The Photography of Dr. Jeff Harper

As is our custom during the cold and grey days in northeastern Scotland, if it is sunny on a Saturday or Sunday, we abandon our household chores and head outdoors.  This day we remembered seeing a bicycle renting shop in the Royal town of Ballater from when took our Thai visitors to the Highlands. There was a marvelous walking and biking trail, known as the Deeside Way, leading out of town which followed an old railroad grade.  Perfect . . . no big hills!

The Deeside Way leading out of Ballater looked promising.  There were other bikers and a number of ramblers.

The trail crossed several burns (the Scottish term for creek).

The sky was blue and the light was clear and strong.  The vegetation was a mix of winter hibernation and early budding.

Occasionally the trees that lined the path would open up to a view of the bucolic Scottish Highlands countryside. 

Farmers had been out preparing their fields.

Early Spring planting.  There was still snow on the higher mountains . . . it was a crisp day . . . perfect for biking.

In a few places along the Deeside Way the trees were beginning to bud and blossom.

We rested under this shadowed tree on the green hill.

An old chapel ruin provided some photographic interest.

I assume the area farmers still bury their dead in this cemetery.

We went as far as this grove, about three miles.  We felt a very strong Nature Spirit here.

The way back, on the same trail remained interesting and beautiful.

Such an inviting trail . . .

We left with great memories of the great day . . . and sore butts from the bike ride.  We vowed to buy saddle pads before our next mountain bike adventure.  [Note:  we did buy a pair of gel saddle pads!]