"Sometimes I do get to places just when God's ready to have somebody click the shutter." ~Ansel Adams

Yesterday, Ren Man and I experienced our very first Highland Games...

Click on the link to get an idea of what goes on at these games that have been enjoyed in some locations for over 100 years. 

Unfortunately,  my photos are being held hostage by my camera, which will remain brand nameless until customer service has a chance to make it all better.  

Just know...

I was there, clicking away...

for you.

Meanwhile, for now, in order to get the idea of the festivities...

please follow these links to photos on flickr...

 the music,

from musicians of all ages...

courtesy of google images...

dancers...

and competitors from years past...

in the caber toss...

Now I don't know about you but this seems to require more than a toss...

the idea is to hold the smaller end of the log in your hands and spin the log as it goes straight up into the air, turning end over end, so that it falls straight ahead, with the larger end hitting the ground first.  

This was impressive and I really do have amazing photos just waiting...

Also, the weight throw...

which was usually accompanied by a loud yell from the competitor when he released the very heavy weight! 

It will be interesting to compare the atmosphere at the different highland games.  

The Aberdeen Highland Games were very similar to the festivals we have back home.  There were rides for the kiddos, food booths, educational booths, and tug-of-war between local communities.

At the same time all ages were competing in the music and dance competitions, 

so the day was very family oriented.

So sorry for this impersonal post...

 but hopefully,  I will be able to share my own photos soon.

Until then...

have a marvelous Monday!