The Kindly Ghost of Our Remote Island Home

This story takes place on one of the United Kingdom's most northerly and remote islands, closer to Norway than the Scottish mainland. Here, in our new home, we've experienced a unique and heartwarming haunting for almost three years.

We purchased the house from the estate of an elderly woman whose heirs didn't want the property. It required extensive renovations, a task we're still completing. When we first viewed the house, it felt strangely empty compared to our previous home, which seemed bustling with spirits passing through. We were drawn to the location's isolation, stunning sea and country views, and expansive garden, a rarity on our treeless island.

However, our dog initially refused to enter the house, and even when coaxed inside, she wouldn't set foot in the kitchen. We eventually bought the house, and the animals slowly adjusted, though the kitchen remained a no-go zone.

Our first project was gutting the damp and woodworm-infested kitchen. With the floorboards removed, leaving a six-foot hole, I peered in to check on the progress and saw an elderly lady standing there, seemingly inspecting the work. She noticed me, turned, and offered a warm, friendly smile.

For the next 18 to 20 months, coinciding with the structural renovations, she became a regular presence. She seemed particularly interested in the new kitchen design, appearing whenever we worked on it or finished for the day. We believe she approves of our choices.

Her presence was never frightening, and she seemed to take a curious interest in all our renovations. After some inquiries with locals, we discovered she was indeed the previous owner, a kind woman who cherished the house and gardens before spending her final years in a care home.

We learned she loved feeding the birds, and since we continued the tradition, she's been seen around the feeders, not just by us but by our neighbors' children who knew her well. Our dog and cat, no longer afraid of the kitchen, seem to interact with her as if she were alive.

As the house nears completion, her appearances have become less frequent. We hope that once the work is finished, she'll feel free to move on, perhaps to reunite with loved ones.