Sunday 18 April 2021

Thoughts from Balmoral



It won't come as a surprise to my readers that, as soon as light dawned on Friday, the first day this year when we were allowed to drive into the hills, Gail was bundling me into the car and heading up Deeside to one of our favourite haunts, Ballochbuie Forest

The spring sun was shining brightly on this unfrequented corner of the Queen's Balmoral Estate, and in carefree mode I even ventured in to the sparkling river for a wee paddle.

Only up to the knees mind you.

Among the ancient pines the air was crystal clear and sweet, and the warming temperatures had melted most of the ice from the higher level streams and ponds.

And as we wandered around the royal forest Gail remembered it was the the eve of Prince Philip's funeral, and her thoughts turned to our Queen, widowed after 73 years of what was apparently a strong and supportive marriage. We are told that, throughout their long life together, she and Philip enjoyed some of their happiest moments in this most lovely and tranquil corner of the Scotland. 

10 comments:

  1. Hari Om
    ...and how could they not, for there is something very special inDEEd about the place! It's all the better for being graced by your paws and furs though, Bertie lad &*> Hugs and wags, YAM-aunty xxx

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  2. What a fabulous day out you had, Bertie. Blue skies and sunshine, and all that fresh air. What treat - well, we hope there were some edible treats for you too!
    My human has pondered on the incredible length of the Queen's marriage too, they were indeed blessed.

    Love,
    Inca xx

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  3. What a beautiful spot! Seventy-three years is a very long time. We did watch the funeral yesterday and it was a beautiful service. My heart ached for the Queen.

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  4. What an awesome spot to visit on your first freedom trip... so beautiful and I would love to wade with you, but might have trouble walking on the rocks to get to the water. We are sad with you about the Queen losing her lifelong partner.

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  5. What a great place to go for your first walk far from home. You look like you were enjoying yourself, Bertie.

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  6. Good Sunday Afternoon Bertie.
    What a beautiful location you and Gail picked for your first trek. I bet it felt good to cool your heels in the cool refreshing creek. I love your pose with our WFT tail at full alert. We DVR'd Prince Philip's service. We'll watch it today.
    Hugs Cecilia
    PS I have a most exciting post tomorrow about 2 pups Bryan and I met on the NC Museum of Art trail this past week. They were a riot

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  7. Such historic ground. I know the Queen would love to meet you. Do you think she will remarry?

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    1. Er, interesting question. And not one we've seen posed in the British media! I understand she has recently acquired two corgi puppies and surely these will be more fun than a husband...
      Toodle pip!
      Bertie.

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  8. What a beautiful and meaningful walk you had, thanks for taking us along to someplace we have only heard about!

    Rosie and Redford

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  9. You sound so happy. And you even put your paws in the water - it must be a special occasion! I can see why it's one of your favorite haunts. The water, the pines, and the sunshine look glorious. And Bertie looks even more glorious!

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