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.