Dunnottar Castle

And then on Sunday we took a drive to Dunnottar Castle, just south of Aberdeen. The weather was amazing, and although we didn't swim in the sea, we spent a great time playing on the beach. And Bluet gave Della a hug, and Della gave Bluet a hug, almost unprompted. Then, whilst Emily was visiting the castle and learning some history, Bluet (and Della and Caroline) ate ice cream.

Party!

And then it was the party. Two weeks ago now, many people arrived in Aberdeen from all around; from Missouri to the east and Finland to the west, Dorset to the South and Oslo to the north. It was wonderful to see so many people all at once in the glorious Scottish sunshine, and later to sit round the campfire in the dark, drinking moonshine whisky. I was fairly certain that if you had an 'informal' wedding celebration then there would be no speeches, but apparently this was not the case. So people wore smart clothes, and mingled and played croquet, and ate and drank and were merry, and listened to an impromptu speech and did a toast, and it was as glorious as the weather.

Despite the delicious food and great company, I think Bluet most enjoyed the train. Every time it came round the track she exclaimed 'Look Dadn, it's a train' from her perch atop my shoulders. Was it really only two weeks ago? It seems half a lifetime. We'll have to find an excuse to do it all again next year.

And in then end, Bluet went to sleep

Aberdeen Part II

As we approached the weekend more and more people arrived. By Friday, Bluet had been joined by her cousin Della, and her grandparents and uncle all the way from Missouri. Wayne proved to be particularly popular with the children as he invented some great new games. And when the games were done there were plenty of cows to go look at.

Of course, not all of Bluet's chosen activities were entirely age appropriate. But Bluet does like to ride a bicycle.

Aberdeen 2013

Aberdeen 2013, a set on Flickr.

A gallery of photos