13°C, brisk SW, sunny and cloud building later.
Great conditions, though the wind is strong with attendant wind-chill. Bright sun that needs sun-block.

Photo: very early sun on the Snowdon Horseshoe.
Today’s route we planned ourselves.
Our route started in a wooded horseshoe valley on the edge of the Molwynion. Out of the trees, we walked in strong sunshine and strong wind. I need to re-think clothing for these days, perhaps a thin windproof and gilet combination.
Navigation used subtle amounts features which honed our techniques. I got the feeling that Helen, the instructor, was becoming confident in us. Sometimes she passed over checking my position, but I knew where we were.
On return to the bus, I was feeling the cumulative lack of sleep. Debrief was rousing for me though. I am thrilled by the prospect of 20 more Quality Hill days and some at night. It was even suggested that I consider Mountain Leader Award.
note for future reference: I packed 2 1/2 litres of water and drank 2/3 of it. The backpack weighed 20 kilos (a 40 litre bag). Now I have a water filter, I should be able to pack a 60 litre bag at the same weight.

11°C, brisk NE, rain set in all day.

Day Two, trying not to feel like a cheat, I have walked in this area before. It’s that forgotten region between the Arenig and Ffestiniog.
Although light rain and reduced visibility dominated the day, we used the time to read the land and match with contours. Each of the six of us were given a short leg and others had to identify where we got to. Points of interest were pre-industrial settlements or simply, contour rings.
Lunch at a shooting hut.
A very good day with Mike, an expert on the local wildlife. We found outcrops of pyroclastic flows. Also there was evidence of the woodland character that is suppressed by sheep farming there.