Still snowy and rainy this morning. Saw the osprey over Aviemore. Bought a beautiful lamb's wool and angora stole/scarf and had my specs mended. River has risen and the folk have permission to spin.

Interesting trip with the girls to Johnstons cashmere factory in Elgin. Tour round was fascinating and the shopping experience was also of interest. Weather deteriorated as we returned but all including Ian fished on through the snow!! Excellent news from Ben and Dawn of birth of William James.

I and I had lovely trip to Inverness,Loch Ness the Black Isle and down the Findhorn-such a pretty river. Visited a most unusual bell tower dated 1655. Sunshine and showers with deserted roads and vivid rainbow. In the afternoon I drove the girls to the cooperage where we had a fascinating tour and spent a long time watching the speed,skill and strength of the coopers.

Christine was fishing this morning and Ian and I set off to inspect some distilleries. Bought three different malts and some malt mustard which sounds interesting. The scenery is stunning and we inspected the river at several points. Lovely lunch and very pleasant but unsuccessful fishing Quite sunny and pleasant with lots of birds and red squirrels. Heard very loud woodpecker at Kinveachy Lodge.

Not too bad a weather and the river looking pretty good nice to see our ghilly Roddy again. Went for a walk with Jayne and Christine in the morning. John caught a -13lb salmon. Chris had a 10lb one and a few nibbles too. A lovely eve in front of the fire.