flat earthers were like you, who actually has an open mind instead of just droning on about what other people have said without looking deeply into it. I am a university student and I work very hard to know and understand more about the world around me. That should be it for everyone. Well, in the end, God will have his way and people will finally try to trust each other.

“To be honest, I'm far from being a good person. I just have different philosophies and Christian backings that stop me from going berserk and makes me want to be a better person. But it's nice to see someone who at least knows how to be a scholar. Being a student, you see a lot of people who have no real zeal to improve either their knowledge or skill set and it actually made me feel bad because I lost a lot of hope for humanity and I felt like an oddity because of that.

“To be very honest, as a Nigerian, I hate politics with a passion so I don't necessarily follow political happenings anywhere on Earth, but I know that there will be a point where these corrupt individuals will be caught out and justice will reign. For now, I just want to do whatever I can to preserve our planet's future. Once EVERYONE is on board with that (instead of fighting all the time), I'm sure this world will be a better place. :-D”

“Cosmologists do say that they don't know where 96% of the universe is. That's why it's all called "dark", science speak for "we don't really know". The problem is that all our equations have worked for us, especially when looking at how things work and making predictions that would otherwise be impossible without them. Writing them all off because of some minor flaws will put EVERYTHING around us into a stand still, and here lies the problem. Unless we have new equations, models or ideas that can do a lot more than the current equations, we have to stick with the current or else, we will be left in another dark age. I'm not ready for that (neither are the cosmologists), not in my lifetime when technology is getting good.”

“Well, the thing about Climate Change is that the government imposing anything on us is just going to make the people want to rebel against it. What should happen is that people see should the effects their actions are having on society and everyone will step in line. I just hope we realise this stuff before it's too late.”

“The similarity comes from the fact that with our current technology and measuring apparatus, we cannot and may not be able to find dark matter and dark energy in the foreseeable future, the same way germs and cells went unnoticed until technology advanced to what could find them. Also, germs and cells, although largely unnoticed by the human eye (and most other senses), make up the most of the Earth's biosphere the same way it has been theorised that the 'dark' aspect of our universe makes up the most of it.”

“Also, yes the idea is a giant leap for mankind. But then, we're humans. We may end up figuring out an entire process necessary to break down that leap into tiny steps. After all, you can only start a journey of a thousand miles if you take a step. ;-)”

“By the way, since "dark matter" and "dark energy", though being tested, are largely still hypotheses that may need technology only our descendants can understand, it's not really necessary that you believe it 100%. Even I am taking this stuff with a grain of salt because what we call dark matter now, may be something else either COMPLETELY known or unknown to us all today.”

“Lastly, with that last statement, I kinda misspoke a bit. There are many cases where in order for a hypothesis to be made fact, the effect of that hypothesised phenomenon has to be noticed or at least identified and tested to be true. That was how the structure of Benzene was first experimentally proven and what lead to the rise of Quantum Mechanics (Please tell me you at least trust science with Quantum Mechanics). Relating with the Coriolis force and spin, yes and no. Imagine yourself on a merry-go-round, spinning at a certain rpm, and you had a ball with you. When you throw that ball towards the centre of the merry go round, it will appear to be moving to one side whereas it is actually just moving straight to the other side of the merry-go-round. This is what is called a fictitious or implied force where, the only reason why there is a force in the first place is due to the sensors in one frame of reference experiencing one thing that the sensors in the other frame of reference do not necessarily experience. I'm not the best of explainers so my explanations might be lacking in substance so please tell me where you need some more light shed on the topic.”

“You seem like a decent guy, sorry I lashed out at you earlier. The problem is that most tend to be hive-minded whack-jobs who have no real zeal to learn or understand the science that they deny, so sometimes when they start asking those daft questions of theirs', I get frustrated and end up lashing out. If you have anymore questions, please ask.”

45

“First, yes, I mean there was a reason why diseases were not easily treatable at the time before medicine actually took root. Most of our planet, maybe even our solar system is inhabited by microorganisms, but until the invention of the first microscope, which was just a telescope pointed downwards (fancy that!), germs, cells and other things invisible to the naked eye were unknown to even exist, let alone outnumber us. The same thing with infrared radiation. If William Herschel had not done the experiment to test the temperature of light rays from the sun, we won't have known about the ENTIRE spectrum of light we cannot see and that spectrum dominates more than 95% of the electromagnetic spectrum as a whole! These are just two things that took up most of our senses but were completely undetectable until the sufficient technology necessary to detect them were brought up.”

“Also, if you want to talk about fancy ideas, electromagnetism (mainly the theory that electricity and magnetism are two sides of the same coin) itself was a fancy idea made up by Michael Faraday himself. It took James Clerk Maxwell, the same atomic theory that I mentioned in the previous reply and some particle physics to prove Faraday right. Also, the Sun's composition was always a fancy idea until Josef Fraunhoffer came on the scene and showed how you can use light to find out the composition of the Sun. August Kekule got his ideas of the shape of Benzene from a dream for God's sake! “

Dark matter and Dark energy is something similar to all these things that I have mentioned, just on a large scale. They are even called "Dark" because they do not interact in any way with light, which automatically makes it a misnomer. So why should it be treated differently from them? Try not to cherry pick anything if you want to answer because I'll start calling you out if I find a shred of dishonesty in your reply.”

“Lastly, noticing the effect of a substance is good enough to notice that substance. Again, if you want to argue that finding the effect isn't good enough then be my guest, but you need to understand that again, testing gravity has become so routine that WE the students are also doing the tests! One thing about Science and scientists is that we look for the UNKNOWN and not just stick with what we know! Because if we just stuck with what we knew, we won't go anywhere knowledge wise. Think about that!?”

I’ve just read your story and you seriously rock!”

Loved reading your story and your photos are brilliant. I love spooky houses and have lived in a haunted house and now enjoy going to paranormal nights spending time in haunted houses etc. I am very spiritual. Also love animals and hate animal cruelty of any kind. It upsets me so much I can't even bear to read about it as it keeps me awake at night. I see you live in Scotland. Beautiful.

“I’m sure you must know it. These are photographs from someone who knows how to take them.”

“Loving your pics. See you like visiting Highland, we have incredible scenery!”

“many emotions pass my heart while reading you story ...mostly sorrow...:)

“your story is so refreshing. The light in North Scotland is stunning and your pics almost look like fine art. Beautiful. “

“Can I tell you something from my mind, please? I think I like your person as you have a great sense of perception for life....oh I wish I was sitting near you now as I say this to you and watch your eyes closely...!. I mean I am beginning to care for you and my thoughts roaming towards your direction with a feeling of love around me and am falling for you. I want to be more than a friend and get close to you as close could be... I will be waiting for you ..”

“Your artwork is absolutely stunning David it certainly has the wow factor”

“That is quite a tease, I love when Im left with my own imagination, was that the End!”

“Love it but I need more! A lot more!”

“OMG. That would fit into any era, and especially now, have to say I really like your work, where do you publish, magazines or other media's? .”

I would have thought some magazines would carry these on a regular basis, I only say this as I worked in sales for D C Thomson selling advertising but I would read their other publications and these stories would fit, but they are your babies, and you are Boss!! Y

Very poinent for now with D Day landing ect being remembered all things associated are of interest to the public, gives an insight to what we weren't aware of. Y

You have a cracking talent enjoy it but I believe you could really take it a looong way, reach more of the public x

46

“Well I think you're a natural writer, I expect studying psychology must put things into perspective. I tend to write as I feel, if there is no natural flow I find it really difficult”

“I enjoyed your writings, I'm with you 100% on your ideas...but work destroys it for me...you describe the sounds, the sky, the light from the moon and the dark from the stars...I keenly await auroras in winter. What’s going to happen at the solstice at the lochan?”

“good writing wish i could put a bit more effort into mine”

“Thanks to you I'm now learning how to control my unconscious mind at the moment it's totally fascinating I love it ... Really wakening up now more than before.”

“Made a change reading something interesting”

“Enjoyed reading your stories - I can certainly relate to many of the sentiments - you have some lovely photos too :)"

“Your writing is smashing, original and honest. You certainly know what you think. Cats are my favourite also and I am loving your cat stories. I have a cat - she has polydactyl paws (original Cravendale Cat).”

“...you made me laugh on a Sat morning.”

“You are a beautiful writer David”

“You're a fantastic teacher I love to learn.”

“You're are a real romantic, the way you write in rhythm and you're knowledge is so attractive”

“you are an articulate man that knows very well what you think...how amazing!”

“I just wanted to say I really enjoyed reading your article on David Hume. It was in-depth, witty and refreshing.”

“I've read your very interesting stories. They are so delicately and sensitively written. It is quite rare to experience something like this in today’s world. Thank you so much.”

"You sound like a very interesting person ..a thinker..I like thinkers."

"I found your writing very beautiful and honest ... I would like to know more about your adventures."

"Your photographs and stories have got me singing in the supermarket"

"I wish that I had time to write like you. My writing energy is all saved for work"

"Love your mini story.....yes I read all the way to the end! It was the cat that made me read even further...."

“Your stories got me feeling happy. you got me very thoughtful”

“that story made me cry in a happy way”

47

“nice lines”

“Nice. Very nice. I think that that is right up there with the best descriptive phrase money can buy and language has to offer.”

“can you please send me a signed copy of your book, or where can I buy it?”

“...gony tell me how you got from being homeless to where you are now ?”

“these are nice lines, most interesting. I appreciate”

“Please give me your take on Richard Dawkins, what has he got right about evolutionary processes and what wrong? I'd be interested to know what you think. I have a degree in Mathematics and Philosophy and so I have a brain”

“I get this lovely sense of warmth from your stories. Very engaging. It is always a pleasure to read them.”

“Thank you for your help with my writing. It was a great compliment from one so accomplished”

“I have no idea how you do it, but you put a smile on my face every time when I read one of your stories.”

“great story David really enjoyed it”

“Very good story David.....dont fancy staying in that place you describe....am very greedy for more stories.”

“Any chance of another wee tale of yours...”

“I have to be honest, the thing that most interests me is your writing on photography and more specifically that you photograph ghosts. It's a subject that holds a great deal of interest for me out of nothing more than curiosity. Your work shows intelligence and curiosity about the world. I bet that you are very rarely bored.”

“One of my qualifications is as a Copy Editor. It came about from my absolute love of reading and my dislike of spelling mistakes. But... please.....the Graveyard Shift...I want to know what happens!”

“beautifully written”

“Very interesting because i read through to the end”

"Any chance of the end of the graveyard story?"

"Lol!!! That is an excellent course title, and indeed, snappy!! Maybe I should sign up?! How much will it cost for the first module?"

"Your stories are so romantic"

“When I read your stories I feel I could almost have written ever word myself. The stories are fascinating, intriguing, and strangely enticing. It’s almost as if you can read my mind!”

“...i would love to find out more, and i love Scotland! You make it so interesting!”

“I am in Spain but when I read your words it is like I am hearing the voice of my twin. I am in shock. It feels really weird, like an electric shock. How do you do that? It is 19 degrees here but your ghost stories are chilling me. I’ve never known anything like it, ever.”

“Thank you for that enlightening article”

“Your stories are full of heart”

“Such a beautiful story. I love your writing, you feel as if you are there, so touching dont want the story to end... The books you write are they all short stories? I want to read more.”

"Again, I’m intrigued......so, when do I get to hear the story about the Secret Lochan?"

"You have a great story-telling skill. You should be proud!"

48

"The Distinguished Couple at Loch Garten......please tell me more..."

"I loved your story! Your so witty and such a good writer. Can I borrow you for my p7 class? Lol."

"I think you're storys are funny"

(800) “Amazing! The way you write your personality is a very warm honest man”

“Wow,! thanks for providing a great story. Looking forward hearing the next part.”

"You are one interesting man, but then again you already know that."

"good skills!"

"wow! i'm impressed you know and admire John Pilger. most folks haven't heard of him :)i've met him twice at 2 separate book readings in edinburgh. he is my hero :)"

“I'm curious about you saying you take photographs of ghosts, as well as write ghost stories. It's good to be open to the possibility of anything. I always think that the whole idea of being alive on a spinning planet is hard to believe so why should we question what else might be going on!”

“You're stories made me smile.”

“it's been a long train journey but your stories have brought some light into it and the odd smile, so for that I thank you”

“Your story about Columbo ITS PERFECT !!!!!!!! That was fantastic David you have a way with words ...how do you do that ? i love reading your stories ...Give Me More ...”

"Please tell me more. I’m very interested in Near Death Experiences and tell me about the Human Ice Cube story."

"OMG !!!!!!!!! Thats some story David you held my attention all the way through that I feel frozen just thinking about it."

"You are very good at story telling know wonder you write storys its brilliant ...want to know more and more."

"Your story cheered me up on a very busy day."

"You have definitely intrigued me with your writing."

"Your ghost story was good, hope i can sleep tonight after reading it."

"you are totally talented!"

"now you have me intrigued, i do spook quite easily but would like to read more. you have me hooked tell me more ! "

"looking forward to next instalment"

"I'm intrigued...... Nice to read something other than the metro on the bus this morning..."

"Thank you very enjoyable and I will look forward to the new instalment!"

"You appear to be a Vitruvian man with Lenardo's tendencies to polymathy!!"

"I love reading would love to be able to capture a moment, a scene, an event in those perfect words that create an image in your head so the reader would know exactly what you mean"

"If everyone saw the connections with each other then the world would be better."

"wow david, excellent stuff, I have always loved art, like the old master's and a chinese painter called H.Leung."

"i apply psychology to a lot of what i do, i am forever trying to find out what makes people tick. i believe that you dont have to walk in another mans shoes to empathise with him. I love art. i would love to read more of yur storys"

"What an interesting article! I’m always interested in finding out the technical side of things too. I am trained as a sales person"

49

"Never really understood Existentialism but you’ve made it very clear to me, thank you. I like reading the words in philosophy but then when you close the book I dislike thinking well what was that about and not having a clue!"

"You certainly have cheered me up with your story. Very funny!"

"you are a very gifted person. I really am impressed..."

"...you get me hooked and then leave me hanging!"

"Gripping stuff. Thank you. I am shortly about to head off to a remote house alone. Hope the next part is not too scary."

"Thanks for that. That brought an extra chill to my Sunday morning"

"What an interesting article! I love learning. I have a degree in Psychology and am fascinated with human behaviour. I have also studied Computer studies and, more recently English literature and Creative Writing. I also love Art and have a few large oils I've collected. I write short stories - lit and some detective/ thrillers. Just finished my first novel but it needs a lot of redrafting!"

"Could read you all day!"

"Everything you write makes me want to know more and more."

“You must have been in shock, I would have been terrified”

“There is nowhere more spooky than the Oa Peninisual on the island of Islay and so I believe your story. Unexplained events took place when we visited the Oa in the evening. Being a dyed-in-the-wool sceptic, I was shaken to the core.”

“You have a way with words, almost like a romantic poet”

“You seem to be in tune with my own thoughts. Quite uncanny”

“Your stories make me feel happy”

“You're too spooky for me. The supernatural scares me and I'd rather not know.”

“Reading your stories is like letting a ghost into my front room... Chilling."

“Your writing is so peaceful…”

“…ah you made my day dear .. I can sleep peacefully now J”

“Hope to read a complete work of yours soon... as can buy it f you send me the details”

“Your Graveyard Shift is gripping. You know what ... my father is a writer and he wrote a book on his real life experiences with ghosts and angels. I have written a novel as well... it should be published soon.”

“This may all come across as a bit batty, but, I truly don't know how to respond to everything I just read. I only know I felt quite emotional after reading it and that must mean something even if I don't know what that is. I just knew I wanted to reach out.”

“I like that you're a cat man. I've always taken rescue cats and tend to go for the ones that no one else wants, whether it's because they're elderly, have something "wrong” " P.S. I think there might be something quite special about you. "

"I like that your interested in spooky stuff. I like that myself. Did you take all the photos on your site? They are stunning."

"Well your obviously very good. Love the picture of the castle. Would love to see some more of your spooky pictures."

"I have 3 videos of my youngest grandson with loads of orbs flying about. On the last video the orbs were flying horizontal towards him. Really strange. At first I thought it might be dust but in first video you can see me banging the couch to see if it was dust but it wasn’t."

"I have spent six months in a tent in Mexico. Slightly scarier than Scotland at times but better weather! That was a wee while ago though and now limit my outdoor adventures to my camper van. Have upgraded! "

50

I love your photographic work. I see we have a love of Scottish beauty. One of my favs being Achmelvich. .. magical place at any time though feel may get spoilt a little by the North 500.

"I love your photographic work. I see we have a love of Scottish beauty. One of my favs being Achmelvich. .. magical place at any time though feel may get spoilt a little by the North 500. Eilean Donan pretty neat also .. do you ever exhibit your work? I thought you might have as the Achmelvich one is amazing .. hope you don't mind i"ve screenshot it for a screensaver. . Cheeky I know but it is fab."

“What do you mean, since before humans, what do you believe them to be, are you talking about aliens?”

“I do have to say that your writing is very intimidating (for me anyway), and makes me feel rather stupid and extremely boring in every way :( “

“You are funny...but in a good way :) “

“Omg by the time I read ur story my tea was stone cold but it made me laugh in particular the part about the scones”

“I made it to the end of your article - do I get a prize? :-). I liked your sense of humour.”

“I loved your photos and your art work. I'm afraid I don't have an artistic bone in my body but I sometimes take a good photo”

“Your photo's are beautiful..... I am very truthful. they are a work of art…”

“I love Scotland; I visit close friends near Edinburgh quite a lot. You're lucky to live there. :-) magnificent scenery shots “

“Loving the story about the six cats ! I think you must be my alter ego! I think I love cats more than humans actually and I would fill my home with them if I could , I think I was a cat in a previous life!”

“Your very talented then David. I love taking photo's wish I was as good as you”

“you really make me laugh... are you like this in real life?”

“Your a very funny person”

“You use very big words..making me feel pretty dumb lol”

“Hi i think after reading your story which was full on but interesting i wish i could write something as good as that “

“I can relate to much of your story”

“I am quite taken by your photography! I also have a recent photo of Eileen Donan Castle but it certainly isn't a patch on yours! I was fortunate enough to have a trip up to Skye with work a few weeks ago and the scenery was stunning. I must admit, we did have a few photo stops” Your story certainly intrigued me!”

“Lol your story make me laugh so much...thanks for cheering me up.”

“David, You have so many interesting ideas - where do I start. “

“My work is not as exciting - I am a Project Manager/Managing Consultant in London, - very boring compared to your 'Art' Scene. “

“what a load of crap you spout! luckily it makes me laugh!”

"You make me want to pick up my paint brushes! I see Van Gogh, Jack Vettriano & the Pre-Raphaelites in your work not to mention the Impressionists. I like the fluidity & sensitivity."

"!You have interesting photos. Do you paint yourself? Did you paint any of your photos? I paint too. I'm making an art instigation for the botanic gardens. I'm making a tree from piano parts they have a certain stlye. They are really good. I paint potraits and aniMalaysia. Also landscapes. One of my paintings was used for a book cover"

"Hello David, your gift is truly wonderful. Such an unusual style. A multitask person ! It's a delight. Really liked the way you paint people."

"Wow! Your very talented. My daughter is aiming to go to Art School eventually. These paintings those that you've drawn? I feel they appeal as there's life and dance to them."

"Wow.. You are an interesting man.. I would love to read your work.. Mine is definitely not as interesting, but it pays the bills. You are one versatile and talented man!!! Those paintings are just stunning! "

"David the art work on your photos are amazing and you have lived a very colourful life so far I'm very impressed ."

"You should exhibit in London. I have never been to Scotland, feeling a shame as I have been living in the UK, England, for more than 25 years..."

"your pictures are awesome .. very talented!!! I paint too, and I also do it for family and friends, I can lose myself for days when I paint ,total escapism …but painting .... is the best ..only another painter can understand the grip it can have ...ive stayed up all night painting"

(700) "Wow! I am a little overwhelmed ! You are clearly very driven. Does one thing in all those things take presidence ? "

"Your work is incredible! I only got as far as A-level art, never had the patience to take it further"

"Stunning art what a visual delight Well you should be proud of your art, its quite amazing :-)"

"Oh my goodness, your pics are amazing you should show them off in a gallery.
I thought the girl with the auburn hair sitting in grass is amazing, And the house by water, love the light on it."

"David, your paintings are amazing. And you capture romance, respect and nurture so beautifully."

"I just love the energy your work has."

"Your creative workings are beautiful.
I love the atmosphere they create :-)
So you prefer.... people or landscapes???"

"hi! I like all your paintings...
how is to be an artist? I think you are a happy man,you do what your soul feel ..."

51

"Your work is really thought provoking as to the story you are very talented."

"Is this part of something longer? Each paragraph is a vignette in its own right"

"Whaou....très beau et aussi très belles photos!??"

"I am an artist. Going to have another look. Do you sell your work? They are good. Going to have another look. Do you sell your work? They are good."

"Really like your pictures .... clearly you are very talented. Just the truth....
Do you do commissions on your portraits? I'd love to get one done of my daughter and I (she's 8). I work for a global tech company..I've been with them now nearly 11 years. I'm kind of in sales. I'm a former academic..I lectured economics for 12 years before that. I work at home in Belfast the rest of the time. I do economic analysis on all the big deals...anaylse industry trends, do business cases, client meetings... It's a very interesting job. I have a PhD in economics :) I think we share an interest on philosophy and psychology...I do a lot of reading .. all non fiction, but especially in those areas. I'm reading Balthazar Gracian at the moment...just finished Marcus Aurelius meditations and reading Epictetus discourses as well at the mo...Thankfully I'm not faint hearted...You seem pretty accomplished yourself. IncredibleLike I said, I'm very impressed...knowing how much work and effort it takes to generate all those outputs....."

"your images are fabulous! I’m one of the irritants that takes pictures on my phone and thinks I’m a photographer!!
I do have an entry level dslr........must get it out. Lost my mojo after retiring from ten years abroad, when it was never far from my side! "

"your photos are amazing. I would love to be there at that point when they are taken..the sky is magical. I would love to see the northern lights. Are you a professional photographer? ...if I get a really good book I will read it from cover to cover but If it doesn't hook me in the first few pages, I will read the last page to gauge whether it's worth it! "

"Wow that's an amazing array of different subject matter, I can see why you don't have much time to paint anymore. You must do an amazing amount of reading, maybe your next career move is as a lawyer or psychiatrist? I have to confess I've only really become interested in psychology over the last few months, it's an amazing topic, what areas are you particularly interested in and studied at depth?. It has been an eye opener to find that there are just so many different personality types out there some are pleasant and harmless while others are very deceptive and manipulative and very hard to detect. It's amazing to think, and I really do believe that we are all a product of our childhood, and how we were brought up, of course a degree of it is down to our genes and nature, but primarily I think the events we experience in childhood determines our thinking and thought processes as adult."

"Wow, what an amazing talent, I love your style of painting, amazing, The painting of the cottage in the rainstorm can I have it please?,"

"That’s brilliant! I think it’s great that you just get in with it and write, no self doubt, just cracking on with it! I should take a leaf out of your book! How do you fit it all in? What happens next?! I’m gripped"

“You are a being of unconditional love and I love your frequency of who You are inside Thank You for your energy of knowing I’m pleased to meet with another soul of love within”

“your paintings are beautiful It is absolutely the truth you are too humble!”

“Hi I like your story I’m really interested in art I have a few nice local pictures. I was just at the art stalls at the west end today, some really nice interesting work. Just say it as I see it, your story was very witty and made me laugh”

“To me you totally capture the energy and passionate feeling between the couple's in the detail in there faces it speaks more than words ,just raw deep passion. “

“Your photo's of Scotland brought back memories. Went to Gairloch via Pitlochry and Inverness in May - absolutely stunning scenery.…”

“Hello, what an interesting and well written story! - makes me laugh so much. I am certainly intrigued.”

“Your paintings are amazing, very talented and boy you can't have write a story “

"Love your photos, quite the photographer”

“Really good! You certainly seemed to give a sense of yourself. I agree with your comments about people talking about what they do instead of what they think and feel. I'm sure a lot of people fall into that trap including me... I also agree with your comments about communicating and connecting with people…you definitely hit the nail on the head for me…”

“Those paintings are absolutely amazing wish I could paint like that. I like painting but no where near to that level lol”

“I am a drama teacher/actress. Being an actress it is very hard to have any kind of structure. I enjoy teaching drama, it's every actors dream to have regular work. And yes I believe you about Time, not that I know anything about how my brain actually works, but I never wear a watch”

“You are Elgin’s gain! Your paintings are beautiful, but my favourite, by far, is Knoydart. Wow your life is interesting”

52

“How are you finding this worm-hole?”

“Your work...can't really find an adjective that would do them justice…”

“Love yer taste in all things musical. Some excellent choices in there”

“Hey I love the drawings, so unique and tell their own story. I try to be a positive person. I am diversifying slightly and I am hoping to set up a business helping people who have gone bankrupt.”

“I love your pictures. I'm a pretty creative person but am useless at actual drawing or painting myself.”

“My friend is an art teacher and wow you’re better than her lol I’ve just looked at them again and they are so profound”

“I see you are interested in fine art and photography like me. Your photo's are beautiful. You have a good eye”

“I was drawn back to reading your story as it intrigued me and I found it very interesting and very funny indeed, especially about the cat and now rabbit being your best friend, and they get to live with you”

“I've read your story a few times and find it all a little overwhelming. The things you have done and experienced seem amazing. What happened in your life that made you take the decision to do all that stuff?”

“beautiful pictures and you are a really artist, my compliment !!! you really seem to be a very interesting person to know... it's really a pity you live a bit far from Madrid... yes...
You are Scottish, aren't you?, I come from Galicia in the North of Spain...you really do have a fantastic talent, and you are so resourceful, is there no end to your talents?”

“I have to say that it's a really rewarding and humbling experience taking in a stray cat, they're almost like a little gift as they get to choose you, it's more than just a food thing, cats are highly intelligent and I believe, and don't laugh, that they have a sixth sense and see what we don't see, they see things at a much deeper level than we think, almost like the ability to see into someone's soul, I think you must have a very kind heart. It's unbelievably sad that so many people adopt or buy an animal without seeing anything more than a latest accessory.”

“Are those your own pieces of art? They are absolutely gorgeous”

“Your photos are amazing, I've always fancied myself as a photographer! maybe get round to it one day”

“you are refreshing thank you for your detailed story you are a breath of fresh”

“wow your paintings are wonderful! I like painting in watercolour but haven't had chance to do any for a while! Are any of your pictures of people you have met?”

“Wonderful to see your creative photo's, they are amazing, very special and intriguing. Nice that you like cats, my favourite creatures - far cleverer than most people perceive them to be. Sounds like you have an interesting life”

“I am kinda glad its a photo and not a painting or I would be overly in awe of your talent! Are you a journalist? You sound like a very interesting man thats for sure. Your art work is really beautiful, i love your style. What medium do you work in?”

“I decided to do a drawing everyday in February, which I thought would be easy, but it has turned into a bit of a mission and really get me thinking about things. So the long and short of it I have just been in a quiet introverted mood. Like you I work every day, or nearly every day, either writing, painting or teaching and when not doing that looking after my animals”

53

“I say what I see. I used to run a contemporary art gallery back in 1995. And my Grandad was a professional artist for the Admiralty. He was Prince Phillips Royal appointed artist after the war. As a child it was a rare treat to be let into his studio. The smells of the oils and ointments and him regailing the nuances between ochre and biscuit still haunt me. Oops....got a bit lost in thought then. In fact he was a ghastly man. His edges only softened when he played the piano or in his studio. Mostly I was frightened stiff of him to be honest”

“When did you discover your love of painting?”

“you are lucky to have such a gift. I appreciate art and always try to collect a little piece from my travels”

“A truly impressive amount of thought seems to have gone into that!”

“Was just showing my art school daughter your art work. Meant to say she loved them she is also super critical, so a real compliment”

“I'm impressed with your art work. I love the picture of the couple in a tango embrace...I dance tango. Very nice indeed.”

“My family has been in the art business for many years. You have a lot of talent”

“I'm totally fascinated by your career choices - a lot of those are choices I would have made i.e. psychology, artistic stuff “

“Wonderful! Can't tell from my 'phone what medium they are in, but certainly recognise Glen Etive in Glencoe...?”

“love the artwork. I'm really into Art myself. Was checking out your music taste too. Love 80's funk soul. Very interesting career path too I have to say”

“Your prints are stunning. I had to look at them 3 times and still couldn't find a favourite. You are very talented.”

“Hi David absolutely adore your art work so life like I can't draw”

“Hi, I'm drawn to the man with the hat looking at the girl in the red dress. Does that give anything away about me on a sub conscious level ?! You have piqued my curiosity “

“I'm a big fan of the west coast and islands of Scotland. The mountains, the light, and I'm loving the trees at this time of year, as they're starting to move into autumn colour”

“I've never tried painting but I've been doing ceramics for a few years, mostly hand building forms, and I can't imagine life without it”

“Lovely image of the woodland shrine. I adore dappled woodland light and the presence that trees have. I also really liked the kestrel reference, in fact the references to the sacred qualities of things that should not be have intrusions.... hmmmm.... what would a psychologist make of that then? (I should know as I'm a psychologist!). Bath time now for me.”

“Hello David...i just want to say I've looked through your art work and you are a very talented artist...your work is amazing, so life like. What an amazing gift you have”

“I love your artwork, particularly the mood it creates with the use of the texture from what I am assuming is brushstrokes?”

“Your own paintings are amazing. They are fantastic!! you were obviously an A+++++ student in art!!!!”

54

“Well using both methods of photography and painting produces a wonderful effect :-)That and the fact that you are obviously very talented.”

“I am very much a visual person and I appreciate beautiful things. So many paintings appear static but yours come alive.”

“I'm always drawn to portraits, the woman in the black camisole top holding the glass of champagne draws you into the picture like your looking at her through a camera lens.”

“The couple with the man wearing the bowler hat and the woman in the red dress has intensity in their faces and the outfits makes me think that I'm watching them dance a Tango.”

“Is your art work on display anywhere? I have never had the opportunity to appreciate art work but your profile pictures are amazing. get them out there”

(600) “love your paintings I like paintings with people in them especially if you can feel emotion”

“that left me speechless I think for the first time in my life”

“Oh my word that's some story and yes I would certainly be staying away from graveyards at that time”

“When I read your story last night it made me think I should go today to the cemetery today . I haven't been for a while . I always get so emotional and at times it makes me melancholy ?? it's damp today so I think I may not go after all”

“can't stop looking at your paintings so forgive me”

“Now that is a camping expedition I would love. I enjoyed reading ...is it factual or imagined? Do you enjoy the solitude?”

“I love your imagination...you are a good story teller. Enjoying your work, please do carry on”

“Ok now stop this…I live alone and you’re freaking me out with the ghost stories!! F**k off! I’ll not sleep tonight”

“I have goosebumps .. thanks!!!”

“Oh my goodness you are obviously on this earth for good reason”

“I think I could listen to your stories all day long”

“I tend to read most nights and I would be quite happy if I could have one of your stories to read each night before going to bed”

“I'm sometimes struggling to tell when you are talking about yourself in a story lol. You have a lovely way of expressing yourself”

“I think you are the most spiritual person I have spoken with. And please don't think I'm mocking you. I'd bottle you and have a sip every morning”

“You live in Elgin city with species of every variety. I have an excuse living in a small town where most people live in the Bermuda Triangle i.e. The pub the bookies and the bank are in that said shape in the high street!”

“And please if you have the key to that cottage in your painting I'd love to rent it that's my idea of a holiday if I can take Bonnie my dug”

55

“Ah, don't give me all your stories at once lol. There's nothing worse than finishing a book only to realise that you need to wait at least a year for the author to publish another one.”

“I love your stories ...it is nice to observe intelligence and imagination in a man.”
“I have to say is there no end to your talent? You have an amazing eye for detail in the pictures you have created....…”

“You have an amazing talent. You have inspired me to write again.”

“Your work is fantastic! I got into Glasgow school of art when I was young and daft and opted to quit and go into fashion which I loved and kept art as a hobby. Now that the youngest kid has flown the nest I’m back at RGU Grays school of art.”

“Your work is amazing I only wish I was as artistic”

“Wow I love your paintings, I have paintings by Mark Spain which are similar, you have a real gift and looked through your paintings several times and each time saw something different in the picture!”

“I’ve got a friend who is a landscape photographer. The west coast of Scotland is absolutely beautiful- if only we could count on the weather ! always wanted to go to Fingals Cave, it’s off the Isle of Staffa. One of the things on my bucket list”

“You have piqued my interest. I was a sculptors muse for a long time - my creativity these days tends to be in fashioning my own individual style love putting colour together”

“I just had to send you a message saying how much I like your art. Those pics are absolutely mesmerizing / beautiful. Whereas, I am very much an amateur - currently week 4 of an oil painting class! I also love music too and we share many of your preferences. Funnily enough I also write - but for the education market..…”

“You are very talented indeed I would buy your work”

This may all come across as a bit batty, but, I truly don't know how to respond to everything I just read. I only know I felt quite emotional after reading it and that must mean something even if I don't know what that is. I just knew I wanted to reach out.”

“ you made my laugh. I started a good book yesterday and thought I stumbled on another but it was just your story I think you have all the bases covered and sound so good I'm sure you'll be off the self by now “

“What a beautiful story; you certainly stand out. A pleasure to look at it and to read.”

“Amazing your pictures they made me the most beautiful night watching them”

“What about the link to your book, I would love to read them.”

“Very beautiful, stunning pieces, you are truly talented and obviously very romantic, as it is very apparent in the pieces shown”

“Hi David I would just like to comment on how beautiful your paintings are especially the figures they look really romantic and I hope they are selling well. Well done you”

“ Love your arty stuff! “

56

“wow! what a talented man you are. so many interesting things to read in your work. very inspiring”

“ been reading your blurb - wow an articulate intelligent guy whose able to write with clarity and certainly keeps you interested and then questions to ask . Love the art of conversation .
Good read ! “

“Some things are so precious and unique because of how they affect us personally....so there's no need to capture these moments in film or written form and the fact they exist only in our memories are what make them truly precious to us. I find it quite a rare experience to meet someone who allows there mind freedom to appreciate the simple joys visible to us every day, if we are open to seeing them”

“am suitably impressed David. I like my alone time and believe we all need time to just be but I don't think I could last a month. The idea of being in a wee tent, listening to the rain beat down on it with a good book does sound bliss”

“You write beautifully like a author drafting out a craft of words on a page . Appreciated”

“Hi David, love your pictures. I am a bit of a Gustav Klimt fan myself.”

“Aah David, you are giving me goosebumps picturing this. I am sitting in a 185 year old cottage, where strange occurrences have been noted, thick fog outside and my senses are being heightened to a point I may struggle to sleep”

“Where was this , Drummuir? David you are a bit of an adventurer! I like that you are so confident to just abandon yourself to the experience but that's got to be difficult for your friends and family....they must feel such relief to hear from u after one of your exploits”

“Hope I can sleep and am not dreaming of the 'old man' in the graveyard”

“was checking out some of the artwork on your site. You have a real talent! I used to love art myself at school but haven't touched on it for years”

“ I can never come up with something so beautiful ...but I can admire and enjoy reading it”

“hi David, wow ur paintings are truely spectacular! i take it u have always been interested in art?- since this wasnt the first line of work u joined!”

“your pictures & art are outstanding. If you would like to talk further i would like that too.”

“I enjoyed reading your stories and like your range of artwork. Do you exhibit it anywhere? “

“ust to say that your writing and art make me cry very touching all that themes about love, like Vettriano, but style is different. some chance to see them”

“I loved reading your work. In summary I've been a graphic designer Now an A level arts teacher
Your paintings are beautiful.. they remind me a bit of jack vettriano”

57

“I think you sound really interesting and fun David”

“Are you famous?”

“Love your art, are you using oil based pastels?”

“Are you Scottish? I'm originally from Motherwell, was offered the chance to study fine art at Glasgow but parents said I needed a "proper job" so became a psychiatric nurse!!! Miss my art. My daughter studies Graphic Design in Ealing, so at least I get to enjoy it through her”

“I think it's part of our genetic make up. You feel art in your soul and they convey it however you can! Music, dance, painting.... I love my job actually and I get to be artistic and creative sometimes. I'm working with adults who have profound learning disabilities and behavioural problems so very satisfying.”

“Capturing emotions, whatever they are is such a skill.”

“what motivates you?”

“Fab artwork on your site by the way”

“I read your story....you certainly have had some awesome careers/jobs...I'm very jealous”

“You have a wonderful way with words... I think I may have dreamt about you once!”

“Your models have a common theme”

“I like the lighting and the way it falls”

“Thanks for sharing, have novel image of a shredded body walking around like a ghost, full of wavy shapes of invisible through and beyond the outline!”

“V good analysis David. I agree with all points. My mum loves to watch Columbo and Monte Albano and similar (ish) though I have not watched it myself. As you say, there is little point really and I am v focused in what I do as always seem to have a bit too much on the boil as it were! Also, to keep my mind clear, sharp and pure I am v careful about what I put in it so don't watch TV though I do watch the odd thing on iplayer and I am an avid film fan, set up a film club here which is v sweet and exclusive. Meditating cleans the mind and heart so I keep it simple. Helps yo be a caring world citizen and creative person I find. Last TV series I watched, and lived, was War and Peace 2016. Actually no, loved Pole dark too, for sone of the reasons you list plus cirnish coast, nice horses, country villages and sumptuous fabrics and patterns in fashion and decor. You might go out for a long cycle or take the cats out fir a walk, getting out is def a good idea!!”

“Hello David.. I'm wildlife photographer as hobby but just won inter-fife portrait photographer. sing in rock band, also paint,play guitar, alto sax and clarinet etc etc. as been out with camera today and am freezing now. “

“yes you belong to that enlightened elite for sure”

58

“Cycling trip sounds fantastic however at the same time almost makes me break out in a cold sweat! There are several reasons for this . . . 1 . I'm not confident cycling on busy roads. 2 traveling a lone I don't think I'd feel safe with no phone and 3 .. I am no good at assembling and re packing camping gear “

“I have been lucky enough to spend time in the Scottish wilderness. My grandparents used to live on an estate called Ardchatton Priory. Of course growing up, my cousins and siblings and I had no mobile phones. We ran wild through the hills with the horses, sometimes we took bikes, we ate from the orchards or fished. The rising moon signalled that it was time to head home and we knew the landscape like the back of our hands, even on a dark and cloudy night. That place and that time will remain in my heart forever. “

“You live in a beautiful part of the world, I see. I travel around as I work with museums across the country. As well as that I write music, currently for a Film Noir story/idea I have created called Dancing with a Deadly Stranger. I'm working artist,designer, photographer & musicians on this project. It's a bit of an obsession (in a good way, not crazy way). The Big Sleep / The Third Man / Touch of Evil / Out of the past / Blood Simple / Kiss Me Deadly / Sorry Wrong Number the Third Man is a feast for the eyes. I'm recording a new song at the moment called Un Jour Meilleur. Some of the musicians are in LA, vocals I do here, Somerset. The songs I am writing now are for the story: Dancing with a Deadly Stranger. I have an artist doing some story boards. Do you exhibit? Sell online? Your art would have a big audience I'm sure. I love photography as well. I guess being a fan of Film Noir gives that away:-) You are very interesting - your art and photography. I want to do easy on the ear music, accessible, melodic, tell a story.”

“You are the third person who has recently told me of the power of just being. Someone who works with me and a stranger on a train also talked of it. I've seen that light you mention. I wrote about it. This was a letter I wrote to my Dad after he passed away last year. Losing my dad was bittersweet of course, but it has brought many positive things into my life including turning on a tap to my music and creativity, which I started doing after 17 years.”

“I like it, a lot... I play around with watercolour,a little pop arty but I actually make a living out of it.. no idea why but they sell.... you David... could make a fortune!”

“The blonde girl in the wedding dress is amazing.. how do you get that effect?”

“I'd be very interested to know how you created them...some look pastels or adapted/vetted photos.....beautiful technique. I too was a Graphic Designer in a past life ho ho...in the good ol' days of 'lick and stick' as we called it...cowgum, spraymount and Letraset!! Sadly I have no been able to create artwork like yours on computer....do you use it for graphics at all?”

“you are very cultured and very interesting. Tell me the name of a book so that I can look it up? Interested in the ones about the human condition.”

“I unfortunately suffer from Anxiety, which is one of the reasons I wanted to learn about hypnotherapy. I've been to two workshops through Mindbody Breakthrough. I'm reading Treating Generalised Anxiety and Panic attacks..Wale Oladipo.. so I'm interested in your belief systems and how things affect them”

“Wow, very deep, yet very true.”

“More you can't leave it like that I want to know what the hooded man is talking about. Have you got the whole story in yr head about where this goes and how the age thing ties in does he enter into another dimension.”

“Ha ha ! ... are your books dirty ?!”

(500) “That's funny! as I've final exams in medical statistics on mid of June (don't ask me why I'm torturing myself this age especially since I already have a PhD ??). I noticed you have done a bit this that also! It's great to have courage to change the direction of your life if you are unhappy! So many people are just stuck in their lives because they are too scared to change or whatever.
Life is too short for unhappiness!”

59

“hey are all amazing. I'm truly in awe of your talent. Why the cottage?”

“You are a talented writer too it seems. Wonderful stuff.”

“Omg that is a story! True! Wow! I experienced a few things last year in some Scottish castles on my tour. I felt cold at times and faint in one room which surprised me. My coach driver was a priest however very spiritual and felt the same..Quite amazing if you are in tune to the spirit world.”

“That is lovely! You can tell you write well and view life in such a positive way, the only way.”

“Omg you have experienced stuff! That is amazing... I think I am at a bit of a transition in life, happy enough but I know there is great things to come.”

“I keep having to fight vagrants living in my stairwell”

“Are you like psychic or spiritual?”

“I have tarot cards - not used my abilities for awhile really but I've been like it since I was a child. I freaked my dad out a few times”

“Wow there is definitely something about alone space and time for self discovery. I always have done the most personal growth and change alone. Buddha sat under a tree, Jesus the wilderness. I'd love to go to macchu Peru it's meant to be amazing”

“I find I tend to prefer to be outside I can feel almost suffocated inside and feel like I have to get out. Particularly in crowds it can be intense with all the different energies. I've learned to shut it down more now but it took me along time to be able to do”

“I like your style. It's a breath of fresh air”

“I must say you are definitely intriguing”

“you have captured my attention in a nice way”

“very talented man. You seem too good to be true.”

“I love your art it's romantic, quite similar to Jack Valentino with couples etc..... You have your own style”

“You seem to have a really unique perspective on life. Maybe that helps you create such beautiful work.”

“Wow! You sound like a very determined person. “

“Pictures are amazing ,show me how to do that enhancement please,”

“some of your pictures on your profile paintings? They're so good I thought they had to be photographs that you'd worked on graphically. You're so talented !

“your work is fantastic, did you train anywhere ? “

“wow !! you're a good teacher “

“ i loved your pictures, what a talent...as for me, i have also broadcasted them on midlothian radio station black diamond fm but i should warn you that i have written about 70 of these stories but i wondered if you fancied having a go of painting how you think Penrose looks for the cover?”

“Wow - stunning collection of photographs. Are some of them paintings? I attended a 10 week photography course last year and am keen to try out my new found knowledge. Have always enjoyed taking them, just point and shoot, mostly capturing occasions and travel etc but now want them to be much more artistic. Where are you favourite locations outside Scotland?”

60

“You have such an interesting set of stories. And totally intrigued by your pictures - I'd love to know how they're done. “

“Hello David, If those are your pieces of art then you know how to draw sketch people, which isn't easy and some of those models are pretty girls...especially the brunette “

“Hi David. I love your photographs, especially those of Scotland. I have visited many of these places and love travelling in Scotland”

“really enjoyed reading your stories. Your photographs are amazing. I would love to be able to take photographs like that.”

“You're art is fabulous, I'm an artist too”

“You sound just like me. love art. I dabble in charcoal and love acrilics. .. my pictures start in my head and delelop into something else. jealous of you already .your portrairx are superb.. loving that. I am an estate agent self employed love architecture. never photograph within the box . my sights needs more. trying to enrol in a photography class to learn how to maximise my camera. I sound like a nerd. like reading when I have time.love nature . I have 2 swifts nests and nestlings. above my bedroom .love waking up to that. “

“That's impressive. ..you have a lovely gift. ..and looking at them you enjoy what your painting”

“Hi David I'm very impressed with your artwork. I'm very creative to having published my first e book last year with another planned. I love to paint and make things too.”

“ I love the unusual and the supernatural. I can stretch my imagination writing for children. You sound a very clever man. “

“ I feel you're not an average man...lol!! “
“You are very fortunate to have done so many different things in your life. Your photos /paintings are beautiful did you do these? the artistry is yours they are exetremly good “

“Your pictures are too good not to be shown anywhere else. One of my ambitions is to have an exhibition of my artwork one day.”

“That's a lot of pictures you've created. I love the one with the couple. She has a pink top and he has a beard. They're in a very loving embrace”

“I think they're stunning. I would buy them. They'd look beautiful in my home.”

“Are the people in your pictures real. I can feel the emotion from the loving couple. We're all wishing to experience that kind of love.”

“You're a very gifted man indeed. I paint from my imagination too. It's a fabulous way to express yourself. There's no limit to the imagination. “

“Your photography and paintings are amazing - I trust that you accomplished these and it's not the handiwork of the stray cats or dwarf rabbits”

“My family are from Harris on the Western Isles. I love it. As soon as I can see the island from the boat I feel a huge sense of calm and peace, almost as though I've been holding my breath the entire time between visits. There are few places that I've visited that can give me that feeling of utter peace and contentment. It's spiritual. So, when I do discover a place like that, I cherish it and want to absorb it, really absorb every sight, sound and smell.”

“Have you ever visited Iona? I spent a few days there a couple of years ago and felt cleansed and restored afterwards. All I did was walk, look and breath, and several times, just sat on the beach and cried, even though I had no idea why. I wasn't sad. Maybe I'm nuts.”

“what did you end up looking into? the sacred numbers and language used to influence our DNA (which I'd really like to know more about)? !”

61

“Thank you for another fascinating insight into our world”

“Oh that's so touching. I think it's because you have a very special soul that it revealed itself to you. What a special memory to have”

“Bloody hell! It's a miracle you survived. You must be more careful and tell someone where you're going! “

“You have the most wonderful soul that I've ever encountered “

“Wow. Breathtaking. Is it possible to be jealous of a painting?! “

“Did you attend Glasgow art school by any chance? Is that when you lived in the West end? “

“You're so gifted It makes me crave it even more! “

“I'm running out of superlatives as to how great I think you are!”

“i've nkt yet written my book but it's all in my head - Adventures at Ashgrove Avenue - a children's book based loosely on my idyllic childhood.”

“Your paintings really move me.
Ooh I love the intensity
so inspiring.”

“I can't even think what to say. you really do have me an emotional wreck. If that makes sense”

“You have many riches and are incredibly talented, funny, kind and clever. “

“aha .. well that's one way of looking at it ??
I like your positivity “

“I am aiming to write a screen play I am on scene 4 ....forever!! I do graphic art and photography too..like the bit about the ghosts. I also have an interest in psychology.... but not too deeply.”

“I also have pass links with the military and have worked for lawyers in London, long time ago “

“Oh I so agree about the illusion and what you see as reality is different from myself and others.”

“Sounds like we may be in the same universe or on the same wave length ;-)) I'll mark you out of 10! ??”

“ohhhh come on l need to know what happened you can't leave me like that:-O. !??????”

“so I understand that you wrote it based in a real experience”

“I will be hooked to you for your stories!????????”

62

“Because I am eager for life, for good people, for beautiful things and although I dont know about everything I know what l want and l fight to find it “

“screen writing is my passion at this moment in time, but I have too many distractions and a little blocked. So your piece inspired me and I start to get that good feeling about writing again”

“You know, I love the fact that we are at the stage of human evolution where science (quantum physics) and spirituality are merging... :) so exciting…”

“it's pretty intense stuff... I hope it's not melting your brain too much... :)
Hope you have means of raising your vibration, staying in the Light and feeling the joy... Best way to fight all this darkness!”

“Do you know about the Crystalline Grid?”

“Now that is absolutely wonderful. Beautiful but also a bit scary.”

“Oh my word you are so accomplished. what a remarkable life you have! heavens i'm just a normal person from The East Riding of Yorkshire living and working on the other (others may say wrong side) of the Pennines “

“You seem very modest...or shy!”

“They are all beautiful... I'm not creative and neither I understand art but I like beautiful things probably part of my Italian origins…”

“Brilliant.?? Far too many just exist without exploring what makes us what we are.??”

“The Human Condition? What does that mean or refer too?”

“so who's you inspiration... who do you rate”

“Do you write poetry?”

“you know how people love to have big canvas pics of their kids on the walls!? I think there would be a big call for that with your style of print...Your Scottish accent coming out there no doubt...lol “

“The faces look for real like a photo and the rest of the picture looks like a drawing...clever!! So do you take a photo and then do your magic?”

“Do u paint plein air?”

“Both my daughters are amazing portraiture artists. One of them is studying art at uni....the other one wished she had. I love art too. My pictures are more pieces of art rather than portrature or still art. So I really appreciate how good your art is.”

“That's a very altruistic reason - but really they are amazing.... love the emotion you capture - and rain in Scotland - how else can you paint Scotland?”

“What is synthesis of the Human Condition? What does that mean?”

“That sounds interesting - and the sort of books I would like. I'm currently reading Sapiens - about the history of human civilisation - fabulous - it deals with the progression of the human condition based on our ability to imagine. I am loving it. Have you read it? Can you recommend one of your books to read?”

“Love the portraits and the twisty turny water in the stream.
I've never seen art depicting romance, as you have it. Is this something that captivates you?”

63

“Lovely pictures.Are they yours, or are they computer generated????”

“Do they take a long time to do?”

“You've got a good eye for detail”

“I'm intrigued by you”

“i haven't smile in very long time. so thank you for making me smile. :) “

(400) “I am a cabinet politician. You life sounds amazing btw”

“You have an interesting perspective. “

“I have a science background, so I'm not entirely sold on the DNA explanation, but I know that our brains are enormously under-utilised; and that - moreover - it is desirable for a brain to be selective in terms of what it chooses to perceive. “

“For a Scot you are unusually eloquent”

“I think you might be funny as well as quite good at painting David! “

“Wow! you've obviously got a great deal of taste and talent if you are personally responsible for the content of your photos.”

“Ha ha your funny. I need to meet you.”

“from someone so artistic you have really brightened up my day ou must be bringing out the best of me”

“Are you a comedian?”

“you are quite a good storyteller :) and Definitely a poet. “

“I can empathise with your experiences, just not many people articulate them these days. It's unusual :) “

“ you should be famous! “

“Wouldn't mind to read one of your books.. anyone you can suggest? Did you published all of your books? I can't believe you are doing so many thing... you're so talented!
I wish I was a bit artistic “

“Im impressed..Well done for possessing such a beautiful gift and using it too.”

“You have a gift and using it well, that I admire. What gives you the inspiration as I noticed they are different. Most artists tend to stick to a theme, you have'nt.”

“They pull me into the picture if you know what I mean. The eyes in the pictures are equisite, and you portray depth.”

64

“...i often write things down its almost a need to empty the thoughts from my head, little rhymes and poems mostly, nobody reads them just me. it was the emotion i could see in your painting, i wanted to look at it, each painting made me want to look at the next one”

“Wow your paintings are fantastic! I'm not too artistic myself. I like to admire creativity though. I love architecture too. I've visited Edinburgh and there's some amazing buildings. My grandad was Scottish, now don't ask me where from because I can never remember, but spent my youth holidaying in Scotland seeing relatives!! “
“hahahahahaaha .... I'm crying!! “

“really enjoying the craic and your fantastic paintings”

“love your artwork, you capture ladies souls beautifully??. What is your heritage? “

“but your models look pretty to begin with, so that helps. But you really are good”

“OMG your pictures are amazing!! Could you make me look that good?! LOL”

“I think you are 99 per cent already there ? “

“Who's the dude in the glasses?
Like your drawing of ?suilven & the croft.”

“How do you have time for everything? Do you lecture too?”

“You sound a very interesting person! Am not sure I could keep up with you!”

“I just wanted to say I love your pictures. Beautiful. I used. To work in the creative industries including fashion.”

“One of you photos reminds me of the artist jack vetriano”

“Well what a wonderful life you paint. In the office wishing I was outside”

“It's really impressive! You must be a professional artist!”

“Makes me think of Zola, La bete humane. What perspective, art or philosophy or psychology...??”

“you dabble productively. I like art and painting, never seem to get time to do any! Teaching rather consumes my time. Are you a journalist then”

“I absolutely love your art I dabble with drawing and watercolours. Really enjoy the likes of Edward Hopper and sculptures of Thomas Moore..... love it all.”

“Wow, very impressive indeed. How do you even leave the house, it looks so all consuming?”

“So do you make your living from your art - it's very good !”

“I think you have a very deep soul and it shows in your earthy paintings. “

“your pics are more interesting than most!”

“Ahh now I get what you are talking about
It is an original way of putting it “

65

(350) “Don't dive off those cliffs again! Thank you so much for your words Tthey have put a spring in my step as I'm off to work.”

“Are those all your drawings? They're very meaningful and speak many words.”

“Your art is incredible!! I mess around and pretend to call myself an artist but your work is amazing!! Would love to meet you if you are ever in London”

“you make Scotland very intriguing, appealing and irresistible - that must be the writer in you.. :) “

“i can see that your a man of very good taste “

“What interests me the most now is all the spiritual work I do. I write spiritual channellings which address the information stored in our Akashic Records.”

“Wow like a meditation/pilgrimage. I was brought up as a Hindu, so I have a very deep spiritual side also. “

“Thank you for all of your writings, you have an amazing way with words. What are you lecturing in on your tour? “

“Hi David,
I've quite enjoyed reading about you're great adventures, I'm quite envious of you're fantastic lifestyle or, youre amazing travels. You must quite enjoy you're own company as I would find that quite lonely. “

“I think you're bit of a dare devil.. or craaazy! But it does sound amazing :) “

“You have a beautiful way with words and make these places sound amazing”

“that is beautiful I have tears rolling down my face”

“hi David, my english is not very well but I can try to understand!! Yours paintings are beautiful..congretulations! Have a nice day”

“Your pictures are beautiful I have to say, I apologise in advance if I keep admiring them, you must be inundated? “

“that was so beautiful. Your words were expressed more than adequately. This time you did bring tears to my eyes. In a good way. I was very touched”

“We are smart, that's why we choose to see the life in front of us and close our eyes to everyone's misunderstandings. Well I chose to live my life differently. At least I am I dividual and true to myself anyway”

66

“WOW! That is deep.... that is impressive! I know we are all in search of something more than just are every day existence - and however we want to define it - i think is that connection with our Creator - and you are right you can only do that without the material and superficial distractions of everyday life... I think you are on a inward journey and I think that's beautiful and awesome - I have been on mine for a long time .. and you know what having tried all kinds of Spiritual stuff to find that connection -- i finally feel i have found the real thing and only very recently too and boy does it feel good... And I do believe when you are in Nature - God's most beautiful and natural creation - I agree you will feel stuff and make the connection :) “

“ I don't swim - so if i were to dive off the cliffs at Durness - I'd be on a first class fight back to God :) “

“Wow - I'm not sure if this a real life experience you are writing about or one of your short stories... ? Either way my visual, auditory an even kinaesthetic senses have all come alive reading about the encounters therein... “

“I had to obviously google "midge" and "memento mori" to find out what their meaning :) and obviously had to google Loch Garten - it looks absolutely stunning and serene - so beautiful :) “

“Ok so are you trying to get me to fall in love with Scotland through your writings :) “

“Are they oil/acrylic ? I've been trying to figure it out. You're very talented. I've been wanting to improve on my art skills for years but not gotten round to it.”

“Cool, was this you hanging about the graveyard? I love this sort of thing. Are you hoping to be published?”

“Wow, well I'll need to hear more!!”

“You should have been an author I got really into that story better than the book I'm reading. You sound very interesting “

“you must be one of the few people who isn't tied to the mobile these days - good for you. I once went phone free for three weeks when I was in the Himalayas (not by choice). Was very liberating “

“David........wow.........your mind is incredible..u are very gifted...a carefree spirit who is a little lost ......maybe too gentle for this world”

“...what a beautiful story....captivating “

“Well as you know I like to photograph myself, I read a lot, as well in German and English, I work for a small bank here in Frankfurt. Our mother's company is in Ireland. I also Luke Runrig, a-ha, Clannad and soundtracks …”

“I can imagine sitting in front of a camp fire with you telling me ghost stories…”

“My Grandad always used to tell me ghost stories in the woods!!”

“Wow thats an experience !!!! Totally isolating from people and contact,
Sadly i know you can feel isolated while surrounded by people all the time.”

“Are you James Bond?”

“The last few years I have been interested in photography, living in such a lovely place means that I often take my camera for a walk and I always have it when I have been hiking. The best photos I have taken are mirror images of mountains in Lochs! I even impressed myself.”

67

“i've just been reading your story again very interesting to say the least your obviously a very clever person . “

“You have a very alternative and instinctive view point and its very refreshing to hear.
It does sound a bit dangerous where you live and some of your other experiences!! “

“your work is intense”

“ you pictures caught my eye....what have you done to get the unusual look”

“ you make me smile, my heart sing, and my body tingle “

“I was thinking about your story when I had a quiet moment:)
You spark my interest on so many levels, I feel blessed “

“Fantastic
Gosh I could sell that work to my clients
I'm interior designer love the industry
Wow! They are impressive pictures! “
“like your sense of humour. Well either you are mental or you are very very funny. “

“my brother is a brilliant artist in London but also suffers from mental illness so we have to keep an eye on him. I write have a web site of real life/fantasy poetry do technical design & love my Canon.”

(300) “What do you use oils or acrylics ? “

“The remind me in a weird sort of way to Vetriano, did you paint them from photos ? “

“You make me smile so much”

“Hi David, I loved your photos and your art work. I'm afraid I don't have an artistic bone in my body but I sometimes take a good photo. “

“You paint an eloquent and delightful picture! “

“I would gladly pay for you to stay so that you can entertain me with your wit! “

“Hi David, I have visited Scotland a couple of times and have enjoyed looking at your photographs.”

“That's very insightful and I totally agree with that statement. :) “

“Amazing ... we have a beautiful country and you have captured it so well “

“You re so lucky to live in such a beautiful place on earth!”

“What a lovely story to read.”

“They are superb. You capture everything so beautifully and makes you wish you were there. I'm always envious of those who have the eye and skill to capture the beauty.”

“And your photos? All very much my taste. Maybe one day I can see them? I trust you do display and sell? Not being kind, being honest. They are stunning! “

“ My daughter is a good artist but too lazy. Doesn't use her talents enough. She blames being a primary teacher she is too busy and tired! They are wonderful.”

“Some of your statements inspire me to hope for inner peace and to learn to love myself, as like many people who have been battered emotionally once or twice said events take their toll.”

68

"We absolutely loved your comments...not only did you debunk the whole thing rationally you made us laugh our heads off! "

the Cuillins are wonderful as well

“I get shudders only to talk about thoses place”

“Your story could have been the death of you.I might cover my face with a veil and hide away and wail forever.To think all of this happened and all i was doing was admiring your art.you are truly gifted.”

“ your words went right into my heart”

“if you are keen on roman archeology you should come in the South of France one day ..I'll show you around the best places..”

“Are the pictures on your site photographs or paintings? Did you take them? Do you use a special technique?”

“Wow. You are very in-depth. What kind of books do you write? As you photograph ghosts have you actually seen them or just set up cameras? You must be very interesting to talk to. You make me feel quite dull and shallow. What does studying the human condition entail? I'm intrigued by so much you do. “

“Goodness. You really do intrigue me. I'm still trying to figure out the purpose of our existence”

“Oh you do make me laugh!!! “

“Your photos are so cool whish I could do that you are a talented all rounder .”

“I wish I could paint your paintings are beautiful . I have always wanted to NGO on that tour of old Edinburgh down niddrie Street where their ghosts wandering about .. but never had the nerve to go . I like old buildings . So maybe you could class them as spooky . “

“Oh my goodness! A published author, photographer and painter! Wow! So you're very creative?! ;) “

“Haha you make me laugh! And I love laughing! I have to go to a very, very dull meeting soon and won't have access to wifi. “

“What a great place to be in life! I'm a very calm and patient person and try to be as relaxed as possible, although I don't always get the life/work balance quite right, lol! :) “

“I'm on a spiritual journey of self improvement and I'm striving to be where you are now, lol. Ultimately, I'm working towards that elusive transcendental state! :) “

“You have so many things going on at once I'm in awe, I thought I could juggle several things at once! Have you done everything that you want to do in life or do you still have more that you aspire to do/be? “
“OMG, how do you have time to even be considering The Human Condition? Could you give me a simplistic overview of what that's about? I love learning and psychology is my passion, so I'm intrigued to know what that's about :) “

“You must be very receptive to the spirit world then. Are you a medium by any chance?”

69

“I am tuned into to their channel or frequency vibration just like a radio receiver”

“My friend is a medium. It must be a bit disconcerting at times though! :) Do you work in the life coaching type area by any chance?”

“Fascinating and it's very possible if the same types of people with those interests are on board with each other. It almost reminds me of Bond!!”

“So there must be others besides yourself that are aware of this and need to counteract it from happening. Can anything prevent it?”

“Sounds like you have some work to do! Until your conversation with me I was ignorant of all this and how many people out there are like me... don't answer that. But it beggars belief that the average person is in the dark and this needs greater attention to be taken seriously.”

“Surely more fear is if subjugation takes place? Then who will be considered ignorant and accountable? Have you written articles regarding this?”

“Ha ha - you must be exhausted! So you work from home in some idyllic bohemian garret overlooking the highlands (probably proving my ignorance on Scottish geography) surrounding Edinburgh?”

“Well the Human condition is my daily preoccupation - and I write what appears as lighthearted fiction on the surface with layered deeper storylines beneath for those that want to look for them. So is your non-fiction philosophy? And should I have heard of you?”

“I love the fact that you are so creative as a retired English teacher I also write but only for my personal pleasure, mostly historical fiction.”

“I have lived abroad for most of my adult life and when I finally settled in Scotland I got involved in modern abstract Scottish art and began to collect a few paintings. My favourite is John Bellany who I knew as a child and I also love Peter Howson. They both depict aspects of my past with gritty realism. Too much information here. Sorry! Wish I could paint. I do envy you.”

“Good morning David, I'd be really like to know more about what you mean when you say that very little of what we are taught conventionally is actually true :) “

“ What book are you most proud of having written and why?:) “

70

“I understand how the education system could be used to manipulate our thinking, but why is it that at higher education level we are encouraged to question everything? Surely, this is counterproductive if the aim of education is purely to control us “

(250) “I'd agree with that (especially in the Western world where people are overly conditioned to rely heavily on thoughts, and not trust their instincts enough!) “

“Funnily enough, people think I'm odd because I never watch the news, but for me, it never gives a true reflection of what is happening in the world (it's all negative and scaremongering) and it incites hatred instead of bringing people together!”

“Ok, I get it! Interesting! Where did your passion for this idea come from?”

“That's strange (not your inspiration source), but the fact that I have a poor memory generally yet one of the only poems that I remember from English literature was called "dulce et decorum est" (I hope I've remembered that correctly). I remember a line from it being about "such trifles as to where they left their rifles" which struck a chord with me as I have never understood why people glorify war and its horrors. I find that I have to be careful when I talk to some people as I am very anti-war in my beliefs. In my opinion, war only creates more problems rather than solving them because it's instigated by egotistical power freaks who are so far removed from the horrors of the reality of war! :) “

“Which is such a shame as it would be so easy to turn things around if people would only focus on loving and helping each other rather than the evil in the world! :( “

Morning David. Have you managed to catch any ghosts on camera recently? How are the portraits going? I'm interested to hear more about your work on the Human Condition. “

“I know what you mean as it's societal control that has both created, and made us differentiate between, days that we work and days of leisure time! In pre- industrialisation days everyday was a working day and pleasure was taken in doing a good job and in playing your part in the successful functioning of your family and community (collectivism) :) “

“You're the most wonderful person. You have awoken feelings within me I'd forgotten I had”

“Absolutely! I understand that humans can (and do create) their own reality through what filter they choose to process sensory information through (which is related to the topic I based my dissertation on at uni). So I'm fascinated to know how the 3% of our programme is being shut off, and how the other 97% can be accessed :) “

“Wow, now that is really interesting because (as you know I live in Stoke-on-Trent) and our water is not flourinated here. And this area had a 70% vote for Brexit (myself included) which was a direct rebellion against the big brother bullying campaign pre Brexit. People here are fed up of being told what is in their best interest by a bunch of public school educated control freaks who have no real interest in helping those who have been disadvantaged only by their postcode :) “

“That's a frightening thought, but you can see it starting to happen as so many kids are becoming completely addicted to their iPhones, tablets, games etc (one of my grandsons is an example of this unfortunately. If he has to stop playing his computer games he becomes angry and throws a complete tantrum -and he's eight!) “

“I read some articles by a neuroscientist Susan Greenfield (I think that was her name) who was talking about how technology was reshaping our brain and making us lose functions, scary! “

“It makes sense because the brain needs to be exercised but technology is making it lazy!”

71

“Selfies, now there is a bugbear of mine. Teenagers seem to spend all their time taking selfies and posting them on social media. They want to show everyone what a good time they are having but have no real interaction with anyone as doing it, bizarre! :) “

“That's right, I'm often saddened by how poor some kids' language skills are. We are breeding a generation who haven't even mastered the basics of everyday language and spelling yet they are been taught advanced subjects! :) “

“True. I love being challenged and questioning what assumptions are being made! “

“Can't see you ever being controlled .. you are to intelligent to see to let it happen”

“I've been reading up on the pineal gland and how it was once believed to be the size of a lemon in the ancient shamans, and how it contains rods and cones which emulate the ones in our eyes (fascinating). I think I need to start detoxing mine (any tips for best doing that?)”

“you continue to amaze me every day”

“I want to steal you away and keep you forever”

“I believe that people or situations come into your life for a reason, to help you learn life lessons. I'm just wondering what life lesson I need to learn from talking to you as you are so different from anyone else “

“Do you write under your own name David, or a pseudonym? I'm interested to read more so which of your books would you recommend as an easier introduction?”

“I enjoyed reading your story it was refreshing and straight.....I love your photography, and that you seize the day ....I too am an artist, I’ve seen the good the bad and the ugly, this ironically inspires me to paint”

“Your paintings look wonderfully textured and tactile - if that’s an adjective you can use for a painting!”

“I live in Toronto, Canada. I was traveling to Scotland for sometime this summer. I wanted to do some investigating (my fathers roots). Ones I arrived to your beautiful country I was to busy traveling all over the countryside. What a beautiful country it is. I will definitely be returning I have a lot of ground to cover.
Love your photos :) "

“Hi David, have read your story and just thought I would say hello. What wonderful illustrations. I am an HR adviser and work part time live in East Lothian.”

“I get and feel the journey, I suggest everyone deserves and should set time in there life where they do exactly that, break away from technology, greed, noise, and connect with nature, returning to the roots we were originally designed to be part off.
When the hell did it all get so mad in the times we now live, my eyes have seen much, my ears heard much, and my heart felt much.
But I reckon I still have to learn much.
And when one meets a kindred spirit for a moment all is well.”

“Hi, well that is some story, you've certainly laid yourself bare! “

“Can i ask how you get the photos to look like that? Did you go to tart school?”

“Wow wow wow...
your story has blown me away.....
such a refreshing thing to be able to read an informative, honest, genuine article... loads of things in there interest me”

“Hi Dave, I have to hold my hat up to you...... great story, probably the best on Story-Time.”

72

“I read your story which I found really interesting and could relate to a lot of what you said especially about life in general and online communication in particular. You are obviously a very thoughtful person.”

“Your writing is interesting and certainly resonates with me.”

“I note you like fine art. I visited the Botin gallery last week but im not sure i would call their display art of any sort. Whats your thoughts on this modern stuff they call 'art' “

“What a lovely touching story”

“I'm currently studying classical realist art full-time, and juggling a job to boot lol!
I will also admit to not reading all of your book - it's quite extensive! I guess I like the mystery of finding things out as I go”

“My word, you have one career and a half Dave, hearty congratulations! I read your book with great interest and there are many similarities to my own life ... Varied.”

“You mention spooky a lot of times, I'm a paranormal investigator and I love it. It also provides a source of income, which can never be sniffed at.”

“I was just reading your story (quite long and interesting). Lovely pictures. Is that the Harry Potter railway bridge?”

“One time, I sat on a bench at riverside of Spey and I said a poem...one of your photoes remind me for that “

"I think your pictures are very impressive Whilst I’m not an artist I have an appreciation, enjoy going to exhibitions. I will be running an art club at the school I work"

“Excellent story....thanks for giving me hope”

73

One word ‘WOW ‘
Good afternoon to you Dave- I’m going to read your story again as there’s so much to it.

“you must know your pictures are very good”

“Just to tell you that you have excellent taste in music! You are also extraordinarily artistically talented with a brush! I can't paint for toffee but I do write short stories and have written several unfinished novels”

“Those pictures are all beautiful with different emotions”

“Your etchings to be fair. They just make all their clothes fall off. Quite a talent you have.”

“I say wow because you have done so much and wrote so much”

“Sounds like you have been writing for a while - would that be right? I guess you read a lot from photos with your interest in art.”

(200) “You’ve certainly had an interesting career I’m an author of children’s books

“I am hugely impressed, your are stunning. I absolutely love anything that captures the beauty of mountains and landscapes! “

“Highlight of my day was speaking with you”

“You are an interesting being”

“Hi David, your artwork is stunning, the faces are beautiful, so very talented”

“Wow - hairs on the back of my neck standing up”

“You certainly do have a beautiful way with words”

“Like your style of writing. It has an eerieness about it. I'm at uni for my leadership and management course.”

“I am thoroughly enjoying this - where is the rest?”

“It must be amazing to be able to share your stories in such a beautiful way”

“Well you have an amazing gift - And thank you for sharing”

“hi David, I like your websikte and I think your photos are stunning. I went to uni in Edinburgh”

“You are a very wise man. Someone once drew a picture of me, I didn’t know them, it was fascinating to feel what their interpretation of a stranger was”

“I love your stories they are so thoughtful and thought provoking”

74

"Gorgeous photos and I love that you are interested in exploring unusual ideas."

" well I wanted to say I was impressed by your artworks, I graduated from GSA masters in 2017 ....and have been a lifelong musician, sampling a large slice of variety of life like yourself "

"I would love to know more about photography. Maybe you could help me with that "

"I have moved from living in the head to living from the heart. I am interested in what stirs your emotions and what your passions are. That's a noble passion..I would say the same for me. Kindness and compassion towards all living things
I have stopped being attached to opinions and have found it very liberating."

"I love your paintings, I love art and nice colours in pictures and pictures that tell a story. "

"you do have a gift :-) If that was an experience you had I would be afraid to shut my eyes ..lol
there is humour in there too :-)
I'm glad you shared it"

"I would love to read more of your writing - wish I could hold your hand as I read it"

"Dave, I think you can see into my soul too"

"your writing is lovely - awful word - it has a really easy flow to it"

:-) I smiled like a Cheshire cat all the way through reading that - I love it, thanks . Love Colombo (although I can cope with the occasional gratuitous sex and violence..lol) So agree that it is a gentler kind of atmosphere. His Billy Connolly baddie was a pretty good episode. Your writing is a joy, you have such a gift "

"You do have a wicked sense of humour"

"Your story is great. Really made me laugh x what a mental image.. Lol"

"Your stories are really interesting. I am supposed to be intelligent - I am
A solicitor, a Partner in an Edinburgh firm of solicitors - but you sound like you are way too cerebral for me! "

"Nice. I felt like I was just listening to you telling me the story! I wish I could write like that. I’ve tried before but I always get block. It’s when I lie in my bed at night my mind flows and I suddenly sound so eloquent! A skill I struggle to have most of the time!!!"

"Are the paintings your work? If so you are very lucky to have such a talent.
My talent is only for numbers - unfortunately!"

"I have now seen the rest of your photographs. Wholy Molly !!!!"

"I adore your writing, that one I will have to think about for quite some time, thank you"

"Oh man what a thought, that would be awful
I would be much longer realising I was wrong. Would like to think there would be lots of time in there for being in love"

75

"I am going to have that in my head for days now"

"You have a unique painting style and you are very talented but I know you must know that. Great images. Love then. Especially the people ones. They are fantastic."

"Loved your photos. Are you the camera man for them all.. obviously not the selfies... did people do that way back when we didnt just feel younger?"

"The pictures, did you paint them because they look amazing"

"you have charm & wit & an intelligent brain"

"i was at an art class last night ...not as good as you though"

"What was all that about was it ghosts ?
Whereabouts was it ?
Very eerie and disturbing
Loved your description of it felt it all
As if I was in your shoes"

"Your a very good story teller that’s a campfire story"

(160) "Have you ever tried your hand at writing think you’d be good at that"

"Had some things happen to me over the years I suppose the scariest was an outer body experience ( I hadn’t been drinking no) "

"I’d like to hear more if your stories as your so descriptive it’s like I’m there with you"

"You are such an interesting character "

"You know I’m going to have nightmares now about hooded men chasing me ?"

"your writing it’s so beautiful and pure
I love how you are so descriptive I visualise myself there as I’m reading it
I love the way you write so warm on a cold day
You”re a different class David
I suppose that’s why I gravitate to your light"

"In a world of impure words your words touched my soul and I felt the warmth of your spirit in them they stirred me So beautiful so pure so innocent"

“You’re such a good writer really”

“It’s such a deep story and very tactful where you knew not to share the precious place though it was tempting to show the world but you choose not to showed integrity”

“Your quite deep like me”

“Your experiences are well remembered in detail and vivid so good really”

“Love reading your stories I’m there almost”

“I was feeling quite deflated today so your poem was well timed and perfect and cheered me up”

“I’m sure you could you use your charm and wit to get what you want”

“I like you your funny”

“Your comical”

“I like your brain and you humour and wit”

"Reading your stories while I was 4000 miles away helped me to cope with feeling very far from home. Your Small World story felt like it had such a lot of your life in it, quite haunting too, how would we cope without being able to meet new people and make new friends. You really do have a gift for communicating ideas and feelings"

"It’s a very vivid story i’m walking down the street I’m in the phone m box with her and the cat sad though you have a great imagination you should be a writer "

"now your really clued up with your words!!.. I have a friend who is the same.. very interesting"

76

"amazing pictures.I see you are very talented man "

"Oh he’s been captured in a trap very descriptive and I was chasing the keys too lol your so good at them"

"Would you ever write books to publish cause I think you’d be good at that"

"You have some lovely photos on your site.
Oh, and a meteorologist? Wow, that’s quite cool "

"Your story was a hell of a read....your pictures are wonderful, especially the landscapes"

"Wow! your pictures are absolutely beautiful! I’m a huge fan of creative and artistic people and in awe of such talent"

"So lovely and mysterious, your story made me cry, you have romance in your soul"

"your talent and gift shine through"

"It makes me a little sad that I have not explored Scotland a lot more. There are so many areas of stunning beauty and remote, peaceful (and perilous) places and I have only seen a very few. Being able to read about them is wonderful"

"reading your writing is a joy"

"You are able to write in ways that bring out emotions and feelings and your photographs do the same."

"you have an amazing ability to capture such beauty in a photograph, amazing atmosphere"

"you take such clever pictures"

“You are very talented. I like taking photos but I would love to be able to paint the landscapes that I see and photograph”

“Wow I do like your paintings. What an interesting career youve had. Do you fancy setting up a school?”

“you have such a gift in your visual expression and in your writing”

"...your Village story. As well as being funny and entertaining it is great satire. You have captured a bit of village life, tv reality shows and election campaigns all in one go, impressive really enjoyed it"

"Your pictures show a bit of your soul"

"Your paintings are just amazing, the long distance views, sunrises, fantastic colours your perspective on what you see, really touches my soul, some of your pictures just make me want to step into them and lose myself in their beauty and desolation."

“I found your writing intriguing. What is the most important thing I need to know about you?”

“Your artworks are quite romantic and carry a lot of feelings and emotions in them. I write too. I find it therapeutic”

“I admire your work. My old office was in the basement of The Scotsman Hotel when I was Financial Correspondent at Scotland on Sunday.”

“I like your pictures, a little different than most (understatement)!”

“I love to paint as well abstract acrylic pour at the moment.
love your canvases”

“Great pictures - you have a real talent. I really love them.”

"Seen some of your pictures and they are stunning"

“I’m painting today but not for myself. But I love painting and making money doing something you love is great.
Could be better though!!!”

“I am reading your stories smiling, full of life I like that! I love reading, who knows Maybe one day you can tell me more about your stories)) I used to go to a meet up group in Glasgow 2 years ago, where people would read what they had written, I loved it!”

“You are a breath of fresh air.”

“It seems I chime with you on studying Philosophy and the human condition. This is a fascinating hobby of mine too.”

“You are very prolific with your art; it’s wonderful: and I love that you are looking after stray cats it says you are caring and compassionate”

“Love your bio, truly insightful, quite a polyhedric personality!”

“Hello YOU Renaissance man!”

“I love your art. Beautiful Art! my favourite is the woman with red hair.”

“Just reading your story and thinking ffs then your an author well you wrote the prologue there”you are a very good artist

"Enjoyed reading your cool story. Resonated in various ways and hey thanks for the giggles chucked in too. "

"I loved your photos of Scotland. Just came back from Onich nr Fort William yesterday, so feeling relaxed and happy."

“Your paintings are fantastic! I'm very impressed!”

“You’re pictures are beautiful”

“I loved your photos of Scotland. Just came back from Onich nr Fort William yesterday, so feeling relaxed and happy.”

“Your art work is really lovely. You’re very talented!!”

“I particularly liked the beach scene but they were all lovely”

“Sounds a bit like Misery! I like the way you share everything ...you definitely paint a good picture of yourself!”

“Serendipity!
I like how it is so simply put while being quite thought provoking :)
Good writing! ”

“I feel I am in the presence of a benevolent teacher. The one who is strict and calls me out, while sprinkling indulgent hugs to soften the blows.”

“It would be great to have you as a friend, someone that challenges my thinking”

“Your are intriguing, I particularly like the fact that you are intuitive.”

“I also like the diversity of your jobs, what a wealth of experience you will must have gained.”

(90) “Do you write on a full time basis?”

“I really love that last piece of artwork - the white cottage with river and mountain. What medium did you use?”

“Oh that’s interesting, what software do you use? Do you work from photographs/images for your inspiration, or real life?”

“I saw you yesterday and thought wow what a life you’ve had.”

“Aaahhh yes but your lucky you have the means to be able to make those choices, by the way I had a wee peak a your paintings they are very good your paintings are amazing”

“Did you go to art school? Your work is impressive.”

“Hi David I have to say I really like your paintings, they have a dreamy quality to them”

“I write children's fantasy fiction. I also teach singing and currently”

“So basically for you every experience turns into a story....interesting!”

“Absolutely stunning. I do dabble in art but not as skilleed as you”

“I like all your pics... are they photos with filters on? Very beautiful anyway.”

“Your wsebsite is pretty formidable! I consider myself intelligent and am happy discussing abstract stuff, but wow, I'd feel a bit of a thickie next to you, clever man! You're a Renaissance Man alright. Nice!”

“did you take all the photos , they're beautiful places.

“I love your scenic photos, did you take them yourself”

“Excellent paintings anyway. I did an Art foundation course back in the 90s and did a lot of printmaking, that was fun. Do you sell your work?”

“They r beautiful
Such an eye for beauty n tranquillity”

“very interesting reading loving the photographs Just speaking the truth”

“God, what amazing photos. Did you take them? You seem funny and nice”

“You are a brilliant photographer.”

“Hi David you have amazing pictures on here”

“Hi David! Just thought I'd say "hello" & that I loved your photographs! Beautiful!”

“really lovely pictures!”

“u man of many jobs / talents lol”

“You ‘sound’ interesting. You write about yourself very well... humour, curiosity, and thoughtfulness. .... but all images have a story.”

“you sound very interesting and a little bit wacky ha ha (which I liked btw!) Although surely you would like to see more of the world than Scotland??”

“Am loving your photos and stories”

“Great website and fabulous photos David. Is photography your hobby or is it what you do for a living ?”

“That sounds creative and rewarding. Do you ever get down to London?”
?

“Great site with a fantastic selection of photographs”

(60) “lovely choice of locations”

“I used to live in Beauly, near Inverness, and travelled round the Highlands and Islands for work, up to Wick and across to Portree, and occasionally Kirkwall and Stornoway ,Ive been to your paintings!”

“Excellent for a dabbler!”

“Did you take all the photos on your website, there are some crackers”

“Some lovely scenic images!”

“I liked your stories regarding animals.”

“Gosh sounds great I like your descriptions”

“You sound like a writer who enjoys words”

“Do you work from home?”

“By the way I liked your many photos”

“You are interesting”

“That was good .... Thankyou I enjoyed that .... light can be incandescent mr story teller ..... you portrayed that”

“you have a picture there of the west beach at Lossiemouth. that's where I grew up. literally stepped out the back gate and at low tide could paddle across to the beach.”

“That’s a very beautiful story. I am struck by how you kept your words brief initially and then this. I wonder that you keep your light under a bushel. I am opening up to the spiritual at the moment in a way of sorts not sure where it will take me. I planted pansies in my fathers favourite wood and spread his ashes there to help them grow I also buried my old cat there who he’s just met before he died and died days before him. I did feel his presence for a long time after he passed and now I talk with him in my mind and soul. I’m sensing a gentle spirit in you.”

“You have a good sense of humour”

“I love your eclectic mix of stories, made me smile when I read them…”

“Have you ever explored alternative therapies I had reiki the other night and had beautiful visualisations of many people I know ascending white diamond light etc etc it really made me think about how I approach life”

“Your photos are wonderful.., in North Wales we’ve got beautiful mountains, beaches and great sunsets too!”

“Obviously it takes one to know one, we can only really be aware of what is within others If we have similar qualities within ourselves, your pictures have a lot of the spirit of nature in them”

“I’m loving your scenic photos. Is that near to where you live? Wow! How lucky are you to live there.”

(40) “t’s so utterly beautiful knoydart, mallaig .... parts of the Munro’s ? And Glen Affric is stunning .... epic scenery. “

“ My brother has written and taken photos for the national geographic .... “

“Now I want to ride over those mountains as wild suits me down to the gri6nd ??happiest outdoors in nature”

“You have such a way with words”

“Im lapping it all up!”

“Love your photos.. some beautiful scenery. “

“You made me smile when I read your story. You sound like an honest down to earth guy.”

“Some scars you can see, some are within, wounds.... well some like to scratch those ..... don’t worry as am normal as I can be. I like cats. When we lived on the farm I tamed a wild one. She had been shot with a pellet which had broken her leg. I looked after her. We all loved her so. She was called Binka”

“ You have me day dreaming of the highlands now, …”

“ You sound like a very interesting person to have conversations with!”

“Scotland has some absolutely stunning scenery I have only ever visited Edinburgh and Glasgow. I noticed you have a picture of findhorn.... it has been a place I have always intended to visit ( mainly because of what it stands for) just have never gotten around to it”

“I work quite deeply with the Celtic spirit. So thank you, that is a lovely story”


“Sorry I mean't to say that your story is one of the warmest and friendliest I have ever read and love the word 'wee' and your clan of felines.”

“like your photos - you sound like a nice guy”

“I've shamelessly copied you”

“Just had a little read of your stories and hallelujah finally someone who is on my wave length”

“that's beautiful
you have a way with words”

“You have a beautiful mind. Your writing touched a deep place in my soul. What a beautiful moment you captured. I’m so glad you left the memory within rather than photographing; very compassionate.”

“I love the west coast lochs and inlets, stunning geography. I dream of one day building an eco lodge in such a landscape; a mindful retreat to invite people to surrounded by woodland, with mountain and loch views. My last visit west, was to scatter my Aunt and Uncles ashes in their favourite spots on Arran. They had their honeymoon there and we enjoyed happy childhood holidays with them. I have fond memories of riding ponies with them, across the windy hills of Blackwater foot and the seals basking on rocks... gorgeous. My uncle was a very funny joyful man; I can still picture him riding a pony far too tiny for his tall stature, his deep Falkirk accent trying to calm my panicked mother whose pony was a wee bit skittish, spooked by the sounds of her anorak flapping in the wind. I cherish that moment and many more.”

(20) “You describe the moments that make up our life…

Thanks for sharing some of your writing.”

“What an interesting and varied career you've had! This has obviously made you versatile and knowledgeable in many areas. I also love photography and although I'm no expert, I've been told my photos are good. I was born in Mexico City but have lived in other countries more than half of my life. I Naturalised British over 18 years ago and have lived Edinburgh for since 2016. I haven't been invited to join any exclusive groups. Have worked as a volunteer in the Grassmarket Community Project, leading the creative writing group since 2017. I've had some 8 cats, all gone too. Adopted a stray dog when we lived in Argentina and has been with me for nearly 8 years. He's a cross Alsatian, Husky and who knows what else, so the vets say. Sounds like you have a wide scope of genres in your writing, great. The diversity of topics in non-fictuon that you've cited are also areas of my own interest. Your current work sounds fascinating”

“Thank you for these stories. The first one, very languid in feeling and quite nostalgic too. I'd love to see the shrine in that light. The second one, a beautiful account of the cycling tour, great descriptions and depth of narrative. Evocative in how you describe the transition of the person's perceptions ms of life. Lovely.”

“Wow! Do you remember how hot the summer of 1976 was?
You make me laugh. Not at you of course. Just wow!!
I did philosophy at Glasgow many years ago. I only did one year and loved it. Should have majored in it but chose English Lit instead.”

“Wow! You certainly are a very creative, talented and effective man. Love your writing. David, with all that you should be writing an autobiography, not only short stories!”

"Sounds magical. I would love to visit there "

“I just thought your pics were just too good not to 'like' -”

“I did a BTEC Diploma in Design Photography when I was 19. When I moved to the North East I was an assistant for a while. I preferred the styling of room sets and still life. I worked freelance, working for ad agencies on TV commercials. I do like your work.”

“I want that adventure! Is that a true experience?”

"It’s funny, reading your writing, you’re amazingly talented."

"Your landscape photos are very good. Did you use a bit of photoshop to enhance the colours?"

"Ahhh so you take things to the next level!"

"I keep looking at your work"

"Your stories have so much thought and effort put in.....a lovely. I'm artistic too."

"You are so diverse in your interests and achievements."

"you’re a very good artist especially portraits definitely have a talent"

"You sound as if you have many stories to tell and lived quite a full life.
You sound like someone you want to get to know ;)"

“It's really impressive you've cycled all round Scotland and camped out every night. We rely on mobiles to much and we could all do with a break from them - to much time gets spent on them (I'm guilty of it). I grew up in the country and you forget the simple living - if you had a power cut there, you were out for weeks, you just accepted that, you don't have a phone for a day and don’t feel you've lost a limb! You make your adventure so idyllic too, camping by a stream sounds so relaxing - love listening to water, love sitting in the house listening to the rain in silence. A 1000 miles by bike - that is amazing. Durness you’re very lucky to be alive. Water you have to have a great awareness for. I use to sail when I was younger and sailed the West Coast stopping at most of the islands and seeing Fingals cave was amazing, but you knew where you could jump in to the sea and where you shouldn't, also grew up having Loch Lomond on my doorstep and made aware of under currents and how quickly the depth of the water could change.”