Wildlife and weddings this month. Mallard ducklings, baby swallows, marriage vows and a double wedding at Briar Cottages on Loch Earn in July. What a month and the BLS Highland Games in Lochearnhead are on 25th July.
One of our regular mallards nested amongst the plants behind our fish pond where she likely hatched herself.
One of our regular mallards nested amongst the plants behind our fish pond where she likely hatched herself.
 Mallard nesting |  10 ducklings hatch |  Proud mum |
We watched a pair of swallows as they built a nest under the roof of the hot tub building at the back of Briar Cottage. What a treat to be able to see them from the comfort of the kitchen. We can see the swallows feeding their young as they grow stronger and battle for space in the nest, with regular feeds dropped off by mum and dad.
5 swallows waiting for next feed.
Briar Steading Romance: Canadian guests asked if we would witness them renewing their wedding vows. The ceremony was conducted on a sunny evening on the banks of Loch Earn and a celtic eternity ring was given to the bride followed by champagne all round.
One week later we had a double wedding ceremony in our garden on the banks of Loch Earn.
One week later we had a double wedding ceremony in our garden on the banks of Loch Earn.
Romantic wedding Briar Cottages Garden
Briar mallards witness a wedding
The blackcurrants and gooseberries are ready to pick! So, there is some advantage to rain and fortunately most of it has been through the night. We have not had to water the garden once this summer and we have enjoyed some lovely sunsets this month.
Petanque Piste in the Pink
 Reflecting Ben Our and Stuc A Chroin |  Pink watercolour sunset |
July is not over yet. We still have the annual BLS Highland Games to look forward to this Saturday 25th July. Even the TV cameras are coming this year. Weather permitting, we will be treated to a stunt pilot looping the loop and blowing smoke rings in the sky above the games field. Starts 12.00 and the McLaren, MacGregor, Stewart and McNab clans will march onto the field around 1pm. There will be piping, Highland dancing, fun open events, invitation heavyweight events, food and drink and stalls. Pure Malt play in the beer tent from 4pm. This is a very well run traditional event. Only £6 on the gate if you want to come along.
March of The Committee Highland Games Lochearnhead
As Chair of the Loch Earn Tourism Information group, I will be assisting on and off at the LETi stand on the Highland Games field. Come and say hello and find out about where to stay, eat and things to do in the surrounding villages and area. Hope to see you there.
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