Fly Fishing and a day in Arran. 8/18/15

August 30, 2016

   Today was another serenely beautiful day on Scotland's Isle of Arran. Bobby, having recently discovered the allurement of fly fishing, set out to practice his newly formed skills on some unsuspecting trout in Loch Garbad. (pictured below)

   And catch it, he did! A sleek and shiny 13" Rainbow trout. He had spotted it when he first got to the loch and determined he was going to catch it.  But he fished and fished,yet, caught nothing. Then right before he left he saw it again and made a final attempt–with success!

Since our Scotland trip, I have been privileged to accompany Bobby on some of his fly fishing excursions and wow, the allurement is obvious.  I've read some catchy sayings about fly fishing and I think that the scenery of places that draw the fly fishermen, has a lot to do with their enjoyment of it.  This quote from Herbert Hoover proves my point:

"To go fishing is the chance to wash one's soul with pure air, with the rush of the brook, or with the shimmer of sun on blue water. It brings meekness and inspiration from the decency of nature, charity toward tackle-makers, patience toward fish, a mockery of profits and egos, a quieting of hate, a rejoicing that you do not have to decide a darned thing until next week. And it is discipline in the equality of men - for all men are equal before fish."

 Well, back to Croc Cottage.

   It had been decided that when Bobby returned we would go down to a little park we had spotted earlier for a picnic. But until then, we three enjoyed a leisurely morning. Maridith and Sheperd strolled down to the village for some mother and son time. Bob caught up on his sleep, and I got caught up on my journaling. About mid-morning, I put Roscoe down for his morning nap and began straightening up the cottage and preparing for our picnic. Bob, in the meantime, had stirred and appeased me by building up the fire. Peace reigned supreme!


   Around 11:30 am, Bobby returned with a story to tell about his fishing trophy. After the fishing story was shared, along with the beautiful pictures he took, we packed up the van with our picnic supplies and set out to find Maridith and Sheperd. We found them admiring the boats in Lamlesh Bay.
 
   For some reason that remained elusive, Sheperd became somewhat agitated and we never were able to settle him down. I suspect that with all the preparation, Mommy and Daddy were in an out of Sheperd's sight and since he wasnt quite use to his new found grandparents, it was hard for him to feel settled and secure. We attempted our picnic, which was supplied with items from the nearby grocery store. We switched to another playground in the hopes Sheperd would feel better but it didn't really make much of a difference. Since it was so close to nap time, we felt the cure for his dilemma would be a good rest. So, Bob and I finished our picnic while Bobby & Maridith (with Roscoe in tow) took Sheperd back to the cottage.

   Bobby returned and we went on a drive to Broderick where we did some souvenir shopping while enjoying beauty at every turn.

Goatfell - Arran's Highest Peak (2866')

   When we returned, Bobby, Shep, (his nap had done wonders for him) Roscoe & I set out for a walk down by the stream near our cottage. The idea was for me to carry Roscoe but soon he fell asleep. So I carried him back and put him to bed.

 

 
                                                                                                                                                                   
   I grabbed two lawn chairs (not sure why 2 because I was the only one who used them) With his fishing rod in hand, our little band walked down to the stream. Bobby's adventuresome streak flavors his parenting, I think! For he allows Shep to do things that make me a little nervous. Like allowing Shep to walk with his dad a little too close to the edge of the bank (which dropped off about 3'). But I'm sure Shep will benefit in more ways than not by a looser rein in matters such as these.

   The last part of the trek was downriver and under a bridge. At that point wading became the focus and eventually Bobby stripped Shep of his shirt and holding Shep by his hands dipped him into the water. He squealed with delight, saying, "I jump Nammy".


   I got my own wading in, for I can't ever resist a clear running stream,(Just a head picture, but trust me my feet were in the water) then we strolled on back to the cottage.  Maridith had a delicious pasta dish for dinner waiting for us. (bless this woman)                                                                  
   Afterwards, while the others watched a Sean Connery documentary on tv (rather fitting, don't you think, to be watching this famous Scotsman on tv while in Scotland), I took my pleasantly tired body to bed. (Perhaps I dreamed of Sean Connery? It could happen in such a setting!)

From Mountains to Shining Sea

August 17, 2015

Before we had exhausted our enjoyment of the highlands of Arran, suddenly this vast expanse of water loomed up before us. What they say about Arran being Scotland in miniature, we found to be true in every respect.  (Notice the purple thistle in the foreground of the above photo. This history of this Scottish emblem is fascinating. Just click on the link under the picture below.)

http://www.historic-uk.com/HistoryUK/HistoryofScotland/The-Thistle-National-Emblem-of-Scotland/

As we drove along the coastal road, we stopped at a lovely restaurant called, The Coast. If you like good food, lovely surroundings, and a view to die for, then like us, this restaurant would be your choice! I ordered a spicy bean sandwich, (umm, very tasty) and couldn't resist the chocolate fudge cake (moist, oh my goodness)! And you know, I wasn't going to get away from sharing it once our server placed it in front of me.

After finishing our meal, we browsed through the nearby shops for souvenirs.  I bought some more shortbread (Scotland is famous for this), and found some lovely calendars (get to enjoy scenes from Scotland all year round with this gift). Bobby found some mint seeds in a hardware store nearby that he had been wanting. Rummaging  around in this all to familiar type of store made me feel quite at home. (A very comfortable feeling)

On the way back to the cottage, we stopped at the grocery store. I watched the boys at the playground situated across the street while Maridith shopped for ingredients for a pasta dish she was planning on making when we got back to the cottage. However, since Bob was feeling better (remember he had stayed behind earlier) he wanted to go out for dinner. As it turned out Maridith stayed home with the boys so she could put Shep to bed.

So Bob, Bobby, and I went to the Drift Inn. There we set outside (in spite of the fact that the afternoon was wanning and the temps were dropping). I noticed there were candles sitting on the tables and upon sitting down we soon found out why when we began to be attacked by the midges (the smallest of the flies that bite humans in Scotland). We lit our insect repellant candles but couldn't say it helped much. But I can say I came away from that with a first hand experience about what all the fuss is about concerning these not so pleasant tiny creatures of Scotland.

After my battle with the midges, I left the guys to walk to the grocery store to buy some chocolate ice cream and cokes to take back to the cottage. The distance to the store was a bit lengthy for a stroll (although, it was pleasant enough) so after the boys finished looking around the restaurant area, they drove towards the grocery store, picked me up and carried me to the store. 

Arriving back the the cottage, we spent the rest of the evening relaxing by the fireplace while enjoying pleasant conversation as we consumed our ice cream.

Another day on Arran comes to a delightful close!

Exploring Arran by van!

Monday, August 17, 2016 (date in journal)

  We closed out our Sunday while sipping on tea, snuggling up to the cozy fire, and enjoying pleasant conversation. Birds sang, crickets chirped, casting a spell of dreaminess over our sweet little cottage.  Sleep came easily in such a place.

   Unfortunately, by the next morning Bob was feeling a bit under the weather and chose to remain at the cottage. Bobby, Maridith, the boys and myself meanwhile gathered the necessary items for an explore. The island is small, so a days drive would reveal much of God's artistry in a short amount of time.

   It was a startling experience to drive over the island of Arran and find ourselves on roads that wound in and around mountains! I have been on an island before but it did not have mountains. Just seems to me like you aught to have vast expanses of land to have room for mountains, however, not so on Arran. But after all they do refer to Arran as Scotland in minature.

  The mountains here and on the mainland don't have a lot of trees. I wondered about that, so when I got home I did a little research and here's what I found:

The ancient Caledonian Forest once covered the Scottish Highlands. Home to bears, beavers, and wolves, its destruction began before the Bronze Age. The forest began to fall to the scythe of climate change and the activities of primitive tribes from pre-Roman times. Subsequent terror campaigns launched by marauding Vikings burned down large areas of forest. Later, farmers and fuel gatherers cleared away most of what remained.

http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2003/02/0207_030207_scotforest.html

 

   There is a lot of reforestation going on to try and reclaim the forest Scotland lost. But I discovered an advantage to not having a thick forest covering the mountains, for those spectacular panoramic views were always in sight! So, in time, the forest will be restored and there will always be a way to see beyond the trees, I'm sure.

   In the picture below you will see a rocky little stream running happily down the mountain. I am partial to  clear rocky streams for they offer a chance to get my feet wet. I do love wading, but this time I grabbed a photo instead.

               




This might be what they refer to as a floxglove. I saw them growing in abundance everywhere it seemed. Exquisite! They really dress up and ordinary landscape.












While there were cows and a few horses grazing in pastures (one of my favorite of scenes) more often than not, sheep were to be seen.  I found them to be quite cute. And notice the hay rolls,  covered in black plastic. Here on our farm, the hay rolls are covered in plastic as well, but the color is a sheer green.

 Even old rustic run downed buildings appear uniquely beautiful in this setting.

A sloping hill, draped in soft green grass, with lazy sheep accenting the view. The country gal in me was dazzled.







I think this is enough beauty for the moment. Next time, I will share some pictures of the ocean and a delightful restaurant we visited positioned so as to enjoy the ocean's view.

Our first full day in Lamlash! 8-16-2016

Bob enjoying a snooze in
the tiny but cozy front
yard at our cottage.

This lovely photo hung in the dining
area of our cottage. 

Bobby crashing on the sofa. Notice
the teapot. You can't see it but the
cozy little fireplace was offering its
comfort as well.

Lamlash! From my walk along the
beach. Wouldn't you love to live
here!

   Just some pictorial previews for today's post. The date is August 16, and Bobby and I, along with Shep, are planning on going to church. Bob, Maridith, & Roscoe are having a much needed sleep in. We hopped into the van and set out for a  Lamlash excursion and to attend services at Lamlash Church of Scotland.
   Services started at 11:30, so we left a bit early to have time to walk around the village and drop by one of Shep's favorite spots–the playground. He never gets enough of playground fun!
   We first walked down to the rocky beach. There was a man standing nearby throwing rocks into the water. I noticed my little man stood still, gazing at this man. Next, he bent down, picked up a rock and threw it into the water. Our friendly stranger not being aware of the silent instruction he had just given my grandson!

Shep watching the stranger!

Showing Dad about rock throwing!

 The breeze was gentle and cool, making me glad I had worn my shawl. I pulled my shawl tightly around me, listening to the quiet, lazy waves lapping upon the beach, basking in this moment my son, grandson, and I were enjoying together.

The throws the rock! Fun idea that
stranger had!

Next, he picks up the rock,

Following our beach adventure, we strolled up the bank to the playground nearby. This particular playground sported a metal skeleton of a plane. And as Shep is into planes at present, his imagination was in full gear as he climbed all over it.

   Our next stroll found us heading toward the church being lulled along the way by the strands of Amazing Grace emerging from the church's bell tower. (I did make a video of those lovely bells, but sad to say they were accidentally deleted from my phone before I had the good sense to transfer them to my computer)

Notice the minister is a lady.
The church we visited in
Edinburgh also had
a lady minister the
day we were there. 

The bell tower just above my
right shoulder was peeling
forth the beautiful hymn
Amazing Grace!

   Shep lasted only for a short while as he needed his blanket to feel calm and quiet. Eventually, Bobby had to take him back to

the cottage while I remained for the rest of the service. We were guided through the service by a program which listed the songs that were to be sung. Similar to services back home, but with the addition of readings from the congregation.  Most of the congregation was made up of older individuals. Seems to be the case in the traditional churches we attended. (Not so at Larkhall, however!)

   The minister spoke on love and as Bobby & I were discussing the service at lunch after he had returned, it was concluded that it was a type of generic sermon. You could substitute Jesus's name for any other leader of another religion and make the same points. The one thing we both noticed was there was little, if any, talk of sacrifice or obedience to scriptural truths. Yet, when I looked at their website, I noticed there were plenty of activities for church members to reach out into their community and serve their neighbors. 

   We stopped by the small grocery store so Bobby could get the ingredients to make a seafood dish when he got back to the cottage. On the way back, I asked Bobby to let me off at the bridge near the driveway so I could check out the souvenir store nearby. I enjoyed looking around, but came away with only a couple of free magazines.

   With my two free magazines, I strolled up the driveway (you stroll everywhere here, slow and deliberate so as to enjoy every precious moment) and was greeted upon entering the back door by a fishy aroma! From the remarks of the others, it was a delicious fish soup, but my tastes don't really prefer fishy flavors. However, the scones topped with cheese that were served with the main dish, I found to be quite tasty. So, everybody was happy!

   We all spent the rest of the day relaxing. The chilly air coaxed us to turn on the furnace, but not too high. For our  little fireplace offered the perfect accompaniment to a cup of hot tea, flavored with cream! (you know, I developed a taste for drinking my tea hot with cream! Now that's saying something for an American Southern girl who likes her tea brewed, made cold with ice, and sweetened with sugar), as we closed out our first full day here in Arran. 

   Until next time,

Arriving Arran, ahhhh! - August 14, 2015

     I want to start out this post with something my friend, Kate, reminded me of in her comments to my last post, Goodbye (temporarily) Larkhall and Hello Arran. I can't believe I didn't even record this in my journal.

    Right before we were to leave Larkhall, Bobby came to us with a message he had just received from the man who had rented us the cottage in Arran. Seems he wasn't going to be able to open up the cottage for us after all!!!!! There was an issue about him not being able to prepare the rooms for our imminent arrival!!!!! Talk about throwing cold water into the face of our expectations! Now a few hours before we were to leave for the cottage, the image we had of living in that sweet little cottage began to fade!  We told our landlord that we would be happy to do the necessary preparations ourselves, whatever it took, for us to still be able to proceed as had been happily dreamed of for months. What a calamity! We knew nothing to do but to pray! But honestly, I found it a little hard to believe that this would be snatched from us at such a late hour! (So much so, that I remained calm and undisturbed. Not even writing about it in my journal!) A few hours later, Bobby informed us that our landlord had relented and assured us that the issues had been resolved and we could proceed with our plans!!!!!  Whew!!! That was way too close!!!

*     *     *     *     *

                                   

     We said farewell to our new friends who had become like family, gratified that we would return in a week for one last visit with them before leaving Scotland.
     The drive through the lush green countryside was a feast of beautiful images of stoned lined pastures filled with sheep, cows, and even horses. Of course, this being Scotland, sheep outnumbered the cows, and I had to look quick to see the horses, but there were there and I was pleased.  Rural cottages dotted the landscape, a matching counterpart to the peaceful pastoral scenes we were privileged to gaze upon as we made our way to Arran.

Just a few of the amateur photos I took with my iPhone as we moved down the highway. Though not the best, I do hope you can catch a glimpse of what I'm trying to describe!

 

Proof that I did see horses!

    

                                                           
   After about a 2 hour drive, we arrived at Ardrossan Harbour, where we, while in our van, would board the ferry to Arran. Here are a few pictures to describe our journey!

Queuing up!

 

                               

                                        The Firth of Clyde waters

Traditional Scottish breakfast

Cold and very windy

 

There she is, Arran, and wouldn't you know it a castle!

                                   

Until next time,

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,