St Andrew's Day

To celebrate St Andrew's Day today, Learning from Sophie has encouraged a few of us to write a post describing our experiences of Scotland. So, here's mine...

I first visited Scotland in my early twenties for work. I remember driving round the streets of Edinburgh and thinking to myself, ‘hmm, it would be quite nice to live here’.

Fast forward a few years and I’m now living in Edinburgh, right near to where I first visited. My life has gone through many changes and transitions over the last few years and I truly believe that God’s hand has been on it. Moving to Edinburgh has been a real journey of faith, but I can clearly see that God has brought us here for a purpose and I’m excited for what the future holds for us here.

During the few weeks before we moved here I ended up spending several days in Edinburgh on my own interviewing for a new job. I really don’t like being on my own and usually struggle during these times. But I remember finding the people so welcoming, and the service in shops and cafes so nice. I never felt that I was inconveniencing anyone when asking for directions or other random questions. I never felt that I was a hassle to someone when buying something in a shop. The buses were so cheap and easy to understand (I must’ve looked like a tourist!). And I loved walking through the streets and imagining I was in some period drama (I still do that sometimes!). The buildings and architecture are so amazing!

I think I was blessed to have visited during the spring and a few days of good weather. But I feel the same when I have visited other places in Scotland. The landscape has a real beauty and peace about it (except maybe the gale force winds, hail and torrential rain on Arran!) and I love exploring it!

I love beaches and being by the sea too. So I thought I’d finish with a picture of one of my favourite places, Elie in Fife. This place has a very special place in my heart for many reasons.