Carpets of pinks at Lagganulva on my way to an USCA meeting at the school yesterday. It was cold for May, but the flags are nearly out here too.
Azalea planted by the previous owners of Treshnish by the Ensay Burn. There are a few random rhododendrons on the way up the track too. In the photograph below you can see the young trees that have sown themselves on the verge of the track, where there is less competition from grass. Young trees are surviving on the open ground, but the grass does slow down the gradual movement out from the wood into the open space. At this time of year it is easy to notice the new trees appearing when their leaves are so fresh.
Common spotted orchids on the bank above Studio with bluebells, and frail white pignut flowers beginning to appear in places too.
This old pony trap was used on Mull before the Second World War by my family on the other side of the island. It is sadly riddled with woodworm, and needs loving care. Perhaps someone walking past will offer to restore it.
Farmer is on his way, through Argyll. The weather has been mainly horrendous. He has visited 6 of the 9 schools on the threatened list. He has done really well and met some great people at some fantastic remote rural schools! Tomorrow North Bute Primary, then Toward and lastly Luss. On Bute tomorrow he will meet Michael Russell, Argyll MSP (and Education Minister) and be interviewed by the Buteman newspaper! He will be taking small ferries across some of Argyll's peninsulas (Tarbert to Portavadie, Colintraive to Bute, Dunoon to Gourock. Gourock to Helensburgh, and getting a lift on a fast RIB. Planning this leg of the trip illustrates how diverse and spread out Argyll is.
Adjustment refers to the dogs. No puppies to look after and no Meg. Daughter has brought Tig into the house more, but she goes back to her kennel at night. In Farmer's absence, Cap and Jan are playing around again as if 7 puppies never happened, so alot of care being taken to ensure they don't happen again.
The Contractors come in daily to check the stock. Charlie the pet lamb is thriving.
The woodchip boiler alarm light went off today, and an error message I have never seen before came up on the Control Panel. Gulp. Where is the Farmer when I need him?