LaShon:
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It is our last day of traveling with our group. I'm tired and yet still so excited to see the countryside we are driving through. We stop at Loch Lomond to stretch our legs on the way to Stirling Castle - the buckle in the belt of Scotland.
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Our group gathers in a courtyard as Liz gives us the key points about this castle. She does such an amazing job of setting the scene that another group forms around us. Other tourists want the scoop! Because the castle has been restored to the style of James V, we see the castle in glorious color. Instead of drab and gray, it is filled with bright tapestries and painted ceilings. I loved the kitchen display showing how many people would have been working in the palace kitchens and the food that would have been prepared.
Just that quickly we are at our final stop before returning to Edinburgh. We stop at Bannockburn. This is the site of a great Scottish victory - a counterpoint to Culloden. It was here that Robert the Bruce triumphed over Edward II in 1306, the first war of Scottish Independence. Liz breaks out the "glasses" for a toast and costumes for a photo. It's hard to believe that our time in this country and with these lovely people is almost over. The Scottish people have been so warm and welcoming. It is clear how proud they are of this beautiful country.
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Here lies our land: every airt
Beneath swift clouds, glad glints of sun,
Belonging to none but itself.
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We are mere transients, who sing
Its westlin' winds and fernie braes,
Northern lights and siller tides,
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Small folk playing our part.
Come all ye, the country says,
You win me, who take me most to heart. Kathleen Jamie
Clockwise from above left: a view of Stirling Castle, LaShon with a suit of armor, a spectacular tapestry, and ceiling portrait medallions.
Emily's Highlights:
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Stirling Castle is phenomenal - the detail with which they have restored original qualities and recreated scenes from history is excellent
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It was an absolutely beautiful day for our last tour events
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I can hardly believe that the tour was over so quickly! We had a wonderful time and bonded with the whole group; it will be sad to say goodbye but we made great memories