shilasdair

For all the years we've had Tigh na Creag, our home in Assynt, we've never managed to time a visit with the emergence of the Shilasdair, or flag iris.   However now that we're living here, we couldn't miss it.  Earlier this week we had one flower appear in the croft in front of our house, and all of a sudden they are all flowering.   I should add that although I've included a link to the Shiasdair, I do have to point out a flaw in the information given - it says that the flag iris isn't to be found in the highlands of Scotland!

Another beautiful sign of summer is the stunning heath spotted orchid.   Go up the hill behind our house and you'll find dozens and dozens of these tiny orchids nestling in the grass.  It's hard to walk without standing on them at times.

orchid

However there are two, less welcome, signs of summer that have also made an appearance.  The dreaded midge, and the mean and beastly tick.  Actually the ticks have been here since the beginning of the year, but they seem to be on the increase as the weather warms up.  In all my years of living in Africa, I don't ever recall being bitten by a tick, and yet I have already had my first tick of the year attach itself to my ankle.  Now I know how the dogs feel every time we use the special little tool to remove the tick.  Horrid, horrid things!  They're one of those creatures that you do wonder about - why do they exist?

As to the midge - I knew they were here when everyone who came into the Visitor Centre smelling of Avon Skin So Soft - the only known midge repellant.

And finally, you've met Isaac's flock - now meet Isaac:

isaac1

Isaac is holding one of his flock, but at his feet you'll see a myriad of tiny creatures that he's made.  I just love the red ladybirds.  And in the background I think I spy some beautiful dolphins.  Thanks for the photograph, Neil.