Twelve Twelve Twelve

That is the date of my arrival in Scotland. At least for one day, I was not confused by the date (my brain is having a wee bit of trouble getting used to dd/mm/yyyy format). My travel plans were not based on any thoughts that there was any special meaning to the date. It just happened to be the most convenient and cheapest day to fly.

Hiya

Hiya. How have you been? It's been awhile. I only have time for a quick note to let you know that I am still here. I have three draft posts just waiting for me to find some spare time to wrap them up. Not so much time as spare brain power. I am attempting to deploy my first (somewhat real) app for iOS, Android, and Windows mobile devices. I promise to be back soon.

For those in the states, Happy Thanksgiving! Two women from work celebrated with me last Sunday. A bit of a challenge for me to make my family's traditional Thanksgiving meal as I could not find some of the key ingredients here. Still, enjoyed a lovely dinner and good company. Hope you have a lovely holiday!

Energy

Dark red tones and burnt orange. Those colours fill me with good energy above all others. Is it the same for everyone? A few weekends ago, I took a trip to Loch Ossian. It was a feast of glorious colour. Reds, oranges, yellows, greens, and blues....

How did I do?

After 10 months, what possessions do I miss? I like to think I came pretty light (and I offer up the amount of my stuff that has taken over portions of my parents house as evidence). My deciding factors of what to bring...

• What would I use most here and be the most expensive to replace? Sleeping bag, base set of clothes, camera gear, etc.
• What has sentimental value and would make me feel at home? Photos, gifts, blanket crocheted by my mum, etc.
• What might be hard to find in a new country? Deodorant, favourite soap, etc. - turns out I should have added screwdriver but after zigzagging the city for two days, I managed to locate one.
• What would easily fit into my bag that has convenience value? Dish towels, kitchen utensils, bath mat, etc.

A Look to the West

How do you not get excited about walking into a cottage situated in a brilliant spot with great company? As the weekend approached, I found myself getting nervous. Not about the trip itself. About missing the trip. I am happy to say that I didn't miss the trip. And the experience was much greater than my high expectations.

Balance

For a dancer, you would think I have good balance. Wrong. I have to work at it. I often find myself way off centre; only to be remedied by re-focusing on my core. My core values, that is. Life balance. Sure enough, I have recently let myself get lost in work with no energy left over to maintain a life outside of work. Difference from my younger days is that now I know to keep close attention and take corrective action often. A few planks. Some crunches. Little adjustments to strengthen my core, regain my balance, and give me the energy to enjoy my life.

A new month

There is a freshness to the air. A day of rain, sun, wind. A slight hint of Autumn approaching. I am looking forward to tomorrow for a silly reason. Because it is the start of a new month. I am done with August. Oh, I know there is no magic switch that occurs when we turn the page on the calendar. It just happens to coincide with a reminder that I have choices and one of them is my attitude. So I am injecting more positivity into my attitude. Not too hard to do. We are heading into my favourite time of the year.

Island escape

I planned a holiday this summer to Orkney as I have neglected it in favour of Shetland. Then the line-up for Fiddle Frenzy in Shetland was announced. My trip became 4 days in Shetland and 3 days in Orkney. To see some of my favourite fiddlers play close to home seemed worth it. And it definitely was.

Change of plans

This week is tremendous for piping events in Glasgow, ending with the World Pipe Band Championships at Glasgow Green. Piping through the streets, great performances in the city centre, competitions, unique concerts, and general excitement as around 225 pipe bands from around the world come to compete. On what has turned out to be a very wet and windy day here in Glasgow. (Looking better this afternoon)

Time in the sun

I do have some constants in my life. Certain activities or smells or places that invoke a familiar and well-loved feeling. One of mine...going to Highland Games.

It starts with heading to a large park or fairground. Today it was Levengrove Park in Dumbarton on the River Clyde. 

Dreaming of snow

It was a wee bit of a rough weekend for me due to feeling unwell and quite warm temperatures. Not at all up to my expectations of the weekend. Still so happy to have gone out. The people and views were brilliant. Those will be my lasting memories.

Independence

Even though the vote for independence is more than a year away, I think it will sneak up on people. I feel it would be wrong for me to vote. At least, that is how i feel at the moment. I care deeply about the future of Scotland. I want to see the country continue to prosper and strive for a good quality of life for all who call it home. As I wish for every country.

Beinn Ime

Most weekends I find my way to the hills for a walk. The last few weeks I have had my eye on Beinn Ime, a munro in the Arrochar Alps. Last weekend I made an attempt. Very wet. Mist swirling about. Blowing. The combination of the mist, mud, and lack of clear trail caused me to make the decision to divert to Beinn Narnain, which I was familiar with after walking up it earlier in the month.

Sock Adventures: Toe points

I have a confession. I have been wearing many of my new socks without blogging about them. Who can refuse a cute pair of socks sitting in your suitcase? (My suitcase is currently my dresser)

In Bloom

The hills are alive...with the colours of wildflowers. Wild orchids, cotton grass, sea pinks, heath milkwort, campion, and much more. The bracken is now as tall as I am. For me, it is a bit of a disappointment when this occurs and I generally steer clear of it. I love ferns but I don't want to spend 7 hours staring at ferns.

Simmer Dim

Simmer dim. 

The summer twilight when the sun only dips below the horizon a few hours in the Northern Atlantics. Even the term makes me feel warm, as if I am basking in the lovely golden light of a sunrise or sunset. 

Eyes open

3 hour train ride, 22km in 6 hours of walking, wildflowers, views across Rannoch Moor, ridge walk, 1km short of bagging a munro. That's me on a Saturday in June.

The South Side

Starting this week, I aim to walk to/from work most days. This past warm Sunday I explored routes and got a taste of living on the south side of the city.

Kids playing football in the streets, gorgeous tenements, shops full of colourful silks, organic produce, variety of cafes that tend to be a cheaper yet comparable option to the popular west end in my humble opinion, eclectic attire, blank canvases on the ground floors that turn into little shops during the week, quiet places in the parks even on a sunny Sunday. This describes many parts of Glasgow, except with a touch more of an international feel.

Enchanting bluebells

How do I get energy? I go walking. I also do my best thinking when walking. I am a rainy day girl. With the proper clothes, I am most rejuvenated walking in the weather. Today I headed to a familiar place. Little did I know that with the colder than normal Spring, everything is a little later this year. Even on a dark day, the bluebells were sparkling and enchanting.

Time

It was about this time last year that I made a promise to myself to pursue the dream of living in Scotland. I had no expectations of how long or even if I would be successful. The dream is bigger than living in Scotland. It is about continuing to increase my happiness in life and participate in society in a positive way.

Interesting characters

An unexpected meeting of a kindred spirit. Sunglasses, sunscreen, and sweat. Oversleeping in a warm, dark hostel room. Angry knees. Being up in the clouds. Wildflowers. Another great weekend.

Seasons

Not a bad view to welcome me after flying all night...

After being gone for a week, Glasgow seems to have blossomed into a new season. I am not sure what to call the season. Spring? Summer? Tourist Season?

Life on the Train

I love to ride the train. Given enough time, my enthusiasm may wane but I would bet not. It is a rare day that I do not ride the train. My commute is a short one. One I wish were a bit longer. That is the reason I know. I love to ride the train.

Munro perspective

That's me. I have bagged my first munro. No, I have not kidnapped some poor soul named Munro.

I am not drunk!

I am just walking in the Glasgow wind.

Credibility

It is a bit of an issue with me at the moment. With the exception of a few friends, no one has known me longer than a few months. Who am I?

Weekend Escape to a Bothy

The weather forecast for this last weekend was a bit rough and it did not disappoint for some areas of the country. High winds. Cold temperatures. Snow. Hello Spring. My destination was Glenfinnan to meet up with a friend, walk, and stay overnight in a bothy (my first one!).

Sock Adventures: Rannoch

I have learned that if you are going to try a train journey on the weekend, best to do it on Saturday since there are far less options on Sunday.

Last Saturday the wide open spaces of Rannoch Moor called my name. It is another stop along the amazingly scenic West Highland Line (earlier I went to Arrochar/Tarbet). I knew the Rannoch train station would be desolate at this time of year. There is a small hotel but does not open until later in the year. There is a tea room at the train station. Other than a few homes, it is open moorland. Plan done. Get up at 6:30am. Pack bag with warm clothing, snacks, water, torch (head lamp), camera. Train to Glasgow Central, walk to Glasgow Queen Street, train to Rannoch, enjoy tea and lunch, go for a walk. Either stay an hour or 7 hours and return home.

Where are you from?

I am starting to dread this question. I have received more than a few quizzical looks when I answer. That is, when I actually give an answer. It inevitably ends with me giving a cliff note version of my personal history. More information than either party was really interested in discussing.

Sock Adventures: Rave Green

Go Seattle Sounders! Today is the first game of their Major League Soccer season. This season they will win their first MLS Cup. I know this because I have moved away from the city.

I will never forget the first Seattle Sounders game of their inaugural Major League Soccer season. I had never been part of a crowd so proud and committed in their support of a team. Chants rumbled around through the whole match. When the Sounders scored, it sounded louder than Seahawks games in that stadium. It was fun and it has continued through 4 seasons in the MLS so far.

Lots of good memories attending Sounders matches. I'm not sure if I will get a chance to see many matches this season but I will still be cheering loudly from across the pond. I will always be a Sounders fan no matter where I am.

Shetland Rambles Part 4 - Northmavine

Northmavine remains my dearest place in Shetland. I'd set off for one place and find myself headed back to the north, especially in late afternoon. Here are photos of the area from various days.

Eshaness Lighthouse

Shetland Rambles Part 3 - Brindister and Clousta

West Shetland 

Shetland Rambles Part 2 - Yell, Nesting

Shetland has more than 100 islands, 15 of them are inhabited. This trip I stayed on the mainland all but one day. I took a trip to Yell and ran into a Viking squad. I happened to arrive at Cullivoe at the merry moment that the local Viking squad was arriving at the school with their galley as part of their Up Helly Aa celebration. Burly, bearded men in full dress with shields. Fully decorated galley. Seriously impressive. And a wee bit intimidating.

Shetland Rambles

Shetland is a magical place. The first time I visited, my cheeks were sore from smiling all week. Now on my 4th visit, I still walk with a ridiculous grin on my face. For me, it isn't just one aspect of the place. It is the people. It is the combination of changing light against the texture of land and sea. It is the wildlife. It is the miles upon miles of coastline, isolated beaches, dramatic cliffs, moors, lochs. It is the weather. It is the diverse geology. It is the long history of human life on this land. And so much more.

Sock Adventures: Glen Affric

Where would be the first place I would explore on my first overnight in the Highlands? Why a forest, of course. Actually I think that is a bit ironic. I come from a place of amazing forests. Yet no disappointment in Glen Affric with munros on the horizon, Scots pine and birch, waterfalls, and a surprise.

Caerlaverock Castle And Sweetheart Abbey

A friend brought this castle to my attention. I found my way to this dramatic and often attacked castle on a misty Saturday. Caerlaverock Castle was the home of Sir Herbert Maxwell and his family in the late 1200s but fell when it was attacked in 1300. It was rebuilt and in 1634, it was retrofitted to become a fashionable mansion for the Maxwell family, keeping the basic triangular structure but adding large windows and more common rooms. Ironically, it was sacked once again a few years later by the Protestant Covenanting army.

Sock Adventures: A Short Train Ride

An hour train ride to the Arrochar/Tarbet station. Walked to Tarbet to enjoy Loch Lomond and some home baking at a tea room. Walked along a wee portion of the Three Lochs Way to reach Arrochar and Loch Long. Enjoyed lunch at the Village Inn and back home on the train.  I dream of really stretching my legs and getting to the top of these hills but until then, this was a lovely way to spend a day. Cozy Smartwools set the tone for a relaxing, peaceful trip.

Not Quite Milestones...More Like Pebbles

It has been a little over two months since I officially became a resident of Scotland. It might be a bit obvious...I am happy. Oh sure, I still have some messes to sort out - like how I managed to have my gas provided by one company and my electricity by another. Oh and having a bit of a row with a particular phone company. I have noticed minor changes in myself that I think are signs I am adapting to my new environment...

Sock Adventures: Trains and Vikings

Did that title catch your attention?  May be a wee bit of let down. I didn't meet any Norse men. One day I hope to be in Shetland for Up Helly Aa and then, I will definitely see Vikings (here are some photos from the Up Helly Aa in Lerwick this January  http://www.theatlantic.com/infocus/2013/02/up-helly-aa/100453/ ).  Back to my adventure. There is a new exhibit at the National Museum of Scotland about Vikings.  I popped over to Edinburgh to check it out.

Case of the Anne Maries

I think I may have a fairy godmother named Anne Marie who is a retired school teacher.

Sock Adventures: My Celtic Connection's Finale

Everyone has their "go to" music when you want to boost your mood; Music that seems to warm you from the inside out.  One of mine is Fiddler's Bid.  Brilliant show.  With an appearance by Skeklers!

Are these the socks that come to mind for attending a concert at the Glasgow Royal Concert Hall?  Maybe.  Was I cozy and warm?  Yes!

Then on to the Festival Club that goes into the wee hours of the morning with acts doing short sets.  I didn't make it much past midnight but enjoyed more great music, including Lau tearing up the stage.

Following The Current

Most days I cross the River Clyde by train.  The river itself seems so quiet as it passes through the city but I know it must have many stories to tell.  When trade began to increase with the Americas, the Clyde was too shallow for the ocean-going ships to reach Glasgow.  During the late 18th and 19th centuries, the river was reshaped and dredged, opening the door for a hugely successful shipbuilding industry.  This has since declined to just a few shipyards.  The river is now being rebuilt as an area of recreation with many attractions along its bank.  I highly recommend the Riverside Museum with its interesting architecture, collection of transport, and tall ship.

Celtic Connections

Two concerts in two days.  Loads of musicians.  Very different styles.  Same spirit.  The musicians appeared more than just happy to be performing, they seemed inspired, energized.  There is an incredible spark.  I think this festival is just as much for the musicians as anyone.  As an untalented observer, I love this amazing opportunity to watch them as they celebrate tunes of old, showcase their talent, and create beautiful new collaborations.

Sock Adventures: Snow

With many other parts of the UK dealing with snow and ice for days, we have remained cold and dry until today. Woke up to a dusting of snow. Barely anything really but enough to keep drawing the children to the windows at the nursery across the way, looking longingly at the untouched snow in the playground. Alas the only Scottish snowballs I have seen so far are pictured below.

Queen's Park

It is too early for me to have a favourite park but I do.  Did you know that Glasgow has over 90 parks and formal gardens within the city limits?  The parks I have visited so far are not just small patches of grass.  There are hills, trails, ponds, sometimes golf courses.  It is not like there is a shortage of parks where I come from but I admire how well these are situated throughout the city, their size and design to maximize the enjoyment for all, and their cleanliness.  I have noticed that people generally take care in treating public spaces with respect, clean up after their dog, make sure their trash is disposed of properly, and will take a moment to clean something up if they do find something not belonging to them.  Even with that, the quality of the parks is impressive.  I have taken a particular likening to Queen's Park.

Sock Adventures: Getting a Foot in the Door

It seems to be quite a trick to open a bank account in the UK.

My previous attempts followed the same pattern...

Sock Adventures: My First Escape

This weekend, I had the opportunity to escape the city and head north into the Highlands.  A pair of knee high SmartWool socks were a perfect companion for the trip.

Sock Adventures: Wonderful Gift of Socks

As part of my send off across the Atlantic, my co-workers each gave me a pair of socks to keep me warm and stylish in my new home. So many wonderful socks! It was a lovely idea and I am so excited to wear each one of them for the first time. When I do, I will post my adventures donning those socks.

Burrell Collection

Before leaving the States, a friend gave me a gift.  A guidebook for Scotland.  Occasionally I plan to pick a place from this book to visit.

On Friday, I took a train and then walked about half an hour to pay my council taxes in person.  Only to find out that the only way to pay is by phone or online.  On the train back home, I took care of the taxes and decided I couldn't let the whole day go to waste.  So I walked to an attraction in my neck of the woods - The lovely Pollok Country Park and Burrell Collection.

The Cat

The cat proved to be quite a challenge and took up a large portion of my move preparation.  My "mature" cat is a bit of an odd one.  When faced with the prospect of the journey she would need to take and the reality that I will not want to spend much time in my flat, I felt sure the best option was to find her a good home.  But it took her years to get used to me and in my observation, she seems more attached to me than to a place.  Of course I am attached to her also.  Then she went and tore her knee ligament.  How could I stick someone with a crazy and injured mature cat?

After much deliberation, I decided to bring her with me.  I had no idea what I was getting into.  We both survived.  She holds no grudge against me and each day seems to be getting more comfortable in her new place.  I can't even imagine what she must have thought as she was in the belly of a 747 jet taking off.

For those interested in the specifics, the rest of this post will describe the experience.  Unless you are planning to travel with a cat, I would skip the rest.  Don't torture yourself.

Decision is made, now how do I make it happen?

I already had some idea of the direction I wanted to pursue first based on some previous perusing on the subject (I have had this rolling around in my head for awhile).  There was a chance I could get a work visa based on my ancestry.  Not only would this mean that my visa and work status in the country would not be tied to a particular company, it would give me a 5 year window.

Dreams

It takes awhile for dreams to become clear to me.  This one has taken me about 15 years to realize and find the nerve to pursue.  As I was packing up my belongings to put in storage, I re-read my past travel journals of Scottish holidays.  There was a phrase repeated in every journal - what would it be like to live in Scotland?  I recognize now that it has always a dream of mine.

At first, I convinced myself that it was the "holiday syndrome".  I tend to fall in love with the places I holiday.  I leave my responsibilities and troubles behind.  I fill my days with fun.  I treat myself to great food and drink.  I spend each day learning and experiencing new things.  My holidays in Scotland have been especially wonderful.  I have met interesting and generous people, seen amazing wildlife and spectacular geography, dined on delicious seafood, raised a glass or two of whisky with friends, enjoyed talented and heart warming musicians, and shared many laughs.  Surely everyday life would be different.

Yet each time I came back, my attachment grew.  As I have learned more about the culture, I have developed a great respect for the country and its people.  I believe everyone should have access to health care and education.  I believe a little generosity goes a long way.  I believe that a community that is considerate, respectful, and supportive of each other helps everyone have a greater quality of life.  I believe we should be striving for a sustainable living environment and balance with the natural world.  I could go on.  The point is I think my values fit well with the culture.  

Then it became fear that stopped me from acting.  What happens if I am not able to find a job to support myself?  How will I ever save enough for retirement?  Is it even possible to start establishing a new life at this age?  No, it is not really a new life but in the eyes of banks and landlords and cellphone companies, it is.  Whether real or not, I felt that I needed to stay on my current path to ensure I could live my life in a level of comfort.  I have worked hard to establish myself in the States and be able to support my smaller dreams like staying fit, traveling, photography.  I have a wonderful support structure of family and friends.  I was scared to interrupt or basically abandon what I had worked so hard to obtain.  And in the case of family and friends, scared that the distance would result in losing them in my life.  

During a trip to Shetland in May, I realized that I would regret not trying, regret letting my fears win.  In fact, it is great that I understand my fears and can be proactive to address them.  I can't point to one event in particular.  Losing a good friend who I talked about dreams with often to cancer definitely made an impact.  A new found self confidence also played a part.  Getting to know people living here helped confirm my perception of life in Scotland.  Whatever it was, I knew deep in my heart that I wanted to experience living in Scotland.

Now seven months later, I am waking up in Scotland.

I am going to add a few posts about those seven months for those interested in the crazy details of how I got here.  Then the blog will be dedicated to activities, observations, and random thoughts while I live here.