Goodbye (temporarily) Larkhall and Hello Arran! 8/14/15

April 6, 2016
 

    Rachel, Bob, Janet, Stuart, Sarah, & Benny                                                                    

                                                                     

 Marcos & Kate and Kate's mom, Dorothy!

It was time to bid farewell to the two families who had hosted us while in Larkhall. How is it possible that such a short acquaintance could produce a friendship that felt as comfortable as if we had known each other all our lives? Being bound together in Christ explains this beautiful phenomenon! For we are members of the same family, the family of God!

The Isle of Arran 

Driving through the lush green countryside of Ayrshire, as we made our way to board the ferry that would carry us to Arran, was as pleasant as this country gal could have ever imagined. Sheep and cows grazed peacefully in the pastures lined with stone fences, and now and then, my eyes would delight in seeing horses among them. I never quite got over the dreamy reality of my presence here. 

Eventually, we came to the coast where we were to board the ferry that would transport us to Arran. Bobby chose this location because in visiting Arran it would be like experiencing Scotland in miniature. Therefore, in just a few days, we would travel through the highlands and lowlands which divides Arran, just as if we were on the mainland of Scotland. Perfect!

Croc Cottage

 This internet photograph was my first glimpse of the charming little cottage where we were to spend our blissful time on Arran. I can tell you the heart of this country gal was a bit overwhelmed by this photo. I couldn't imagine that such a place existed. But it did! And when we finally reached this little bit of heaven on earth, I was wonderfully overwhelmed all over again!

Croc Cottage is tucked away at the end of a lazy little path of a road. It does have a smaller cottage directly behind it, but as it was inhabited only by the owner of the properties, it afforded all the seclusion we could have desired. 

We pulled in behind the cottage, and upon entering we discovered a compact kitchen complete with all the necessary appliances; even a washer/dryer combo (never seen such a thing until I came to Scotland). The dining area, along with a roomy table, provided a buffet laden with plates, cups, drinking glasses, and silverware. There was nothing to add that a trip to the local grocery store wouldn't provide.

Off the hall that divided the living area from the dining area, was the singular bathroom containing a shower. All we had to do was plan ahead to accommodate shower schedules-no problem! Before entering the living room, we climbed the stairs to see the bedrooms. On either side were two more than adequate size bedrooms (one with a kingsize bed and the other with a queen size bed), each with a window to gaze from. Between them was a cozy little bedroom where Shep would sleep. 

But the snug little living room held the sweetest surprise of all; a comfy fireplace ladened with a good supply of wood. And in addition to this aged charm, we even enjoyed the pleasant convenience of modern day tv and wifi! Indeed, our cup was full and running over!

We moved in and happily settled into the dreamy coziness of our homy little cottage. 

Until next time,