Diary of an obstruction

Amidst an otherwise smooth journey to Tain, we were surprised to come rapidly to a halt between Bankfoot and Birnam. Like the enquirer on X we thought it must be an accident. Actually it was a few blokes doing tree works off the side of the road, who had caused a massive obstruction on the A9. Oh, we laughed like drains. No warning signs on the road until 400 yds before the obstruction (a contraflow with traffic lights). And a decision to work only at the busiest times (9.30-15.30) for two days on what is probably the busiest weekend of the year so far.

It was already a 3 mile queue for us to get through. I suspect it was 5 miles and back to Luncarty by the time they were apparently told to pack up and go home by the police (we saw them arriving as we drove north after the lights). Only about a one mile queue coming south (much less traffic).

Honestly, it was all so incompetent that it was almost unbelievable. Well done Forestry Central, whoever they are, who obviously hadn't informed Traffic Scotland.

On the way into Tain we stopped at the garden centre for a few bits and then sat out at the back with beers and did a bit of tidying up. The pots at the front are very dry. I've watered them and I have fingers crossed we haven't lost anything.  I'm most worried about the eleagnus. 

We waited long enough in Edinburgh for the market to open before setting off. So consequently we came equipped with baked goods which we had for a scratch supper.

Great to be here. I already feel better and have coughed much less today. This may be due to the natural course of events, or it may have something to do with having a stress free day (I don't find driving up here stressful). I am, however, still wheezing like an express train.