Edinburgh

The last three days have been spent in Scotland, in the most amazing town of Edinburgh. I have to love a place that has a huge castle looming over the city. It is just awe inspiring. It has been, wet, gray and windy - the perfect setting for exploring such a place. Yesterday I braved the crowds and saw the castle itself. I t is huge, formidable, just what a castle should be. The tourist hordes drove me away after two hours, but it was incredible. The sun broke out just so I could get some decent pictures. All in all, a pretty memorable experience. One of these days I am going to attend the Tattoo, which they are currently setting up for.

The Gathering of the Clans is taking place this coming weekend, and the result is that the place is packed. Tomorrow (Saturday) there is to be a March of the Clans up the Royal Mile from Holyrood (the Scottish Parliament) to the Castle. They are expecting 60,000+ to participate. The little guesthouse I am staying in is currently filled with Clansmen from afar. I feel a bit out of place ("So, yer here for the Gathering, aye?") I have met some really wonderful folks. There was the lovely woman who got me off the wrong bus and onto the right one upon arrival. There was Candy the recently retired nurse and her husband who hail from Sacramento. Lisa and Rob, brother and sister traveling - she too is a product of the failed economy; however she has the best line ever - she was downsized by Weight Watchers!!

In any event, things are winding down. I am still having a blast, but I am looking forward to time in New York with The Kent, and then back to Vancouver and the hospitality of Beth and George. Well - time to head back into the downpour. There is a city to explore!!