Logic should have told me that somewhere in the world, Daffodils grow wild. But lets face it, how many of us really sit and ponder these sorts of questions?? Anywho...it was quite a delight to land in Scotland last week and be greeted by Daffodils everywhere. In fact, there were Jonquils and some wonderful little Blue Bonnet style flowers in bloom alongside the Daffodils. Just gorgeous, and to have them growing along the rivers and country lanes just made for a truly simple pleasure.
Although I have been to Scotland a number of times, this trip I decided to take the opportunity and explore further afield. And to be honest, I did get lost on the myriad of country roads but luckily its only 3 hours from one side of the country to the other, so worst case scenario, I just hit water and turn around, right. But I managed to find my way back to the hotel each night without too many hassles.
 |
| Dunnottar Castle |
My journeying on this trip took me down the coastline from Aberdeen to Stonehaven and the Dunnottar Castle; west along the River Dee to Ballator; north to Oldmeldrumm and more castles; then northwest to Inverness, Loch Ness and Fort Augustus. It is truly a beautiful country and the Highlands don't disappoint. There was still snow on the peaks and I got the full effect of the blustery Highland winds and some rain, just to make it all even more spectacular. It was dammed cold but even that is okay when you are exploring the wilds of the heathers.
One of the things I always enjoy about travelling to places like Scotland or Ireland or even various spots in Europe, is sitting down for a coffee or wine in little town cafes and pubs and having a great conversation with a local....even if you struggle to understand a word they say. Despite sharing a language, some Scots are next to impossible to comprehend! But I always enjoy the experience and the opportunity to exchange cultures. I also love the look of surprise and wonder on many faces when you say you are from Australia. It seems that the land downunder continues to hold some mystical awe for many people and the questions are always entertaining. On this trip, one chap who is heading to Brisbane to visit family and making his first trip to Australia, was obsessed with spiders and snakes and had himself worked up into a lather worrying about how he would protect himself. It didn't help that we got onto the subject of jellyfish, crocodiles and sharks. I think I did calm him though with warming stories of pet wallabies, cockatoos and growing up on a farm in Australia. I did have to sensor that though as I am sure the truth of country life wouldn't have contributed to his fears! 
But I always experience a little pang of sadness when leaving behind a journey and heading home. Not because I don't enjoy my own home and space, but no matter what, I am in love with seeing the world and meeting people.
The truth though is, I get home and inevitably a new experience outside my door awaits. It might be a new neighbour or a new expat or, as has happened this week.....the magnolias outside my window have bloomed and that, my friends, is something beautiful!
 |
| River Ness, Inverness |
 |
| Glenfiddich Whiskey! |
