Scottish way of life

Hello from Scotland! Or should I say, "Cheers!" as they do here? I have now been in Edinburgh, Scotland for 10 days enjoying the cool weather and BEAUTIFUL scenery...although its feels as if I've been here for a month.

I'd like to start with things I've learned about Scotland:

- "Cheers" is used for everything, like our "okay." My favorite use is for please. While I was at the grocery store in Edinburgh, the cashier kept saying cheers as I helped her put my bags into the cart. So cute.

- Never call a Scottish chap English. British is acceptable, but English will warrent a punch in the yapper. They are Scottish first, British second, European third, and English last....so I've been told.

- A segment of Scottish lawyers, called advocates, still wear powdered wigs while at work! After a brief stake out, I spotted one yesterday at the Old Parliament building!

- The Scottish Highlands, which are the scarcely populated northern areas of the country, are BRILLIANT! (Brilliant is another fun UK term). Go there if you ever have a chance.

Caroline and I in the Highlands! Looks like a backdrop, right?

Back to things I've learned about Scotland:

- I believe in Nessie, the Lock Ness monster.

- In the UK they drive on the opposite side of the road, i.e. if you're going forward, you're on the left side of the street. So, when walking they follow the same pattern. Needless to say I have bumped into quite a few locals when I walk on the right side of the sidewalk where the oncoming walkers are! Still having problems with this one.

- Haggis is worth trying, but only once. Google it if you don't know what it is.

My overall favorite thing about Scotland and its people has to be the deep rooted understanding, appreciation, and continuance of the country's long-standing traditions. Its something that, as a Texan and as a Longhorn, I can identify with. They love their country, way of life, and culture. But they're not boastful about it, always respectful. Here is our tribute to Scotland:

I am in the middle, with 4 of my best girls friends on the trip!

On another note, my computer access is fairly limited. Because of Edinburgh University's summer hours, the labs are only open until 5:30 on weekdays. Hopefully I can still post a couple times a week!

Cheers to all,

Evie