Snow!

We didn't have a particular plan for today. I think we'd assumed that we'd just go for a walk, but the weather wasn't really up to it, so I suggested that we take a long drive instead.

A quick look at the map suggested a scenic loop, taking us anti-clockwise from Johnshaven, through various small towns to Braemar, whence we'd head down through Glenshee, and then back east. 

I have mentioned before the quiet but great enjoyment that I get from being out in the car with the Minx. She prefers to drive - which I don't think is a reflection on my abilities behind the wheel - and we chat as we watch the world go by.

The weather cleared as we moved inland, and there was an increasing amount of snow. We'd been hoping to find somewhere to eat, but we didn't pass anywhere that was open to, so we stopped in Ballater for a look 'round.

Making our way tentatively through the snow and icy pavements, we found two pubs that were open and busy, but not serving food. In the end, we grabbed sandwiches from the Co-op, and set off again, promptly passing a couple of lovely looking - and open - tearooms. Ho hum.

The high point of the drive, though, was passing through Glenshee, which I don't think we've done in the snowbefore. Certainly, we've never seen the ski lifts in operation and people coming down the slopes. It was very beautiful. My apologies that I failed to get a better photo!