Holidays Day One

We dropped Archie off with his new friend Moira about 10am. We’ve had a few texts telling us that he’s being a very good boy and has settled in. Not sitting up on the sofa with her yet though…

We had a lovely drive over the bridge and up the A9. A timely stop at our favourite shop - The House of Bruar. It really does go from strength to strength. It’s amazing how they’ve developed the place over the years. They even have a special car park for dogs, the whole area is covered with shade cloth.

First we had the biggest and best scones in the land, and then I headed for the leather sofas, glowing fire and the papers/magazines to sit with the other old codgers who can’t be bothered shopping. JR knows she has plenty of time to look around at the goods on offer. She eventually came rushing back a good while later, with great urgency, “You must come and see this coat!" And sure enough, it was fantastic - and reversible. But alas, a wee bit too big for her. However, another couple of items were accidentally bought (for both of us).

A few ££££s lighter, we set off up the road. It was the most glorious day - it reached 22° while we were in Carrbridge to see again the epic Old Packhorse Bridge (Extra) built in 1717. (Spot JR on the bridge! Not sure if it’s allowed…)

A Magnum while sitting in the sun there, then on to our destination. A country house hotel that we stayed in many years ago, and have never forgotten it - the fabulous meals, the Art Deco bathroom, the friendly hosts. Same owners, but they don’t do meals every night now (couldn’t keep up the 5 course evening meals every night), but we’ve booked dinner here for tomorrow night.

A VERY exciting wee treat planned for tomorrow. JohnD will be very jealous.