Strathyre and Ben Shain

Having a regular income again has its advantages as well as its disadvantages. I miss being able to roam the countryside whenever I please, which was every day the weather was suitable, when I wasnt working. However I can now compensate that slightly by spoiling myself with the odd toy, purchased from my hard earned wages.

I have recently bought an IPAD 3 and it is truelly a mini marvel. I am very pleased with its 10" screen which has a resolution of 2048 x 1536 pixels and is the best display I have for looking at my photographs collected over the years.

Even my computer 23" monitor is not as sharp as it can only display 1680 x 1050 pixels maximum and its ageing processor struggles trying to display images at any speed.

However, like work, it has its disadvantages too. I cant connect a USB memory stick to it and everything has to go through Itunes. I guess nothing is perfect, however I can recommend an IPAD if you like photographs.

Its the reason Im using for not posting lately. I was distracted from the blog by the learning process of the IOS6 operating system. I have been doing a few walks in between so I intend trying to catch up now :-D

I have been doing a few low level walks recently in an effort to capture the autumn colours. The leaves look "tree"mendous in their colourfull glory. On Saturday I went walking near Strathyre in the Trossachs and went to the top of Ben Shain. Its not the highest of hills but like Ben An over by Loch Katrine.. it offers a surprisingly good viewpoint.

The walk starts at Strathyre and crosses the river by a rickety old swing bridge. It creaks and groans as you cross, but seems safe enough

The autumn leaves look very vibrant in the early morning sun light

The path then cuts through the forest as it meanders up the hillside

The summit of Ben Shain can soon be seen through the trees as height is gained

The forestry workers have been felling trees in the area but unlike some cut plantations, Im pleased to say... they have not left the place in a mess

And the path is in good condition too. The views soon open up.

To be continued....