Shane karla 2012

Unfortunately Chris had to go back to work today so Alex, Shane and Karla decided to head out and go for a drive, as we opened the front door to see it was pouring rain, this did not deter us and once we jumped over the river in the driveway to get to the car we were off. On our way to Balloch we stoped at Doune Castle. It was build in 15th Century as a private home for the Kings brother, although it was not completed in time before his death so the castle was left to ruin until the 18th century when it started to get preserved. This is the only known castle in Scotland that has not been added too or built on from its original design. It was a really cool castle ... read more

We drove down to the Scottish borders today to visit a few abbeys. First we visited Jedburgh which is a lovely border town, when we arrived we went for lunch at the coffee corner which is a great wee spot to refuel before going to the Abbey. Jedburgh Abbey is a stunning building, the first church was built on the site at 830, then a bishop from Glasgow built the existing abbey in 1138, vaults, undercrofts and cellars were also built in the early 1200's within the grounds. Jedburgh Abbey had to endure four major attacks between 1409-1523 which destroyed most of the complex. Now there is much conservation work being done to keep the remaining buildings in tact and what is left standing is very beautiful to see. We also walked round the ruins of ... read more

We drove to Edinburgh on Wednesday 18th for a three day visit. The trip started by Karla and Alex being dropped off at the spa for a pampering afternoon. Our pleasures included a hot stone massage for Karla, which was totally fantastic, Alex getting a Swedish massage and then both of us getting a manicure and pedicure. The boys went into the town centre and they went on a tour of the Edinburgh Dungeons and John Knox House which was built in 1470. They had a great afternoon learning about the history of Edinburgh’s criminal system including being sentenced, torture techniques and jails during the ages as well as a ride that simulated getting hung! We then all met up and the hotel and got checked. We unpacked and relaxed while the rain fell then we ... read more

Today after a much deserved late lie, we set off to Stirling to visit a real 14thcentury castle. Stirling Castle is an amazing site as you drive into Stirling on the motor way. Its built on top of a rocky hill with a winding cobble stone road that took you to the top. On the walk towards the draw bridge was a wonderful view of the city of Stirling with the Wallace Monument beaming in the sunlight in the distance. Once through the draw bridge was the castles court yard surrounded by very tall walls designed to keep enemies out. We made our way up another hill through the inner gate where we got to see some of the amazing sculptures that were carved hundreds of years ago, to see first hand the size of the ... read more

So we all got up with butterflies in our stomach anxiously awaiting the big moment. Shane and Chris headed to Stirling to wash the car and have breakfast then they headed to the hotel to get ready. Karla and Alex went to Stirling to collect the flowers then drove to Aberfoyle to sip champagne and get dressed. By 3pm we were all ready with pictures taken and slowly making final preparations and drove to the church. We were all eagerly waiting for Alex’s arrival, as the rain clouds moved off we noticed a wee bit of sun peeping through just in time. Alex steps out the car and makes her way to the church and we see the anticipation on Chris’s face to see his beautiful bride for the first time in her wedding gown and ... read more