Amazed In Scotland

The amazement that we are actually living in Scotland has finally arrived. I’m not sure why it took so long, perhaps the emotions and the work that went into leaving everything and everyone behind has something to do with my delay.

My wonder and amazement, however, is here. It especially hits me as I walk Gunner along the North Sea. The North Sea!!! Seriously! Just walking my dog, throwing his ball and strolling…here by the North Sea.

We are currently staying in a lovely little cottage in Whitehills, Banff, Scotland. We will be here for a month, and are very happy to stay in one place so we can celebrate the Christmas season. Hanging a wreath and having a sparkling tree in the window is an element of our joy.

Our ‘things’ have landed in the UK and are currently in storage in Aberdeen, waiting for us to have a home to send them too. Our Christmas decorations are therefore in Aberdeen. We’re keenly aware that when we leave here in three weeks, everything has to fit back into the car. I’m happily decorating with what we have at hand.

Stocking toppers we bought at a fundraiser. Currently we have no ‘stockings’, but we do have wine glasses…and egg cups..

Remember, we’re in Scotland and creativity is everywhere. The following decoration was certainly a first for me.

We’ve been checking out every little harbor along the coast line and dreaming of a boat. Wait…let me back that boat train up. My Loving Spouse is dreaming of a boat. I’m dreaming of a boat because I love him. I’m just hoping I end up liking his boat, that it doesn’t make me sick and that he doesn’t need me to be able to run it (drive it, steer it, sail it whatever) every time he wants to go out in it.

Every little historical harbor is charming, but I favor the ones with a cafe or pub nearby.

Weeks ago My Loving Spouse said to me, “Whose Arnold Clark?”

‘What?‘

Then I saw the bumper stickers. Clearly we assumed, a politician.

‘I wonder what he’s running for?’

“Perhaps that group that wants Scotland to breakaway from England”

‘Is there an election coming up?’

Please remember at this point we still weren’t sure which bathroom (loo, toilet) to use. We certainly didn’t know anything about politics.

Then we found someone, who was in favor of Arnold Clark….and so I asked him what Arnold Clark was running for. He laughed and laughed. (See how good I am for the Scottish people.)

Arnold Clark?

He’s a car salesman.

Okay, well that makes sense.

Here’s my favorite sign of the week outside the Loo in the shopping center of Inverness.

There’s even a website for the awards.

I wonder where they held the banquet. Do you think they invited Arnold Clark?

May all of you my friends… be blessed.