tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-42359422964127742262024-03-13T23:26:38.113-07:00Catch Us Later!Connie and Stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14214245770724201376noreply@blogger.comBlogger363125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4235942296412774226.post-70732762430623537832023-07-15T07:21:00.001-07:002023-07-15T07:21:16.968-07:00THE HIGH AND LOW ROADS<p> Yesterday we got up and drove to a remote area called Eshaness, at the Northern end of the Shetland Island. We met a charming Shetlandtonian named Drew, who also happened to be a retired geologist. As we walked miles on the craggy coastline, he gave us a short history of the Devonian period about 400 million years ago and how this island actually was forming at the equator! We saw many cliff dwelling birds and of course, lots of sheep. It was an uncanny beautiful day with no wind and sunshine. And it was our last day on Shetland.</p><p>We got up early and left Brae to start the journey home. We have been gone one month and seen and experienced so many things Scottish. We have taken 7 flts, 4 ferries, a train, and countless vans and busses. We’ve taken the high roads and the low roads and met some of the friendliest people on the planet. The Scottish folk are fun, hard workers diligent and resourceful, especially on the outer islands where they have depended for centuries on their own. The weather was rough for summer, with lots of rain, but we were prepared and really used our rain gear. It was never cold, and we had surprise days of sun every now and then. </p><p>We loved: Scottish ale, the people, the Highland cows, the castles, the Lochs, the history, Sticky puddling, haggis, and even blood sausage, the hiking, courteous drivers, cake fridges, and tea.</p><p>We didn’t much care for the fish and chips, the coffee, no wash cloths, early morning wake-up calls, single track roads, the wind….. and the wind.</p><p>Our favorite place was the Hebrides, even this it was the roughest weather. The cities were crowded with tourists but so much history in those old stone buildings. </p><p>We are in Edinburgh again and will fly out early am. As they say in Scotland: Haste Ye Back.</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh35SRti1cAB2aTswIZoE-m6sMctm_t50iRx5GZLNYTdRQ74eaAMMVpwy6iMz2ChpmI9gN50HZIwPr6PKqb9N2a9cHA8-3ZLXCwSGfH7tTtNby1TLt86EGR7I2DoITgzHnW08_2-4U_xRcHBsKp2Z-XmWUVhHxXIxZytftiQWPxNL1it__KDCIYllnhVSTx/s4032/IMG_2931.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh35SRti1cAB2aTswIZoE-m6sMctm_t50iRx5GZLNYTdRQ74eaAMMVpwy6iMz2ChpmI9gN50HZIwPr6PKqb9N2a9cHA8-3ZLXCwSGfH7tTtNby1TLt86EGR7I2DoITgzHnW08_2-4U_xRcHBsKp2Z-XmWUVhHxXIxZytftiQWPxNL1it__KDCIYllnhVSTx/s320/IMG_2931.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXPKgqwpKCzt6x5GDnw1gAnYSMy1tsTtc0_C2d47Rg4IN2m8V159O892QBeDZ6O7xKtw5ttMsxEsa_T_4bwPIvAGCu3G0IueNUAWyEDR0nU4jP4HPndDzn3FppdkQEEBExKBlVqhge2_7i08NnhYvSh7lHDzACEAPKRm8Q0xbdTzD-prjv_98ztHeAuHdJ/s4032/IMG_2941.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXPKgqwpKCzt6x5GDnw1gAnYSMy1tsTtc0_C2d47Rg4IN2m8V159O892QBeDZ6O7xKtw5ttMsxEsa_T_4bwPIvAGCu3G0IueNUAWyEDR0nU4jP4HPndDzn3FppdkQEEBExKBlVqhge2_7i08NnhYvSh7lHDzACEAPKRm8Q0xbdTzD-prjv_98ztHeAuHdJ/s320/IMG_2941.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIyzzzynH15VmbWoNfOTR8RHZ79uRuI0EBMoqKx0yN0AApBq8zAVQsdTmmV6MUgfwAX2iupdMI0GR6IAeXNiL5JkdYyD2wO5FmnS4bK5bZA_Gzn6on8_XfCSPWqJi2-HIm2gvzM-I0mH5NWoga-hp0lKVPBIZxfJ-3CvzKlDTtNWQy9zdR63KaUuw9MvYq/s3306/IMG_2951.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3020" data-original-width="3306" height="292" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIyzzzynH15VmbWoNfOTR8RHZ79uRuI0EBMoqKx0yN0AApBq8zAVQsdTmmV6MUgfwAX2iupdMI0GR6IAeXNiL5JkdYyD2wO5FmnS4bK5bZA_Gzn6on8_XfCSPWqJi2-HIm2gvzM-I0mH5NWoga-hp0lKVPBIZxfJ-3CvzKlDTtNWQy9zdR63KaUuw9MvYq/s320/IMG_2951.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6YRviiS98aSDpbbrA8hfefjjjzc2w-t1P-apC1p_ngcjT6HyOg8FqlHWEXrULTfO0dnIgxBNkzBB_3Mf7jEeNTtB6-yxZJkfirN2-USJNRfifaNHemMBpWVwyeucv4cXDgmBV3MJzr1ZsSa3QY57AxPSV7__Fwd641bxUTQmbeAlRy5cppTcqUYv6nNB7/s4032/IMG_2954.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6YRviiS98aSDpbbrA8hfefjjjzc2w-t1P-apC1p_ngcjT6HyOg8FqlHWEXrULTfO0dnIgxBNkzBB_3Mf7jEeNTtB6-yxZJkfirN2-USJNRfifaNHemMBpWVwyeucv4cXDgmBV3MJzr1ZsSa3QY57AxPSV7__Fwd641bxUTQmbeAlRy5cppTcqUYv6nNB7/s320/IMG_2954.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKAnPJAp1TUbDs6GZYkNbU-LCVkWW0IcWjWzC7wWst0290i24NVHoYxH4m7iu8KCB3ylrDLvDPjChI3Q5oYLbnZHqp97KBz3_0K6Va_tUq6pPEX_4-IXDEXm2NuUUGJjZBG9lF-B4AJyT6tnAFUvUwEvCfF_sDibSoVJXeSfFe_YoUgm7loFOWxfN3ZefC/s3024/IMG_2983.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="2839" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKAnPJAp1TUbDs6GZYkNbU-LCVkWW0IcWjWzC7wWst0290i24NVHoYxH4m7iu8KCB3ylrDLvDPjChI3Q5oYLbnZHqp97KBz3_0K6Va_tUq6pPEX_4-IXDEXm2NuUUGJjZBG9lF-B4AJyT6tnAFUvUwEvCfF_sDibSoVJXeSfFe_YoUgm7loFOWxfN3ZefC/s320/IMG_2983.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p>Connie and Stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14214245770724201376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4235942296412774226.post-7861678216480186162023-07-14T00:48:00.001-07:002023-07-14T00:48:08.335-07:00BRAE<p> We are still on Shetland and it’s a wonderful place. More Nordic than Scottish, as the Vikings had a big presence here. We are now snuggled in our hotel in Brae. The ONLY hotel in a town of 850 people. A throwback to early days where everyone knows everyone, no one locks their doors and there are many crofting farms and lots of sheep. In fact, more sheep than any other country I have ever seen. Interestingly enough, we rarely see lamb on any Menu…mostly seafood. The mussels are fresh and plentiful, and I have eaten them a lot. Yesterday we toured with a local guide and visited a Shetland pony farm, and sheltie dog raiser, and of course more sheep. We saw the biggest lighthouse on Shetland, Sunburgh, and an old Viking settlement called Jarlsof. We also were joined by a local border and saw seabirds.</p><p>Today, Steve and I are going hiking on the Eshaness Cliffs on an exposed headland. It rained all night, but the sun is actually out and I hope it stays. Weather has been a challenge on this trip. We were prepared, but it changes so quickly and literally carry 3 coats in a bag each day. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzZXRJ3d2k-zcwnqqiMAjFM06nGsWYkgobswV74VV1caN52H9fQfGEMYy9QugCZRPukU1xWR-c0RR9ifHDsSLh8Zyd4vaaG9UcTyI7rCrThJggckqibpp6FPBnQtggTwZJoYiPor-lVm_dXlZY4MUlYNuS8ME_Y9qNNK6INgIo2EWmCzcT2ijdyTDpbCf8/s4032/IMG_2885.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzZXRJ3d2k-zcwnqqiMAjFM06nGsWYkgobswV74VV1caN52H9fQfGEMYy9QugCZRPukU1xWR-c0RR9ifHDsSLh8Zyd4vaaG9UcTyI7rCrThJggckqibpp6FPBnQtggTwZJoYiPor-lVm_dXlZY4MUlYNuS8ME_Y9qNNK6INgIo2EWmCzcT2ijdyTDpbCf8/s320/IMG_2885.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioGEBCr5WcS8NCK-UXce58xsCn7qAuJ3H_OGnABO6b5AUpcJKDJyFpU-3mdCglcMd4BWIBNKcnb3xk8IsV-HdD1zHc4-KCUfd11bgkpefuxaWgTPR31eBEUfMqFiRJAQf0j4vTPB08q4IIA-nObffTnkU-IHHXDusMSuNlLcXdiNT6MxsZ8spWmJPwsdEy/s1316/IMG_2893.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1316" data-original-width="987" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioGEBCr5WcS8NCK-UXce58xsCn7qAuJ3H_OGnABO6b5AUpcJKDJyFpU-3mdCglcMd4BWIBNKcnb3xk8IsV-HdD1zHc4-KCUfd11bgkpefuxaWgTPR31eBEUfMqFiRJAQf0j4vTPB08q4IIA-nObffTnkU-IHHXDusMSuNlLcXdiNT6MxsZ8spWmJPwsdEy/s320/IMG_2893.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0ej1ea_bynQuDLP11L78frS626FpJzzzWEg93wMfurVEWKH7GkNCFF3aU2Jm9gzCxjNuthbv6EXtTClC2WLqfM39BZQY3ZZVu1I_0CTxhyGyEZHzhf980HRB5YGZRGoNsn2mksE5tGDq_pz358AWlgSfZBy1Do2BhRs81ojvhgK3sxH_KAO1Xbuj3N6US/s4032/IMG_2905.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0ej1ea_bynQuDLP11L78frS626FpJzzzWEg93wMfurVEWKH7GkNCFF3aU2Jm9gzCxjNuthbv6EXtTClC2WLqfM39BZQY3ZZVu1I_0CTxhyGyEZHzhf980HRB5YGZRGoNsn2mksE5tGDq_pz358AWlgSfZBy1Do2BhRs81ojvhgK3sxH_KAO1Xbuj3N6US/s320/IMG_2905.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_Y_smY6d1BDE6tL4ze8RuYBUjKlAZ9OTAeuqu2UrUaGcmhgHryX-Z636GoEIWIIxT63FeDeQptZJUGMk87OT0HR7cSIiaBWGF4Swtb1MtX9Ujmz9V5gegI6uSFtFM1B7ofBgJ2yWzWqcLD3We2OxpzcYqrPPguQ-7QJIQzZaM9kEcSjoOtWXw68zLxn4v/s4032/IMG_6509.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_Y_smY6d1BDE6tL4ze8RuYBUjKlAZ9OTAeuqu2UrUaGcmhgHryX-Z636GoEIWIIxT63FeDeQptZJUGMk87OT0HR7cSIiaBWGF4Swtb1MtX9Ujmz9V5gegI6uSFtFM1B7ofBgJ2yWzWqcLD3We2OxpzcYqrPPguQ-7QJIQzZaM9kEcSjoOtWXw68zLxn4v/s320/IMG_6509.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG54RGsZDcS9WVkyRtvGHvhjnUJmcqXA71MGF2qWPWHPXK8oPs-79PNdctF50wXMhQI8VWQRNxQvv4GLr18mJ4Dez9K2LP83_--qKFne4PNwOKJnejNX9hwk2A6i8s4Cx2IOfvbBBrmCgJYZNU83SavkUDDtBWZhuXw8B8DG6qRSwGsB5X5qajVvoLyYh-/s4032/IMG_6528.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG54RGsZDcS9WVkyRtvGHvhjnUJmcqXA71MGF2qWPWHPXK8oPs-79PNdctF50wXMhQI8VWQRNxQvv4GLr18mJ4Dez9K2LP83_--qKFne4PNwOKJnejNX9hwk2A6i8s4Cx2IOfvbBBrmCgJYZNU83SavkUDDtBWZhuXw8B8DG6qRSwGsB5X5qajVvoLyYh-/s320/IMG_6528.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p>Connie and Stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14214245770724201376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4235942296412774226.post-89758581525510904772023-07-12T08:47:00.003-07:002023-07-12T08:47:17.109-07:00SHETLAND<p> Up early for a short 1 1/2 hr flight in a prop plane to Shetland Island, where the run way stops on a cliff that plunges into the North Atlantic ocean. That said, it was a smooth flight and I didn’t look during the landing. A van picked us up and drove us to Lerwick, which is the capital of Shetland. He told us to keep a positive attitude as the weather can be dicey. DUH! a we stopped at a REAL FAIR ISLES knitting shop, which is indicative of Shetland where most all natives where beautiful FairIsle jumpers, or sweaters, as we call them. I bought a beautiful hat and have been wearing it everytime I go out …. Wind is ever present.</p><p>We are staying at an old B & B within walking distance to everything. Steve and I are big Shetland (the series) fans , so of course we had to see all the sights of our favorite detective, Jimmy Perez. Our van driver also loved that show and he and Steve were yakking about all the scenes and episodes. Our B&B is old, small rooms, but clean and very friendly proprietors. Shetland is a fascinating place, more Nordic and Scottish, and closer to Oslo than Scotland.Lerwick boasts 22,000 residents and is safe and easily to get around…but weather is always dicey. Nothing to break that wind whipping in off the coasts, but the people are hearty and friendly and there are 12 flights a day on and off this big island. There is also a 13 hr ferry ride from Aberdeen….. </p><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzTPUQiUDBc4_4amgMkyzVGrCo3-YSDjX1NwejDggr9I357Sh6cGeeR7I2eshlRzr1sCGzDBqcm5FpfkpBNdSvhKJXK1Ifo2Bh3fznrLGZ3HrUmNhWu0W10oVLXJn11g_Xt2n-qAUCmHJCOsey_UB6aXBsixeKIN-J6cKEf8M1gVEPiaYSllx7NGCRaILT/s4032/IMG_2794.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzTPUQiUDBc4_4amgMkyzVGrCo3-YSDjX1NwejDggr9I357Sh6cGeeR7I2eshlRzr1sCGzDBqcm5FpfkpBNdSvhKJXK1Ifo2Bh3fznrLGZ3HrUmNhWu0W10oVLXJn11g_Xt2n-qAUCmHJCOsey_UB6aXBsixeKIN-J6cKEf8M1gVEPiaYSllx7NGCRaILT/s320/IMG_2794.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdEkMNmlr0imfyfq2YOqKbaulwO0UURZgJN-IRCzWl_pBwv3c1DGhIVWZiQEVdCXA6FqyqiEwW-qUI0_ByTwVAg76wt-zXmBRGME2F8ezeDkAAtjnnULdI85FpNf5am27LOpMaUUVmMBfX3VVj4-b058ZA_hbW6VffgjsR48lm23WANqxVt3d_JRTZD6K7/s4032/IMG_2800.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdEkMNmlr0imfyfq2YOqKbaulwO0UURZgJN-IRCzWl_pBwv3c1DGhIVWZiQEVdCXA6FqyqiEwW-qUI0_ByTwVAg76wt-zXmBRGME2F8ezeDkAAtjnnULdI85FpNf5am27LOpMaUUVmMBfX3VVj4-b058ZA_hbW6VffgjsR48lm23WANqxVt3d_JRTZD6K7/s320/IMG_2800.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBqMNKKy1Wrjm181GZpHqmUL0_IDsKl2MlN0NfeMqfLsVQt607HZ9LqgcUhuKLADPl_89nprt_k8K2Lr1y_5qjhFsh3Wgp8HlGrNdhlucilQE4syFegn6xJV-DxDFkWXAhQRG2L1uDCGFU18D754Ug-7kTfTW2NHvnNtlCvGVIAsmK1FN-AjskahZxfC4y/s4032/IMG_2806.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBqMNKKy1Wrjm181GZpHqmUL0_IDsKl2MlN0NfeMqfLsVQt607HZ9LqgcUhuKLADPl_89nprt_k8K2Lr1y_5qjhFsh3Wgp8HlGrNdhlucilQE4syFegn6xJV-DxDFkWXAhQRG2L1uDCGFU18D754Ug-7kTfTW2NHvnNtlCvGVIAsmK1FN-AjskahZxfC4y/s320/IMG_2806.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Connie and Stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14214245770724201376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4235942296412774226.post-8497099237269500592023-07-12T08:30:00.001-07:002023-07-12T08:30:13.441-07:00EDINBURGH <p> We spent 4 days In Edinburgh and a lot of eating, walking and hiking and dodging thousands of tourists! Guess it’s the height of the season and on some streets, it was actually hard to walk. We escaped for some hikes in areas that most tourists don’t go..but still… many ,many double decked HUGE tourist buses to dodge. All the pubs are packed and we tried to have a beer at a couple and couldn’t get in, so ended up at hour hotel for happy hour. On the way to Edinburgh , we stopped at St. Andrews and visited the famous golf course where it costs about 700 pounds to play a round. We also went to St.Andrews university and it was impressive. We went to another castle too. In Edinburgh we hiked Carlton Hill and the big one, Arthur’s Head…. Which was a bit challenging. We hiked it on a rain threatening day…and yes, we got drenched on the way back. Edinburgh is so old, has so much history</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6g_k5NNv0N1v4rIcii_8tiUXKLhOqW0xWl6870ntnd65_BvkhUHyjfXUo7lo7_-sKoPZNnUtZraAQIqWG2rbo-jxv_atwUW6rpXMKlXefuwjf1h9wZWZC9BjhVP0Hemv-4Q2fz9K9V8eZCdTEMOMa6qJn3tGhoFvb0Dul3ilaGDYDml_jp7weLfPaCnjq/s4032/IMG_2753.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6g_k5NNv0N1v4rIcii_8tiUXKLhOqW0xWl6870ntnd65_BvkhUHyjfXUo7lo7_-sKoPZNnUtZraAQIqWG2rbo-jxv_atwUW6rpXMKlXefuwjf1h9wZWZC9BjhVP0Hemv-4Q2fz9K9V8eZCdTEMOMa6qJn3tGhoFvb0Dul3ilaGDYDml_jp7weLfPaCnjq/s320/IMG_2753.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFtqsIz1UE48-Gix5xZQ5TzNXjud1AAon751AXgw2Z2_uX8CTnZPu895kzxnE9lW0_3gmc63tFbCjKKImXj4TnavYv3DA007_miV1UeAZtUpcDmDBX2ddF9ybEmmcahSo4IIhReVSmPl1FB2FwhayezopWiQUHjZfWSlEBKhXmRLA2w8ioxMmLd23L20UP/s4032/IMG_2743.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFtqsIz1UE48-Gix5xZQ5TzNXjud1AAon751AXgw2Z2_uX8CTnZPu895kzxnE9lW0_3gmc63tFbCjKKImXj4TnavYv3DA007_miV1UeAZtUpcDmDBX2ddF9ybEmmcahSo4IIhReVSmPl1FB2FwhayezopWiQUHjZfWSlEBKhXmRLA2w8ioxMmLd23L20UP/s320/IMG_2743.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD3oM9mLpFvJvpu0IlZb3FALdQefdwelki1C_D2qiLcUBIMHc4f9XfMOoYcAGyTvsG9wcBVGs99gEfAsxGyvBeAvwoxe2_KRVNaVbHnSAdgsphFB-jur0qCw5WK5ceRL9qk0o7qYB3DrBf1cCS4I6GYUBRH_EKuBnv6-DIEGi-q1G7TxNuvpXo5Ob2MhCG/s4032/IMG_2695.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD3oM9mLpFvJvpu0IlZb3FALdQefdwelki1C_D2qiLcUBIMHc4f9XfMOoYcAGyTvsG9wcBVGs99gEfAsxGyvBeAvwoxe2_KRVNaVbHnSAdgsphFB-jur0qCw5WK5ceRL9qk0o7qYB3DrBf1cCS4I6GYUBRH_EKuBnv6-DIEGi-q1G7TxNuvpXo5Ob2MhCG/s320/IMG_2695.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNSvChiqUUKhweg_Pa5_TUkBNuPBx6yEvDNb0u5uJ2VVyjf8XKFO3mA5F7_qsdkNzth85Z-5_hl8V74Xv5Y7Wp2QBVy2XdhPsBP-XDmmSk1L28MLrTjkyBnadecX5z6Pz9qvilE39QYizrRn2z1LsfJBI7HsgXBOAx3-bNZYyC7z-mUWvph5ln_Dj22Tzw/s4032/IMG_2670.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNSvChiqUUKhweg_Pa5_TUkBNuPBx6yEvDNb0u5uJ2VVyjf8XKFO3mA5F7_qsdkNzth85Z-5_hl8V74Xv5Y7Wp2QBVy2XdhPsBP-XDmmSk1L28MLrTjkyBnadecX5z6Pz9qvilE39QYizrRn2z1LsfJBI7HsgXBOAx3-bNZYyC7z-mUWvph5ln_Dj22Tzw/s320/IMG_2670.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW3IzB6Bxm35YGI0muMA6tiE8Pn2DGYC1LFTQNpw8cB29G4Dy5rsfDC1omCGojx2j3RtvdcMrauvHN8lOAnO0l9MRpZxyC8qsfivHfzcqsPwcuZ5oGDqyj-fwUr9H46wJzQ3HY37mAgV6Q-yfn5D5_1dXCsUydDLdBRsnJENTJUWO1sN2oE8L_3TgoRlQU/s3568/IMG_2632.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3023" data-original-width="3568" height="271" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW3IzB6Bxm35YGI0muMA6tiE8Pn2DGYC1LFTQNpw8cB29G4Dy5rsfDC1omCGojx2j3RtvdcMrauvHN8lOAnO0l9MRpZxyC8qsfivHfzcqsPwcuZ5oGDqyj-fwUr9H46wJzQ3HY37mAgV6Q-yfn5D5_1dXCsUydDLdBRsnJENTJUWO1sN2oE8L_3TgoRlQU/s320/IMG_2632.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br />, and also so many people. I am looking forward to flying to SHETLAND tomorrow but we have to be ready at 4:30 AM!!<p></p>Connie and Stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14214245770724201376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4235942296412774226.post-42700070228999845002023-07-09T13:42:00.001-07:002023-07-09T13:42:30.133-07:00ABERDEEN <p> We drove thru beautiful landscapes of Cairngorms National Park today. Scotland only has 2 National Parks and we’ve seen them both. I love the country around Aberdeen, as it rolling farm hills and big vistas. Aberdeen is a very ancient Seafaring town with lots of medieval dwelling and sites. I loved it. We were staying near the harbor and it was easy to walk everywhere. We went to a seaside pub for dinner and they were giving Scottish dancing lessons. Very common in Scotland. They want everyone to have fun! So have a few lessons we joined in the dance. The next day, steve and I went to the maritime museum and we stayed so long, they closed and we had to leave. It was so well done and tons of info on the oil drilling rigs in the North Sea. Old old pictures of the sardine industries and ships and people who worked this job. Some of the old sea shanties are still lived in by artists and people who like the eclectic lifestyle by the sea wall.</p><p>The next day we went to a huge castle and had a tour of the grounds. This was a castle from 1200’s that had been used, remodeled, destroyed, rebuilt, abandoned and finally fixed up by a rich Scotsman. It was elegant and every art piece was original. There was a small shop that sold fresh scones. The area around Aberdeen has the most castles of all of Scotland. 250 castles in various degrees of ruin and design. I would love to see more.</p><p>Finally, we had lunch at a special place called Fly UP. It trains mentally challenged people to have useful jobs and earn their own money and try to be more independent. It was delicious, and actually kind of emotional, as some of the people came and talked to us and explained what it meant to have these jobs. Then they let us take all the leftovers back with us.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4SzQKNPOCT0HKZShqds3CPB7t3pkjwt-LAqJZvoX2WgUa49zDKVOV8I-pyXJfs9LporueZcqUvnFLYad-3uGJQGC6kzMwEnKt3LoBwUjbFhIF57rG8SRGy6ZnnlNuMVetKqxlG_E7002feU-RaX_zGHLXNpLrferygUwUZtai-xXGqjEUBt1FCjV4GKEa/s4032/IMG_2585.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4SzQKNPOCT0HKZShqds3CPB7t3pkjwt-LAqJZvoX2WgUa49zDKVOV8I-pyXJfs9LporueZcqUvnFLYad-3uGJQGC6kzMwEnKt3LoBwUjbFhIF57rG8SRGy6ZnnlNuMVetKqxlG_E7002feU-RaX_zGHLXNpLrferygUwUZtai-xXGqjEUBt1FCjV4GKEa/s320/IMG_2585.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZklG86gO1ruvNfxSrPFugf25j3DWghzrr5Gj5SOkFS2Ag6ddW8XDVVmXjBTe8NfvzZqid-KKp1FbTtbnqxayofc60gLZ1vNSesrpG16pRqV3lp2miwVGhmFqUaJQTnIPgd6ecvDloK4rfsZaq9o7kpiGNTQBM6wPVP5Zc8RRe4By2biXP7C80dVGW6z2-/s4032/IMG_2562.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZklG86gO1ruvNfxSrPFugf25j3DWghzrr5Gj5SOkFS2Ag6ddW8XDVVmXjBTe8NfvzZqid-KKp1FbTtbnqxayofc60gLZ1vNSesrpG16pRqV3lp2miwVGhmFqUaJQTnIPgd6ecvDloK4rfsZaq9o7kpiGNTQBM6wPVP5Zc8RRe4By2biXP7C80dVGW6z2-/s320/IMG_2562.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ0NM3ZIRnZVt3EpXAa2IO0jvo_-66eQmaGIVqZvJnc2mqZiUFVoT5gO9WQenOW-rv2E2MSMjDC1dbeM4XhbSvfrx3y4-GAsjV-VZ5RHWlszvjIgN1GRSDay8SGRCOqevE3RxwXQXikH0bwMS9F6yibtFid2kcBQXmzb1LBNFoo45E7hcSEsqJOkBsvW-W/s4032/IMG_2558.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ0NM3ZIRnZVt3EpXAa2IO0jvo_-66eQmaGIVqZvJnc2mqZiUFVoT5gO9WQenOW-rv2E2MSMjDC1dbeM4XhbSvfrx3y4-GAsjV-VZ5RHWlszvjIgN1GRSDay8SGRCOqevE3RxwXQXikH0bwMS9F6yibtFid2kcBQXmzb1LBNFoo45E7hcSEsqJOkBsvW-W/s320/IMG_2558.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqRZuUZctQiep1MM69rAKSk7wpWz47aYUoZg1t3QlivVuGaANAoLM2YVltTaG1o9QG3LvZFcXv_tDYqxuek0hRVPFi0jkFam6l2XTw6_NYHg3XC-WerICG9YLLF-bH6TY9Ym7HyKGA-19hf0tVK0OhRRfarHI1r4D6wgl3wnDeLqk3gVo9T-wqlFoMJ1Ea/s4032/IMG_2549.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqRZuUZctQiep1MM69rAKSk7wpWz47aYUoZg1t3QlivVuGaANAoLM2YVltTaG1o9QG3LvZFcXv_tDYqxuek0hRVPFi0jkFam6l2XTw6_NYHg3XC-WerICG9YLLF-bH6TY9Ym7HyKGA-19hf0tVK0OhRRfarHI1r4D6wgl3wnDeLqk3gVo9T-wqlFoMJ1Ea/s320/IMG_2549.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><p></p>Connie and Stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14214245770724201376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4235942296412774226.post-4454060156113857072023-07-06T00:35:00.001-07:002023-07-06T00:35:46.708-07:00EXTRA STUFF<p> I wanted to say a couple things that I missed. One thing we did a few morn8 gs ago was visit a Highland Cattle farm. I was thinking “Ho hum”..but I was so wrong. This very interesting couple from Edinburgh made a huge career change about 23 years ago…giving up their CPA jobs and plunging head on into cattle farming.Now, they open their land and home up for tours, and we went on one. We spent hours riding around in a tractor. Petting and combing these gentle animals. We learned so much about sheep ranching and Highland cows, or coos….as they call them. It was a blast and one of the best days!</p><p>Yesterday am we met with two fine Scottish gentleman (who happen to be friends and co</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtx2zBx8_52c2LvFszmlj5VMBD4c7Cyej_ZZMWU5CI9QltR8KyKwX6SDTCj2FqbL3H-QIGna4LHXq6ubDNCzQ4xv_W7y_g3JK8uOlsfslgIs6T7r4tc6y_-XKX9wjayg7M_4aVDbeZZH-2c1muxJfD21ERDhZ3t4Dwa4G6nzVNYV80BGhcDpwJgN07DTgC/s4032/IMG_2314.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtx2zBx8_52c2LvFszmlj5VMBD4c7Cyej_ZZMWU5CI9QltR8KyKwX6SDTCj2FqbL3H-QIGna4LHXq6ubDNCzQ4xv_W7y_g3JK8uOlsfslgIs6T7r4tc6y_-XKX9wjayg7M_4aVDbeZZH-2c1muxJfD21ERDhZ3t4Dwa4G6nzVNYV80BGhcDpwJgN07DTgC/s320/IMG_2314.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2Wd55DpVOn1tfJ4N_Kx4mztWcnVzFB_wOImqnMlCMpMFLe44xTPUGfD7sE15NV2l9KshsiCRFzFY21aQk_2EM97Emc0PUUSBaL-YAHfV7DQVwJakhojMvoHJLzAPMoDvowWpWKM7pKL3Kv8jQaQ2O5Yqdi4pIAIpb7CYA-658k9yO8bxFYdO1Q_Cg95Xh/s4032/IMG_2291.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2Wd55DpVOn1tfJ4N_Kx4mztWcnVzFB_wOImqnMlCMpMFLe44xTPUGfD7sE15NV2l9KshsiCRFzFY21aQk_2EM97Emc0PUUSBaL-YAHfV7DQVwJakhojMvoHJLzAPMoDvowWpWKM7pKL3Kv8jQaQ2O5Yqdi4pIAIpb7CYA-658k9yO8bxFYdO1Q_Cg95Xh/s320/IMG_2291.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjeNa6mbW5V1Dzreq8KA6-5W7B0aQclnjygM_FXuvT439s0w5tyYPTuno8Fdfhshr8Sl0gfnQ-_DThZvmoabZM2ZYW4sDxbepSu-gZOeKObTel4y1xCMc7KK9tpXEWHceQzVnu_Wk3XmFmYuwJD5D2GL4MA7IMMy8DpeuGblrq1HvRgwd_ooUHYYxGr0fY/s4032/IMG_2273.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjeNa6mbW5V1Dzreq8KA6-5W7B0aQclnjygM_FXuvT439s0w5tyYPTuno8Fdfhshr8Sl0gfnQ-_DThZvmoabZM2ZYW4sDxbepSu-gZOeKObTel4y1xCMc7KK9tpXEWHceQzVnu_Wk3XmFmYuwJD5D2GL4MA7IMMy8DpeuGblrq1HvRgwd_ooUHYYxGr0fY/s320/IMG_2273.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /> workers in an architectural firm) but had very opposing views on Scotlands future. One wants to stay in UK and the other wants to succeed and form their own separate country. It’s was a lively discussion and included a lot of history and policies and politics and right up my alley. We asked questions and got to join in their discussion and compared US issues. Could have spent all day as they were so engaging, but we were on our way to a Scotch whiskey tasting! <p></p>Connie and Stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14214245770724201376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4235942296412774226.post-74916955459775041772023-07-05T08:22:00.001-07:002023-07-05T08:22:29.810-07:00INVERNESS AND LOCH NESS<p> We are going to spend a few days in Inverness exploring sights and some museums. On our way we traveled along Loch Ness, famous for Nessie. My opinion is the touristy Nessie stuff is completely overblown, with buses of tourists</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB5xKXIGq190UvcTEqEu6dEUWQycRkcD_pD8lrGketT-bXtvtaBYJ3y3ziUv5gpBGLzaolgS--qUWDK5KixPDFPSSUEobyH677OSZ_yfpChLh7_HXy5WzLz-LBO3gMDZOFe3GT4yrWH-JKxxcptThutxd8644sf4QwhgDsjNakzF4gQEtIxyDpvEBmtHe5/s4032/IMG_2460.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB5xKXIGq190UvcTEqEu6dEUWQycRkcD_pD8lrGketT-bXtvtaBYJ3y3ziUv5gpBGLzaolgS--qUWDK5KixPDFPSSUEobyH677OSZ_yfpChLh7_HXy5WzLz-LBO3gMDZOFe3GT4yrWH-JKxxcptThutxd8644sf4QwhgDsjNakzF4gQEtIxyDpvEBmtHe5/s320/IMG_2460.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsK459ua5E99UQi0owFNjfmOi-bgsjCe0J-m--yD8ETFZIdWPdz_nlPrBvF-1OLwpBR59zXiWqDcc25q-KoIXPod4xuKMbHeq3LazxTS3SK3mVGfHde3UPMxErXUOvBsfzQGxTV-txUYREK0AuGsJX7ABpjuCpKBgAfBDbzcAiQTtt0HScKY4e62_9GDrp/s4032/IMG_2447.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsK459ua5E99UQi0owFNjfmOi-bgsjCe0J-m--yD8ETFZIdWPdz_nlPrBvF-1OLwpBR59zXiWqDcc25q-KoIXPod4xuKMbHeq3LazxTS3SK3mVGfHde3UPMxErXUOvBsfzQGxTV-txUYREK0AuGsJX7ABpjuCpKBgAfBDbzcAiQTtt0HScKY4e62_9GDrp/s320/IMG_2447.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDgmYvl7V6DyRI6hwCXoM7mXhu2fYpO2oJuUOc_PnpFsn12WJZjAAI1frnC--4pL3nG3PslJ4LdPN6YKqVRniPgpdzLqbnaKbo4k42J2oFE4VAI63EgnLV2KWDvpxO0v7Xjt-n1FtB5SFM8O2o1edPiIVFcwuVUUX7Gr5pwnF6AjJF6w2kzTfK3xcR_UI-/s4032/IMG_2439.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDgmYvl7V6DyRI6hwCXoM7mXhu2fYpO2oJuUOc_PnpFsn12WJZjAAI1frnC--4pL3nG3PslJ4LdPN6YKqVRniPgpdzLqbnaKbo4k42J2oFE4VAI63EgnLV2KWDvpxO0v7Xjt-n1FtB5SFM8O2o1edPiIVFcwuVUUX7Gr5pwnF6AjJF6w2kzTfK3xcR_UI-/s320/IMG_2439.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPpICyNfoAqYlJnKi505LcM2Pcw6F3JByZRt2bsiNQtJE7I3GyNfuUcQv5JhJZBt174WMB12diaV1rH-DLXiu_BK5V5CfIQmvQxo-1mK_jKFA2X6SvdK2-HY6qUxs7v2NM74ULDSx2Yg0WiRJuTVBYq898h46CjN6fWuTUSdfnfoSswam3qIGPyJU0yHOs/s4032/IMG_2432.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPpICyNfoAqYlJnKi505LcM2Pcw6F3JByZRt2bsiNQtJE7I3GyNfuUcQv5JhJZBt174WMB12diaV1rH-DLXiu_BK5V5CfIQmvQxo-1mK_jKFA2X6SvdK2-HY6qUxs7v2NM74ULDSx2Yg0WiRJuTVBYq898h46CjN6fWuTUSdfnfoSswam3qIGPyJU0yHOs/s320/IMG_2432.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /> (😳😳!!) being bussed in for a Quick look , a souvenir…and then bussed back out. Stupid. We TRIED to avoid all that, but it is everywhere. We finally did stop to see a beautiful,old castle ruin called Urquhart Castle, and that was very cool…… and there was a small bit of Nessie, not not too bad. Loch Ness itself is beautiful and reminded me of Puget sound and islands, and the sun came out, so it was nice to see before we landed at the Radisson smack in the middle of town. We had booked a table at The Mustard Seed near the hotel. It books up months in advance, so we were lucky to get a spot. It didn’t disappoint.<p></p>Connie and Stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14214245770724201376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4235942296412774226.post-6585094605392791532023-07-05T08:04:00.000-07:002023-07-05T08:04:04.190-07:00IONA<p> Long day today as we traveled by 2 ferries and a big van to a historically important Isle called Iona. The most important religious person to invade Scotland was from Ireland. St. Columba, traveled in the sixth century to spread the Christian word. He built a Celtic Church and the Iona Abbey, where historians think the Book of Kells was written. There are ruins all over the place and breathtaking views. The Vikings had a huge presence there also, and because it so remote, there is still much standing, even tho it’s been built and rebuilt thru history. We walked all over between rain showers with a local guide who explained everything and also told us of life for about 200 people who live on Iona. The road was long, winding, and typical of remote rural roads in Scotland: single track. That means if a car or truck is going the opposite way there is no way each can keep going until one of the vehicles pulls over to a turn out. If there is no turnout, one vehicle has to back up until they find one. It’s like a game of chicken over and over and there is lots of braking</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj24mNWnVtM4bjMEwUwPSX1QKFIIeWrxNxBumywNMHXDiknpmAyVElILDtR6WFHcmw6SoBPtBh2CsW6p95qf3qZipuvzVvBQqkglJiI4cTRaUEy9EOIEuaQ0XwHbMFzbA8VlG421owcT2Yh8Ntw5Em0cH34VXfAr9XfHyf5WlE69ZeptPR87ZIW5BcWjKNh/s4032/IMG_2419.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj24mNWnVtM4bjMEwUwPSX1QKFIIeWrxNxBumywNMHXDiknpmAyVElILDtR6WFHcmw6SoBPtBh2CsW6p95qf3qZipuvzVvBQqkglJiI4cTRaUEy9EOIEuaQ0XwHbMFzbA8VlG421owcT2Yh8Ntw5Em0cH34VXfAr9XfHyf5WlE69ZeptPR87ZIW5BcWjKNh/s320/IMG_2419.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTdBnjX3M7Spm1oCWOezatp8UrQnhPhuRBKxsp_pNTIRedhYOAalYI_E_mxqOYWxh2_zCKAxCWmvnI-RkQNd7tDAC0VMNGJQZFn83oezrwV4EwAJTfvjLe1zQphvn_ilKq28xjENvireMC7G9lSAxgdOLz-lgU2T4d6z13xqXF_Zq3qCbzlDkjdNc2ja_M/s4032/IMG_2409.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTdBnjX3M7Spm1oCWOezatp8UrQnhPhuRBKxsp_pNTIRedhYOAalYI_E_mxqOYWxh2_zCKAxCWmvnI-RkQNd7tDAC0VMNGJQZFn83oezrwV4EwAJTfvjLe1zQphvn_ilKq28xjENvireMC7G9lSAxgdOLz-lgU2T4d6z13xqXF_Zq3qCbzlDkjdNc2ja_M/s320/IMG_2409.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHIEFvjPvsJk3jl2HihRuPhinn9A4ktzgsTccN1nnsK-bjy7FHJRY6ROod-bRANMoohmDUycG73dQDuzOo0utVQkiZEcqpu-6uILx3zADb-XkOW6N09is2BU9NB-jESJcLkZhGZMQOEYK4dT7LPSUFHJ0Z7fB1LeJzHev12zkLAPprfP_MJZkECYKw2JMl/s4032/IMG_2408.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHIEFvjPvsJk3jl2HihRuPhinn9A4ktzgsTccN1nnsK-bjy7FHJRY6ROod-bRANMoohmDUycG73dQDuzOo0utVQkiZEcqpu-6uILx3zADb-XkOW6N09is2BU9NB-jESJcLkZhGZMQOEYK4dT7LPSUFHJ0Z7fB1LeJzHev12zkLAPprfP_MJZkECYKw2JMl/s320/IMG_2408.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUWSrbo83Io-9XUhTn6yJqb9vo2aGOxTYb-9eeDGUFNbyDkvd0EGVp-9_-RAtfrI5-NNZ2BeUsmVRHQiIqouFyYBjIVxTaYc5wnieXarRtUufhdKWzLv8E5xaJqhtcg4FxXeAUXqcB3bkl1KgU-VK2jm-XaRyQ4eEcvMhAZy8-ZLag38Pp04Mj8j4tlMQe/s4032/IMG_2385.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUWSrbo83Io-9XUhTn6yJqb9vo2aGOxTYb-9eeDGUFNbyDkvd0EGVp-9_-RAtfrI5-NNZ2BeUsmVRHQiIqouFyYBjIVxTaYc5wnieXarRtUufhdKWzLv8E5xaJqhtcg4FxXeAUXqcB3bkl1KgU-VK2jm-XaRyQ4eEcvMhAZy8-ZLag38Pp04Mj8j4tlMQe/s320/IMG_2385.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br />, stopping and turning. Perfect for motion sickness. I did take a pill and was able to withstand a full day of traveling. The ferries were ok, and one was only a 10 min ferry ride. We got back late and I snagged the last serving of local mussels at a seafood stand by the dock. Steve found a Fish and chip place that was still serving. <p></p>Connie and Stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14214245770724201376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4235942296412774226.post-34380099406342598062023-07-03T00:51:00.001-07:002023-07-03T00:51:47.615-07:00OBAN<p> Left Glasgow and traveled the winding roads to Oban. There is a shorter way, but we wanted to see the scenery which didn’t disappoint. We traveled along the length of Loch Lomand and stopped at a tourist scenic cruise. Typical lake cruse on a small boat and it started raining pretty good. They did serve tea and coffee and shortbread. This seems to be a custom where ever we go. After that, we stopped at a 500 year old Pub called the Dover Inn. It didn’t seem like much had changed! It was so old. Smelled old, looked old, was old with heads and bodies of old animals who were once hunted. We had Mac and cheese and it was the best I have ever eaten! Oh…and beer. </p><p>We continued to Oban, which was bustling with tourists when we arrived. It is nestled on a beautiful bay and reminded me so much of Port Townsend. Lots of little shops, and lots of seafood. Small street that cars get back up on this time of year. After checking in and getting settled we took a small van to a Barn outside of town (another very old place) and had dinner at the Barn Bar. Quirky and fun, but good food. They had small cottages for rent also.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhigEhOHvZq-JCtkJkq8j0gw-_8pI2QFuEENQ_kLfe21q84cEgrBFoU9HLvmDgrgLssrMpYm_-5_LO0EJtVgsXpJw4jNy_WuX8qOr7Ph2NhTwcj-5GEZSRPV3lOnFfqTpL8NZWdzNvyg1-m1a2Nxn4svytP-8ao_b1QWVT4AJLuA6WGNIG7InpBwGHpQjl7/s4032/IMG_2260.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhigEhOHvZq-JCtkJkq8j0gw-_8pI2QFuEENQ_kLfe21q84cEgrBFoU9HLvmDgrgLssrMpYm_-5_LO0EJtVgsXpJw4jNy_WuX8qOr7Ph2NhTwcj-5GEZSRPV3lOnFfqTpL8NZWdzNvyg1-m1a2Nxn4svytP-8ao_b1QWVT4AJLuA6WGNIG7InpBwGHpQjl7/s320/IMG_2260.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0KqqBW2rXi8HYGoa_YuwN6ty2SdeTwEhBpWaYFR5CpkPqBkhQi8VJ8EZjYh4kY3Ldf5s5gk2N4ZcgQCTufi-zcuo5KRUGTD3LIgR57VFJ5_x9gv3ZZ75OYosxKBEsCydNmb_l6UgnJqhcvSw1xB-JaAXgb3HXlqkcOQYt9GtRsxcHKByoEyKzIssAdJbk/s4032/IMG_2240.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0KqqBW2rXi8HYGoa_YuwN6ty2SdeTwEhBpWaYFR5CpkPqBkhQi8VJ8EZjYh4kY3Ldf5s5gk2N4ZcgQCTufi-zcuo5KRUGTD3LIgR57VFJ5_x9gv3ZZ75OYosxKBEsCydNmb_l6UgnJqhcvSw1xB-JaAXgb3HXlqkcOQYt9GtRsxcHKByoEyKzIssAdJbk/s320/IMG_2240.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcLjBnkMmxXLqlioChws-_VYw-H-XvBX-mrCM72dRYS6vkEcyuTkNP76QMHTpeq-KHuJMz11OKm8LVSsGlK_NVGLIPw2OOJ1GxqF1aGvCx4Lz2yefeO-jldjB5LMYnS8iHxOMSF0qB2yJ4Kur-iLg-RSGyYnFYNRgofQe8atzMSAu9ht5JghfvYiCM2_8_/s2271/IMG_2229.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2271" data-original-width="1703" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcLjBnkMmxXLqlioChws-_VYw-H-XvBX-mrCM72dRYS6vkEcyuTkNP76QMHTpeq-KHuJMz11OKm8LVSsGlK_NVGLIPw2OOJ1GxqF1aGvCx4Lz2yefeO-jldjB5LMYnS8iHxOMSF0qB2yJ4Kur-iLg-RSGyYnFYNRgofQe8atzMSAu9ht5JghfvYiCM2_8_/s320/IMG_2229.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><p></p>Connie and Stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14214245770724201376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4235942296412774226.post-41180361905821915172023-06-29T13:38:00.001-07:002023-06-29T13:38:36.965-07:00GLASGOW <p> After a short early flight from the Isle of Lewis, we landed in Glasgow for 4 days. Largest city in Scotland and we are smack downtown. But it’s easy walking to so many things. We got here so early our rooms were not ready so we did a walking tour around the hotel vicinity. There is any kind of restaurant one would want except for Mexican! Haha. Lots of Indian food tho. In fact steve and I went to an Indian place last night and had a great meal. No one tips around here. It seems weird. This am we got on a bus and had a tour of the city and some special places like parks and cathedrals. Then we ate at Soul Sisters . It’s a place run buy immigrants of all kinds. They cook the food and try and learn English. Because of Brexit….the immigrant population has dwindled. Like us, they depend on immigrants to do jobs no one else wants, so they have the same problems with help wanted all over, and services are slow and places shutting down.</p><p>This afternoon I spent 3 hrs with a friend from Scotland I have only met on line thru FB. We bonded on a site about a Norwegian trips we were both going to take but it got canceled because of Covid. Well, we kept corresponding and today she took a train to Glasgow from her small town and we met and really really enjoyed each other’s company. It was so fun. Steve walked to one of the many museums while Linda and I were yakking. </p><p>Glasgow is a great city with tons to see and do. All the university’s in Scotland are free as is vocational training and advanced degrees. All health care and prescriptions are also completely free. Kids can vote at 16! Anyone living in UK/Scotland can vote even if they are immigrant.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8Pqeadt09bg1ZChvhzoEjDIG4tKaoT-N-53zzWAlHGvTWff4xhawk8xuMiV6xickmfF0okHgTX_9sShmE20AlmX5yN1_MAfK_1GdBnjIDfVLT135PK-cWMIUkO3R6UViXMMyR-buVuRIRSXmbfc49myakGJ7FGMlWZmDhdfci3SnFLymgTqMcXSV3kvNu/s4032/IMG_2144.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8Pqeadt09bg1ZChvhzoEjDIG4tKaoT-N-53zzWAlHGvTWff4xhawk8xuMiV6xickmfF0okHgTX_9sShmE20AlmX5yN1_MAfK_1GdBnjIDfVLT135PK-cWMIUkO3R6UViXMMyR-buVuRIRSXmbfc49myakGJ7FGMlWZmDhdfci3SnFLymgTqMcXSV3kvNu/s320/IMG_2144.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwqMxqF0rUVpx2PjsCBQeB4C3CcY384zB8KH_oXX8GVavWic0bnQLkcIuawX0A5rQYy7KPpkQzXzx5N4hX2dEzrzmOvSaNFeHFsv69W7Ev1I8dJ0-A7vbuhjFycE3tKv7jlvm1wZiMOKPfHJC6zSlU2x4gmDsKgXTjV5BO6Txf7fWdxlh1v09cbuZXoWWL/s4032/IMG_2137.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwqMxqF0rUVpx2PjsCBQeB4C3CcY384zB8KH_oXX8GVavWic0bnQLkcIuawX0A5rQYy7KPpkQzXzx5N4hX2dEzrzmOvSaNFeHFsv69W7Ev1I8dJ0-A7vbuhjFycE3tKv7jlvm1wZiMOKPfHJC6zSlU2x4gmDsKgXTjV5BO6Txf7fWdxlh1v09cbuZXoWWL/s320/IMG_2137.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8TtCzAdEMcObuLfoma2ifYYgEHqfHhgx4nz4SNroPT41DpmzajXK_y59lTXDyzkd-o0NkqkWndbYgAARy3QL9APRkcJstzvLHto66UOeBrDn83SJY7lYj5MtMBvxGY3-4wazkWwegoaTKIs3iLhskZH62iqzC-yfyyfQi_vLuBpdlyt6krX30d4rmKrfw/s4032/IMG_2126.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8TtCzAdEMcObuLfoma2ifYYgEHqfHhgx4nz4SNroPT41DpmzajXK_y59lTXDyzkd-o0NkqkWndbYgAARy3QL9APRkcJstzvLHto66UOeBrDn83SJY7lYj5MtMBvxGY3-4wazkWwegoaTKIs3iLhskZH62iqzC-yfyyfQi_vLuBpdlyt6krX30d4rmKrfw/s320/IMG_2126.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><p></p>Connie and Stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14214245770724201376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4235942296412774226.post-7995485298782931492023-06-27T08:42:00.000-07:002023-06-27T08:42:07.873-07:00GUGA HUNTERS<p> We traveled by van today to the “Butt of Lewis” it’s the most Northern point in all UK, and known for its ferocious winds and weather. They have recorded winds up to 161 mph at the lighthouse. The lighthouse is Brick and has 168 steps to the top and is 37 meters tall, so before this was automated…it was a fun climb up and down! The weather did not disappoint. It wasn’t a gale, but it was windy and also started to rain. No one was there but us! </p><p>We traveled to Ness where we met at man at their historical society that was a guga hunter, and he was a wealth of knowledge. He had a slide presentation of the centuries old custom where men, and only men, sail out to a remote uninhabited island called SULS SGEIR. They set up a camp for 10 days by climbing a rock face and hauling all the gear needed to hunt and harvest the guga chicks that are about. 5 months old and fat and oily. guga is what locals call these birds , known as Ganets. They only harvest the chicks which are fat with meat and oil. They salt the meat to keep,it from spoiling. They are allowed 2000 birds each year, and usually get their limit as the birds are not afraid of man, so…….they just take a long pole and slip a noose around the neck of the bird to pull it out of the nest, and another man is ready to kill it with one stroke of a club. It sounds awful, but it’s been the food and a way of life for centuries. Bird flu and “ lazy teens who don’t want to go into the trade” are changing things..Dod, the ol guy who was schooling us was quite a character..typical Scottish man with a fine sense of humor.</p><p>We returned to Stornoway on a sideways rainstorm and passed quite a few bikers on the narrow roads. Not ebikers either! We hopped off the Van and said goodbye to Claire, who hast</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI1LdpLY7FdwuXHDANf3X5qU3E3FhBhT5_YMxsAzI6FB9-CW_qqQMgpdo3GQPkTUTP0beKYlwvjF1dSyQHGLHdFQjx4Km5oW5bcLA8VxHnVpGTn2PbnAsTGw85wVK17bhip0vW1Bby8BBT43EXA33BmRHxvH---QKGAirtcYXjHpOLs0mBvP64XCjl7Ms4/s2081/IMG_2087.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1858" data-original-width="2081" height="286" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI1LdpLY7FdwuXHDANf3X5qU3E3FhBhT5_YMxsAzI6FB9-CW_qqQMgpdo3GQPkTUTP0beKYlwvjF1dSyQHGLHdFQjx4Km5oW5bcLA8VxHnVpGTn2PbnAsTGw85wVK17bhip0vW1Bby8BBT43EXA33BmRHxvH---QKGAirtcYXjHpOLs0mBvP64XCjl7Ms4/s320/IMG_2087.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi8mtmNAKL27p4MvU7kRe9btZ8oYcyVnPkvGeOhLkhr5khaFw6cZqoOzsHl1UDiJ1HC6d3w3BZKqDCSTgBgSTm5FhD5s7XZI4e_TDU8-_vuA_TR8edSMuG31hhtBL6fozKIsRbHBrh2uo6QYn9LVcC3IF18CPOY1Us6HjEGZuKbHzy5NsHIe7H6j4zmB9f/s4030/IMG_2060.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4030" data-original-width="2256" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi8mtmNAKL27p4MvU7kRe9btZ8oYcyVnPkvGeOhLkhr5khaFw6cZqoOzsHl1UDiJ1HC6d3w3BZKqDCSTgBgSTm5FhD5s7XZI4e_TDU8-_vuA_TR8edSMuG31hhtBL6fozKIsRbHBrh2uo6QYn9LVcC3IF18CPOY1Us6HjEGZuKbHzy5NsHIe7H6j4zmB9f/s320/IMG_2060.jpeg" width="179" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipjOzIDN4HzVlr1QTl9phjkPGyGz2h6ALqByQ58DAoDqB0uP5JvzwhRqwlgawbNaelIb67PSJSnfKhLN5QhKjY15RFXYzfyMe7FlW3Hsl_zgsqo2y0aWQ5HESpOBEBOp2sgDZx7nrADUnaeHryV06GU3SHrElSTUfCdq9fyAS4Q9EpnE-3wxCBjDwHPq7v/s4032/IMG_2051.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipjOzIDN4HzVlr1QTl9phjkPGyGz2h6ALqByQ58DAoDqB0uP5JvzwhRqwlgawbNaelIb67PSJSnfKhLN5QhKjY15RFXYzfyMe7FlW3Hsl_zgsqo2y0aWQ5HESpOBEBOp2sgDZx7nrADUnaeHryV06GU3SHrElSTUfCdq9fyAS4Q9EpnE-3wxCBjDwHPq7v/s320/IMG_2051.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /> driven for us a lot. Can’t say enough about her! All good. Steve and I went to Lews Castle and investigated the grounds while waiting for the rain to stop so we could walk back to town and the B&B.<p></p><p>Tomorrow we rise early and catch a 7 am flight to Glasgow….</p>Connie and Stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14214245770724201376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4235942296412774226.post-34834459945843760392023-06-26T12:34:00.001-07:002023-06-26T12:34:23.822-07:00Busy Day<p> Left our AirB&B this am for a small crofting farm and a couple who left professional jobs to learn weaving the way it’s done for Harris Tweed. They have to follow a strict protocol to work for Harris Tweed and we learned the ins and outs about it all. I could NOT believe how interesting it was. it’s a big deal in this part of the Isles and employees many people, each in their own homes or shops who basically weave exactly what Harris Tweeds wants.</p><p>The rain stopped and we continued to a historical place called Blackhouse. People in this area of Scotland were extremely Hardy folks and lived in these stone houses for centuries. They burnt peat to heat and cook and so we also learned all about peat bogs and how important they were to the Northern Isle people but also, how important</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBrOORwaxPAA7JZ2uz6RaV3j-tnAUmKqIqjJlPmU-WpCfpTQc5HSNkNZ8witMN3Lq_CerzRGY3Nz7KFY5XCQB10tN4lj6lNlJdGyjlzTgRxuTcEKg3hIUz2pVKs6PEDPEbTRlPu8shiFSs0fgHrpVfMz9waNYZY1FvphS0Rgc1OEtjIZl1Naqb6XGPCYsr/s4032/IMG_1890.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBrOORwaxPAA7JZ2uz6RaV3j-tnAUmKqIqjJlPmU-WpCfpTQc5HSNkNZ8witMN3Lq_CerzRGY3Nz7KFY5XCQB10tN4lj6lNlJdGyjlzTgRxuTcEKg3hIUz2pVKs6PEDPEbTRlPu8shiFSs0fgHrpVfMz9waNYZY1FvphS0Rgc1OEtjIZl1Naqb6XGPCYsr/s320/IMG_1890.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /> peat bogs are to our eco system. Even more important that rain forests <p></p><p>We traveled North on very skinny one lane roads and came to Callanish Standing Stones. Very very cool! 3000 yrs B.C. And some of the oldest rocks in our universe, and still no one knows who put them there and why. Some people get all jiggy with it and hum and dance around in circles …. But I didn’t get it. Still, it was such an awesome place. After that we climbed a hill to another old stone edifice , which no one knows why it is there. This is such a remote area and only about 20,000 inhabitants…. But something went on here eons ago.</p><p>On the way back to Stornoway, we stopped at a memorial that’s was erected because w ship returning from WWI with a few hundred men crashed on the rocky waters only 30-40:yards from shore and over 200 men, who had all survived WWI and were returning home to their loved ones, died. It was called IOLAIRE MONUMENT and it was quite moving. Steve and I decided to walk the 2 1/2 mile path back to town and we saw each head stone along the way. Then we walked into town and had fish and chips down by the harbor. Busy day!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4GX0RaNNSMzjUmUahihuXyYhmOndERKvpNd_YabllZIeWCEMjFHa-MLdOp7HIBmdSsBU5dnZJzXIm9KjujMCoLq-AZWv8NlHvFQrW5YYIC1GhaxbHIJg19L-MVQRnoZRHJuisINwqwbsoa_eoWVrOCaWGy2fvnfp1EsWS4wUd7LV8yEpziNFCoZ9u89gc/s4032/IMG_1872.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4GX0RaNNSMzjUmUahihuXyYhmOndERKvpNd_YabllZIeWCEMjFHa-MLdOp7HIBmdSsBU5dnZJzXIm9KjujMCoLq-AZWv8NlHvFQrW5YYIC1GhaxbHIJg19L-MVQRnoZRHJuisINwqwbsoa_eoWVrOCaWGy2fvnfp1EsWS4wUd7LV8yEpziNFCoZ9u89gc/s320/IMG_1872.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhXszKCUQ6g_P1Ei-JcilX1AmEaZ3JDdk-UEttkKDvpbK6Zqj-6vIis0UuKDoZCQ-SLmYVhvoDt2D1LiT1NGt-f1e2hbtyzXc4sMAtQTEj1vqdQDjK_Jx4kISlOgyv5PmfZ6Fb21XOWlrzasif57ycnqGkbLSlSTKv1ycWjptR8hTAADO2T_e-P7goZ0xY/s3587/IMG_1994.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3587" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhXszKCUQ6g_P1Ei-JcilX1AmEaZ3JDdk-UEttkKDvpbK6Zqj-6vIis0UuKDoZCQ-SLmYVhvoDt2D1LiT1NGt-f1e2hbtyzXc4sMAtQTEj1vqdQDjK_Jx4kISlOgyv5PmfZ6Fb21XOWlrzasif57ycnqGkbLSlSTKv1ycWjptR8hTAADO2T_e-P7goZ0xY/s320/IMG_1994.jpeg" width="270" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifDPZTOmK-H25sodEN_KAmEM2F29SBbcy0U-9GdXbdy5OM0D1L6fJpE_agZLDaXDtsAPe4LBXkICleAkiq30WBOCTR4UwTVNWN1f7DEz5pkp5ocx9KcECexbrQz-w7TdZvSLgaMUypH87e4cjTUc9Z8Z1HthDiWnbcTPJhK7-Vzl_2zIzp0LJ5aPOR6xbS/s4032/IMG_2023.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifDPZTOmK-H25sodEN_KAmEM2F29SBbcy0U-9GdXbdy5OM0D1L6fJpE_agZLDaXDtsAPe4LBXkICleAkiq30WBOCTR4UwTVNWN1f7DEz5pkp5ocx9KcECexbrQz-w7TdZvSLgaMUypH87e4cjTUc9Z8Z1HthDiWnbcTPJhK7-Vzl_2zIzp0LJ5aPOR6xbS/s320/IMG_2023.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIMll0QKD6fO5GcGR-g9kjS10sUUo8-kgvZPbwBmQIRUgR-n8v6l8bpnFmFN6IcXSN7wQT28mdw3U29SHws6pYDtfWMsUJMQNFdgxdfT5aMvlFDN24JYWDunXt8Eu6MKu-4976xbRT3Jre1-VqkEkV0CWj1CGs9VDHzOjLM5OE1kGRp6rrzb_847At8MoO/s4032/IMG_2039.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIMll0QKD6fO5GcGR-g9kjS10sUUo8-kgvZPbwBmQIRUgR-n8v6l8bpnFmFN6IcXSN7wQT28mdw3U29SHws6pYDtfWMsUJMQNFdgxdfT5aMvlFDN24JYWDunXt8Eu6MKu-4976xbRT3Jre1-VqkEkV0CWj1CGs9VDHzOjLM5OE1kGRp6rrzb_847At8MoO/s320/IMG_2039.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p>Connie and Stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14214245770724201376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4235942296412774226.post-83753229740195847752023-06-26T09:48:00.001-07:002023-06-26T09:48:43.058-07:00Harris and Lewis Isles…<p> After we left Portee on a weather threatening day, we got on a ferry for a 90 min ride to the Isles of Harris and Lewis, which are basically connected. It turned out to be a calm crossing and after landing we drove to our B&B in Stornoway. It was a few hours so by the time we got settled, we wanted to go out and eat. Stornoway is an odd town, supposedly the most religious place in all of Scotland. We were warned the the zealous residents may reprimand people for doing forbidden things on Sunday…. like washing their cars, shopping, and normal stuff that we never even think about. Mostly everything is closed, but we did find a very nice pub that was crowded and we had an excellent fish dinner with drinks, So there! </p><p>Our AirB & B is old and cute and quite nice. The new owners just opened up a week ago, so they are taking great pains to make everything perfect for their guests. We really like it and even tho it is in the middle of town, was quiet last night. We had to pre order our breaky and Steve selected Black pudding which is only authentic if if comes from Stornoway. It’s pigs blood mixed with oats and flax and then fried. It really was pretty good and very protein rich (which was why it was originated in old times when people didn’t have the modern food we eat now). Tomorrow we will be doing alot of sightseeing…. And getting to drive to Callanish Standing Stones in the very north of Lewis Isle. Looking forward to that!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDCHXLgeLNC_9Tvg-qT0PLqXsRJ8nb6iWK3msOMoYnx8w03U8Rp-NeFATs5UDUrT0AnpPcownaVRG2U9GeKItUC1EQNN5e7nQgq7SjISmsIX6DPa00PWVIlqgIJ74z8Vn7nybcCP9qr15q_LiVPh4UGe-iUv3OrAVuikLcK0yyuiX9xk2dWA9sg_MV1S7K/s4032/IMG_1836.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDCHXLgeLNC_9Tvg-qT0PLqXsRJ8nb6iWK3msOMoYnx8w03U8Rp-NeFATs5UDUrT0AnpPcownaVRG2U9GeKItUC1EQNN5e7nQgq7SjISmsIX6DPa00PWVIlqgIJ74z8Vn7nybcCP9qr15q_LiVPh4UGe-iUv3OrAVuikLcK0yyuiX9xk2dWA9sg_MV1S7K/s320/IMG_1836.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ6ZEVpj7883zmByZgJqZXQd3YXy7LmHUGR6QCPO_E_WQduZMCQi1oWEScpd0gWNd0CZeRGfy2H3pA1jwFx5krrRRxzx7bWRtqCw-MB7shFLf4nQ2nHNxQFqJ8UkHr0tfsGqyCtyctI3ZLLX7ubneMRWk5JEBBKBD4CXxfD61wvSjtA32uXQ4fWK5O4qip/s4032/IMG_1851.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ6ZEVpj7883zmByZgJqZXQd3YXy7LmHUGR6QCPO_E_WQduZMCQi1oWEScpd0gWNd0CZeRGfy2H3pA1jwFx5krrRRxzx7bWRtqCw-MB7shFLf4nQ2nHNxQFqJ8UkHr0tfsGqyCtyctI3ZLLX7ubneMRWk5JEBBKBD4CXxfD61wvSjtA32uXQ4fWK5O4qip/s320/IMG_1851.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAsn2IFkRBDAYdCw_4jVw1KNOhdMxJyi1sCKu-B9W90hkmRsjjEVgtAWy2c3re7TaG9pyc7HjdPOouTu1Cg9ZmOhxJkHUBDWO2GsCAR4lA2aQkRgBXX_e0G_HCv41iwpkZwtMfLPXJ23HNXXl2yAdDqToewEAfv6uekGUrs0GXqi9d68qNrXkXEGWXrY-F/s4032/IMG_1853.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAsn2IFkRBDAYdCw_4jVw1KNOhdMxJyi1sCKu-B9W90hkmRsjjEVgtAWy2c3re7TaG9pyc7HjdPOouTu1Cg9ZmOhxJkHUBDWO2GsCAR4lA2aQkRgBXX_e0G_HCv41iwpkZwtMfLPXJ23HNXXl2yAdDqToewEAfv6uekGUrs0GXqi9d68qNrXkXEGWXrY-F/s320/IMG_1853.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPtHN08aP7mmhQTq9TYAULxiq2QWuQJZWvVHRuw13wXMfLQVleAk6alV5giqOhc5VOsUgCWnQQQdhQJI2LJMh9LYkdBtzAcvAPTQXGUDIGRzEGhEOhkcbPlr-GoXsNVk2DZc2YX-B7SLtTWkMWgSokAit5ma9cw2PpspDM8CPig7pKh1876Ldjo8JesK7x/s4032/IMG_1867.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPtHN08aP7mmhQTq9TYAULxiq2QWuQJZWvVHRuw13wXMfLQVleAk6alV5giqOhc5VOsUgCWnQQQdhQJI2LJMh9LYkdBtzAcvAPTQXGUDIGRzEGhEOhkcbPlr-GoXsNVk2DZc2YX-B7SLtTWkMWgSokAit5ma9cw2PpspDM8CPig7pKh1876Ldjo8JesK7x/s320/IMG_1867.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Connie and Stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14214245770724201376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4235942296412774226.post-69726416942932043122023-06-24T14:13:00.001-07:002023-06-24T14:13:47.693-07:00PORTEE<p> Today was a great day with lots of information and excursions on the Isle of Skye. We left our lodgings and headed to the northern part of Skye. We were joined by a local man who knew so much about the history, ancient and modern. He took us to some very ancient sites where people have discovered stone artifacts from the Druids and the Pics. We learned all about “crofting” and how it affects so many small all land owners. We learned all about Clans of the old centuries and how modern Scottish history was developed. We tromped thru hill and dale</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk4T39rHcYpRNcGQ1KuJafkVgJ02QUS8ApZJuIkWKhLeGBHAfGF5Ck8RhYFlBPQukzutW5ZLSpZnFm9Wx8iuC5mTH4umgHlC-PcLjNzapMrgD6bIXmpHH0AgOdnnKoP78-ZG_5AJOm2tlhjsd2-Bgr7P5AR_ikTYZJ_SAkUqIpA6kYrhgwbePgHJxMalRt/s4032/IMG_1827.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk4T39rHcYpRNcGQ1KuJafkVgJ02QUS8ApZJuIkWKhLeGBHAfGF5Ck8RhYFlBPQukzutW5ZLSpZnFm9Wx8iuC5mTH4umgHlC-PcLjNzapMrgD6bIXmpHH0AgOdnnKoP78-ZG_5AJOm2tlhjsd2-Bgr7P5AR_ikTYZJ_SAkUqIpA6kYrhgwbePgHJxMalRt/s320/IMG_1827.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWhzp-dclcXq0xIjZBA1n22GKk4rySCB33vJjtnTC_ZIy-jGzNcjPWtm3iCgPLX1ejJACOpM0oPgwGj7H2O2dwQWWJLxJrgVM0jKTGaL6k_euwzI-ggXTirT2bhJFeZjaVtntcGbCOEPYeuubfjJffs956dKJyJi8xqv2Jow5A5i89VYz78srm2wmd9i-_/s4032/IMG_1820.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWhzp-dclcXq0xIjZBA1n22GKk4rySCB33vJjtnTC_ZIy-jGzNcjPWtm3iCgPLX1ejJACOpM0oPgwGj7H2O2dwQWWJLxJrgVM0jKTGaL6k_euwzI-ggXTirT2bhJFeZjaVtntcGbCOEPYeuubfjJffs956dKJyJi8xqv2Jow5A5i89VYz78srm2wmd9i-_/s320/IMG_1820.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR_eYjPSswqoEDjpJxmOhYMCKSbM1nQWAy81Y8vjnkAveDfCoNAOWmATRft9gBEVu9qrvtpvzQVSOAE6c_aLK2bazjTKwCtHwyTSVMA2Vl93XynJ5Pz3A-W9plki7i4ffZOqySbyewJamZ6Qw2rm1nRw6iSIgQeHO6tQwdlAFmR66L_NsD6zD4ohGTA_KJ/s4032/IMG_1813.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR_eYjPSswqoEDjpJxmOhYMCKSbM1nQWAy81Y8vjnkAveDfCoNAOWmATRft9gBEVu9qrvtpvzQVSOAE6c_aLK2bazjTKwCtHwyTSVMA2Vl93XynJ5Pz3A-W9plki7i4ffZOqySbyewJamZ6Qw2rm1nRw6iSIgQeHO6tQwdlAFmR66L_NsD6zD4ohGTA_KJ/s320/IMG_1813.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; 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margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbqjm546LCOJApJ4JbHdrCNEcC8WVFCBAy2DrBxBaeG3w5qHwiogf5C2LSmmjFQwCnUbQrBCbB3Z8C7Xk7aedypcmTnGEIhoYZ5F8Pln_a9FuHzzGiimnEDr_-_bC4_wW3mCTLYz79ZgRg2zKN_7bwQFVKrSDPTRRf7r-s2QfXZotJ8dCDoGI_S86jHlao/s320/IMG_1777.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0KDef-xJqq5PDqw2XSYo6_XzIKkALe1jIuKxLclEDX-Zg9ua6OnfqWOJW24by_VpQF_8yonLAHzNiZhftO3uTn-wYfpMFh34gmpVNujaaDtQR3Lv0hWzxpfbjmd5bGC5_QUXMXDgIp8n6w4Dn8x0CPXzXwNcsJ1j02qahgOKQPS8agIrqCyVSrDzOFjQG/s3326/IMG_1768.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3326" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0KDef-xJqq5PDqw2XSYo6_XzIKkALe1jIuKxLclEDX-Zg9ua6OnfqWOJW24by_VpQF_8yonLAHzNiZhftO3uTn-wYfpMFh34gmpVNujaaDtQR3Lv0hWzxpfbjmd5bGC5_QUXMXDgIp8n6w4Dn8x0CPXzXwNcsJ1j02qahgOKQPS8agIrqCyVSrDzOFjQG/s320/IMG_1768.jpeg" width="291" /></a></div><br /> finding these ancient sites and it was raining all the time.<p></p><p>Before lunch we ended up on a small sheep crofting property and the owner, Ewing , had a beautiful boarder collie that was being trained to heard the sheep. Even tho it was raining and blowing sideways, we stood and listened as it was so interesting. Then we hustled back to the van and he served us hot tea and Scottish scones for a treat. Then it was off to lunch at a cooperative that takes kids from all over Scotland and teaches them how to be resilient, successful. </p><p>The clouds blew away and we were able to site see the magnificent lifts and out droppings that make the Isle of Skye so dramatic. After dropping us off at our lodgings, Steve was tired, but I decided to take a quick 4 mile hike nearby called “Scorrybreac Trail” which wound all around the water before it rose to the top of a big grassy Cliff. I was hustling because we had a dinner reservation in 1 1/2 hr. And I wanted to get back. I made it all sweaty . Had a shower and enjoyed fresh local mussels for dinner. </p><p>Tomorrow we are heading the Isle of Harris, and we need to be on a ferry by noon for a 3 hr ferry trip. It’s supposed to be stormy…so </p>Connie and Stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14214245770724201376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4235942296412774226.post-76586064112689818662023-06-23T09:03:00.001-07:002023-06-23T09:03:14.591-07:00ISLE OF SKYE<p> After 3 really warm glorious days in Nairn, we left our farm manor hotel and we’re picked up by a van and driven to INVERNESS , where we caught a Train and traveled over 3hrs to Kyle of Lochalsh. Then we met our van driver, Claire, and we zipped across the Skye Bridge to the Isle of Skye. And it’s been raining ever since. It’s a beautiful train ride and we expected rain…. But I wish it would stop. After a small soup and sandwich lunch at a quaint B&B we watched a locally produced movie about the history of The Isle of Skye. Now we’re are settled in the CULLIN HILLS HOTEL which is a drop dead gorgeous spot on a picturesque harbor. We will stay for 3 days and explore Portee, the largest city on I of S. Even if he keeps raining, I think we will venture out tomorrow because we brought rain gear. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzBGykWaxEMFF1HmALFhVDlD2joARA43GYsbd7QQ1SEwPb5fPY_dSg63Q1FtFKKol1PQYhQRK_sPtugNo--y_X9CcRvX1KBtHWjsRLv1lxkf7vVyOreUADBFkA9l39xB0SoPi18mXbJakHbYZ-VoBS7B31qLaEZwKRKWJoaysvmKtvihr_gMiq5oToUbhm/s3672/IMG_1750.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="3672" height="264" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzBGykWaxEMFF1HmALFhVDlD2joARA43GYsbd7QQ1SEwPb5fPY_dSg63Q1FtFKKol1PQYhQRK_sPtugNo--y_X9CcRvX1KBtHWjsRLv1lxkf7vVyOreUADBFkA9l39xB0SoPi18mXbJakHbYZ-VoBS7B31qLaEZwKRKWJoaysvmKtvihr_gMiq5oToUbhm/s320/IMG_1750.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmYiqdSNgco_HwvvCl06_-4wAUNM4TKlJYLna2PTNdrSfyFKJ-67UiRzM_so5PWrOnfDOpy3yVTuwOnVtu204CcH5G8xSkDKUtsFOGnYkfgiN8jlYUNHrlAxloJhuu7zY5b6FwxOwkEUCbX0bbTT2iLOTosZXyMmegci4mXE07ERNNd93BZN2tys40HMcu/s4032/IMG_1746.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmYiqdSNgco_HwvvCl06_-4wAUNM4TKlJYLna2PTNdrSfyFKJ-67UiRzM_so5PWrOnfDOpy3yVTuwOnVtu204CcH5G8xSkDKUtsFOGnYkfgiN8jlYUNHrlAxloJhuu7zY5b6FwxOwkEUCbX0bbTT2iLOTosZXyMmegci4mXE07ERNNd93BZN2tys40HMcu/s320/IMG_1746.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk-ln3iexQj5DaXoN0xouTsDBOaO75D3AIQh4VkjKnm22wRto7xvCPazDmF8a-bBidMDr8ZizA5cPiaqFokrOr19i5B4cgET395phJKuf8ZMfvEXccod1j5_1004jux6THS-xjSABHVcBC22qSysiyaENte54yxsS5m2zmFCGSn2tUO8byqPxCKuFV3TGG/s4032/IMG_1745.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk-ln3iexQj5DaXoN0xouTsDBOaO75D3AIQh4VkjKnm22wRto7xvCPazDmF8a-bBidMDr8ZizA5cPiaqFokrOr19i5B4cgET395phJKuf8ZMfvEXccod1j5_1004jux6THS-xjSABHVcBC22qSysiyaENte54yxsS5m2zmFCGSn2tUO8byqPxCKuFV3TGG/s320/IMG_1745.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><p></p>Connie and Stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14214245770724201376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4235942296412774226.post-26638068819735085012023-06-22T06:05:00.001-07:002023-06-22T06:05:22.273-07:00SCOTLAND ADVENTURE<p> We are spending almost a month in the Scottish Isles. The first part</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiWXOiRBhHhv784BhAM8kF4giUsZN94B_ZoZVU6M-G5fivNqz2EDbeYJwbxBTNB0cWrYhhmKmMl3No3R3G8caFghx6oH7EKcGyya2bzrVE-Gm9Sa63HhvKXbDSyv_QYlt2Z-nFp0KgRgvtEcQYudhfe6YYob8FgDYFw3ouoXzTfXA5-kNyVWRz6licoCjZ/s4032/IMG_1700.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiWXOiRBhHhv784BhAM8kF4giUsZN94B_ZoZVU6M-G5fivNqz2EDbeYJwbxBTNB0cWrYhhmKmMl3No3R3G8caFghx6oH7EKcGyya2bzrVE-Gm9Sa63HhvKXbDSyv_QYlt2Z-nFp0KgRgvtEcQYudhfe6YYob8FgDYFw3ouoXzTfXA5-kNyVWRz6licoCjZ/s320/IMG_1700.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHRzm0ggkC1MoPnCVMCgbN1xtqtQrDbQGC01c3DfilFavZrAdeXcWFTGPpEpLkKqtBi3USgHQLnMzQcEVWY-J13H40GIHeiJnLuaWzJRQrVP2zMNzWiOSNxl27zeGDHdQBBtFKpp8uV0Yq9ZcPp8oa334MGLGedBb5wDgU6zvok2LpVHZmdjHFmebaF99t/s2271/IMG_1694.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1703" data-original-width="2271" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHRzm0ggkC1MoPnCVMCgbN1xtqtQrDbQGC01c3DfilFavZrAdeXcWFTGPpEpLkKqtBi3USgHQLnMzQcEVWY-J13H40GIHeiJnLuaWzJRQrVP2zMNzWiOSNxl27zeGDHdQBBtFKpp8uV0Yq9ZcPp8oa334MGLGedBb5wDgU6zvok2LpVHZmdjHFmebaF99t/s320/IMG_1694.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnsz3-IohjV1EQhcAq3_zRBVndJDEfwBSGMpEueJpVUwWjNyVTl5eKAY-MZkHPxDvVhN85k0G05zgzN7QSfIWZ4XyAA4hQbI9BETVt3ljVw_ikhoVbgVbivlOQ0pU0MRuVd1WULkDBKHV_40p7uNzetfTCNnDBzB1yZXzH809eCPA76yKP3Y1L4QdHgYlZ/s4032/IMG_1690.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnsz3-IohjV1EQhcAq3_zRBVndJDEfwBSGMpEueJpVUwWjNyVTl5eKAY-MZkHPxDvVhN85k0G05zgzN7QSfIWZ4XyAA4hQbI9BETVt3ljVw_ikhoVbgVbivlOQ0pU0MRuVd1WULkDBKHV_40p7uNzetfTCNnDBzB1yZXzH809eCPA76yKP3Y1L4QdHgYlZ/s320/IMG_1690.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /> of our trip will be in the Hebrides. After the long flt to Heathrow and a smaller flt, we landed in Inverness in late evening. Just a sideline here: we recognized a movie star on both flts. It was Tilda Swinton, and she makes her home in Nairn. We haven’t seen her walking around, but the locals tell us she is very involved in life in the Highlands.<p></p><p>A quick taxi ride brought us to the charming town of NAIRN, where we checked into an old farm manor, now a beautiful hotel on 21 acres of farm land. The morning after a restless sleep, I took off on some country road walking and found myself on an old golf course. The town is nestled on a“furth” which we would call a bay or inlet. It’s an ancient fishing site and became popular a few hundred years ago when Doctors prescribed salt sea and salt air for all sorts of maladies. Later in the afternoon, Steve and I wandered all over the sea wall and old fishtown, where we eventually found a pub and enjoyed fish and chips and “pint”. Nairn is a delightful town, with friendly locals and easy to get around. The weather has been warm…. The old building like the one we are staying in, do not have A\C, so it’s been a challenge keeping our room cool. The staff brought us fans and “wedges” to prob open our door to allow breezes to blow thru. It’s helpful, but compromised privacy. Tomorrow, we are up early to catch a train and travel to the start of our Hebrides exploring.</p>Connie and Stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14214245770724201376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4235942296412774226.post-83566609737190227982022-09-20T13:34:00.000-07:002022-09-20T13:34:46.520-07:00NEWFOUNDLAND<p> After we left Greenland , we sailed across the Atlantic, and the the Labrador Sea to some small towns in Newfoundland. We have gotten into some rough weather, but just like the residents of these former whaling towns…. We toughed it out! We have some excellent hikes and visited locals and museums to see how these people lived in this extreme climate. RED BAY was so tiny and picturesque, and just full of wrecked whale boats, and abandoned structures. Yesterday we spent a LOOONG day in Corner Brook, which we decided was a very cool town. The friendliest people and they are so proud of their town. The city is just covered with outdoor trails and parks, and even when it starts snowing, the inhabitants have ski trails and downhill skiing and curling and all sorts of activities.</p><p>We have been sailing all day on our way to St Pierre , one of the French speaking towns in NL… we’ll arrive in the am and catch a small flight to Halifax where our journey ends.</p><p>What do we do at sea for the days we don’t land? We have a solid crew of naturalists, environmentalists, biologists, and people dedicated to making the earth better for our children. Last night a local group came about and put on a really fun and fast paced program of Newfoundland music. Today we had lectures and programs all day and people can pick and choose their interest areas. I have learned so much about the INTUIT populations of the world and truly feel they tough and candy people to have lived centuries in a harsh climate like the Arctic.</p><p>Some of the people are staying on board and sailing to Antarctica ! Wow! 2 months on a ship! I need to feel some earth under my feet… but they will sail off to the Panama Canal after we depart the ship. </p>Connie and Stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14214245770724201376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4235942296412774226.post-17538232338586173272022-09-18T11:36:00.000-07:002022-09-18T11:36:17.794-07:00GOODBYE GREENLAND<p> We spent 4-5 days exploring Different cities and areas in Greenland. We learned about their colorful houses, which historically were painted colors, instead of addresses.The houses were kit houses imported from Norway . Different professions used different color, ex: yellow meant hospital and drs and nurses.Red were fireman, Blue were fisher people, and so on. Now days, these customs are waning as new modern high roses are popping up all,over, especially in NUUK, which is the Capital. </p><p>We got to do some interesting hikes and we got to experience cold rainy weather. Most of the population is Inuit or descendants of Inuit, with Danish people thrown in to run the place. </p><p>We finally set course for Labrador and sailed for almost 3 days without touching land. We had some rough water and I was seasick half the time. On our sail, the crew did special events like quizzes, and Q &A and talks and lectures on many subjects pertaining to this expedition. We had a peregrine falcon land on our bow and used the ship as a form of transport for himself while crossing the sea. He would fly off, but then he’d be back perched on the bow. The staff roped off the area because some people cannot follow instructions to leave the bird alone. We haven’t seen him today, so it’s figured that he found land and also food.</p><p>We have finally landed in RED BAY and it will be the first time off the ship in a few days. Can’t wait.</p>Connie and Stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14214245770724201376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4235942296412774226.post-50412172594628634072022-09-15T11:32:00.001-07:002022-09-15T11:32:32.515-07:00NUUK<p> We spent the whole day in the Capitol of Greenland..NUUK. A city of OVER 20,000 and still growing rapidly. Everyplace we looked there were cranes, bulldozers, and so much digging and planning. It was rainy steady, but we decided to go explore anyway. The city bus dropped us off in the older part of town, and we ambled around all over and saw the national museum which was incredible with artifacts and information from the early days of mankind. There is so much to learn about these ancient people.Denmark totally supports Greenland with health coverage, subsidized living and schools. All the signs are in Danish and Inuit. The fishing industry in Greenland is responsible for much of the fish we eat in America. There are hardly any single houses here…most are apts. no garages, no lawns, no flowerbeds. Today everything looked bleak in the fog and rain…… but these populations are outdoor people and used to extreme weather.</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieOQgdJUOkLSySWtFYJ8ROZTxYgw62ovU4r8vtZxloK8mP37XY4QaQrsI0HDPgBD0C3NmJjw9g0bQlfQfzawdT2o12Ln0LGG7AP7chPWo_tk7omxcWNaJb5gwM9Zsh0vzBcsf0O82_COf9WPBDZRG45mKd8pNWbxsxlNC2fMPegXvlT96EFDR2jNEC3g/s4032/67F6FDEC-A7A3-429E-B2E6-9BE0A4A18359.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieOQgdJUOkLSySWtFYJ8ROZTxYgw62ovU4r8vtZxloK8mP37XY4QaQrsI0HDPgBD0C3NmJjw9g0bQlfQfzawdT2o12Ln0LGG7AP7chPWo_tk7omxcWNaJb5gwM9Zsh0vzBcsf0O82_COf9WPBDZRG45mKd8pNWbxsxlNC2fMPegXvlT96EFDR2jNEC3g/s320/67F6FDEC-A7A3-429E-B2E6-9BE0A4A18359.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY8CW_mGLn6b4QD6nprwr212zlzA56Ris9u2O_ghhl5qt3VhxCTNvo9i-BcxMQUiGiOq6knN3MJdI273hJDKZs22w--rsY6rhLCENvj6niaq9YXknKXton_YMuc2r5-pohmmSfqHFrfVaajz3xNUquKBGMHX8CMimpNlEj8ZZ4ferqMY28dOVR1uSfbQ/s4032/9069D668-5961-4FF0-8A3A-4B64BF377527.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY8CW_mGLn6b4QD6nprwr212zlzA56Ris9u2O_ghhl5qt3VhxCTNvo9i-BcxMQUiGiOq6knN3MJdI273hJDKZs22w--rsY6rhLCENvj6niaq9YXknKXton_YMuc2r5-pohmmSfqHFrfVaajz3xNUquKBGMHX8CMimpNlEj8ZZ4ferqMY28dOVR1uSfbQ/s320/9069D668-5961-4FF0-8A3A-4B64BF377527.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>Connie and Stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14214245770724201376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4235942296412774226.post-61417384802523677422022-09-14T14:59:00.001-07:002022-09-14T15:03:48.657-07:00SISIMIUT<p> Another rough night at sea and was happy to be dock side today when we landed. We had a whole day to spend in Sisimuit and we made the best of it. We started out with a city bus tour. It didn’t last long because it’s not a big town. But it’s colorfu l and we learned that the colors of the houses each correspond with the owners profession! Red=fireman, Blue= fisherman…. And on and on.</p><p>After lunch we decided to go on a hike with a guide , who was Danish. It was pretty energetic and we walked thru so much mud to a high point and we could see the town below. On the way back I lost my balance and slipped into the mud, which was like quicksand. The guide was able to help me out. It was a six mile hike and part of the Arctic Trail system. </p><p>One odd thing is we had to walk them”dog town”, an area where people keep their sled dogs tied up until the snow comes. So so many dogs on chains. And puppy’s who are NOT chained until they are 6 months old.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAunwXNvIL7cuzmxdJSJLtt8XK27odQvAS4Ry3GGdfVfExKHOcYO3HxftQACSphqPFaoYRnamv-q5JI9S7hoGoliCBXoaKz1FR36Pi1460IRfwxij9wJHXvqK5ZwRLkDdf18OlFL8CnT88aL0qDjJki6TVq3F6jEFpiNXn0n6hiDjKKnjsyQ_cLe2OOg/s4032/914ABEFD-8281-450E-ABB6-37B7982E8E17.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAunwXNvIL7cuzmxdJSJLtt8XK27odQvAS4Ry3GGdfVfExKHOcYO3HxftQACSphqPFaoYRnamv-q5JI9S7hoGoliCBXoaKz1FR36Pi1460IRfwxij9wJHXvqK5ZwRLkDdf18OlFL8CnT88aL0qDjJki6TVq3F6jEFpiNXn0n6hiDjKKnjsyQ_cLe2OOg/s320/914ABEFD-8281-450E-ABB6-37B7982E8E17.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkEU7ADhEYcynzRvRLpgWZFDuTZmjS6Zqyy5jCI6-OzgPdJZzSOmcwCJjmzIea34KeQ4TOVJ95sV4wEg21ZV589MQOOlOSsj-w9qKu8B7PvttHWE_oo4-V_i5jhSMy2yPWK-91IDVFfIRI2qoTQZc1UXrgD4CLOToVXyjRVDGCl13DhBZsTI3QETU39w/s4032/9B73AB79-061F-46C9-B294-0C56CF980F53.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkEU7ADhEYcynzRvRLpgWZFDuTZmjS6Zqyy5jCI6-OzgPdJZzSOmcwCJjmzIea34KeQ4TOVJ95sV4wEg21ZV589MQOOlOSsj-w9qKu8B7PvttHWE_oo4-V_i5jhSMy2yPWK-91IDVFfIRI2qoTQZc1UXrgD4CLOToVXyjRVDGCl13DhBZsTI3QETU39w/s320/9B73AB79-061F-46C9-B294-0C56CF980F53.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimQjC970RkgPkKVpcQi_LEhr5AOVismnICrg4YfAmi6EA7pPPj5WqUx-96vcxamt-3hGHtgdUkwssnYpEzbM712kDj4i0rItLu1wlCUmMnF-EjQBH1XZyjDUvwC99AWeUfF2-IKir-Oh1-XaNGBYOWG7JVuYzeQMJJ2PsZr3kiLOEiRzF6wnlFRd5qNw/s4032/4D7D9B6C-79D2-4406-8825-6A2B5A1CCE29.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimQjC970RkgPkKVpcQi_LEhr5AOVismnICrg4YfAmi6EA7pPPj5WqUx-96vcxamt-3hGHtgdUkwssnYpEzbM712kDj4i0rItLu1wlCUmMnF-EjQBH1XZyjDUvwC99AWeUfF2-IKir-Oh1-XaNGBYOWG7JVuYzeQMJJ2PsZr3kiLOEiRzF6wnlFRd5qNw/s320/4D7D9B6C-79D2-4406-8825-6A2B5A1CCE29.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyuK0esXeczDmk9ZmrrUSTxyxwBvmsSMUvYc-m88B8KNeCYZ9neAU-tmyyHzR_2mzmBZiec1QWYurPkyJ4bko-Dthj5OCNhyAg92YS1gCHhVbDrprbki3-aFC1rcihY3YNBTYNPaLZ3DAZ8XHoyWqJws_4icks0ryJZM8FJKBPqo4pUgoFnzRwKDErfA/s4032/3F0B0669-F51E-4D80-AEB6-2AEBEFE745F1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyuK0esXeczDmk9ZmrrUSTxyxwBvmsSMUvYc-m88B8KNeCYZ9neAU-tmyyHzR_2mzmBZiec1QWYurPkyJ4bko-Dthj5OCNhyAg92YS1gCHhVbDrprbki3-aFC1rcihY3YNBTYNPaLZ3DAZ8XHoyWqJws_4icks0ryJZM8FJKBPqo4pUgoFnzRwKDErfA/s320/3F0B0669-F51E-4D80-AEB6-2AEBEFE745F1.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p>Connie and Stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14214245770724201376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4235942296412774226.post-8177368457378979942022-09-13T15:05:00.001-07:002022-09-13T15:09:40.238-07:00DISKO BAY<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQT_JCsa3GxXkw2KMtRBeVmHqzozDx4cgX0Wm_3CVd5IVhiYx1jVxBr4OIbXRxZJZYwaVusGitJAir7x5Ajh3ztKYR2NckIoDuGiRcX40IhAwjRHzacFWly6gf3nH1Y8SOWP5bXkupsKKAeoUZL6EYyveWgUUEo3j-wunNzJ-TlcUVjpsrYUeNoFi5rQ/s4032/4CC6514E-E516-416C-8BAB-D295158272E9.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQT_JCsa3GxXkw2KMtRBeVmHqzozDx4cgX0Wm_3CVd5IVhiYx1jVxBr4OIbXRxZJZYwaVusGitJAir7x5Ajh3ztKYR2NckIoDuGiRcX40IhAwjRHzacFWly6gf3nH1Y8SOWP5bXkupsKKAeoUZL6EYyveWgUUEo3j-wunNzJ-TlcUVjpsrYUeNoFi5rQ/s320/4CC6514E-E516-416C-8BAB-D295158272E9.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCysuQJ8200JLgI0iYPFEwTnFoP-5jVLreGkugCnBv3v2AHkYo4n6YffDlFNYlW6gcOIuy7u_hoVlKAsN8wjS3eHDCcpTsRaYIt4ZRITqIHv-fYbuD2Xa-gctlmOmCgjCD1ehAHM891LuTbv46eBcHgtrPYU5e8oj8O3z4XtKFtllMDpTxM9PuzuT3-Q/s4032/17AE9863-7D89-4592-8A3A-811B5EE8E583.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCysuQJ8200JLgI0iYPFEwTnFoP-5jVLreGkugCnBv3v2AHkYo4n6YffDlFNYlW6gcOIuy7u_hoVlKAsN8wjS3eHDCcpTsRaYIt4ZRITqIHv-fYbuD2Xa-gctlmOmCgjCD1ehAHM891LuTbv46eBcHgtrPYU5e8oj8O3z4XtKFtllMDpTxM9PuzuT3-Q/s320/17AE9863-7D89-4592-8A3A-811B5EE8E583.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwc2rhsXSubfUkr_2PEnFBz9-OvlAf5oKEiFr-v-ZIiQ68Tv1uLwsCHLOe6zD2kbio0wJSqThQeOvoNkj71jfV1SpSsR0yWjHsgP_LcLtablqq4q4cwnzeLXUiRw_J18FWMefbbGQNgE62Vzz4UMaPFKUBMSA3j1x9fqVIOeJA004NlBdetZJbgbx3Xw/s4032/940141BD-951C-4F86-818E-905943FB56F9.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwc2rhsXSubfUkr_2PEnFBz9-OvlAf5oKEiFr-v-ZIiQ68Tv1uLwsCHLOe6zD2kbio0wJSqThQeOvoNkj71jfV1SpSsR0yWjHsgP_LcLtablqq4q4cwnzeLXUiRw_J18FWMefbbGQNgE62Vzz4UMaPFKUBMSA3j1x9fqVIOeJA004NlBdetZJbgbx3Xw/s320/940141BD-951C-4F86-818E-905943FB56F9.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYR4UZSU1ga9JXZd90wlJt4ZegJ9XXEWDDG0uFeBmztCFW2gwU0GO2sCloenRVf4yX0OGctpfWaDrwCa_k_5-oW0FWIL6rbnq3wkGo2sw-HEanW7WO4VHoW-VypmrKwNmP_Pk8c2GGO9KMvlxbsayZXrXdjiEp8t27CQxL6sBV5_76yldtO_0nQ5wmpQ/s4032/A02845CE-59FE-4993-A2AC-237A440FA146.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYR4UZSU1ga9JXZd90wlJt4ZegJ9XXEWDDG0uFeBmztCFW2gwU0GO2sCloenRVf4yX0OGctpfWaDrwCa_k_5-oW0FWIL6rbnq3wkGo2sw-HEanW7WO4VHoW-VypmrKwNmP_Pk8c2GGO9KMvlxbsayZXrXdjiEp8t27CQxL6sBV5_76yldtO_0nQ5wmpQ/s320/A02845CE-59FE-4993-A2AC-237A440FA146.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /> Well, 2 days at sea and we finally made it to Greenland. We landed at Ilulissat, a small town on the west coast. It’s claim to fame is ice, icebergs, scenery and fishing! The ice was making a big presence as we geared up and tried to get into town in our zodiacs. The driver had to dodge icebergs that move all the time. It was exciting. Our ship stayed waaay outside the harbor because the capt didnt want to get ice bound. And it happens. In fact, as we tried to go back in the afternoon…the ship was moving out at a slow pace and we had to chase it down! <p></p><p>Once we landed on the docks, we took off on an incredible hike to Disko Bay. Just Google it. It’s where all the iceberg actions are and massive postings on the internet. The rain stopped and it was a great day and the hike was on a long board walk to the sea. After the hike we visited the Ice museum and then found a local lunch place in town. We ordered a Musk Ox burger and it was so so big! And so so good! So much so we are skipping dinner to give our tummy’s a rest! Fishing is the main occupation here and watching these small boats maneuver thru the ice flow is quite entertaining </p><p>.</p>Connie and Stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14214245770724201376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4235942296412774226.post-11021738759310161222022-09-11T08:21:00.001-07:002022-09-11T08:21:19.303-07:00POND INLET<p> Woke up to a very different weather pattern. Cloudy, rainy and and headed to Pond Inlet, a rather larger community of Inuits. And they were expecting us! Capt wasn’t sure we could access the docks with all the wave action, but never underestimate sea faring Norwegians. The zodiacs were sent out for a trial run, and then we suited up! Just a few words of what it takes to go on shore. We are divided into groups, and the groups rotate every day. The staff gives a 10 min. Call for a group number to come to the boat den. We don our long underwear and then another layer. I use THICK wool socks. Then our normal winter jackets and water proof pants are put on. Most of our landing are in water and we literally step off the the zodiacs into 1 ft of water. Over our winter clothes we then put on a nice HellyHansen rain repellent coat. Add a warm hat, a neck gaiter and our huge and heavy rubber boots…and we are almost ready! We have been given life jackets also, which have to be put on in a specific manner. Then a mask, sunglasses, warm gloves and we finally waddle down the the lower deck to get in the rafts. When we return to ship , we wash our boots in a solution and then go thru a metal detector! This is a Canadian rule, not the ships rules, but Canadian waters are very strict for some reason. Yesterday the Canadian navy followed us along side for hours. IDK why.</p><p>PondInlet is a far northern Hamlet above the Arctic circle. Some of the towns people met us as we landed on their docks and took us for a walk about. We saw their medical and police stations and the coop and ended up in a large cultural center where some of the I units were waiting to greet us and explain how they live in the harsh climate. They explained how the Canadian gov and missionaries literally beat their languages and customs out of them for so long. Finally, about 50 years ago they became a more sovereign nation and have brought back their customs and even their language. They are a proud but quiet people and we’re very excited to show our group how they live now.</p><p>We saw drumming, throat singing, and many athletic feats that they use to prepare themselves for the grueling ancient custom of hunting in this cold barren earth. They spoke and dressed in the native clothes and we learned so much.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSpUML3cy5fpZuitEBdSo4YUST33lZbBiNdkgAqedIdYIIPjuOPT5S-wNF8SOczexXyECXf084Xeu42CT_j4lqMOjJgnE6RyWmPT1W1C-0vwy1wNF4YIZgW76om8-wJKkcISdW3clH1S2e8bRJc7qCLN79HV4M6AB4pl3PHMUg-QW8BNUdXStH1BWPxA/s4032/AC4D523C-06E4-4CA8-8EAB-64F54DF51E5F.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSpUML3cy5fpZuitEBdSo4YUST33lZbBiNdkgAqedIdYIIPjuOPT5S-wNF8SOczexXyECXf084Xeu42CT_j4lqMOjJgnE6RyWmPT1W1C-0vwy1wNF4YIZgW76om8-wJKkcISdW3clH1S2e8bRJc7qCLN79HV4M6AB4pl3PHMUg-QW8BNUdXStH1BWPxA/s320/AC4D523C-06E4-4CA8-8EAB-64F54DF51E5F.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg-kjQRwKyU_7zl1jtCXniI0FmjKKdTnMl2e4dwcEa6u-lQFX2VWtoiRCetqxWOg-PwmYos00jLWUjBYTnYCxD_ajyR-J9uxUXwpvmGcHQFrPhTJl_LKMNokcFxXlyQ8hdvjleml7yJuc99851xVrtnY1C0S6Ns-J1En9PzgsQFMImcHR3pLGFsv1GOg/s3574/7243C010-9119-4C0E-A22D-ED5CE3B215E2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3574" data-original-width="2740" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg-kjQRwKyU_7zl1jtCXniI0FmjKKdTnMl2e4dwcEa6u-lQFX2VWtoiRCetqxWOg-PwmYos00jLWUjBYTnYCxD_ajyR-J9uxUXwpvmGcHQFrPhTJl_LKMNokcFxXlyQ8hdvjleml7yJuc99851xVrtnY1C0S6Ns-J1En9PzgsQFMImcHR3pLGFsv1GOg/s320/7243C010-9119-4C0E-A22D-ED5CE3B215E2.jpeg" width="245" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXg35Ziq4U0Nr1iwZYpZd-kH-bmNpiQVqBRHlASp7fv2klJ5jkaG3UysrQWlrE9z7FPzknKBiAt9sfzluMj0220ZFvntmeuoxmgrbCFifrJeZATE5jSRo7uila0Hw_xNFdK0kUYKZRhLATDSeIANVTpJYlsoGknvwWw62g0pakeMT6ngfspIg7wjgvXg/s4032/459AEE3B-7E5C-48FF-982A-D6DE4496B072.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXg35Ziq4U0Nr1iwZYpZd-kH-bmNpiQVqBRHlASp7fv2klJ5jkaG3UysrQWlrE9z7FPzknKBiAt9sfzluMj0220ZFvntmeuoxmgrbCFifrJeZATE5jSRo7uila0Hw_xNFdK0kUYKZRhLATDSeIANVTpJYlsoGknvwWw62g0pakeMT6ngfspIg7wjgvXg/s320/459AEE3B-7E5C-48FF-982A-D6DE4496B072.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIJ7MMel__6co2pKS403VBCkvBbntwoQpSTrlDIoMzv1WjZv5Uox5RNzMu_1JXhc5siGD4C3qPu2pnfgp-WxGLZzzgUY5sWiHVii7SVieABe1IAC3HzivXhCpE3m7gqqucAbw8npveZRi_jB1uUr1KcKjZ6EWbGpvjbS_wR03tHCs1ex1Bi2bvd2X1lA/s3361/12CB4C43-2F59-4E75-9B7C-90EA83C264C8.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3361" data-original-width="2413" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIJ7MMel__6co2pKS403VBCkvBbntwoQpSTrlDIoMzv1WjZv5Uox5RNzMu_1JXhc5siGD4C3qPu2pnfgp-WxGLZzzgUY5sWiHVii7SVieABe1IAC3HzivXhCpE3m7gqqucAbw8npveZRi_jB1uUr1KcKjZ6EWbGpvjbS_wR03tHCs1ex1Bi2bvd2X1lA/s320/12CB4C43-2F59-4E75-9B7C-90EA83C264C8.jpeg" width="230" /></a></div><br /><p></p>Connie and Stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14214245770724201376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4235942296412774226.post-53123840068918880622022-09-09T11:46:00.000-07:002022-09-09T11:46:11.403-07:00HIKING IN THE ARCTIC<p> This am, we moored in a delightful place called Dundas Harbor. No one lives here, but we got to hike around and explore the sites of old residences. The CanadianGov</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYGpsYkgByzzp8maSUK4uuVzbuggwqK6_f7nMHmQ7MMcQsH8D-IEn6f_AHKgt9tz6l9KX-skSa6BSpAkfp46h25Ls6aUaBDTKV-D6Vuthzx7W1TCrHngGlJyBO_Q2N8_aKWSf4n0znLtFe2TVYDvLL45IuIuYhfJwz_80OAhP2JthYqjW2B4SMcrrRkQ/s4032/D07DBA27-31BD-4993-8192-749493D59552.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYGpsYkgByzzp8maSUK4uuVzbuggwqK6_f7nMHmQ7MMcQsH8D-IEn6f_AHKgt9tz6l9KX-skSa6BSpAkfp46h25Ls6aUaBDTKV-D6Vuthzx7W1TCrHngGlJyBO_Q2N8_aKWSf4n0znLtFe2TVYDvLL45IuIuYhfJwz_80OAhP2JthYqjW2B4SMcrrRkQ/s320/D07DBA27-31BD-4993-8192-749493D59552.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5PyQ0kNHzBSX58swgl5_am09gj5cht5ihRyB00fTZlobtmwC-5M_oIuShaThnRqEFWNwIry6BLExaPMa2rtzFyTcn4LG2BlncBcp_xf91-5qSV0Mw4mr6xTzIT6fgsId1o3PDdsA_kgUAHRe2egdIY9giq-veZet_e32QaJkVku5VuKyERJe036JQ3g/s4032/7492A798-1F0C-40FE-A3A3-31621341FF52.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5PyQ0kNHzBSX58swgl5_am09gj5cht5ihRyB00fTZlobtmwC-5M_oIuShaThnRqEFWNwIry6BLExaPMa2rtzFyTcn4LG2BlncBcp_xf91-5qSV0Mw4mr6xTzIT6fgsId1o3PDdsA_kgUAHRe2egdIY9giq-veZet_e32QaJkVku5VuKyERJe036JQ3g/s320/7492A798-1F0C-40FE-A3A3-31621341FF52.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs5j56PvEiRMA5d1-UCcCpLbpTwos47vceo6r1hShJ8ZOdebPXBSfc-aMrcq2KyvZS_wjstJINhl5RkwWONLccyIHeMjUa51cy1XBv-GTz9gAfOE49fRqJ2121guTg-12hUgy0A6fGLWdc_O1S4BUu-COgUM1x4ZhEJYwxcGC4DfyUJxZqogqZSeMRMw/s4032/61EFBC53-718A-47DF-8F36-EE51965E7654.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs5j56PvEiRMA5d1-UCcCpLbpTwos47vceo6r1hShJ8ZOdebPXBSfc-aMrcq2KyvZS_wjstJINhl5RkwWONLccyIHeMjUa51cy1XBv-GTz9gAfOE49fRqJ2121guTg-12hUgy0A6fGLWdc_O1S4BUu-COgUM1x4ZhEJYwxcGC4DfyUJxZqogqZSeMRMw/s320/61EFBC53-718A-47DF-8F36-EE51965E7654.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /> sent crews here in the early last century to monitor the area , which they wished to claim as their own. It so remote and cold , it must have been hell for the few who were assigned this post. Some Inuit were paid to show the Canadians how to survive, as everything had to be shipped in. Still, the Canadians lost most of their people to suicide and some deceases. <p></p><p>Well, we zodiaced on the the shore and hiked about 3 miles . Some people got to go kayaking, but not our group and it would have been perfect. Calm and sunny. We climbed all over the place, secure in the fact that our expedition team were stationed here and there on polar bear duty. The sea ice had completely chocked the bay and will probably stay here all winter. We spent about three hours exploring and when we got back to the ship, the restaurant crew has prepared a nice shish kabob barbecued lunch. The head chef is from Turkey, and he wanted to show off his Turkish cooking skills. They even moved the bar outside and made some kind of celebratory drink.</p><p>We are now at sea and on our way to PondInlet, and the capt just said we were in for rough weather again with high winds and rain…. </p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Connie and Stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14214245770724201376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4235942296412774226.post-6487503611979555122022-09-08T18:41:00.001-07:002022-09-09T11:57:25.646-07:00BEECHEY ISLAND AND RADSTOCK BAY<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb3g_8_XtUCTHZOiJpee8Dg2nOb3HOh9_JvpxHy6E7B4MfhTuXa19ZjCONWQ0frMfx5y-rs11Z97hyJm_hhhVcPCNvhKDIVK90P0rAUY3xSNF8QC46Da-2fcReOvVQivDZFpXcVW1MpfCt1ZTM3J3R9_kNBk967x-9QMh_xpzqHv9xZSpYjcHRd_Rlng/s4032/4DDB083C-D7FB-4DD5-B5E6-90F306E72824.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb3g_8_XtUCTHZOiJpee8Dg2nOb3HOh9_JvpxHy6E7B4MfhTuXa19ZjCONWQ0frMfx5y-rs11Z97hyJm_hhhVcPCNvhKDIVK90P0rAUY3xSNF8QC46Da-2fcReOvVQivDZFpXcVW1MpfCt1ZTM3J3R9_kNBk967x-9QMh_xpzqHv9xZSpYjcHRd_Rlng/s320/4DDB083C-D7FB-4DD5-B5E6-90F306E72824.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFMNHZ06Q70XfnV7rbTlnN8DJX7t88EgxfQW6FjyWP2vl7yxyd5BI6g1M71GLyxNJE6zqJ4SJvBr8fcfL_0YW4saQTQ4xTHG61ZuN3qxDC3qf7LHvYodZU4veYXKLsRMyyD10kg60P1tEuk_beCW_TJwMZH2L95ROMYQHIVyNb_ETgUknQ3zl9fo3kfQ/s4032/08DDCCAD-A761-41B7-9412-F1A6E0648E5C.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFMNHZ06Q70XfnV7rbTlnN8DJX7t88EgxfQW6FjyWP2vl7yxyd5BI6g1M71GLyxNJE6zqJ4SJvBr8fcfL_0YW4saQTQ4xTHG61ZuN3qxDC3qf7LHvYodZU4veYXKLsRMyyD10kg60P1tEuk_beCW_TJwMZH2L95ROMYQHIVyNb_ETgUknQ3zl9fo3kfQ/s320/08DDCCAD-A761-41B7-9412-F1A6E0648E5C.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLcYO7Ru_Kn45Wcx2fy429VEco_2smAi5hNxsKyG7uniJmFY-w40uKFFXPmoXQLJ9Ze1ikUrkEcB_g4a0P5NB-qXFb9E0a8JSe64WzSKcj3yKV39VMzueZU6xYvrNcwAcSfSoWGF6UKxOCSsVLt8VpGNAaB6IB8rOQpPQJEhveK6j257T3Nrs_PcLRkA/s4032/AEBECA65-8376-489B-AF73-392605210F83.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLcYO7Ru_Kn45Wcx2fy429VEco_2smAi5hNxsKyG7uniJmFY-w40uKFFXPmoXQLJ9Ze1ikUrkEcB_g4a0P5NB-qXFb9E0a8JSe64WzSKcj3yKV39VMzueZU6xYvrNcwAcSfSoWGF6UKxOCSsVLt8VpGNAaB6IB8rOQpPQJEhveK6j257T3Nrs_PcLRkA/s320/AEBECA65-8376-489B-AF73-392605210F83.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl2TGBb9_ywdCBcO9NnEEMNZzueINxVAMZvyEOoszuF0l5MiZxk1gb_JTlgthJyTpJ09mRN2LE4E9XC1dnwVQCmed4-5W45mvKa3-srIweR0jssmNakg5Dt-ltuLuBtAHOG9nuiazgfOScv4I2LlidFuaMbfuQKfmAIxvt0uawMBh0hfDMvO_QmMoBOQ/s2547/C6651C9A-A715-49B5-81F0-98A1643B428A.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2547" data-original-width="2190" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl2TGBb9_ywdCBcO9NnEEMNZzueINxVAMZvyEOoszuF0l5MiZxk1gb_JTlgthJyTpJ09mRN2LE4E9XC1dnwVQCmed4-5W45mvKa3-srIweR0jssmNakg5Dt-ltuLuBtAHOG9nuiazgfOScv4I2LlidFuaMbfuQKfmAIxvt0uawMBh0hfDMvO_QmMoBOQ/s320/C6651C9A-A715-49B5-81F0-98A1643B428A.jpeg" width="275" /></a></div><br /> Well, my seasickness has subsided and our ship landed in the am at a vast barren spot called BEECHEY ISLAND. We suited up after breakfast and took the zodiacs onto shore. This remote and desolate area was where men from the NW Passage expeditions left there dead. There are eerie graves there of crew members and no one really knows how they died. Most were 20,or early 20s. Such a hard life of early explorers. The guides landed early and looked for bears and while we were hiking and exploring, the guides were stationed in areas where polar bears could approach. We didn’t see any…but it’s a safety thing. <p></p><p>After we explored, the crew asked if anyone wanted to go for. Swim. Steve and a few others did it. They swam in the ICEY waters of the Arctic! It was more like a dip as they could not stay in very long. Steve was cold! Finally we made it back to the ship and it continued on a scenic sail along the RADSTOCK coast. We saw 2 different polars bears, each with cubs! Then to add frosting to the cake we watched a pod of beluga whales swim next to the shore. It was a calm afternoon to observe wildlife from our ships deck. </p><p><span>Another weird thing is we have to change our clock time everyday forward one hour! It’s not fun. We think we just had lunch and bam! Dinner is served. It’s raising havoc with everyone meal plans and sleeping, but it’s what one does at this end of the world. </span></p>Connie and Stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14214245770724201376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4235942296412774226.post-6985656972350784822022-09-07T14:14:00.002-07:002022-09-08T18:24:35.646-07:00ROUGH SEAS AND OTHER FUN STUFF<p> Yesterday we were headed to Fort Ross where the Hudson Bay CO. tried to set up stations to supply the old time sailing explorers. Actually, when I see these places and hear the histories it is quite unbelievable that anyone survived this harsh landscape. These were tough tough men with a drive to explore. We had a wonderful ,historical lecture about the Errobos and Terror, two ships who completely disappeared with all men aboard. Just recently with the ice melting, are modern crews able to find the ships at the bottom of the sea. It was a great lecture and we were going to stop this am and use Zodiacs to access the shore and go snoop around. But some rough seas came up and we could even get close to the area. Plus, I got so seasick after breakfast that I was good for nothing.</p><p>Since we were at sea all day yesterday we had chances to read, listen to lectures, sight see on the shore, from the ship, where we were able to spot 2 musk ox and a polar bear. Then Steve and I decided to go take an ICEY waters kayak class and hopefully if we ever see calm seas again, we will get to try out our new found cold water kayaking skills. The crew is strict about every little aspect and we learned alot of dos and mostly do NOTS! </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicen118n8_Hx3I2CgprX6W9zLjzGvjkntRxMGPCLRaMGy11j63OonEjRTy2DWB4swmaTYp1QMlFDVKTbYtjklw9PaRj0Dxg9x-71SYldgiAXP_TfS-iyK3COm3mJcsvbG-f958Ohzg8NWSAMMVPn2KJxaghZ7W0f2PZAXWlhmHPAUBwiiO7M9VZjG1bQ/s3024/E53A7EC7-062F-4870-84EB-7C6C99AED66A.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="2539" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicen118n8_Hx3I2CgprX6W9zLjzGvjkntRxMGPCLRaMGy11j63OonEjRTy2DWB4swmaTYp1QMlFDVKTbYtjklw9PaRj0Dxg9x-71SYldgiAXP_TfS-iyK3COm3mJcsvbG-f958Ohzg8NWSAMMVPn2KJxaghZ7W0f2PZAXWlhmHPAUBwiiO7M9VZjG1bQ/s320/E53A7EC7-062F-4870-84EB-7C6C99AED66A.jpeg" width="269" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD-y8bvbqeSBCrNh-Y-18C7s4BiXwe-A85imn5vemAIvg2RFJ33OyqvwQzXt_mq_V7k0-W8A3VwjJKDHt-pqQqpuMMR0ld1MKd2LunmZ6kiSdAjQbFDJjFrrAUV0hkYvErfOj46-LM0_TnYxZJcSWS1Tz_uZ_bm77Rozq3yHfwabD5ZMMroPIqLyyrVw/s4032/C991BD37-78AD-4CAB-9428-7AE21F3D7428.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD-y8bvbqeSBCrNh-Y-18C7s4BiXwe-A85imn5vemAIvg2RFJ33OyqvwQzXt_mq_V7k0-W8A3VwjJKDHt-pqQqpuMMR0ld1MKd2LunmZ6kiSdAjQbFDJjFrrAUV0hkYvErfOj46-LM0_TnYxZJcSWS1Tz_uZ_bm77Rozq3yHfwabD5ZMMroPIqLyyrVw/s320/C991BD37-78AD-4CAB-9428-7AE21F3D7428.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDi4BAbCfZxLq7Iw7HcJlS2HUmflqhzjlJqctQLYyav1HuDVUmnNmoQAJWk1P9v0wW_TdRsUZoZLhaw63hiGOvmlcqEQCxSIhwJfrmjv9VbSHQ0hZSmi53ZeJUz1jmnOh3LZdwcqI_SKw6-D7TQKRO_35HRHLOH2YIT-MNRHnaakAwpKKrGm-l5ad7Cw/s3024/69415962-DD81-466C-8792-17325AC26C5B.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="1965" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDi4BAbCfZxLq7Iw7HcJlS2HUmflqhzjlJqctQLYyav1HuDVUmnNmoQAJWk1P9v0wW_TdRsUZoZLhaw63hiGOvmlcqEQCxSIhwJfrmjv9VbSHQ0hZSmi53ZeJUz1jmnOh3LZdwcqI_SKw6-D7TQKRO_35HRHLOH2YIT-MNRHnaakAwpKKrGm-l5ad7Cw/s320/69415962-DD81-466C-8792-17325AC26C5B.jpeg" width="208" /></a></div><br />I hope Mr. Steve was listening carefully, cause he’ll be my partner!<p></p>Connie and Stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14214245770724201376noreply@blogger.com0