A trip to Scotland

I try to visit my parents in Scotland in the summer, and this time I had some company, as Joseph came along on the trip.

This was a great chance for us all to spend time together.

The journey wasn’t great due to a delayed flight and having to purchase additional train tickets, but we arrived safely and mum missed Joseph walking up the stationary escalator next to her. I introduced him as the pleasant company I’d had on the journey!

We enjoyed a good meal and settled in for the few days.

Monday and a leisurely breakfast before meeting Olga for lunch.

A trip to a garden centre for a cuppa and cake rounded off the lunch as well as completing parts of a family tree.

We visited relatives in the evening and saw Auntie Mabel’s new abode. It seems so strange to think I’ll never go to Grahamston again, always a stalwart in my childhood.

Tuesday and the sun was shining and a trip to Montrose beckoned.

First stop a salvage yard for a mooch.

In a way I was saddened by the boxes and boxes of goods from house clearances, almost showing the futility of possessions and how transient life can be. Yet again I make a resolution to clear some of our/my hoarded possessions that are just not needed!

Next up lunch and then a stop off to try and source curling stones for Elaine.

The perfect pair were found, haggled for and purchased.

Another relative stop off, more cake and a catch up where Joseph entertained.

Wednesday saw Joseph to prepare to go home, and I went to a consultant appointment with Dad and Mum. My Dad has an aneurysm and his last visit provided minimal information, so it was good to be there.

Everything was clearly explained and the doctor emphasised that surgery wasn’t an option really, but shook Dad’s hand and congratulated him on reaching 85, and for him to carry on doing as he has done, and wished he had his genes!

Another lunch at a deli in Arbroath that had a varied selection of Gin!

We waved Joseph off on the train after another busy day!

Thursday and a trip to Dunkeld, another place visited as a child, but I never knew it had a Cathedral!

Another lunch, an amble by the Tay, and shops. I made my way to the Cathedral and it was quite magnificent.

We made our way back to the car and stopped off in Forfar for some lingerie shopping!

Dinner had been slow cooking so we heartily enjoyed the beef olives and Mum and I went to see Mamma Mia2. We laughed, we cried and we sang. A really feel good film which I’d happily see again!

Friday and a trip into Arbroath another lunch then the journey home: train, bus, plane and finally car.

Great to have time with Mum and Dad, but good to be home although the time spent in a sitting position has not had a positive effect on my back!