Edinburgh - Day 5

May 3, 2015

Quiet can be defined in many ways. Coach B on the train to Edinburgh was labeled as a "quiet car" In general that was true. The one exception was the two ladies seated just behind us. Their Scottish brogue filled the space with constant chatter. I mean non stop! How can you have that much to say!

Our eavesdropping was balanced with a beautiful countryside of bright yellow blooming stuff and green hills extending to the horizons. As we drew closer to Edinburgh even the sea shore occasionally came into view. The European train is a great way to travel!

I (Tim) have been wanting to ride in one of the classic Taxis, and found my opportunity on our move from the train to our Edinburgh home. These little cars seem to be made solely for the purpose of being a cab. We arrived without delay at the Priestville Guest House. There was no question that we had found Scotland as we were greeted by Colin dressed in the traditional kilt and leggings. He is quite an interesting character with a passion for food. Trina, his wife, whispered that he is a trained chef! Our breakfast this morning proved her point. We enjoyed smoked salmon with scrambled eggs and a sample of haggis. To hear the ingredient list for the traditional Scottish dish of haggis is not for the faint of stomach. The taste, however, is rich and flavorful. Another morning and I will try a full portion.

With a good nights rest and our tummies full, we set out for Church. The Edinburgh Community Church meets in a beautiful stone building. It is always a treasure to worship in a different county from our own. We were blessed by great charismatic worship and excellent teaching.  

Today's walk leads us up the "Royal Mile" to the Edinburgh Castle in the heart of downtown. Rain was our constant walking companion today, but did not deter our adventures. This mighty rock fortress and royal residence houses the crown jewels and the Stone of Scone. It includes military memorials and chronicles the many Scottish wars. Leaving nothing out, even a pet cemetery honored those faithful friends who were a treasure to their owners. 

Our return walk home included a stop at a Scottish Tartan shop to see how Kathy might look dressed in the Tartan of her clan. It seems that there are several to choose from for a particular family group. One might be for dress and another for hunting. I don't see Kathy, with rifle in hand, stalking wild prey deep in the woods of Scotland or Oregon. However it is the McPherson hunting tartan colors that she likes the best. We will just have to see how that works out!  

Tim and Kathy