There and Back

We thought we would explore the North West corner of Mull today and pinpointed Calgary as our destination. Calgary is a hamlet on the north west coast of Mull, in Argyll and Bute, Scotland. It was the origin of the name of Fort Calgary in Canada, which became the city of Calgary, Alberta. The route we decided on was along the east coast past Craignure and up to Salen. Then across country to Killiechronan and on up the coast , skirting Loch na Keal, until we reached Calgary. As we drove up the east coast alongside the Sound Of Mull, the mist was hanging over the water making a great image of this boat. Now this sign amused me a lot! Maybe 20mph or 30mph but 21!! The fog disperses on the Sound Of Mull. The first impression we had of Calgary, as we parked our car. Just a huge almost deserted beach with mist still lingering on the hills in the background. Calgary Art In Nature was set up in 1999. Its aim was to site pieces of sculpture within t...

The Isle of Ulva was our destination today, which meant a trip to the North West of Mull, passing Lock na Keal on the way. Although it might be said that `one Lock looks like another`, the scenery is so peaceful that I never tire of the solitude and the feeling of `closeness` to nature. Two images taken of Loch na Keal on our way to the ferry Ulva is privately owned by the Howard family and was formerly the home of 600 people who made their living from the collection and exportation of kelp. Today there are 11 residents who make a living from sheep and cattle farming, fish farming, oyster farming and tourism.  Ulva is a privately owned island with a thriving population of approximately 16 people who are involved variously in traditional sheep and cattle farming, fish farming, oyster farming and tourism. Ulva was formerly the home of 600 people who made their living from the collection and exportation of kelp.  There are no tarmac roads on Ulva, so no cars,...

This was a holiday we had looked forward to for a long time, having spoken several times of visiting the isles of Scotland. So here we were about to spend a week on Mull. Having spent the night in an hotel on the banks of Lock Lomond, we set of today for the Oban ferry. We sailed from Oban (above) on the mainland to Craignure on our Mull adventure. The weather looking rather gloomy and misty but the 45 min. passed quickly before we arrived in Craignure in like style - misty and murky! After a short drive, we arrived at our holiday destination, Ardura Cottage. We were just a short drive south of Craignure, with rolling hills behind us, and set for the week. Only a few mosquitoes in sight - thankfully! Next morning , more of the same mist, but not downhearted, we set off for ... You guessed - Tobermory! On the way we had to stop and photograph these old hulks of fishing vessels. And arrived in the now famous town with it`s wonderfully coloured...

Naomi and Daniel married in Peterborough today with the reception held in the town center. We stayed the night, before `seeing them off` the next morning. As is usual with these occasions, it was a good time to catch up with all the relatives who we had lost contact with. So, onto the day. So, firstly, the bride`s car arrives at the church gates. Naomi is helped from the car and dress re-arranged to look at her best. She looked stunning anyway.    Bridesmaids and Maids of Honour arrive in a stretch limo.    .... and then pose at the gate together. The bride joins the group to complete the picture.  .... before dad takes charge prior to leading her into church and up to the altar Ceremony over, and the happy couple emerge from the church. Giving each other the customary kiss for the photographer.   Then a few more photos. A brief glimpse of the general melee around ...