What's It All About, eh?

Cape Breton evokes deep memories and strong emotions for me as well as a deep appreciation for the beauty of my adopted island. My hopes are that you too might find the photos evocative - maybe a view you've not enjoyed before, or an 'Oh I've been there', or if from away that you may be encouraged to visit this fair isle so that you might come to love and breathe Cape Breton as I do. One word about place names that I use - some are completely local usage while others are from maps of Cape Breton that I've purchased over the years. I frequently post travel and other photos that are of interest to me - and hopefully you.

On the right hand side bar find my take on Single Malt whiskey - from how to best enjoy this noble drink to reviews (in a most non-professional manner) of ones that I have tried and liked - or not. Also musings, mine and others, on life in general.

Photographs are roughly 98%+ my own and copy-righted. For the occasional photo that is borrowed, credit is given where possible - recently I have started posting unusual net photographs that seem unique. Feel free to borrow any of my photos for non-commercial use, otherwise contact me. Starting late in 2013 I have tried to be consistent in identifying my photographs using ©smck on all out of camera photos I personally captured - (I often do minor computer changes such as 'crop' or 'shadow' etc but usually nothing major), and using
©norvellhimself on all photos that I have played around with in case it might not be obvious. Lately I have dropped the ©smck and have watermarked them with the blog name.

COMMENTS are appreciated as feedback is the driving energy of blogging - And if you like this site please pass it along to a friend. Thanks!

NOTE: TO ENLARGE PHOTO, CLICK ON SAME - If using Firefox also click f11 - photos will fill the screen ...... ----------------------------------- ......TRANSLATION BUTTON AT TOP OF LEFT COLUMN!

Bertrand Russell on the Megalomaniac



The megalomaniac differs from the narcissist by the fact that he wishes to be powerful rather than charming, and seeks to be feared rather than loved. To this type belong many lunatics and most of the great men of history.


Single Malt - Loch Lomond 'Original', 40% - UPDATE,


UPDATE: My below comment on 700ml bottle came from a website photo (above) but the bottle I bought today is 750 ml. 

I list a link to an on-line site just below from whence these reviews which generally reflect an excellent response to the Loch Lomond 'Original.' I feel they reflect my feelings about this great return for your money (in Cecil County, Maryland, USA it costs about $22 to $24 dollars for a 700 ml bottle - normally single malt comes in a 750 ml bottle, but still a great price).   The 3rd review by John Hudson best duplicates my own take on this really great lower tier single malt - a definite 4 star, even though it takes a few tries to get used to, it continues to grow better on my palate every time I take my one-over-the-yard-arm.  CHEERS!!


19 April
For an entry level whisky, this is definitely one of the best – if not the best – I’ve ever had. 
5 star

31 July 2018
A pleasant recent find of an economical single malt scotch. A slight bit more of a charcoal aroma than The Glen Livet, but just as smooth @ 1/2 the cost. This is my new scotch! 
 5 star

24 February 2018
Quite a strange taste at first, a bit earthy but after the 2nd glass, it began to open up. one can get used to its odd flavour and i did. good value too 
4 star

29 August 2016
Excellent entry level single malt  
 5 star