Our first impression of the Isle of Tiree in the Inner Hebrides of Scotland was of a barren, rocky, treeless, remote Island. Very quickly this changed and we soon fell in love with the warm, friendly, laid back island culture, the standard cheerful waves as we pulled over on the narrow roads to let another car pass, the waits for the sheep to stubbornly nibble on grass on the edges of the road, and the visits to many of the beautiful, sandy, sun and wind swept beaches. The kayaking was magical with innumerable rocky coves to poke in and out of, clear warm water (surprisingly warm due to the Gulf Stream), and lots of birdlife and seals. Great visits with Phil and Louise and Stephan during walks along the beaches, picnics by the ocean, barbeques at sunset or over a wee dram of Oban Single Malt Scotch Whisky. Sienna even managed an afternoon of surfing. Then back on the ferry and 2 nights exploring the streets of Glasgow. After putting Sienna on her flight home, we are now in Edinburgh celebrating our 29th anniversary, then on to two final days in London before flying home later in the week.

Met up with Sienna in London and drove out to Atlantic College in South Wales for Doug's 30th reunion. Joined many classmates with their families including Doug's college roommates Rafa from Venezuela and Juergen from Germany. 3 great days at the college visiting, exploring the beautiful college grounds and castle, playing kayak polo in the pool and capture the flag on the field, kayaking along the cliffs of the Bristol Channel, and reconnecting with old friends.



After leaving the college we drove to a beautiful english cottage on the Severn River, the Ferryman's Cottage, with Rafa, Juergen and their families where Smita (wife of our roommate, Gary, who died in 2002) and her two children joined us to spend a wonderful week together. Activities included visits to Stonehenge, the Longleat Wildlife Safari Preserve, Stratford Upon Avon, the Cadbury Chocolate Factory, and towns of Tewkesbury and Malvern. Many nights playing games, Kick the Can, laughing and enjoying each other's company.



After tearful goodbyes we are now en route to Scotland, where we will meet friends Phil and Louise and Stephan on the Isle of Tiree.