Well, we made it; with a flight path that took us from Washington - New Mexico - El Paso - New Mexico - Denver - Iceland - Scotland! I understand that this may seem an unnecessarily lengthy way to arrive, but somehow it was supposed to save us money? And, with only one full pat down, one broken luggage wheel, having our carry on's opened/checked/repacked at every stop and one royal breakdown from Arden at customs we all survived it pretty well.
Of course everything was made easier and less stressful by the kindness of so many people. We have been so impressed by the natural and genuine warmth of the Scots. Upon noticing Arden's over tired tantrum, people let us go ahead in line, when we were trying to haul three children and two towering luggage trolleys through the airport a man in a business suit, on a phone call, came over and took my trolley from me and led us all where we needed to go. From the happy to help, no tip required hotel staff to strangers offering to watch the children so we could test drive a car (though I declined, I felt like I could have trusted them) or inviting us in for tea while Jon drove. There have been dozens of examples.
I feel that in the states we are all so afraid of one another; afraid that if we go running alone we might get raped, afraid that if we lose sight of our children in the grocery store they could be kidnapped, afraid that when we do lose sight of them all around us are eyes of criticism, afraid that every neighbor or stranger could be a potential enemy. So we go about giving polite smiles and making small talk to try to overcome the fear. And yes, for some these fears are based on reality. But, here in Scotland it seems that your are first seen as a friend and fellow human soul before a foe. I hope while I am here to become more open to the good in those who surround me and shed some of my fear. Because, I am so often afraid.
