Look Ma! We made it!

Our flight arrived on time and we were not ready. Given that some of our party didn’t get much sleep last night made for a tough time of decision making on what to do with the hours until check-in. We retrieved all the oversized luggage and slowly made our way through the security gates to the warm embraces of the awaiting friends.

There was lots of hugs and introductions. And they were all very eager to help. In fact, the brother in the pictures above was assigned to ensure we got on our way. But we tried to buy ourselves some more time by stopping at the nearby cafe for a quick bite. When another brother came to check on us an hour later, we jumped up and headed for the Tram station.

Stacy managed to snatch a quick nap (and he got an even better one on the train ride to Glasgow):

But as soon as we dropped our luggage off at the train depot, we were off to parts unknown. We had heard about the Royal Mile so I made a quick study of a street map while Stacy enjoyed street music (bagpipes). And soon we were traversing the streets of Edinburgh. What amazing architecture that makes Edinburgh unique despite its 900 year history. Enjoy!

Edinburgh castle: One of the oldest fortified places in Europe with a storied history dating back to the 13th century. At one time or another, it was either a military fortress, a royal residence or a prison of war.

Scott Monument: A Victorian Gothic monument to author Sir Walter Scott - 2nd largest monument to a writer in the world! 

Beautiful flowers everywhere. . .

Another warm welcome upon arrival at our hotel

True or False: If you keep them moving, they will forget they are sleepy.