Wednesday, September 29, 2010

Tartan Kilts and Gaelic Handbags

St. Andrews

Due to England's bleak weather, I itched to get back into Scotland. Little did I know of the torrential rain, freezing temperatures, and high speed winds that awaited me. Just as the entire coach became motion sickness, the Contiki bus rounded its last nauseous bend and pulled into Edinburgh, the capital city of Scotland (I don't know if it's actually the capital, it just sounds better that way). Here we indulged in both the local talent and food. Cam, a third generation bagpiper who was more than willing to answer any kilt related questions, played song after song and dazzled us all with his musical talents.

The day that followed the festivities was one of exploration. A small group of Contikiers formed and together we stormed the castle of Edinburgh and took in all that the stronghold had to offer. Michelle, our tour guide had spoken, on more than one occasion, of the "Crown Jewels" and "Stone of Destiny" which resided in the castle. With a name like "Stone of Destiny," you're bound to attract a few suckers. And we fit the profile. So we paid the 14 pounds entrance fee and waited the hour and a half to be led into a dark room with a glass case perched on a mahogany alter. We crept our way towards the sparkling glass, suspension building in our chests, and stood dumbfounded when the image behind the glass focused and then we realized, the "Stone of Destiny" was really a piece of concrete. Stone of Destiny: 1...Meghan: 0

So, I collected what was left of my dignity from Edinburgh Castle and joined the group for a stop over in St.Andrews..the home of....GOLF. I've only ever golfed a handful of times, all within a two week stretch. The reason for my initial interest in the sport and sudden retrieval from it: 1. It was the cool thing to do at the time and I was subject to peer pressure 2. I couldn't handle the constant nagging from my fellow golfers "Hurry up already!", "Just pick the damn ball up and throw it", or my personal favorite "You're tee-ing off in the wrong direction..." 3. I sucked. Needless to say, St.Andrews wasn't my greatest wow moment, but the cupcakes I bought there sure were :)

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