Mulled Wine and Mince Pies

Taking advantage of a morning without rain, his Lordship and I had a damp, muddy walk through the Hermitage of Braid. This is a green oasis very near us,containing the Braid Burn but which we haven't visited since our running and dog walking days.
We were delighted to meet a much younger running friend who was delighted to stop and chat before taking off again, splashing in mud as she went.

Late this afternoon we were invited along with other neighbours to an adjacent castle for a garden party with mulled wine and mince pies. Several years ago they adorned their fir tree with lots of large coloured lights which they illuminate every year at this time. We love the sight and regard it as our very own area Christmas tree, but needless to say there are always some people who don't approve, though I'm not sure what it is they don't approve of other than it being a conservative (with a small 'c') part of town and such things have never happened before. Anyway it was a very friendly gathering where the children had a wonderful time tearing about on scooters while the adults consumed quite a few glasses of the wine and demolished several mince pies. A good way to start the Christmas countdown.