Edinburgh, finally.

 

After a 24 hour journey to Edinburgh Scotland, I arrived with two suitcases and a traveling backpack. It's hard to believe that my life is packed in these two bags for the next four months.

Karen and I joined the group to eat at The Elephant House, the infamous cafe that JK Rowling spent rainy days in the city writing the first couple books of the Harry Potter series.

 

I promptly burned the first delicious loaf of European bread purchased. Just another reminder that not everything works the same way it does in the US.

We went on a BEAUTIFUL hike to the top of Arthur's Seat, just outside the city. The views were AMAZING and I do not exaggerate. You could see for miles--the ocean, the landscape, the cathedrals--a moving picture of creation and people and how infinitely small we are.

Other things I've done--

1. Attended church on the Royal Mile-lots of beautiful, welcoming people. Scottish people are passionate. The thing that stood out to me was the very end of the service. When the music ended and the pastor had nothing left to stay, everyone stayed seated. Promptly, tea and biscuits were wheeled in and nobody ran off. These people simply love others and don't feel the American need to drive off to the next activity.

 

2. Attempted to figure out the double deckers. It is necessary to use them for the classes we will be attending on the outskirts of Edinburgh. Today, the bus driver pulled over, turned off the bus to switch with another driver, and we promptly realized we had gotten on the wrong bus and were running late. Unfortunately, bus drivers are the only slightly unfriendly citizens of Edinburgh and so they suggested we take the 20 minute walk to our university. Guess that's how you learn!

3. Eating. Can't close this without mentioning. I have forgotten how delicious European bread is. Even large supermarkets have huge baguettes, dozens of scones, and hearty whole grain rolls. Two items on my list to try--toasties and butties. 

Bacon Butty:

Goodnight and sleep well. Love from across the pond.