Since arriving in Scotland the family has been doing an excellent job of keeping Ryan and I busy.

Wednesday Ryan and I woke up and took a stroll along the wooded path behind Betty and Ernie's. We did a giant loop which took us through the local golf course and provided magnificent views of the million pound properties in the area. Afterwards, it was time for a morning out with Ernie. He took us on his Wednesday morning routine to empty the recycling, stop at Sainsbury's (grocery), get petrol, newspapers, and lottery tickets, and then back home. After lunch, Betty and Ernie took us for a tour of Edinburgh.

We began at Arthur's Seat, an ex-volcano and one of the highest points in Edinburgh. It was a beautiful drive up the hill but the scenery was about to get better. Betty and Ernie parked the car and said, 'Have fun climbing!' and sent us up the mountain. Not really equipped with my hiking shoes, it took a lot more effort than expected to reach the top...but it was worth it. From the 255m peak, there were fantastic views of the entire city. It was at this moment that I really felt like I was in Scotland. Once we made it back to the car, exhausted, we went to Calton Hill...yes, another hill. Up we went to the top this time joined by Betty and Ernie. From here you could see the Edinburgh Castle, Edinburgh monument, and the disgrace of Edinburgh. The disgrace is 12 pillars on top of Calton hill which were supposed to be another monument. Edinburgh ran out of money and nothing ever became of the pillars.

After Calton Hill, we completed one more ascent to view the castle. At this point it started to rain (the first time since we arrived), so we opted for tea time instead of lingering. Ryan and I would later visit the Castle on our solo day trip in the city.

Thursday was spent with Donald and JENNIFER who took us to Stirling Castle (about 1 hour from Edinburgh). There was lots going on inside the castle as the banquet hall, church, and bed chambers have all been recently restored to look like their original state. We spent a solid 3 hours here before heading home. Thursday night we learnt a new card game which I am looking forward to teaching those of you still in Canada. It is called 65 and so far, Ryan is the reigning champ.

Friday was another day spent in the city where Ryan and I had Indian food for lunch and Irish beer in the afternoon (yes, we are enjoying Scotland lol). In the evening, Davis and Catriona picked us up and we all went out for pizza. It was great seeing these guys again as well all had a lot of fun in Germany together. By the time we made it home, I was exhausted. Today will be a rest day before heading to a comedy club tonight with Scott (Ryan's cousin).