Startled Swan

All day it has looked as if Storm Barbara was hiding over the horizon and about to pounce. We've had strong sunshine, great banks of cloud rolling through, and some gusts of wind. But no rain yet.

I set off in search of a picture in the hills to the east. At  Folly Loch a few swans have arrived at their winter feeding grounds.

I tried to sneak up (see extra) but they were airborne before I could get close.

It really doesn't feel much like Christmas here, in spite of the lights, cards and tree. Everything is far too ready!