Tuesday, April 26, 2011

Scotland Day 3--Edinburgh

We got settled in our "static caravan" (aka--trailer) at our campground in Edinburgh, and had a nice evening in actual beds.  It was evident very quickly that this is the way I like to camp; three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a kitchen for our use.  Thank you very much.

We got up the next morning and showered and dressed for church.  We decided to attend the Edinburgh Ward's sacrament meeting before heading off to continue our sight-seeing; it was definitely a good choice.  It was a testimony meeting, where members of the congregation stand when moved upon and offer testimony about their belief in Jesus Christ.  It was an amazing meeting, and I'm not just saying that because I love a good Scottish accent!  The Edinburgh Ward is rather cosmopolitan, probably due to the University.  We heard from a man from China, a man from Ethiopia, as well as some darling and beautiful Scottish young ladies.  I think my boys were ready to move in.

Anyway, after church we went back to our campground, changed our clothes, had some lunch, and then took off for the heart of the city--the Royal Mile, and Edinburgh Castle.

We found a place to park our van (no small feat there!), and took off for a nice walk in yet more sunshine.


Of course there had to be a bagpiper!


But who's this fella'?  Dallin and Josh really got a kick out of him!








The Castle was amazing, and we enjoyed our tourguide Gavin very much.  He told us all about the history of the castle, and made sure to throw in some barbs about the English.








 











Our younger kids thought it was sweet that the castle had a cemetery set apart for the soldiers' dogs.









"Thanks for coming, and don't let the ancient doors hit you on the way out!  And, mind that wee spiky gate hanging over your heads..."


The view from the top of the Royal Mile was beautiful, but it was time to wind our way back down to the car.




Of course, we had to make some pit stops along the way...




Love that Nessie hat!








Edinburgh is a wonderful city, and we are so glad we got to spend a few days in the area.  Unfortunately, we know we just scratched the surface, but I think that means we're just going to have to come back someday!

1 comment:

matt and michelle ray said...

fun! looks like you and i are on the same train of thought as our vacation blogging goes. bite one piece of the elephant at a time! we didn't take quite as many pictures as you though, only 670. :) love seeing all your adventures!