Captain, We Have Lift-Off

Life in Scotland has at last reached it's zenith. Today has been my last full day in Stirling and like all days, it's had its share of ups and downs. The downs mainly due to the stressful activity of packing up my life and getting ready for a 13 hour plane ride home. Luckily with Lisa by my side and some good time management, I was able to get myself packed before it got too late and before we head out for one last night on the town. Quite the accomplishment if you take into consideration what I was like the night before I flew to Scotland.......let me put it this way--it wasn't pretty.

To prepare for the emotional upheaval of today (aka, saying goodbye to Lisa) we went out to a friend's get together last night and had a blast talking with old friends and getting to know new ones. Tonight will again be something like that--but with the exception of it not being a house party this time. We're actually going to go out to the pub that we first found upon arriving in Scotland. Although we didn't know it the first time we wandered into it so many months ago, Nicky Tams Bar and Bothy is one of the nicer (and most haunted!!) pubs in Stirling. It's small quarters, comfy chairs, and relaxed atmosphere will be especially ideal tonight as we say our goodbyes. Plus it's dark enough where no one will really notice the mascara stains that tears will leave on our faces. Also, there's nothing a good pint can't cure--so I've been told by many native Scots.

One of things I've realized about travelling is that there has to be at least ONE thing that goes wrong before the experience can be called memorable. On this note, while I was packing and getting things ready today, such a circumstance came about. I had quite a few things I wouldn't be taking home and had decided to donate them to local charity shops. With all the errands I had to run today, though, it wasn't until about 4 p.m. that I could head into town. Unfortunately, I had too much stuff to be able to take it on a bus by myself and the charity shops closed at 5, so I called a taxi instead. After waiting by the lay-by with Lisa (who had helped me to carry my stuff out) for about an hour, the taxi still hadn't shown. It came to the point where I had 10 minutes until the shops closed and still no way to get there. I'm just glad I went with my instincts after that and decided to talk to the porters of our building. After explaining to them that I had no way to deliver my goods, they graciously allowed me to put the bags in their office--it turns out they usually have boxes for donated goods. So instead of having to put the three big bags on the side of the road somewhere with a "free" sign, I was able to get rid of everything knowing it would go to charity. Thank goodness for good porters.

For a last bit of nostalgia, Lisa and I also took a walk about campus. We were lucky enough for the good weather to hold out (no one listens to the weatherman here---the weather patterns have too much of an attitude problem) and I captured the campus in all it's Spring glory on my video camera. I'm glad I decided to bring it along--I know I've said it a million times, but admiring the sheer amount of green here in Scotland never grows tiring. It's good to know that no matter how much time goes by that fact won't change.

Because this will most likely be my last posting for the year, I have to once again thank those who have been a part of my journey. It's always been reassuring to know that I have friends and family who get to take part in my adventures--no matter how far away they may be. This has been a once in a lifetime opportunity and I know I'll treasure it for all the years to come. For those of you reading this, I cannot advise you enough to consider travelling abroad--whether it be for a year, a week, or a lifetime. Seeing the world from a different locale is a heady feeling. It reminds you that we humans have so many things in common, despite our differences. More than that, though, it gifts you with a million memories, enriching the world around you and your place in it. When it comes down it, can we really ask for more than that? It's something to think about :) :)

As I sit here under grey Scottish Skies, I'm left with one last thought. I think I'm going to call it, "The Key to Happiness: When in Scotland". It goes as follows: Always eat your haggis, never forget to love the land, wear your kilt with pride, and always, always give sheep the right of way.

After all, this is Once Upon a Time in Scotland. It's as simple as that.

Warmest wishes and kindest regards,

-Tiffany Harrison
Stirling, Scotland 2008-2009

You Say Goodbye and I Say Hello...Hello, Hello

I think I have reached that point where I've stopped trying to understand how this year could have possibly gone by so fast. Instead I've been trying to soak up the time I have left, absorbing the memories so I'll be able to leave with an imprint of Scotland on my skin...okay maybe not an "imprint"--we know how dad feels about those tattoos, but you know what I mean :) But there you have it. Less than a week to go of my time in Scotland. If it sounds strange to you, you have no idea what it feels like to me.

Before I leave this lovely island behind, though, I was able to make time for one last trip--down to her Royal Majesties Country actually. I realize that technically speaking, ALL of the UK is Queenie's country, but the Scottish tend to have something derogatory to say about that, so I've learned to monitor my phrases accordingly. When in Scotland, I say.

First up on my stops last week was the east coast port city of Hull, only about an hour away from the bigger city of Leeds. While I was there for three days I was able to catch up with my old friend Grace, meet some of her good friends, and get a feel for the city. It cracks me up that Grace ended up in Hull and I ended up in Stirling. It definitely suit our backgrounds. Even in California, Grace came from the city--while the "foothills" was my home environment. Even abroad, that distinction didn't change. Upon seeing Grace's flat--a proper flat mind you--I had to laugh. I've been living in a cabin-style, nature-friendly, country-happy chalet for the last nine months while Grace ended up in city-style environment. This world certainly has a sense of humour. After getting to know Hull for a couple of days AND finally finding in Grace a friend to see the film "Seventeen Again", we took a day trip to the city of York on my last day with her. I'd been to York once before a few months ago, but it was a true pleasure being able to go there once more. Myself, Grace, and her friend Maureen all sat down for tea at a place called Little Shambles Tea Shop, which was (surprise, surprise!) in the Shambles district of York. If you haven't heard of it before, it's basically a bunch of old buildings with sloping roofs and leaning buildings--think Diagon Alley in Harry Potter, but with more muggles.

After saying goodbye to Grace early Saturday morning, I hopped on another train headed to Wilmlsow, Cheshire to see the Dyson family (Amy's relatives). I'd stayed with them previously for the Christmas Holiday and it was a blast being able to see them once more. Gretchen and Richard's kids, Lizzie and Peter, were right in the middle of exams, so I really have to thank them for being so accommodating especially at that time. They weren't lying last summer when they said they'd be my adopted family for the year. Gretchen made good on her promise, treating me like a part of the family and being an all around amazing hostess. I'm so glad the whole family will be coming over for the summer, because it's going to be a blast introducing them to my family. Certainly it will be a riot, knowing that my mother and Gretchen are just going to feed off each other's crazy energy. I can't wait ;)

Like I said, Gretchen goes above and beyond as a hostess--take my second day with them as an example. I accompanied Gretchen and Richard to an event called a point de point, which was as posh it sounds. Set out in the middle of field where a huge brick mansion resides, a point de point is a fancy horse race where those who pay extra get to sit under tents, take part of a huge banquet and stand beside the fence where the horses charge by during their steeple races. I'd never seen a horse race in person, let alone right in front of me, so it was amazing to see it in action. The horses were magnificent and outrageously muscled and it took my breath away watching them clear the hedge jumps. To top it off, I was drinking expensive champagne and standing under decidedly English grey skies. Do you blame me for falling in love with the Brits??

The following day (Monday) I made my way from Cheshire to Bath for the day and night. For as long as I've been over here in Scotland, I haven't once stayed overnight in a hostel, in a new place, by myself. I'm usually travelling with Lisa when such occasions come about. In this case, though, I was going to be by myself for the day in Bath. I was scheduled to meet Gretchen early the next morning in London, so I had quite a bit of alone time. Now while I enjoyed being able to walk around and take photographs at my own pace, I have to admit that sightseeing is much more exciting when you have someone to share it with. This is not to say I didn't enjoy myself, though. I can assure you I got plenty of interesting stares from people as I walked along the rainy streets, camera in hand, chattering animatedly to myself for a video I was recording. It didn't bother me. I was too caught up in exploring my "Jane Austen Pilgrimage" sights to give much worry. I began my day after arriving in Bath around noon by walking up to the Royal Crescent, a cluster of old flat/houses so named for the shape they were designed in. Now for those of you that don't know, this was a hugely posh place to live back in the 1700's and 1800's. It is also the place where the BBC version of "Persuasion" was filmed....it doesn't get much better than that. If that wasn't enough to get me going, the Royal Victoria Gardens are laid out in regal splendour in front of the Royal Crescent, the green grass and trees shining under grey skies. There were no words to describe finally being there.

After dragging myself back down into the town centre, I also made a pit stop in the Jane Austen centre (!!!) where I refreshed myself on Austen's history before making my way down to the Roman Baths. Attached to the Baths is a place called the Pump Rooms--now used as a tea house/ restaurant, it used to be the social gathering place where everyone who was anyone would make an appearance to gossip about each other. Those who have read any of Austen's novels will understand the reference--she tended to refer to them in a few of her novels. Right across from the Baths was Bath Abbey, a jaw-dropping display of architecture and fine detail. If it wasn't for the rain driving me inside, I just may have stood there all day trying to take the sights in. As it was, I was glad to spend awhile in the Baths museum. Seeing those thousands of year old baths was like taking a jump back into history. The floors surrounding the Great Bath (of which I have many photographs) are still the same as they were for the Romans--lopsided, uneven, and rough. Good thing I had walking shoes on. Although, after tasting the water--NOT the actual water from the Baths (it's untreated), but water they serve you in the Pump Room--I don't think I'll be trying it again any time soon. They aren't kidding when the say the water is for healing, not for drinking. I'm just going to leave it at that...

That night I got lucky when I returned to my hostel and met the girls who were staying in the same dorm that I was. There were four of them--two from Canada, one from Australia, and one from Denmark--and they were all travelling alone as well. Needless to say, we booked it downstairs to the pub and had an amazing night getting to know each over over cocktails, pints, and live music. When we finally made it back to our hostel around three that morning, I was sad to say goodbye to my new friends. They'd really made my night in Bath one to remember, and for that I am so grateful. It just goes to show how truly amazing travelling can be.

The next day, I met up with Gretchen once more for a positively sinful day in London. I didn't know it at the time, but Gretchen was on the path to giving me a Belgian chocolate kind of day in London--meaning it was going to be outrageously amazing. And ohhhhhhhhhh let me you tell you...IT WAS THAT AND MORE!!!!!

After meeting up with her in Fortnum and Mason--where the Queen happens to purchase her food (they sold cakes there for around 1000 to 1200 pounds. Outrageous I'm telling you!) Gretchen and I walked around a bit before hopping on one of the classic red, double-decker buses to see the sights. Because I was only there for the day, I'm really glad to have done this. Trying to see EVERYTHING in London in one day is a futile goal, but by being on the bus I was able to at least see most of the major sights--giving me a taste of things I might want to see in more detail when I return to the UK in a few years. From the handsome majesty of Big Ben himself, to Buckingham Palace, Shakespeare's Globe Theatre, The Tower of London, Hyde Park, Trafalgar Square, the London Eye and SOOOOOOOOOOO much more, my eyes were nearly overwhelmed. London is such an interesting blend of old and new, tourist and native, yet so clean and charming that it's hard to categorize it. All I really know is that I have to return someday. Of that, there is no doubt.

Once we finished our tour around the city, we picked up some lunch on the go, before heading to the Victoria and Albert Museum, better known as the V&A. It was the one place I really wanted to go inside and explore and I'm glad I did. The museum is comprised of all sorts of time periods and exhibitions mixed together under one roof. It was hard to decide what to actually see in our limited time but I narrowed it down to the hat exhibition they had going on, as well as the jewellery, ironwork, and sculpture sections. Although the hat exhibition cost a bit of money, it was well worth the four pounds. The array of hats on display date back to ancient Egyptian times and all the way forward to hats designed for modern couture runway shows. I tried taking a couple of photographs, but was stopped by a security guard. I suppose I could've mentioned that I happened to snap a photo of one of Queen Victoria's bonnets before she caught me, but I decided against it.......;)

The day was slowly drawing to a close, but we made time for browsing some local boutiques, admiring the merchandise and array of people we came across. I walked away without whiplash, but London is definitely a great place to people watch. There is always something going on with every person doing going their own way, so that it makes the air crackle with energy. It was so potent I could taste it. One of the last shopping places we stopped in was a renowned place known as 'Harrods' where ridiculously expensive designers sell their wares and where the people who can't afford them admire them. I restrained myself from stroking any Dior gowns, but I can't say the same about the Givenchy perfumes. I can't help it that scents happen to be my weakness. I might have also gotten a bit "lost" in the chocolate and world tea section, but Gretchen rescued me from my downfall before the stores closed. It didn't stop her from purchasing euphoria-of-the-mouth truffles though, of which we would enjoy later......

Finally, our luxurious day ended with Gretchen taking me to dinner in an unbelievable place called "Sarastro's" located near Convent Garden on Drury Lane. Gretchen made me enter first, which was no surprise once I got a good look at the place. As soon as I stepped through the doors I felt as if I'd just stepped backstage into an old Parisian opera house where Phantom of the Opera was being shown. From the bold Jewel tone colours on the walls, the silk and draperies adoring the ceiling, the golden lighting, and the stage-like seating, I was overwhelmed. Whenever I wasn't eating, I believe my jaw just may have been hanging open. Rude, oh so rude. Oh, and what does one eat at a place like this? Roast Duck in Plum Sauce with vegetables, washed down with a bottle of wine I'd never be able to afford, followed by a creme-brule like dessert.......you should've listened to me from the start, I told you my day in London was sinful. No kidding right? If that wasn't enough to kill me with decadence, the first class train journey back up to Wilmslow, where Gretchen and I enjoyed our euphoric truffles, justtttttt may have done it.

Luckily I survived the ordeal ;) and was able to return once again to Stirling this last Wednesday. It still boggles my mind how fast that week flew by. It was the last big trip I'll be taking until I return home this upcoming Thursday and it was a perfect ending to the year that I've had. Then again, it was almost too perfect--making it so it will be even harder to say goodbye to this little island country. Over the last few days, I've slowly begun the process of packing my things and getting everything ready for my return to the states. It's been a strange reality I'll tell you that much. Scotland has become something of a second home and it will be difficult to say goodbye to the place that has allowed me to change and grow. I think perhaps I'll just say "farewell" instead---that way, there's a better chance of a return someday ;)

Now that Sunday has rolled around (only three more full days here in Stirling!!) I've also begun the process of saying goodbyes to the friends I've made here. Myself, my flatmates, and the group of people I've become really close with had a nice barbecue today consisting of hamburgers and 'smores as a final farewell. It was the last time we'd be able to have a party like that, and so it was a bittersweet occasion---bittersweet that is until the smore's made an appearance. Not many Brits over here have come across smore's and there's no escaping the overwhelming sweetness of those babies :) :) So with only a few days left, I'm keeping it simple. With a bit of good Scottish air, even less sunlight due to crazy weather patterns here ;), and the warmth of good friendship, Scotland and I are enjoying our last moments together. It's not everyday one gets an opportunity to live in a new country for a year, so I must say thank you---thank you so, so, so much to all those who supported me. If I've learned anything from this experience it would be that we must remember those who you love and give their love in return. For even when you're 6,000 miles away from home that love never forgets where to find you.

Warmest wishes until next time,
xxoo

P.S. All my latest photos have been posted ("Mid May Adventure to England" and the videos will be up soon as well. Enjoy!)

Beam Me Down, Scotty

What a week it has been. From Monty Python to Star Trek, this last week has been one of movie mania interspersed with travel preparations. Now the day has arrived where I'll be off to England for the week. Someone better warn the Queen :)

This last Saturday, as a final celebration for finishing my papers and Scottish university in general, Alicia and I made a day trip to a little town called Doune. When I first mentioned it to Alicia, her immediate response was a resounding LET'S GO THERE (in caps as well I might add). It turns out that major scenes from Monty Python and the Holy Grail were filmed at the castle there, so it was a pilgrimage of sorts for her. As Saturday morning rolled around we were lucky enough to get POURING RAIN as our lovely weather for the day--which you'll be able to see from the new photos I've posted. Nonetheless, we made the twenty minute bus ride out to Doune and explored the castle a bit. I used my video camera to record some video and I'm still trying to figure out how to get on the computer, so I'll try to get that up as soon as I can.

After getting to know the castle and mimicking lines from the film, we stopped at a quaint cafe called The Gingham Cafe which was decorated (no way!) with lots of gingham, and had amazing homemade food. I was lucky enough to partake of a red tea with vanilla undertones. I'll tell you one thing--my taste buds were loving that. It only got better when I tasted my homemade sweet potato and leek soup. Oh, and did I mention it came with homemade bread?? Utopia, indeed.

More good news!! Lisa returned from Croatia on Sunday (with a disgustingly nice tan) and we've been playing catch up the last couple of days. After the flood waters of Saturday, the weather has been gorgeous here in Stirling (of course). There's still a breeze that rides through the air, but the sun has come out and everything is in full bloom. It's almost hard to look at without flinching. I don't think a person has really seen the colour green until they've been to Scotland. It redefines everything. To top off our reunion, Lisa, Megan, and I made it to the cinema today to catch the new film Star Trek. Now, I'm far from being what is called a "trekki" but this movie blew me away. First, I was crying ten minutes in, panting (wellll, sort of) twenty minutes later at the sight of Chris Pine in all his glory, and feeling giddy from all the action towards the end. It seriously took me surprise by how good it was. I'm not going to lie either. The actor that plays the younger Spock--Zachary Quinto I think his name is?--has charisma and a depth of emotion that makes him irresistible. Pointy ears included. Even if you're not into the science fiction genre of films, this movie just may take you by surprise as well. To top it off, Simon Peg makes an appearance in it as the character Montgomery Scott. Beam me down, Scotty!

With all that excitement, I'm now packed and ready for my trip tomorrow morning. I'll be meeting Grace at the train station in the afternoon and after that, the adventure begins! I've even found a movie buddy in her to see Seventeen Again. Thank you, Goddess, for lovely friends :) Come Saturday, I'll be heading to Wilmslow to catch up with the Dysons. The following Monday and Tuesday will see me in Bath and London, accordingly. With my camera and video in tow, it's sure to be an adventure. And don't worry Fasha, I've got my pepper spray AND your photo coming along for the ride. Nothing like that to scare weirdos off ;)

So I hope everyone has a wonderful rest of their week. I'll be back in a week (with only one week left to enjoy Scotland!!!!!!!), so keep an eye out for photos and video. Now, if only I can figure out a way for Star Trek to beam me from place to place, things would be perfectttttttt. :) :)

Lots of love and warm wishes,
xxoo

Oh Please, Don't Be a Wine-er

It is officially May, which means I am officially down to my last month in Scotland, which is officially UNBELIEVABLE. Officially.

What a journey it has been. From the first day I arrived and wandering in search of my chalet to the countless pub nights, bus trips, and camera downloads, I wish I could hold onto every memory. Thank goodness for technology, because I'm not sure it's possible. With May now underway, I'm right in the middle of my last week of classes. Officially, my last was today, and what a way to end my British (aka Scottish) education.

Because it was our last class (incidentally it happened to be my Creative Writing class), my professor decided it would be very informal. Notice I said "very". As he said, we would sit around the class reading poetry--pieces we had written as well famous ones we liked--and drink wine. Yes, that is correct, I said drink wine. I forgot that he was serious about the wine bit and showed up to the afternoon class on a nearly empty stomach. I'll tell you one thing: I don't think I've ever been tipsy at 3:00 in the afternoon after two glasses of red wine. I kept glancing at my classmates going "this kind of thing would NEVER happen in an American university." Their response to my wide eyed comments?......

"It's Scotland."

Well, that certainly clarifies things. Overall, though it was a lovely afternoon of listening to entertaining and often heartfelt poetry, and I'm really going to miss this professor. I had him last term for a class called 'Writing the Short Story' and he gave me some great tips on improving my stories. I've decided that it's only in Britain where professors can get away with being inspirational and throwing around the word F*@#! like it's candy. Yes, only in Britain.

Now that classes are done, I have the rest of this week to finish up my last essay. I was lucky enough to get two of the three done last week, so after a couple of days of working on this one, I'm going to take a few last day trips. There are quite a few places on my Historic Scotland Pass I've yet to have been too, so it only makes sense to take advantage of it. There are castles within train distance that are calling out my name! I'm on my wayyyyy, I reply.

On an even more exciting note, I've also finalized the last of my travel plans for England. Next Wednesday, I'm heading down to Her Royal Majesty's Territory to visit my old flatmate Grace at her university in Hull. She's been up to Stirling a couple of times and I'm looking forward to seeing her in her own study abroad environment. After spending a few days there, I will next be heading further south to visit some amazing friends, who are relatives of my friend Amy--Gretchen, Richard, Lizzie, and Peter Dyson. I spent my Christmas holiday with them and all I can say about that is, Gretchen wasn't lying when she said she was going to be my "adopted mommy" for the year. That family truly knows how to make a person feel welcome.

While visiting with the Dysons, I will be taking a couple of day trips: one to Bath, and another to London. I can't describe how excited I am for both of these occasions. As for Bath, it's the type of place that EVERY Jane Austen-ite MUST make a pilgrimage to. Also the site of the historic Roman Baths that were supposed to "heal" a person upon drinking (no matter if the water takes like cow poo poo), Bath also boasts the Pump Rooms (where Jane used to take tea back in her day), the Jane Austen Museum, the Fashion Museum, and the Royal Crescent (some of the greatest examples of Georgian Architecture and a very posh place to live).

I still can't believe I'm going to make it to London. Initially, I wasn't going to try and plan going there, despite wanting to, because it was so far from Wilmslow (where I'm staying with Dysons) and also because it's so expensive. It seems I cannot ever underestimate Gretchen, though. After emailing her to let her know I didn't mind missing London, she immediately responded that not only would we be going, but we were going to ride first class on the train there. It will only take two hours she told me.

???????!!!!!!!!!!!

That woman deserves the academy award for greatest hostess on the European Continent! I'm still looking into possible things I MUST see while there for the day, but I've already decided that the Victoria and Albert Museum and the Tower of London are near the top of the list. It's going to be tough to try and take it all in in one day, but the fact that I'm merely going is a rare delight. I should probably give Gretchen fair warning: when she arrives in the states with her family this upcoming summer, I'm going to throw her the most appreciative party she'll be able to handle. After all she's done for me, I can't think of anyone more who deserves it.

So there you have the ongoings of my overseas adventure at the moment. Although it's quickly winding down, I have decided this is only the first leg on an adventure through life. Taking part in this program has opened so many doors in my mind and I'm going to take full advantage of the change. I think I've finally settled into myself, so the world is forewarned: I will be taking it by storm!!!!! Sailors to your position--we've a life to explore!

Lots of love and warm wishes
xxoo

P.S. I thought I should add that the new film Xmen Orgins: Wolverine is a must see film. If only for the fact that Hugh Jackman's chest is on display for 80% of the movie, that should have you rushing to the theater. I'd suggest a drool napkin as well. You'll understand better after seeing it :)

Let's Give 'em Something to Talk About

When in Scotland, it would seem there is always something to talk about. After a week of being back from my trip through the Highlands, it has taken some time to really realize that my time in this country is nearly at its end. But before I get ahead of myself, let me regale you with some of the finer moments of my trip.

Two weeks ago (I still can't believe two weeks have gone by) we left Stirling by bus for Inverness. Of course we got to the station half an hour before our bus departed only to discover that our bus was running nearly half an hour late. I can tell you one thing--thinking you've missed your bus at 8 in the morning is no fun indeed. After a three and half hour journey we finally arrived to the rainy weather of Inverness. The directions we'd gotten for our hostel gave us no problems and we were able to easily locate it on the main street. It happened to be situated right above a "Lush" store which meant we could constantly smell the soaps from the floor we were on. The only bad news was the fact that a nightclub was right down the street and Lisa and I got to hear all the drama each night. Combine that with the fact that we were in a 14 bed mixed dorm and there was always something new to see. We didn't get much sleep the three nights we were there, but it could've been worse.

The first day in Inverness, we stuck to the city centre and wandered around, checking out the sights. From Inverness Castle which is now used as a Sheriff's court to the banks of the River Ness, Inverness had an interesting charm to it. It also had forceful winds and Lisa got a couple of pictures of me constantly struggling with an umbrella that refused to cooperate. Luckily, our second day started with better weather and we devoted the day to checking out the waters of Loch Ness. We'd signed up for a cruise of the waters as well as a tour of Urquhart Castle (which sits on the banks of the loch) and I'm glad we paid the extra money for the tour. Our tour guide really knew what he was talking about and we had fabulous views of the water. It was surreal actually being out on the water, watching as it splashed up the sides of the boat. Unfortunately, Miss Nessie was hiding (there were far too many tourists about) but just seeing the huge span of the waters was enough. We were told that it stretched a total of about 23 miles and was around 800 feet at its deepest. You'll be able to better visualize the water by looking at some of the pictures I took, which I've posted. After spending most of the day exploring the ruins of Urquhart Castle, we headed back into town. We had the pleasure of seeing The Boat That Rocked that night, which I suggest viewing once it comes out in the USA. It was a fabulous film with an even more entertaining cast. Mom you're going to love this...one of the character's was named Twatt and he was referred to it repeatedly throughout the film. Ser?

Our third day in Inverness, Lisa and I caught another bus to a place called Culloden Battlefield. It is the sight of a memorial for the battle between the Jacobite and Government Armies who fought back in the 18th century. It was on this battlefield, that the Jacobites were finally defeated (a great loss to many Scots) and it was eerie walking around the grounds. There were many signs requesting silence while on the field as a sign as a respect, which explained the atmosphere of the place. At one point, Lisa and I discovered why they had set paths, when we started trekking through the bog-like field and got stuck near to our ankles. From what I learned, they're trying to restore the field to its original state--meaning that instead of draining the water, they're trying to make it even boggier. No wonder those Jacobites suffered some issues trying to run across it.

Like all good tourists do when exploring a new country, Lisa and I struck up walking down a deserted path to find the Clava Cairns after Culloden. Wandering down a street that a single car, not to mention two oncoming ones, could barley fit down, we walked for about a mile and half before we came to the Bronze Age cemetery. The mild weather had continued its course and the cairns were eerily beautiful. With the sweeping green hills rising on either side of the glen, a herd of Highland cattle mooing in a field across the road, and our boots squishing in the mud, I had to take a moment and soak in the atmosphere. We really were in the Highlands--something I had no trouble reminding myself of. We were the only ones at the Cairns for awhile and I fancied that the 4,000 year old stones and megaliths were time portals. They decided it wasn't my time to find a wormhole though, which is why I'm still in 21st Scotland now. More's the pity.

After the third day, we again climbed aboard a bus; this time for a two hour journey to the Isle of Skye. What a bus ride it was, as well. I realize many people have commented on the Highlands of Scotland as an almost mystical and breathtaking place, but it can't be said enough. It is truly original the way the fog hugs the hills and how the dim sunlight reflects upon pools of deep water. As the bus climbed around each curve, we also spotted numerous waterfalls trickling down the sides of mossy banks with Highland sheep making an appearance now and then. It's hard not to become mesmerized by the natural wonders here.

Upon arriving in Skye, we discovered that the village we were staying in, Kyleakin, was comprised of only B&B's or local homes. Luckily, it was right across the Skye Bridge that connected it to the town of Kyle, so we were able to hop on a bus and make the crossing. The hostel we stayed in - Saucy Mary's Lodge- actually had a funny story attached to it. According to local history, the ruins of a castle in Kyleakin (which were situated on a hill right by our hostel) were once inhabited by a Norse Princess - known as Saucy Mary- who would charge sailors a tax for making port in Kyleakin. Apparently the woman saw the makings of a profitable deal and acted on it. No wonder she's still remembered to this day.

Among the sights we saw for our three days in Skye, they included: Eilean Donan Castle (where parts of Highlander were filmed in the 1980's), Dunvegan Castle (which has been the seat of the McLeod Clan for more than 800 years), and Armadale Castle (which is the seat of the Donald Clan and whose estate once comprised more than 40,000 acres). All together, Lisa and I made it to six castles during our adventures in Skye and Inverness. Each castle had its own unique style and history attached to it, and I felt privileged in being able to see so many. As we travelled up and down Skye by bus, we were also lucky enough to see much of the landscape. I still believe that the drivers here, especially the bus drivers, must have a death wish, but it was totally worth it travel-wise. Half of the charm of Skye are its natural wonders, so it's a good thing those buses had seat belts. It made the journeys less of a nail-biter you could say.

A couple of my most fond memories of Skye included our first night at Saucy Mary's Lodge. Around 10 o'clock that night, a live Canadian/Welsh Celtic band played music in the pub our hostel was attached to. It was so stereotypical Scottish in the best way. There we were in a small, tiny village in the Highlands while it rained, drinking cider, listening to Celtic music, and having an unbelievable time. I wanted that moment to last forever, but like all things it had to become a memory. Nonetheless, we stomped our feet, clapped our hands, and sang (yes....sang) late into the night. It's one of those memories that will be crystal clear for years to come. On that same note, the day we left the Highlands to head back to Stirling, we were able to pass through one of the most gorgeous valley's in all of Scotland.

Known as GlenCoe, the valley is the sight of a massacre that took place in 1692 when men, women, and children of the MacDonald clan were slaughtered as they fled from the English army. Although it comes with such a grim history attached to it, the mere sight of it takes your breath away. Jagged mountain peaks and rolling hills come together in a blending of landscape which creates a sweeping vista. Lisa and I were unable to fully explore the glen due to bus scheduling, but we did great views of it from the bus. The road we were on weaved in and out of the glen, and I think I may have frightened the man next to me by continually leaning around him to look out the window. He should've known better anyhow, sitting next to a tourist.

Unlike our original plan of going to the village of Mallaig once we'd finished our stay in Skye, Lisa and I decided to come back to Stirling a day early. After looking over bus timetables and approximating costs, it turned out to be too much of a scheduling hassle to try and get to Mallaig. Instead, after three days in Skye, we grabbed a bus heading into Glasgow (which took around 5 and a half hours). Luckily for us, the bus we were on passed through Fort William and I also got to see a glimpse of Scotland's tallest mountain--Ben Nevis. An imposing construction of rock and snow, the Ben Nevis mountain range stretched for miles along our journey. I'd heard it was possible to hike the mountain, but after coming face to face with it, I have no problem saying I missed out on that. I fear my hiking abilities don't measure up to what Ben Nevis would have required.

So after six days of white-knuckling it on multiple buses, we at last arrived back in Stirling. It was a bit of a disappointment to leave the Highlands after enjoying everything they had to offer, but it's not to say Stirling doesn't have its charm. I think I may just be a bit biased. I suppose its only natural when you grow up thinking you'll be sucked back in time while in the Highlands; and while I didn't get to time jump, I'm still inclined to think the Highlands have that extra something. From the locals conversing in rapid-fire Gaelic, to the extremely thick accents that should require subtitles, and the fierce winds that refuse to give any leeway, the Highlands were everything I expected and more. Every new door that Scotland opens to me continues to be a surprise and I'm going to miss the constant buzz of activity.

Now that I've been back a little over a week, it's once again back to essays. Our term is rapidly coming to its end, and with it all the readings and assignments have to be completed. Only three more papers to turn in and my schooling in Scotland will officially be at its end. In the meantime, Lisa and I are also exploring some local pubs we've overlooked. After all, you won't find pub culture in the states and like I've been saying all year long......When In Scotland!!

Much love and warm wishes,
xxoo

P.S. Most of the videos I took throughout the trip are posted, but a few more are on the way. Our Internet has been cutting in and out lately, so it's taken awhile to get them up. Enjoy!!