Here are a few photos from the big trip. Not wanting to bore anyone to death, I've chosen mostly people shots.

Spent our first day in London after 5,000 hours of travel. Managed to stay awake for most of the bus tour.

In Stamford with Avril and Kay. Humanitarians haven't made much progress there, as the gallows maintain a presence in the town center for public entertainment.









Drove up to Shropshire to the mere district, mere being old English for "small lake or pond." (Cole happens to mean "cabbage.") Spent a lovely afternoon walking in the woods that surround Colemere. Saw no cabbages but many gopher holes, ignorant of the bad omen this boded for our return. (Grumble grumble...)

Headed up to Val's next in Blackburn. Enjoyed amazing scenery and historical landmarks, including Whalley Abbey. (DON'T say "wally." They don't like that.) Also the most magnificent scone with jam and cream ever experienced on Earth. (That warranted a photo, but didn't get one.)

On up to Scotland via Gretna Green and Kilmarnock, AKA wild goose chase thanks to Miss Magellan, our trusty (har) GPS (or Sat-Nav, to use the UK vernacular).

Had beautiful days in Scotland staying with Aunt Jean and Uncle Ralston. Took a cruise on the Waverly,




saw Inverary castle,
the Cowal Games, and




enjoyed priceless moments with family.

Wesley and Abby loved meeting new cousins, Rory and Caitlyn (and baby Emma!). We were even in a parade all together! What can we say- the crowds love us. They even put on an incredible fireworks display at the waterfront in our honor. Despite acute cases of "piper's ear," we were all sad to leave. And now that Wesley has his chanter and Abby has witnessed the World Championships of Highland Dancing, they both have wonderful memories to inspire there practices.

How lucky we are to have such a wonderful family. We will never forget their love and hospitality.