Goodbye Edinbugh, Hello Dollar

By this time, you have probably figured out that I love lists. They are simple, effective, and easy to create. So, without further ado, here is one that describes most of my adventures in the past few blog-less days.

I have:

-Explored the Edinburgh Castle, inculding but not limited to: the Honours of Scotland, the Stone of Destiny, prisons of war, and St. Margaret's Chapel (the oldest building in Edinburgh)

- Had my mind blown at Camera Obscura, the World of Illusions

-Tried Haggis, Cullen Skink, Millionaire Shortbread, authentic Scottish whisky, Rosé wine, smoked salmon, Black Pudding, HP Sauce, British teas, and much more

-Experienced the wonderful show "Attrape Moi," an elegant and modern circus, at the Assembly Hall on the Royal Mile

-Crossed too many streets the wrong way

-Seen magicians, weavers, singers, dancers, bagpipe-players, actors, and comedians during the Fringe Festival

-Found my favorite casual food place (Greggs)

-Found peace in the Royal Botanic Gardens of Edinburgh

-Marveled at the ancient Saint Gile's Cathedral

-Been at the top (and the front!) of a double-decker bus

-Won a Converse All-Star counting contest, featuring Mom as the loser

-Lost a maxi-skirt counting contest, with Mom as the winner (even though there was only one)

-Watched the famous Tartan Weaving Mill work its magic, while enjoying the feel of cashmere scarves

-Finally arrived safe and sound in Dollar, ready for school

A view from Edinburgh Castle

It's been a wild few days, but it couldn't have been better. Mom and I shared lots of laughs, moments of awe, and interesting experiences in such a short time, making it an unforgettable bond. And special thanks to Dad for providing me with a wonderful camera to document mostly all of these events. The ones on this page are the few on my phone, but the others are infinitely better. As soon as I figure out how to get those pictures to my computer I will upload them...

Mochas and marshmallow chocolate at breakfast

...And so now I am at rest, at my wonderful host family's house. It's been helpful to get to know the area, the customs, and the people better-- even if I've really only gotten a glimpse. School does not start until the 25th, so I will have some downtime to prepare myself for what is to come. But only shortly, of course. Uniforms, last-minute purchases, future co-curricular activities and classes, and yes, a bit of pre-school studying are only a few of the many items on my to-do list until then. However, from now on, I'll almost always have time to sit back, relax, and enjoy the view.