Across the Ocean and Back Again!

My first trip to Europe was amazing! We went for a medical conference that was being held in Edinburgh, Scotland. Joe had worked tirelessly on a research paper for the last year so he could present his findings at the conference. At first, I tried to convince him that we shouldn't go, that we shouldn't spend the money, but he told me he was going to present his paper and he would love to have me join him. :) (In other words, I'm going and you are too) I didn't make up my mind until the day before he purchased the tickets!!! I'm so glad he convinced me to go! We stayed 7 days in Edinburgh and 2 in London! We had a great time and I feel so grateful to have had the opportunity!

Bag pipes were everywhere! Why was this a surprise to me? I was in Scotland!

Downtown Edinburgh-One of the most beautiful cities I've ever seen! (ok, so I haven't seen many, but still...) It is filled with old grand buildings, wonderfully preserved for hundreds of years, amazing architecture, a castle set on a hill, and it was sooo clean!

Edinburgh Castle-it is nestled within the city up on a hill. It is something to behold! Almost like a city within itself.

Beautiful country lane in Rosslyn, just down the hill from Rosslyn Chapel. This was my favorite place to see during my entire trip. Its' history is fascinating (DaVinci Code), the chapel itself was simply unbelievable. I'm not used to seeing something so old (built around 1446). It was undergoing conservation at the time (notice the scaffolding behind us) so we didn't get great pics of the entire chapel. I loved it!

These next three are taken at the Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh. It was home to Mary Queen of Scots. Also has a fascinating history! It is still used when the royal family comes to Scotland, particularly for the Highland games.

About halfway up Scott Monument, built in honor of Sir Walter Scott. It is 200 feet tall and has 283 steps up winding narrow staircases to the top. Yes, Joe went all the way up and lived to tell about it!

Yep! You know I went and saw Wicked! How could I not? We were in London, for crying out loud! It was amazing as always!

Home again! Boy did we miss our kids!