The Maiden Stone

A trip to Inverurie this afternoon to buy a new hoover . Don't ask me why - its a long story involving EC regulations , late night internet shopping and a lack of suitable machines in the Granite City . We got lost ( again) in Inverurie which gets bigger by the day ( the GP practice is one of the biggest in Scotland) .
After buying the machine we needed sustenance so headed for the excellent and much recommended Chapel Of Garioch Tea Room which is well worth a visit . From there its just a short hop to the famous Maiden Stone a top example of 9th century Pictish workmanship . The last time I was here it was just standing at the side of the road but now there is a layby and useful information boards - very handy if your grip on Pictish history is not what it used to be . Turned out into a lovely afternoon - great view of Bennachie and Aberdeenshire - we do live in a lovely part of the country .