KFC’s are not the same the world over. Glasgow’s version has rice but no bread roll, gravy without the mashed potato, and the corn cob comes on a stick. Rembrandt isn’t the same either (not that I’m comparing Rembrandt with KFC). Books and TV cannot portray the depth of the real thing, the same asContinue reading “Different in real life…”
Tag Archives: Scotland
Don’t go, they said.
Don’t bother going to Hamilton they said. How wrong they were. Sure, there’s empty shops, graffiti, and an abundance of charity shops, but there’s also treasures like Helen Thompson. I met her in a Cafe. She was reading her newspaper over a quiet cuppa when an older gent approached. The laugh wrinkles around his eyes,Continue reading “Don’t go, they said.”
What were they saying?
The site of the Walter Scott statue in Glasgow wasn’t his originally. The guy who had been there carelessly lost the America’s for Britain, so disgruntled citizens had his statue removed, reminiscent of Damnatio memorial, practiced around 300AD, which involved a new ruler having statues inscriptions removed, the stone turning upside down, and a newContinue reading “What were they saying?”
Trees!
You go to sleep sailing away from Lerwick, and wake up in Aberdeen. And there’s the chairs that Aberdeen workers use for a pre-work massage… so public. Then catch a train to Glasgow; trees! So nice to see trees. On the walk from the ferry through to Aberdeen Union Square (that massive complex which housesContinue reading “Trees!”
Oh oh
How many ways are there to pay for the bus? Cash; not on some. Card, at entry, at a kiosk, or there’s tap on tap off; you scan your visa when you get on, and again when you get off. The bus company computer works out what you owe and charges automatically. Last but notContinue reading “Oh oh”
Fairies, monsters and illusions
In about 525ad, a group of weary Irish monks, traveling across Scotland, came across Loch Ness. When one went to rejuvenate his legs in the loch, Nessie turned up. The head monk wasn’t having any nonsense, engaging Nessie in a lengthy conversation. The upshot was a promise from the monster that she would never harmContinue reading “Fairies, monsters and illusions”
Great-aunts and blessings.
Peebles. A town long-associated in my mind with treasured relatives and all that is good. Great-aunt Anne would write to me from here; long letters about her childhood in New Zealand, and the family history as she knew it. Photocopies of book pages, with her notes added alongside, newspaper cuttings, and photos. Peebles was alsoContinue reading “Great-aunts and blessings.”
Adventurers; bravery isn’t just for backpackers.
Eight years ago a lovely lass from England came to stay with us on the farm. She was, and is, one of those special folk who have a gift of fitting right in with a warmth that can’t be manufactured. Dearest Emily was exploring New Zealand on her own, and having fun along the way.Continue reading “Adventurers; bravery isn’t just for backpackers.”
Dreams do come true
Ever since I can remember, the Royal Yacht Brittania has been a dream of mine; just to stand on her decks for a moment would suffice. I had no desire to be a Princess, or sail the world in her (where would I fit my pony), but just be there, for a moment. The problemContinue reading “Dreams do come true”
Who will remember us (and does it matter?)
On 5th May 1662 my Great x 11 grandfather was consecrated at Holyrood Palace, Edinburgh. Almost 400 years later I entered the inner courtyard, following in his footsteps, though without the consecration. It is the strangest feeling. I bet he never gave a thought to me during the day of his highest honour…. yet hereContinue reading “Who will remember us (and does it matter?)”
Stories for you - Enjoy! 