Scotland, full speed

Today we had another brilliantly beautiful day. And to make the most of the sunshine, we headed out in two cars to Dollar & Castle Campbell. Frank and Scott took the lead and hiked up the glen and then Scott visited the castle. It affords a beautiful view over the valley and Scott got acquainted with the castle steward who lives in the castle year round on three floors. Nana and I tried to drive up the castle but turned back when the road across the open moat dropped straight down and scared little Nana to death!

We met again in Dollar for lunch in a cafe then split up again for Frank to meet our co-workers and the trio to explore more of Scotland. After taking the car Frank parked for us on the sidewalk and getting a talking to by the local law enforcement (he was very polite and gave us a warning! the American accent has it's advantages!) we headed up to Dunblane. We explored its lovely streets while remembering its sad history as the sight of one the first school shootings. Today it is a quiet village, with a river running through it, a beautiful cathedral and many quaint shops. We warmed up in a hotel pub where we had coffee and cokes and enjoyed the warmth of the gas fire.

As an interjection - we did drive along the Hillfoots road toward Dunblane, and even made a quick stop at the Wallace Monument for the last free van ride of the day up the hill to a gorgeous viewpoint over Stirling. The monument was closing for the day but the view and the almost sunset were spectacular. We all dutifully enjoyed the Mel Gisbon-esque statue of William Wallace at the base of the monument too.

Tonight we joined our local friends Andy & Gyda for Gyda's warm Scottish cooking and tried local delicacies like mackeral pate, creamed leeks, neeps and tatties, haggis and cranachan. After much fun and much food, we headed home for bed. Work tomorrow and Nana and Scott are on their own to explore...

Pictures to come, but the camera has been on loan to friends overnight... Thanks for all the comments!