Some photographs didn't fit the other categories for the tour too precisely. However, they might merit a bit of space . . . especially a fairly large walk around the Craigs on the Monday after The Gathering. You be the judge.
Many band members complained that their MP's and MPP's wouldn't supply them with their Maple Leaf Flag pins or their Provincal lapel pins (e.g. the Trillium). In Doug's case, the request was submitted a fair time in advance, and the pins were excellent publicity for Canada and Ontario. For the most part, they were distributed to children on the fringe of events or at the side of a parade route. We thank MP Yasmin Ratansi and MPP David Caplin most sincerely.
Distributing Pins in Aberdeen
To Arthur's Seat
We chose the climb which had the smallest incline. Practised climbers assured us that they could complete the climb using that route in a couple of hours. Forget it. This is the longest distance to the top. We managed to cover about one-third of the climb before Doug needed a long rest.
Kilt Inspection
An unidentified flasher momentarily distracted our attention from some Highland dancers. Now we know what is worn under a kilt.
An old joke goes something like this: "Nothing is worn under a kilt. It's all in perfect working order."
Two Close Calls
"Alleyway" is the closest English term for the Scottish word "Close". Most of those in Edinburgh along the Royal Mile are very interesting.
The Ross Fountain
The fountain was cast in iron by Durenne of Paris for an International Exhibition in Paris in 1862. When gunsmith Daniel Ross saw it, he purchased it and donated it to the City of Edinburgh in 1867. It was shipped to Leith in 122 pieces then transferred by road the three miles to Princes Street Gardens, Edinburgh. It was still awaiting assembly in Princes Street Gardens when Daniel Ross died in 1871.
The statue was described as "having 4 female figures ; seated between them semi-circular basins with consoles, surmounted by a standing figure above the basins and nymphs". An article in 1869 described it as "one of the most elaborate and ornate structures of its class in Europe".
In 1990 the fountain was restored so that it had flowing water.
The Edinburgh Craigs
Our walk around the Craigs occurred on July 27, the day after closing of The Gathering. Every day we could see people walking along the path on the Craigs by looking out our residence window at Chancellor's Court. In the photo of the residences, our room is the top floor above the white arrow.
The second series of pictures was taken during our walk on the far side of the Craigs.
A Warning
There were numerous signs along the paths to warn climbers about the danger of falling rocks. This particular one was across the road from Holyrood Park, the site of The Gathering. I didn't realize that the tale of
Falling Rocks had spread this far.
There was a dire warning to anyone who missed the morning practice on the day of the tattoo. Unfortunately it was raining.
Scotch Thistle
This healthy specimen was cultivated in the garden at the Reception Centre.
One More Thing Stopped Working
During the final week, the elevator in our residence became unreliable. The cash machine at the John McIntyre dining area stopped working. Paths to the Dining Hall were often rerouted due to renovations. Internet machines in the Reception Centre didn't keep good records of the time that was used. Then, the door to the Reception Centre froze shut. Never a dull moment!
My Kingdom For A Hearse
Imagine our surprise when we saw a hearse caught in a traffic jam as we arrived in Stirling on a side trip organized by John O'Hara. Nobody could move for several minutes.
Popularity Has Its Price
Several times during the tour Doug was approached with requests to pose for a picture or two. It was always when he was wearing his dress kilt. We were at the residence on this occasion.
