tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8045233585790852112024-03-13T12:46:22.203-04:00Celtic Hearts Romance WritersCeltic Hearts Romance Writershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06616832704432121287noreply@blogger.comBlogger65125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-804523358579085211.post-6877576059084648632013-04-08T14:05:00.000-04:002013-04-08T14:08:45.188-04:00The Ceasg and the Baobhan Sith<h2>
Do Mermaids Have Fangs?</h2>
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: SimSun; mso-fareast-language: ZH-CN;"><span style="color: blue;">By Dawn Marie Hamilton</span></span><br /><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: SimSun; mso-fareast-language: ZH-CN;"></span></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: SimSun; mso-fareast-language: ZH-CN;">Did you see the movie <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Pirates of
the Caribbean, On Stranger Tides</i>? Ever since I did, I’ve wondered whether
there existed a basis for mermaids with fangs. Do any of the mermaid legends
mention fangs? What about Scottish folklore? Could a mermaid with fangs be
drawn from the merging of two mythical Scottish fae creatures?<br />
<br />
Perhaps the first is the <i>ceasg</i> or <i>maighdean na tuinne</i> (maiden of
the wave), a Scottish mermaid of the Highlands. Appearing as a half-human woman
and half-grilse (salmon), the <i>ceasg</i> were said to lure young men into the
sea's depths. Other accounts describe love affairs between the mermaids and
human males with the offspring of these relationships becoming great sailors
and sea captains. Some tales attribute the mermaids with the ability to grant
three wishes if captured. Of course, to force such action, the mermaid's soul
must be destroyed.<br />
<br />
The second, the <i>baobhan sith</i>, is a vampiric faerie known to be dangerous
and evil. Although sometimes taking the form of a crow or raven, the <i>baohan
sith</i> more often appears as a beautiful young woman, wearing a long green
gown to hide her hoofed-feet. On a single evening each year, she rises from her
grave to seduce a young man into dancing with her until he is tired and weak
from the drinking of his blood.<br />
<br />
At first, I believed the combining of these two creatures would produce a
mermaid with fangs. Then I read an account stating the <i>baobhan sith</i> use
long fingernails to draw the blood of their victims.<br />
<br />
So what do you think? Do mermaids have fangs?</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: SimSun; mso-fareast-language: ZH-CN;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: SimSun; mso-fareast-language: ZH-CN;"> </span>Dawn Marie Hamilronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01366244357545585183noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-804523358579085211.post-33158619182718039902013-04-01T04:00:00.000-04:002013-04-02T13:41:19.440-04:002013 Golden Claddagh Contest <div style="text-align: center;">
<b><c>~Permission to Forward Granted and Appreciated~</c></b>
</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><c>2013 Golden Claddagh Contest</c></b>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><c>CONTEST OPENS APRIL 1, 2013</c></b>
</div>
<br />
Enter Celtic Hearts Romance Writers Chapter contest The Golden Claddagh! Don’t let our chapter name dissuade you; your entry does not have to be Celtic based to enter. We have four categories for unpublished manuscripts: Historical, FF&P, Contemporary, and Young Adult.
<br />
<br />
Our contest opens on April 1st with a final due date of May 1st, 2013. Finalists will be notified by June 15th, 2013 and winners announced at the Celtic Hearts AGM at RWA Nationals in Atlanta. All finalists will be invited to the AGM, if they are able to attend.
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><c>ELIGIBILITY</c></b>
</div>
<br />
The competition is open to RWA members and non-members. The Golden Claddagh Contest is open to published and non-published authors but the submitted work must never have been published in any format. The entry must be either a full-length novel (greater than 40,000 words) or a novella (no less than 20,000 words and no more than 40,000 words). Short stories and novelettes are not accepted.
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<c><b>Entry fee is $15 for CHRW members and $25 for non-members.</b></c>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><c>CATEGORIES</c></b>
</div>
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<b><i><u>CONTEMPORARY: Long & Short Contemporary / Romantic Suspense / Strong Romantic Elements:</u></i></b> Includes single title, romantic suspense, long and short romantic fiction with a contemporary setting set after 1945. Main focus is the romantic relationship between the hero and heroine.
<br />
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<b><i><u>FF&P: Future, Fantasy & Paranormal / Steampunk / Alternative History:</u></i></b> Romance novel where the mains focus is on the romantic relationship, but the future, fantasy or paranormal elements are integral to the story (includes time-travel).
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<b><i><u>HISTORICAL / Celtic:</u></i></b> Romance novel set primarily before 1945 — any location.
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<b><i><u>YA: Young Adult / Middle Grade / New Adult: </u></i></b> Romance novels or novellas in which young adult themes constitute an integral part of the plot. Main focus is still on the romantic relationship between the hero and heroine.
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<c><b>FINAL ROUND JUDGES</b></c>
</div>
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<b><u>Contemporary</u> – Julie Mianecki</b> of Penguin Books, <b>Chelsey Emmelhainz</b> of Harper Collins Publishing
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<b><u>FF&P</u> – Alissa Davis</b> of Carina Press and <b>Laurie McLean</b> of Foreward Literary Agency
<br />
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<b><u>Historical</u> – Meredith Giordan</b> of Carina Press and <b>Susie Townsend</b> of New Leaf Literary Agency
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<b><u>Young Adult</u> – Aubrey Poole</b> of Sourcebooks and <b>Becky Vinter</b> of Fine Print Literary Agency
<br />
<br />
Find the Contest Entry Form and Rules at Celtic Hearts Romance Writers <u><a href="http://www.celtichearts.org/contests/" target="_blank">website</a></u> or <u><a href="http://celtichearts.blogspot.com/p/contests.html" target="_blank">blogsite</a></u>.
Sign up today! You know you want to. So what are you waiting for?
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><c>~Permission to Forward Granted and Appreciated~</c></b>
</div>
<br />
Cate Parke <br />
CHRW Vice President—Programs <br />
2013 Golden Claddagh Contest Coordinator
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-804523358579085211.post-60006928953292768602013-03-11T11:54:00.000-04:002013-03-11T11:54:02.918-04:00The Fenoderee of the Isle of Man
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: SimSun; mso-fareast-language: ZH-CN;"><span style="color: blue;">By Dawn Marie
Hamilton</span></span><br /><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: SimSun; mso-fareast-language: ZH-CN;"></span></span><br />
The <st1:place>Isle of Man</st1:place> sits in the <st1:place>Irish
Sea</st1:place>. With its Celtic and Norse origins, Manx folklore includes <span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN;">many stories of mythical creatures. One
such creature is the Fenoderee.<br />
<br />
Originally a knight of the Ferrishyn royal court, the faerie tribe of Man, the
Fenoderee lost his status by falling for a mortal woman and missing the
faerie's autumnal festival while courting his lover. In punishment, his
handsome glamour was taken from him, and he became an ugly, satyr-like creature,
covered with copious body hair. At least, that is what I believe.<br />
<br />
Some compare him to the </span><i>Brùnaidh</i><span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN;">, the Scottish brownie.</span><br />
<br />
The Fenoderee prances about without clothing, complaining that trousers and
coats and hats are naught but discomfort. He becomes offended if offered
garments, and will vacate the area in a huff.<br />
<br />
He is known as an able worker of considerable strength, offering services, such
as the herding of animals, to the farmers of <st1:state><st1:place>Man.</st1:place></st1:state>
He is well suited to performing quarry work, lugging loads of stone too heavy
for mortal men. His favorite task is mowing, and for clipping the grass with
incredible speed, he has been nicknamed 'the nimble mower.'<br />
<br />
<span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN;">The Fenoderee is a creature of
folklore I wouldn't fear meeting.<br />
<br />
Who is your favorite creature of folklore?<o:p></o:p></span><br />
Dawn Marie Hamilronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01366244357545585183noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-804523358579085211.post-63255448450375517992013-02-11T15:07:00.002-05:002013-02-11T15:11:30.475-05:00Scottish Highland Games - The Stone Throw<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: SimSun; mso-fareast-language: ZH-CN;"><span style="color: blue; font-size: x-large;">By Dawn Marie Hamilton</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: SimSun; mso-fareast-language: ZH-CN;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: SimSun; mso-fareast-language: ZH-CN;">This is my last installment for the Scottish Highland Games series. Sorry, I don't have a picture for the stone throw.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: SimSun; mso-fareast-language: ZH-CN;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: SimSun; mso-fareast-language: ZH-CN;">Many believe the stone throw originated with the
ancient stone of strength or <i>clachneart</i> often found at the gate of a </span><st1:place><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: SimSun; mso-fareast-language: ZH-CN;">Highland</span></st1:place><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: SimSun; mso-fareast-language: ZH-CN;"> chief's home. Visitors
were encouraged to test their strength by throwing the stone.<br />
<br />
The stone throw at Scottish Highland Games is like the modern shot put, but
uses a round stone—river stones work well—weighing between 16 and 28 pounds.
The stone is <i>put</i> from the front of the shoulder, using only one hand. The
competitors are allowed a 7' 6" approach to the toeboard or <i>trig</i>. Most
athletes glide, twirl, and then throw the stone. If an athlete touches the top
of the trig or the ground in front of it, the throw doesn't count. The farthest
throw wins.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: SimSun; mso-fareast-language: ZH-CN;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: SimSun; mso-fareast-language: ZH-CN;">Other events:<br /><a href="http://celtichearts.blogspot.com/2012/09/scottish-highland-gamesthe-caber-toss.html" target="_blank">The Caber Toss</a><br /><a href="http://celtichearts.blogspot.com/2012/10/scottish-highland-gamesthe-28-lb-weight.html" target="_blank">The 28-lb. Weight Throw</a><br /><a href="http://celtichearts.blogspot.com/2012/11/scottish-highland-gamesthe-56-lb-weight_19.html" target="_blank">The 56-lb Weight Throw</a><br /><a href="http://celtichearts.blogspot.com/2012/12/scottish-highland-gamesthe-sheaf-toss.html" target="_blank">The Sheaf Toss</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: SimSun; mso-fareast-language: ZH-CN;"><a href="http://celtichearts.blogspot.com/2013/01/scottish-highland-gamesthe-hammer-throw.html" target="_blank">The Hammer Throw</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: SimSun; mso-fareast-language: ZH-CN;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: SimSun; mso-fareast-language: ZH-CN;">~Dawn Marie</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: SimSun; mso-fareast-language: ZH-CN;"></span><br />Dawn Marie Hamilronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01366244357545585183noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-804523358579085211.post-20609549890901998222013-01-14T07:00:00.000-05:002013-01-14T07:00:16.658-05:00Scottish Highland Games—The Hammer Throw<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: SimSun; mso-fareast-language: ZH-CN;"><span style="color: blue; font-size: x-large;">By Dawn Marie Hamilton</span></span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSPkMCQMlBpb91yP7jyF4OCeGpb3puhntibA220rps6EilTSGMTlHr9M9irIaxAJvYXD1XMXZv0uzrCfdHW9XrFzuH704iMEn81D-S50d2iutz7zQwugPNaD6Zzu7VIFjSZwmayxWQuJ4/s1600/Ready+with+Hammer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSPkMCQMlBpb91yP7jyF4OCeGpb3puhntibA220rps6EilTSGMTlHr9M9irIaxAJvYXD1XMXZv0uzrCfdHW9XrFzuH704iMEn81D-S50d2iutz7zQwugPNaD6Zzu7VIFjSZwmayxWQuJ4/s320/Ready+with+Hammer.jpg" width="281" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: SimSun; mso-fareast-language: ZH-CN;">The goal of the hammer throw is distance. A
great throw requires a deliberate combination of speed and timing.<br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: SimSun; mso-fareast-language: ZH-CN;">
The Scottish hammer, derived from a blacksmith's hammer, is a rounded metal hammer
weighing 16 to 22 pounds attached to a cane handle.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: SimSun; mso-fareast-language: ZH-CN;">
<br />
An athlete stands with his back to the 'trig' and the throwing area. During the
throw, his feet are not permitted to move. He may lift his heels while turning,
but his toes must remain solidly in place until he completes the throw. Many
competitors use spikes on the end of their shoes to anchor them to the ground.
When ready, the athlete places the head of the hammer on the ground stretched
to the right. He swings the hammer in front of him, and up over his head in a
circular motion several times. When he has gained the right amount of speed, he
releases the hammer behind him, using the last turn to propel it on its way.
Touching the 'trig' or the ground in front of it renders a throw foul.<br />
<br />
Each competitor takes three throws, and the throw with the greatest distance
wins.<br />
<br />
Other events:<br />
<a href="http://celtichearts.blogspot.com/2012/09/scottish-highland-gamesthe-caber-toss.html" target="_blank">The Caber Toss</a><br />
<a href="http://celtichearts.blogspot.com/2012/10/scottish-highland-gamesthe-28-lb-weight.html" target="_blank">The 28-lb. Weight Throw</a><br />
<a href="http://celtichearts.blogspot.com/2012/11/scottish-highland-gamesthe-56-lb-weight_19.html" target="_blank">The 56-lb Weight Throw</a><br />
<a href="http://celtichearts.blogspot.com/2012/12/scottish-highland-gamesthe-sheaf-toss.html" target="_blank">The Sheaf Toss</a><br />
</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: SimSun; mso-fareast-language: ZH-CN;">
Next time, I'll discuss the <em>clachneart</em>, the stone of strength, or the stone
throw.</span></div>
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Dawn Marie Hamilronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01366244357545585183noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-804523358579085211.post-32727218380931213892012-12-17T10:06:00.000-05:002012-12-17T10:06:25.912-05:00Scottish Highland Games—The Sheaf Toss<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUVYT0rrATiF91kA3FsUl5nDdaSqwgOveZWIo9-PZFIjVavGblA6ANp3VHfmUzNq6LPwMhN3hmdXLtrtpJvT3r2BC08LhpvGxZMnUXcz_WJp8oY3TdDQ2ZeJuRJaDHHoNW6BZ7aVUynW0/s1600/games1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUVYT0rrATiF91kA3FsUl5nDdaSqwgOveZWIo9-PZFIjVavGblA6ANp3VHfmUzNq6LPwMhN3hmdXLtrtpJvT3r2BC08LhpvGxZMnUXcz_WJp8oY3TdDQ2ZeJuRJaDHHoNW6BZ7aVUynW0/s320/games1.jpg" width="231" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Sheaf Toss</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: SimSun; mso-fareast-language: ZH-CN;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: blue;"></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: SimSun; mso-fareast-language: ZH-CN;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: blue;">By Dawn Marie Hamilton</span></span>
<br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: SimSun; mso-fareast-language: ZH-CN;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: SimSun; mso-fareast-language: ZH-CN;">The sheaf toss is a games event in which many a farm lad might excel, or not. Tossing
hay with a pitchfork onto a pile isn't quite the same as hurling a bag of the
stuff into the air over a horizontal bar. A lad must <span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: SimSun; mso-fareast-language: ZH-CN;">dedicate time to practicing </span>in order to develop the required skill. Not every </span><st1:place><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: SimSun; mso-fareast-language: ZH-CN;">Highland</span></st1:place><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: SimSun; mso-fareast-language: ZH-CN;"> games runs this event, but
I snapped this picture at the Northeast Florida Scottish Games and Festival
in February while on winter vacation.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: SimSun; mso-fareast-language: ZH-CN;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: SimSun; mso-fareast-language: ZH-CN;">
<br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: SimSun; mso-fareast-language: ZH-CN;">Given three chances, an athlete uses a three-tined pitchfork to hurl a 16-pound
burlap bag stuffed with hay over a crossbar set between two standards. The bar
is raised in one or two foot intervals after all competertors have completed their attempts. As the bar rises,
the field of <span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: SimSun; mso-fareast-language: ZH-CN;">competitors </span>is reduced until one athlete remains as the winner.<br />
<br />
Other events:<br />
<a href="http://celtichearts.blogspot.com/2012/09/scottish-highland-gamesthe-caber-toss.html" target="_blank">The Caber Toss</a><br />
<a href="http://celtichearts.blogspot.com/2012/10/scottish-highland-gamesthe-28-lb-weight.html" target="_blank">The 28-lb Weight Throw</a><br />
<a href="http://celtichearts.blogspot.com/2012/11/scottish-highland-gamesthe-56-lb-weight_19.html" target="_blank">The 56-lb Weight Throw</a><br />
<br />
Stop back, I'll discuss more events in future posts.</span>Dawn Marie Hamilronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01366244357545585183noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-804523358579085211.post-8823811322698030322012-12-03T00:02:00.000-05:002012-12-03T00:02:00.026-05:00Hogmanay in Edinburgh<strong><span style="color: blue; font-size: x-large;">By Alexa Bourne</span></strong><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_u_R8YnuQgtw3JuOX64u9NdV4vW-7wlg8Fe00_IrLtXUDnzvp1FPlWp8CE7yBDTQCPbHbN07HswHuxhnYVFJKXTcw_Ini_zpm_l-cY3HZZOnO1BhYBUnQJXzeUTO5vKO-aRermZ9dA74/s1600/SAM_0395%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_u_R8YnuQgtw3JuOX64u9NdV4vW-7wlg8Fe00_IrLtXUDnzvp1FPlWp8CE7yBDTQCPbHbN07HswHuxhnYVFJKXTcw_Ini_zpm_l-cY3HZZOnO1BhYBUnQJXzeUTO5vKO-aRermZ9dA74/s320/SAM_0395%5B1%5D.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">In
December 2010, I bought a heavy winter coat, gathered some friends, and took a
flight to Edinburgh, Scotland to celebrate Hogmanay. You see, in 2011, I was
turning 40 and I wanted to start my year with a bang in my favorite city in the
world.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Hogmanay
is the Scots word for the last day of the year. In Edinburgh, it’s a grand 3-day celebration.
Actually, it’s a lot longer than that, with fair rides and colored lights,
concerts and stalls selling knickknacks and food! But the official opening of
the Hogmanay Festival is on December 30<sup>th</sup>. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">When
I arrived in Edinburgh, I found cold, drizzly and cloudy weather, but it wasn’t
nearly as chilly as I’d expected. Yes, I could see my breath as I talked, but
it didn’t matter. My heart spoke then and said, “Welcome home.”</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn9liQmS9pk9vvGgj9kXs_tVjnIB9gXNx0NCzqcHXo8tmeRIsAoaN7MCc_sMywKLw59BJqfx5RymeZuv3ynshSSItjOC6UeBa4yeHMlTxQqEJ92Yad37tGV7q3is9H7l1bU-136_I3sbE/s1600/165756_486177693940_589313940_5879401_3403949_n%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn9liQmS9pk9vvGgj9kXs_tVjnIB9gXNx0NCzqcHXo8tmeRIsAoaN7MCc_sMywKLw59BJqfx5RymeZuv3ynshSSItjOC6UeBa4yeHMlTxQqEJ92Yad37tGV7q3is9H7l1bU-136_I3sbE/s320/165756_486177693940_589313940_5879401_3403949_n%5B1%5D.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">The
first major event of Hogmanay was the Torchlight Procession on December 30<sup>th</sup>.
After dinner, it was time to line up on the Royal Mile. We went a bit early so
we could buy torches. This ceremony is actually a version of the Up Helly Aa
Fire Festival usually associated with the Shetlands. It’s a good thing we went
early because they had upwards of 25,000 people there and we were fairly close
to the front. They lit torches toward the front and then those people turned around
and lit the torches of the people behind them and so on and so on. It was
pretty neat to see the fire coming back toward us like a wave!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioSDEDrfLFiXo70805IEKrPAF9marLkpchyphenhyphen4uh2v3K8GSYgVWg1t9ComnrMkQaHBcRQ5B1mQfFO6wnLYK5rxQ93BS-VcRCmxmWcvUwRdsCXI7q9JVWw0decmtVYsbRTkJDJ4xwVoCVOUM/s1600/166522_486177293940_589313940_5879390_4825588_n%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioSDEDrfLFiXo70805IEKrPAF9marLkpchyphenhyphen4uh2v3K8GSYgVWg1t9ComnrMkQaHBcRQ5B1mQfFO6wnLYK5rxQ93BS-VcRCmxmWcvUwRdsCXI7q9JVWw0decmtVYsbRTkJDJ4xwVoCVOUM/s320/166522_486177293940_589313940_5879390_4825588_n%5B1%5D.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Once
most people had their torches lit, the line took off down the Mound, along
Prince’s Street and up to Calton Hill. Music played and supposedly there were
bagpipes toward the beginning of the line, but I didn’t hear any during most of
the walk. Several times we stopped for pictures or to get out of the way of
other people’s pictures, and glanced back at the wave of fire behind us. It was
absolutely amazing to see!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">When
we reached Calton Hill and they stuffed us in like sardines, it was time for
the burning of the “Viking” boat. Again, they played music while the flames
licked the night sky. And then we had fireworks. It was a perfect evening!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeuXSQHtj0F5b8FBLrmH0clxrH89K6FeZmQuxggE4WYhUiTiPVdQfsN6BdLsMTYsdGCX9IWgv2xWlMgNMafcw-b7pX3wlbZqFzamzS3wVJnMAQhjwLPyZrZ4n2NkjaBMCdlpWvPrNATuY/s1600/SAM_0440%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeuXSQHtj0F5b8FBLrmH0clxrH89K6FeZmQuxggE4WYhUiTiPVdQfsN6BdLsMTYsdGCX9IWgv2xWlMgNMafcw-b7pX3wlbZqFzamzS3wVJnMAQhjwLPyZrZ4n2NkjaBMCdlpWvPrNATuY/s320/SAM_0440%5B1%5D.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">The
next day, December 31<sup>st</sup>, my friends and I wandered around the Winter
Wonderland. We went on the Ferris wheel, stopped at the stalls selling clothes
and trinkets, then stopped so I could try mulled wine. I liked it! After
another fabulous dinner and a champagne toast in our hotel rooms, we dressed
for the cold and headed out to the Garden Party. We quickly found a spot on a
hill, one on the outskirts of the crowd pushing toward the stage of the concert
we’d hear. Bands played for the remainder of the night. People came and went.
It wasn’t as cold or as crowded as I’d feared. I’d been worried that we would
get a spot, get squished and not be able to move. But we had plenty of room to
sit, stand, dance and take pictures! We could see the lights in the trees and
on the stage. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjppt4IawnEOr8oFt5nIdFNvcW3U1TAVWiE-DPnTqbff9JQC_OB54xA8FUnsOpzdvCgaw1tQOUeGb1A_hC-khbHi44krtLFIniXQ-f4vvXTy0LyFzFFzIgv_TBSo6gBb9_8uqbV99Bttg/s1600/SAM_0439%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjppt4IawnEOr8oFt5nIdFNvcW3U1TAVWiE-DPnTqbff9JQC_OB54xA8FUnsOpzdvCgaw1tQOUeGb1A_hC-khbHi44krtLFIniXQ-f4vvXTy0LyFzFFzIgv_TBSo6gBb9_8uqbV99Bttg/s320/SAM_0439%5B1%5D.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Time
went fast. Just before midnight, one of our party went for a bathroom run and
we didn’t see her again until a good fifteen minutes into the new year. She
claims she got lost on the way back, but maybe she found a handsome Scotsman to
kiss! As with most places, there was a countdown to 2011 and Auld Lang Syne
played. For that, groups of people gathered together and held hands during the
singing. It truly was the perfect way to begin the year I turned 40. I had so
much fun that my friends and I agreed to do it again when the next person hits
that magical number!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">For
more information and pictures of Edinburgh’s Hogmanay, visit <a href="http://www.edinburghshogmanay.com/">www.edinburghshogmanay.com</a>.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br />
<br />Alexahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15671871950908006851noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-804523358579085211.post-63376798846717456712012-11-29T12:08:00.000-05:002012-11-29T12:08:56.953-05:00It is time to vote in the Kilted Muse Photo Contest!<br />Vote for your favorite creative Kilted Muse photo! Voting begins today and continues until next Thursday, December 6. Only members can vote, and only one vote will be accepted per person. Thank you all for participating in our Kilted Muse Extravaganza this year! <br /><br /><br />*To Vote - Our Treasurer Katie will be counting the votes for the contest. So to vote, please send your vote to Katie at <a href="mailto:dorothy@dorothymuir.com">dorothy@dorothymuir.com</a>. <br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: blue;">1. Is this lassie's Kilted Muse responsible for the great smile and twinkle in her eye?</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HY2UQDSh2nU/ULeVLg9Y5KI/AAAAAAAAN9A/bX6uKFirOh4/s1600/KiltedMuseEntry1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HY2UQDSh2nU/ULeVLg9Y5KI/AAAAAAAAN9A/bX6uKFirOh4/s400/KiltedMuseEntry1.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: blue;">2. Clan lasses caught in an Irish Pub celebrating CHRW and their Kilted Muse!</span></div>
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<span style="color: blue;">(And I think a photo of GB snuck into the group somehow! )</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--wPfq8WoqOo/ULeVMvl0oLI/AAAAAAAAN9I/bETpw1ZzFpU/s1600/KiltedMuseEntry2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--wPfq8WoqOo/ULeVMvl0oLI/AAAAAAAAN9I/bETpw1ZzFpU/s400/KiltedMuseEntry2.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: blue;">3. Disneyland is the perfect place to find your muse, according to these lasses!</span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-k3J2GDyJqUk/ULeVNWBcDmI/AAAAAAAAN9Q/l_bnFTGEEpM/s1600/KiltedMuseEntry3.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-k3J2GDyJqUk/ULeVNWBcDmI/AAAAAAAAN9Q/l_bnFTGEEpM/s400/KiltedMuseEntry3.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: blue;">4. This Lassie's Kilted Muse helps her with everything including pre-teens! </span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XjFIHDn2fJQ/ULeVOc0Fn0I/AAAAAAAAN9Y/bAHz_YesrJc/s1600/KiltedMuseEntry4.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XjFIHDn2fJQ/ULeVOc0Fn0I/AAAAAAAAN9Y/bAHz_YesrJc/s400/KiltedMuseEntry4.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: blue;">5. This lassie's Kilted Muse gives her strength to do things that are impossible for others! </span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kEMtbUqM3pY/ULeVPfxTl7I/AAAAAAAAN9g/76qQtTI33Z4/s1600/KiltedMuseEntry5.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kEMtbUqM3pY/ULeVPfxTl7I/AAAAAAAAN9g/76qQtTI33Z4/s400/KiltedMuseEntry5.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: blue;">6. This lassie's Kilted Muse Inspire's her to write the hottest heroes ever to run through a glen! </span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dxYavix6QY8/ULeVQF0nb-I/AAAAAAAAN9o/JaE2v6fn3Fw/s1600/KiltedMuseEntry6.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="285" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dxYavix6QY8/ULeVQF0nb-I/AAAAAAAAN9o/JaE2v6fn3Fw/s400/KiltedMuseEntry6.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: blue;">7. Great minds must all be inspired by the Kilted Muse, as two lasses sent in the same photo! So, here it is again, the lasses of CHRW toast the Kilted Muse in an Irish pub! We may have to average the votes together and duplicate the prize for this one! (GB snuck in this photo too!) </span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1W-txIg5-DA/ULeVRN_biuI/AAAAAAAAN9w/6dZX2a-0_k4/s1600/KiltedMuseEntry7.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1W-txIg5-DA/ULeVRN_biuI/AAAAAAAAN9w/6dZX2a-0_k4/s400/KiltedMuseEntry7.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-804523358579085211.post-17432191983457977512012-11-19T07:00:00.001-05:002012-11-19T07:00:03.246-05:00Scottish Highland Games—The 56-lb. Weight Throw<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc1Jpy_C7-K-DOnZquhYfaTA1f0BdNDdLvvH4cjY3iobBq6isPbrzdnn6MrqceaKKegeFud2vb8CJL_k9NRQsxAClnflPD7yY-YyXAYE2pZZ48UbcIge005ae9mBDzuu2_SQDYkXVuQHQ/s1600/56+lb+Weight+Throw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="264" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc1Jpy_C7-K-DOnZquhYfaTA1f0BdNDdLvvH4cjY3iobBq6isPbrzdnn6MrqceaKKegeFud2vb8CJL_k9NRQsxAClnflPD7yY-YyXAYE2pZZ48UbcIge005ae9mBDzuu2_SQDYkXVuQHQ/s320/56+lb+Weight+Throw.JPG" title="The 56-lb Weight Throw" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">By Dawn Marie Hamilton</span><br />
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Last month I posted a piece on the 28-lb. weight throw. This
month the 56-lb. weight throw is the topic.<br />
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Different from the distance goal of the 28-lb. throw, in the 56-lb. weight throw, the contestants
are throwing for height over a horizontal bar of varying heights. The starting
height is the lowest height requested by the athletes.<br />
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Using a metal weight attached by a chain to a ring handle, a competitor stands
with his back to the bar and throws the weight over, using only one hand. Three
attempts are allowed at each height. If the weight clips the bar on the way
over, but doesn't dislodge it, the toss is considered successful. Measurements
are made from the ground to the top of the bar at the midway point between the
two uprights.<br />
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As the bar is repetitively raised, contestants are eliminated, until only one
athlete remains and wins.<br />
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Other events:<br />
<a href="http://celtichearts.blogspot.com/2012/09/scottish-highland-gamesthe-caber-toss.html" target="_blank">The Caber Toss</a><br />
<a href="http://celtichearts.blogspot.com/2012/10/scottish-highland-gamesthe-28-lb-weight.html" target="_blank">The 28-lb. Weight Throw</a><br />
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I'll discuss more events in future posts so stop back.</div>
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Dawn Marie Hamilronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01366244357545585183noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-804523358579085211.post-26712546799751166792012-11-06T12:27:00.003-05:002012-11-06T12:27:58.476-05:00The Kilted Muse Photo Contest opens Today!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0p4q6H2_TrQ/UHbExDF8OHI/AAAAAAAANQ4/zRsBIInHfsw/s1600/CelticHeartsLogo_LR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0p4q6H2_TrQ/UHbExDF8OHI/AAAAAAAANQ4/zRsBIInHfsw/s320/CelticHeartsLogo_LR.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
We got off to a bit of a late start, ensuring that everyone who wanted a kilted muse, got their muse. Now we are ready for you to show us the most creative way to display or wear your Kilted Muse paraphernalia! <br />
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Take a photo of your kilted muse T-shirt or button, or both, showing us the most creative way your muse inspires you. Send it to us via e-mail during the contest period of November 6th - 20th. Send the photos to me at <a href="mailto:rundivewrite@gmail.com">rundivewrite@gmail.com</a>, I will send a confirmation e-mail for every photo I receive. On November 21st, we will post all the photos on the blog for voting by our members. They will pick the most creative photos and three top winners will be chosen. <br />
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Grand Prize will be a <b>KINDLE FIRE</b>, Second Prize will be a Muse Clock, and Third Prize will be a Muse Mug!<br />
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Additionally, one lucky Celtic Hearts member will win a free membership for 2013 for promoting the contest the most on his/her blog and twitter account! <b>Use Hashtag #KILTEDMUSE and spread the word, we will be watching!</b> Send us your blog announcement so we can keep track of your promotions on the blogs. <br />
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<b><span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">Rules for the contest:</span></b><br />
<ul>
<li>No purchase necessary. You don’t have to have your own shirt or button (Use the image above). Although, you know you really want to own your own!</li>
<li>Please keep photo entries Rated PG-14 or below. No triple X photos, please. ;o)</li>
<li>No entries will be accepted before the start date or after the deadline. Contest entry dates are as follows: November 6 - November 20. Voting will take place from November 21- 30.</li>
<li>Anyone can enter, members or non-members.</li>
<li>Members will only be voting.</li>
</ul>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-47tPpE9P-nw/UJlIbSvdI-I/AAAAAAAANts/ogV1Vn7QhXI/s1600/logo_01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="73" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-47tPpE9P-nw/UJlIbSvdI-I/AAAAAAAANts/ogV1Vn7QhXI/s200/logo_01.jpg" width="100" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="color: blue;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: blue;">Extra Thanks to our very own <a href="http://www.kimberlykillion.com/" target="_blank">Kim Killion</a> and her company <a href="http://www.hotdamndesigns.com/" target="_blank">Hot Damn Designs</a> which took our slogan and vision and created the fantastic artwork above. </span></b></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-804523358579085211.post-32480235148516613522012-11-05T00:02:00.000-05:002012-11-05T00:02:00.213-05:00Why Thurso?<span style="color: blue; font-size: large;"><strong>By Alexa Bourne</strong></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA3y0w1YDAS2Un_43FkK3dK4OFqipnTTSaTFFOHYzOs98VGrYUxALbpT6OSvzIHPw6guyodD-RuEg2qzFOBD0Eb_RO2ZtgAsUbswZZhBH1bcrT-0rgGMJWtGMov2hjwLNiA_wU5mJ6420/s1600/footer-450%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA3y0w1YDAS2Un_43FkK3dK4OFqipnTTSaTFFOHYzOs98VGrYUxALbpT6OSvzIHPw6guyodD-RuEg2qzFOBD0Eb_RO2ZtgAsUbswZZhBH1bcrT-0rgGMJWtGMov2hjwLNiA_wU5mJ6420/s320/footer-450%5B1%5D.jpg" width="320" /></a>I've been fortunate enough to visit many places in Scotland, but one place still on my list to see is Thurso, Scotland. I'm not sure why since I haven't done much research on it or heard a lot about it or read books set there, but from pictures I've seen it just looks like a quaint little village that would wipe away all my worries and make me feel at home. Maybe I'm completely wrong. Maybe not. But this month, I thought I'd share a bit of information and maybe show you why I want to see it. </div>
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Thurso is one of the northern most towns in Scotland. It is
small, and it's usually a stop along the way instead of the destination for a trip. Many people use it as a "stepping stone" on their way to Orkney. But it has shops, places to eat and, of course, an interesting history. </div>
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The name Thurso comes from Old Norse meaning Bull's River. The Vikings were here as early as the 900s, with a lot of work fishing and trading by the sea. The oldest part of the town is the Old St. Peter's Church, dating back to early 1100s. (This picture on the right is a different, prettier church, NOT Old St. Peter's.) At one point the building was open to visitors, but within the last few years it has been locked off, not allowing anyone to visit. <br />
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In the mid to late 1900s, the Dounreay Nuclear Power Development Establishment just outside of Thurso employed about 3500 people and most of them lived in Thurso. The plant is no longer in operation and so many of the residents have moved on.</div>
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In the summer months, many surfers from all over the world descend on the town to put their skills to the test in the waters of the Atlantic Ocean. From what I hear and read, this area of the country is some of the most spectacular scenery in all of Scotland. I think that's one of the reasons I really want to put this place on my "To Visit" list. (I may be biased, but I think pretty much ALL of Scotland is beautiful!) Have you had a chance to visit Thurso? What can you tell us?</div>
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(Pictures taken from <a href="http://www.undiscoveredscotland.co.uk/thurso/thurso/index.html">http://www.undiscoveredscotland.co.uk/thurso/thurso/index.html</a> and <a href="http://www.surftherenow.com/">www.surftherenow.com</a>.)<br />
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Alexahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15671871950908006851noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-804523358579085211.post-35191772809654208662012-10-22T07:00:00.000-04:002012-10-22T07:00:20.732-04:00Scottish Highland Games—The 28-lb Weight Throw<div style="text-align: right;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWSt68leEicq9nmFOLWgH6Y9wOSVWQBH4gl5m3gf_hlZApdXalHMC-I4NEJ5Zs1EncJRMQHrOaYWjFscayoDqHK0u0rrwoJwoHjbEykmCdQwZO0P6QQf9Pd4D2loQv-Z_VSIegHWD9DII/s1600/Weight+Throw+20+lb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="289" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWSt68leEicq9nmFOLWgH6Y9wOSVWQBH4gl5m3gf_hlZApdXalHMC-I4NEJ5Zs1EncJRMQHrOaYWjFscayoDqHK0u0rrwoJwoHjbEykmCdQwZO0P6QQf9Pd4D2loQv-Z_VSIegHWD9DII/s320/Weight+Throw+20+lb.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">By Dawn Marie Hamilton</span><br />
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The goal of the 28-pound weight throw is distance.<br />
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Using a metal weight attached by a chain to a ring handle, a competitor
throws the weight one-handed from behind a toe-board (trig) with a nine foot
run up allowed. Although different styles may be used, the most popular is
spinning. In order for the throw to count, an athlete must remain standing
after a throw, and not have touched the top of the toe-board or the ground in
front of it during the throw. The competitors are judged on the farthest of
three throws.<br />
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Key to a good throw are speed and momentum.<br />
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What is your favorite athletic event at a Scottish gathering?<br />
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Other events:<br />
<a href="http://celtichearts.blogspot.com/2012/09/scottish-highland-gamesthe-caber-toss.html" target="_blank">The Caber Toss</a><br />
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I'll discuss more events in future posts so stop back.<br />
Dawn Marie Hamilronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01366244357545585183noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-804523358579085211.post-11892724640548831632012-10-08T00:01:00.000-04:002012-10-08T00:01:00.508-04:00Deacon Brodie's Tavern<span style="color: blue; font-size: large;"><strong>By Alexa Bourne</strong></span><br />
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If you're ever in Edinburgh, you need to stop in my favorite
pub, Deacon Brodie's. It sits right on the Royal Mile, closer to Edinburgh
Castle than Holyrood House. It's small, by American standards, but it's often
busy and always cozy. It is in the shape of a rectangle. When you walk in the door, the bar is on the left and
several chairs and tables are spread throughout the right side and down the
center. There are intricate carvings and decorations, and several “trinkets”
with the Deacon Brodie's logo on them, such as T-shirts and mugs, etc. In the back of
the room, there is a spiral staircase that takes you up to the restaurant.
There are 4 tables squished together by the 2 windows that overlook the Royal
Mile. Of course, those seats are usually full. <br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6chOm2iQIeVmfupOeJBunR-vCHy0w8kZOf0EzsrakcPlZHonlq_7_fRwBCp9Hh8Y_SYXPLlSKsKLYdsV1qeuDRku45bmR_Cz9Oucavr5lpnYIMI1r2EvO-N384EpNQzDWBfgWq-aQTss/s1600/SAM_0780.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6chOm2iQIeVmfupOeJBunR-vCHy0w8kZOf0EzsrakcPlZHonlq_7_fRwBCp9Hh8Y_SYXPLlSKsKLYdsV1qeuDRku45bmR_Cz9Oucavr5lpnYIMI1r2EvO-N384EpNQzDWBfgWq-aQTss/s320/SAM_0780.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
The food is good. I often eat
haggis, neeps & tatties while I'm there. (If you're not familiar with
haggis, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Haggis">here's a link</a> to find out more.) And of course, I think the drinks are
great too. Whenever I'm in Edinburgh, I spend time in here. I've sat in one
of the bar seats next to the window and written. Whenever I'm in Edinburgh with
friends and we go our separate ways for a few hours, Deacon Brodie's is my
choice of places to meet up. Indeed, sitting in a Scottish pub, sipping
Scottish beer and writing Scottish stories is pretty much my version of perfection.
(All I'd need is a hot Scotsman to sit with me!)</div>
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But as much as I love Deacon Brodie's for my own reasons, I chose to write about it today because the pub has a history that I think
you'll enjoy. It is named after one of the real life inspirations for <strong><em>Dr. Jekyll
and Mr. Hyde</em></strong> by Robert Louis Stevenson. William Brodie was born in 1741. He was
respected throughout the city, made cabinets, and belonged to the town council.
But at night, he fell victim to the dark side. He drank, gambled and ran up
huge debts he couldn’t pay. So he resorted to burglary to pay his bills. Since
part of his day work included installing and repairing locks in homes, he
figured he had the perfect opportunity to break in and steal items to help pay
his debts. Unfortunately, he ended up getting caught and in 1788 they hanged
him. Rumor has it that Brodie was hanged on the 1<sup>st</sup> gallows in
Edinburgh, the same gallows that he’d made the year before.</div>
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(Picture from <a href="http://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g186525-d607086-Reviews-Deacon_Brodie_s_Tavern-Edinburgh_Scotland.html">Trip Advisor</a>.) </div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhn-qTeUHIvT_Hs0IDoDANKL0QEqbNubx2at7sqRuxOEmOY4e0vsDZcYHr0e0RTy_sJAOHcg1kmPg2CqjBRSYCey2qfSD7zkBpHMe9mg-HYUCZybCxU5YtFAUXAlwljWeb_LpyRGawbVQ/s1600/edinburgh%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhn-qTeUHIvT_Hs0IDoDANKL0QEqbNubx2at7sqRuxOEmOY4e0vsDZcYHr0e0RTy_sJAOHcg1kmPg2CqjBRSYCey2qfSD7zkBpHMe9mg-HYUCZybCxU5YtFAUXAlwljWeb_LpyRGawbVQ/s400/edinburgh%5B1%5D.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
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<o:p>So, see? This is the PERFECT place for an author to waste time....er, I mean spend time writing. To learn more about one of my favorite places in Edinburgh, visit<a href="http://www.nicholsonspubs.co.uk/deaconbrodiestavernroyalmileedinburgh/"> this website</a>. I'm almost ashamed to say the last time I stayed in Edinburgh on my own, I ate here 5 out of 7 nights. (No, I didn't have haggis every night!) Yes, there are tons of great places to eat in Edinburgh, but this is where I'm most comfortable, as if somehow I belong here. Huh. Maybe I do. </o:p><br />
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Alexahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15671871950908006851noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-804523358579085211.post-29087583267674485372012-09-24T07:00:00.000-04:002012-09-24T07:00:14.988-04:00Scottish Highland Games—The Caber Toss<span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">By Dawn Marie Hamilton</span><br />
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I've heard the comment made that the 'heavy' athletic events at a Scottish Highland Games are as unique to the Scottish as are bagpipes and tartans. (The Irish may take offense to this statement, but I think you get my meaning.) The competition most well known is probably the tossing of the caber.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijwHkyz5h_ODDNLpVnbuoiJZJkcMgS4aGomTHalO-ssDZS-s6DmnmYltNMoeKE67FSaTfmMJKXM5i8dr_vuh86Pq6hxYd9iNgfszDsZJym8X6bh21XN2b07mppjXv4BTWRipYjMZPZ6Xw/s1600/Caber+Toss+Prep.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijwHkyz5h_ODDNLpVnbuoiJZJkcMgS4aGomTHalO-ssDZS-s6DmnmYltNMoeKE67FSaTfmMJKXM5i8dr_vuh86Pq6hxYd9iNgfszDsZJym8X6bh21XN2b07mppjXv4BTWRipYjMZPZ6Xw/s200/Caber+Toss+Prep.jpg" width="166" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sizing the Caber</td></tr>
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The caber is not a telephone pole, as some describe it, but a trimmed tree trunk tapering at one end. The type of tree used depends on what is locally available. As you can imagine, due to its nature, cabers vary greatly from event to event and from year to year. Typical cabers are 16 to 20 feet long and weigh from 90 to 140 pounds. The longer the caber, the more difficult to turn.<br />
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Skill—balance, strength, timing—is required to excel in this event. The competitor balances the caber against his shoulder with the small end cradled in his hands and the large end in the air, keeping the caber vertical. When ready, he runs and allows the caber to fall forward. Determining the right moment, he stops and flips the small end up. If done correctly—speed, toss and timing—the momentum carries the small end over the large and the caber falls away from the competitor.<br />
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The toss is judged according to an imaginary clock face. If the athlete stands at <st1:time hour="18" minute="0">six o'clock</st1:time>, the perfect toss points to <st1:time hour="12" minute="0">twelve o'clock</st1:time>. Tosses landing between <st1:time hour="9" minute="0">nine o'clock</st1:time> and <st1:time hour="15" minute="0">three o'clock</st1:time> are considered good. Judges record the best of three tosses. Ties are broken by determining the closest throw to <st1:time hour="12" minute="0">twelve o'clock</st1:time>.<br />
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Do you enjoy attending the heavy athletic events at a Scottish gathering?<br />
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I'll discuss more events in future posts so stop back.</div>
Dawn Marie Hamilronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01366244357545585183noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-804523358579085211.post-67178300000494145162012-09-10T00:03:00.000-04:002012-09-10T00:03:00.221-04:00Edinburgh Castle<span style="color: blue; font-size: large;"><strong>By Alexa Bourne</strong></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf4druxCFiT0owGHzR-_L4f1Qp_J0NumFXToozorEzokdZSGtpe-wj-3o_fHcJ-XaBG0uUgvZi6LOoC8hJFAPUw0asWj901LPPOzGP9w-c-nPb6k-KRGmRKRP-qHN5gOOpK_fOGvxMsnM/s1600/SAM_0375%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf4druxCFiT0owGHzR-_L4f1Qp_J0NumFXToozorEzokdZSGtpe-wj-3o_fHcJ-XaBG0uUgvZi6LOoC8hJFAPUw0asWj901LPPOzGP9w-c-nPb6k-KRGmRKRP-qHN5gOOpK_fOGvxMsnM/s320/SAM_0375%5B1%5D.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="color: black;">Edinburgh Castle is one of my favorite places in all of Scotland. There is so much history here and so much to explore. I pay a visit to the castle every single time I go to Scotland and I always learn something new. Plus, the views of the city from various parts of the castle are absolutely breathtaking. Obviously I could spend a lot of time sharing information about this impressive building, but I've decided to touch on the parts that mean the most to me. </span>(Photo by Chris Keach)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtet0S7BNYnmYGIsPdZSZq7f0fbCxvEYZ_Ua_RD25EC7bzXqYV1KZdrMM518c-dUsVfrltCxH6dIAe0lrwSUNHVv2UCgYWcUSSTw98ZHNA8VO4QXEwlE3aV18POjO1ed07SEcrSpg_p3Q/s1600/FreeEdCastlepic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtet0S7BNYnmYGIsPdZSZq7f0fbCxvEYZ_Ua_RD25EC7bzXqYV1KZdrMM518c-dUsVfrltCxH6dIAe0lrwSUNHVv2UCgYWcUSSTw98ZHNA8VO4QXEwlE3aV18POjO1ed07SEcrSpg_p3Q/s320/FreeEdCastlepic.jpg" width="212" /></a><br />
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The castle sits on top of volcanic rock high above the city. I assure you it is an impressive sight no matter where you are in the city. Its location was ideal for defense. There is only one side for people to approach. The other 3 sides looked like this:<br />
(<a href="http://www.freedigitalphotos.net/">www.freedigitalphotos.net</a>)<br />
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Anyone foolish enough to try climbing up this rock would either be shot or fall to his death. However, if you read about the castle's history, you'll see that it was invaded and captured on a number of occasions.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUvIiRFAIq4r0XKI5ygRo0f5EpENPpurwrThgwW_p3ijj0mcb4CRgveMDA-wV2g9oK2zYSg_nk1lw_epyrHmqcuG7gv6k2NKCpjbTAMf8g98OzrYPw22E2fEvqCVkb1C1kQ_DyE9jcAAY/s1600/St+Margarets+2%5B2%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUvIiRFAIq4r0XKI5ygRo0f5EpENPpurwrThgwW_p3ijj0mcb4CRgveMDA-wV2g9oK2zYSg_nk1lw_epyrHmqcuG7gv6k2NKCpjbTAMf8g98OzrYPw22E2fEvqCVkb1C1kQ_DyE9jcAAY/s320/St+Margarets+2%5B2%5D.jpg" width="240" /></a>The oldest part of the castle is St. Margaret's Chapel, which is also the oldest building in Edinburgh. It dates back to the beginning of the 12th century and is named for David I's mother who died in the castle in 1093. It is a very small building, about 10 feet wide, that is still used today for weddings and other religious ceremonies. (Photo by Vonda Sinclair-<a href="http://www.vondasinclair.com/">www.vondasinclair.com</a>)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmhSWJS-6HS8VvJPv9orh8YmUtkoWb19wojpOyqTF-mQ6DYZUJRqEX0dVdkaEbJ1kwtmB-cGFpAGDXkZEMi_MzXuXZluO7ZMPOWc6bEr_Wwr2PGSYY-Ghc64sdRJv5PhWxCcvYzCofpKE/s1600/Tattoopic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmhSWJS-6HS8VvJPv9orh8YmUtkoWb19wojpOyqTF-mQ6DYZUJRqEX0dVdkaEbJ1kwtmB-cGFpAGDXkZEMi_MzXuXZluO7ZMPOWc6bEr_Wwr2PGSYY-Ghc64sdRJv5PhWxCcvYzCofpKE/s320/Tattoopic.jpg" width="320" /></a>Each August, the castle is the home of the <a href="http://www.edintattoo.co.uk/">Edinburgh Military Tattoo</a>. It is an amazing concert of music and dancing performed by military bands from all over the world. The Tattoo takes place in the the esplanade of the castle. There are shows every weekday evening and twice on Saturdays for the entire month. The crowd consists of Scots, people from other parts of the UK and an average of over 70,000 visitors from other countries. If you get the chance to see this, I recommend you do it. Sitting in those seats and listening to the beautiful music and watching the show is such a wonderful experience! (<a href="http://www.morguefile.com/">www.morguefile.com</a>)</div>
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For more detailed information and beautiful pictures of the castle, I urge you to visit the official website<a href="http://www.edinburghcastle.gov.uk/"> here</a>. A reader could spend hours looking at pictures and learning fascinating stories of one of Scotland's most visited attractions. </div>
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<br />Alexahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15671871950908006851noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-804523358579085211.post-81311468736596252362012-09-08T18:58:00.000-04:002012-09-08T18:58:33.737-04:00The Winners of the 2012 GOLDEN CLADDAGH Contest Are...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b><span style="color: blue;">Celtic Category:</span> Laurie McLean, Agent Larsen Pomada Literary Agents</b></div>
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· Winner: Highland Escape, Derek Dodson*</div>
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· Second Place: For Love of Gracey, Eileen Barnes</div>
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· Third Place: The Stone Manor, Terri Hale</div>
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<b><span style="color: blue;">Contemporary Category: </span>Aubrey Poole, Editor, Sourcebooks</b></div>
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· Winner: Maisie McGrane—Meter Maid, Kristen Bow</div>
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· Second Place: Together is Enough, Emma Barry</div>
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· Third Place: Damn Enchanted Evening, E.J. Russell</div>
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<b><span style="color: blue;">Erotic Category: </span>Katherine Pelz, Editor, Penguin Group</b></div>
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· Winner: One Night Stand, Parker Kincade</div>
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· Second Place: Next Move, Sabrina Garie</div>
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<b><span style="color: blue;">Romantic Suspense:</span> Suzie Townsend, Agent, New Leaf Literary and Media</b></div>
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· Winner: Miss Stewart’s Seduction, Catherine Lawrence</div>
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· Second Place: The Distance Between Us, Linda Bond</div>
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· Third Place: Her Unreasonable Doubt, Ann-Marie Carroll</div>
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<b><span style="color: blue;">FF&P: </span>Angela James, Editor, Carina Press</b></div>
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· Winner: Must Love Breeches, Angela Quarles</div>
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· Second Place: Halo Book 1—The Angel Lord, C.T. Green</div>
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· Third Place: Seer’s Blood, Leisl Leighton</div>
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<b><span style="color: blue;">Historical:</span> Laura Bradford, Agent, Bradford Literary Agency</b></div>
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· Winner: The Training of a Marquess, Sandra Owens***</div>
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· Second Place: The Letter, Sandra Owens***</div>
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· Third Place: Dagger’s Destiny, Karen Woodward</div>
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<b><span style="color: blue;">Published: </span>Becky Vintner, Agent, FinePrint Literary Agency</b></div>
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<b>Amy Pierpont, Editor, Grand Central Publishing</b></div>
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· Winner: Wrath of the Tooth Fairy, Sarina Dorie**</div>
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· Winner: The Missing Time, Sandra Clarke**</div>
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· Third Place: Switch, Camryn Rhys*</div>
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<b><span style="color: blue;">Gold Claddagh Category: </span>Kevan Lyon, Agent, Marsal Lyon Literary Agency</b></div>
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<b>Liz Pelletier, Editor, Entangled Publishing</b></div>
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· Winner: The Colonel’s Pride, Laura Livingston</div>
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<b>Runners’ Up (in no particular order):</b></div>
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· One Night Stand, Parker Kincaid</div>
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· Seer’s Blood, Leisl Leighton</div>
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· The Dutch Kiss, Jo-Ann Carson</div>
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· For Love of Gracey, Eileen Barnes</div>
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· Maisie McGrane—Meter Maid, Kristin Bow</div>
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* CHRW Member</div>
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** Tie for first place</div>
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*** Request for Full</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-804523358579085211.post-17375647997788537002012-08-27T04:00:00.000-04:002012-08-27T04:00:03.749-04:00Urisk—Scottish Solitary Faerie<span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">By Dawn Marie Hamilton</span><br />
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Many a man or woman has sought release from their woes by visiting wild places within the woodland. Seeking ease, they're attracted to secluded pools. Places supportive of contemplation. Since we are of the Celtic bent here at Celtic Hearts, we know that in the dark forests of Scotland, more likely than not, they chance meeting a creature so peculiar they'll scurry back to civilization, their heart in their throat.<br />
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'Tis sad. The urisk, a humble creature by nature, is lonely and wants to make friends. Most humans shun the poor fellow because of his uncomely appearance, found by many to be horrifying and frightening.<br />
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Still, he holds hope someday someone will come along and befriend him.<br />
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"What does he look like?" you ask.<br />
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The gangling urisk appears an aging bald creature with pointed ears. His face is long and drawn. He peers at you through soulful rounded eyes. He sports a wiry goatee on his chin. His emaciated, hairless torso is somewhat human-like—his lower half goat-like with shaggy fur. His limbs are long and thin and he walks on cloven feet.<br />
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Many confuse the urisk (<i>ùruisg</i>) with the brownie (<i>brùnaidh</i>), though I believe they are each a distinct variety of Scottish solitary faerie. And look nothing alike.<br />
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A wonderfully dark depiction of the urisk can be found in the illustrated book, <i>Faeries</i>, by Brian Froud and Alan Lee. <br />
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</b>Would you be frightened if you met an urisk in the woods? Or would you make friends with him?<br />
<br />Dawn Marie Hamilronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01366244357545585183noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-804523358579085211.post-60615179095973084582012-08-24T00:01:00.000-04:002012-08-24T00:01:00.335-04:00CHRW Meet The Member<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b><span style="color: blue; font-size: x-large;">Vonda Sinclair</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: blue;">How long have you been a member of Celtic Hearts?</span> </b><br />
I joined the year after the chapter formed. So I think I’ve been a member for about 6 or 7 years. I was vice president for two terms and education coordinator for two terms. Celtic Hearts is one of my favorite chapters. <br />
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<b><span style="color: blue;">What prompted you to join this chapter? </span></b><br />
I love all things Celtic, especially Scottish things. I’d always wanted to write Scottish historicals. At first, the research intimidated me since my degree is in psychology, not history. But once I got into it, I discovered I enjoyed hunting down those specific details that bring a story to life. The workshops and knowledgeable members of Celtic Hearts have helped me in many ways over the years. <br />
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<b><span style="color: blue;">What are some of the benefits you favor most about being a member of RWA and/or CHRW? </span></b><br />
I love how the members of CHRW are friendly, supportive and encouraging. I truly feel I’m among friends. We all have a love of Celtic things and that means we have a lot in common. We understand and sympathize with each other. There are other great benefits the chapter has to offer too, such as the workshops, the contest, a great website and blog and fun meetings at the national conference. <br />
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<span style="color: blue;"><b>You’ve recently signed with a publisher. Tell us about your writing journey before and after this point in your life, and the details about your upcoming releases. </b></span><br />
I didn’t sign with a publisher, despite years of trying to get my foot in the door, but my publishing dreams have come true anyway. I indie published my two Scottish romances, My Fierce Highlander and My Wild Highlander, and they’ve done well, especially at Amazon where I’ve sold around twenty-five thousand copies of the two books combined. My newest release in this series is My Brave Highlander. I call this series the Highland Adventure series because not only does it have strong romances but also action, suspense and adventure. The first two books are about brothers, Alasdair and Lachlan MacGrath, and the third is about their friend, Dirk MacKay and an interesting woman he meets during his journey home. <br />
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<b><span style="color: blue;">Have you ever been to Ireland, Scotland, Wales etc? Tell us about this trip and what you came away with afterwards. </span></b><br />
I’ve been to Scotland three times and each visit has given me major inspiration, research information, life experience, happiness, and far more than I can explain. I’m in love with Scotland because it is such an amazing, beautiful and interesting place. When I convinced my husband to come along on that last trip, he instantly fell in love with the country too. We both enjoy the cooler temperatures, the friendliness of the Scottish people, the spectacular scenery, the castles, the Neolithic sites, and the wildlife. We love exploring the towns, villages, windy beaches, hiking up the hills, or slogging through ankle deep water to discover castle ruins. The more I see, the more I want to see. This year we plan to see some new places, such as Glamis Castle and Duart Castle, and revisit some favorites, such as Dunnottar Castle and Kilmartin Glen’s Neolithic monuments. We also want to hike in Glencoe and visit islands we’ve never been to, such as Iona. <br />
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<b><span style="color: blue;">If you could be transported back in time for a day, when and where would you want to go?</span></b><br />
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The Scottish Highlands of the early 1600s. What a fantastic research trip that would be! </div>
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<b><span style="color: blue;">Bio:</span></b> Vonda Sinclair’s favorite indulgent pastime is exploring Scotland, from Edinburgh to the untamed and windblown north coast. She also enjoys creating hot, Highland heroes and spirited lasses to drive them mad. She is a past Golden Heart finalist and Laurie award winner. She lives with her amazing and supportive husband in the mountains of North Carolina where she is no doubt creating another Scottish story.</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-804523358579085211.post-80940323086290705632012-08-13T00:01:00.000-04:002012-08-13T00:01:01.192-04:00Melrose Abbey & The Heart of The Bruce<span style="color: blue; font-size: large;"><strong>By Alexa Bourne</strong></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXpWhI3e9sNx0nXqW8Gy7yvmmCNjyWaKrgNvkkCzXxFBVzGcYDsF69CY-vpYvJ0SWXIAiThRfsjWb2vLzsFNVqW7d6MHqUoiWWLGVzalBC4SXMu78Y89_MdoHjm5Eyvxt1kWMWU60r92ha/s1600/SAM_0382.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_uid_9ngdbv="5" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXpWhI3e9sNx0nXqW8Gy7yvmmCNjyWaKrgNvkkCzXxFBVzGcYDsF69CY-vpYvJ0SWXIAiThRfsjWb2vLzsFNVqW7d6MHqUoiWWLGVzalBC4SXMu78Y89_MdoHjm5Eyvxt1kWMWU60r92ha/s320/SAM_0382.JPG" width="320" /></a>Hello again! This month I'm taking you out of the Scottish Highlands and down toward the Borders. During one of my trips to Scotland, my friends and I decided to take a <span style="color: #993300;">Rabbie's Trail Burners Tour</span>. The highlight for me on this tour was Melrose Abbey. </div>
I'd seen Melrose Abbey on countless Scotland calendars and in
books, but had never managed to get here until this trip a few years ago.<br />
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It is said to be one of the most famous ruins in all of Scotland. It apparently has an amazing garden,
but I think it looks pretty cool with the snow. What do you think?<br />
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The abbey was founded in 1136 by Scotland's King David I for Cistercian monks. </div>
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Like many places in Scotland, the abbey was destroyed and rebuilt on various occasions in the country's history. </div>
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In 1385, the Scots invaded northern England. In retaliation, Richard II's English army pushed the Scots back as far as Edinburgh and they set fire to Melrose Abbey along the way, which destroyed most of it. <br />
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Robert the Bruce's heart is buried here at
Melrose Abbey. He apparently played a huge part in rebuilding the abbey in his time. </div>
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I stopped after taking the picture and said a silent
prayer.</div>
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Out one side of the Abbey was the cemetery.
When I turned back to the Abbey ruins, I noticed that all the heads on these six
figures had been cut off. It intrigued me and I went to work thinking of
reasons behind the decapitations! I did some research when I returned to the States, but I haven't found anything to explain the headless statues. Maybe it's just my suspense imagination trying to find something that's not there!</div>
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The village of Melrose itself was beautiful and
pleasant. We had lunch in this little restaurant with about 12 tables or so and
TONS of knickknacks and decorations. The food was good, the soup was hot and
the tea hit the spot! Our day tour moved on to other locations, but a piece of my heart stayed here in Melrose. I would've been happy just wandering the streets, observing the locals and soaking up more of the Scottish culture.</div>
Alexahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15671871950908006851noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-804523358579085211.post-16580738026389781082012-08-06T23:15:00.000-04:002012-08-06T23:15:32.388-04:00Writing About Celtic Food<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLrTlM8Da8bNwIfqUd8QzgNPYY6niRv504NDFmaQ3oFqZoI30cIGG3hpSK1rW9uaZw44tQ20PWbAcfgS1gAjrbX0i5cZGJXZwY6EWKykE8S61nBdO_CvHmAxiduWpGX6X5huK4Bcg_MU7H/s1600/shutterstock_93126484.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLrTlM8Da8bNwIfqUd8QzgNPYY6niRv504NDFmaQ3oFqZoI30cIGG3hpSK1rW9uaZw44tQ20PWbAcfgS1gAjrbX0i5cZGJXZwY6EWKykE8S61nBdO_CvHmAxiduWpGX6X5huK4Bcg_MU7H/s320/shutterstock_93126484.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cock-a-leekie soup. Used with permission.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Those of you who are fans of the George R. R. Martin series, <i>A Song of Ice and Fire</i>, which begins with <i>Game of Thrones</i>, will appreciate the Celtic influences in his books (especially in certain areas of his made-up lands). One can't help but see medieval England and Hadrian's Wall, for instance, in the whole concept of "The Wall" and the northern lands. <div><br />
</div><div>But nowhere brings out the connection with more persistence than the cuisine. Don't get me wrong, these fantasy books are not foodie romance (or even food novels of any kind). But when I had a chance to get an early copy of <i><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Feast-Ice-Fire-Official-Companion/dp/0345534492/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1344307149&sr=8-1&keywords=official+cookbook+for+game+of+thrones" target="_blank">A Feast of Ice and Fire: The Official Game of Thrones Companion Cookbook</a></i> (which, by the way, is officially sanctioned by Martin himself) for review, I found myself musing about the similarities between the cuisine of Westeros and the foods of Celtic lands. Something like Cock-a-leekie soup, for instance, which every good Celt should know of, has its <i>Fire and Ice</i> counterpart. </div><div><br />
</div><div>This series of books has always felt more Celtic to me because of things like this. Little details that give me a very sensory experience and feel, that make me think Celtic thoughts.</div><div><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1QxJKxscHHwcN6leZKpDHSx6uFd7bgkdRy5Jx5XwoUHpZ3aqp1NU_UduH_4SxaXTKcUDfz2SCg0Ruze5xFWqWTwtoiRSyxw9biswYi3BGtoPIx2aZCnc17QKRd4fFvzX95CgV55Pt28tl/s1600/shutterstock_105921236.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1QxJKxscHHwcN6leZKpDHSx6uFd7bgkdRy5Jx5XwoUHpZ3aqp1NU_UduH_4SxaXTKcUDfz2SCg0Ruze5xFWqWTwtoiRSyxw9biswYi3BGtoPIx2aZCnc17QKRd4fFvzX95CgV55Pt28tl/s320/shutterstock_105921236.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Haggis plate w/neeps & tatties. Used with permission.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div>While I don't want to give too much away, although if you're a fan, I highly suggest picking up a copy for yourself, I do want to say that this cookbook is fantastic. If you're a fan of the books, you'll love the in-text references and quotes from chapters. If you're a fan of cooking, the historical feel of these recipes will enthrall you. And if you're just a fan of Celtic food, many of the recipes will feel familiar.</div><div><br />
</div><div>But food is an excellent way to make a book feel authentic and real to its audience. Not just the inclusion of food in a book, but how you go about including that food.</div><div><br />
</div><div>Anyone, for instance, can write a scene where the hero and heroine eat haggis (probably the most culturally recognizable Scottish food). However, if you've never had haggis before or you're not immersing the reader in the experience, you might as well not write the experience at all. But many of us want to create engaging and exciting scenes for our readers using food. How do we do that?</div><div><br />
</div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhmnr_GNF9xk-rT9sUQCfu1pkvWjEKNN-XPa8qwDjPU8vRYQp78NE5HXZrBQgbzmQypQR_EA2sfgN2EWBwrI_XanFlmLYTy7TTl3uofpEfdVD3pWHPGPICS6bEbxb10oVi0oYr2zzoomZr/s1600/shutterstock_99782693.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhmnr_GNF9xk-rT9sUQCfu1pkvWjEKNN-XPa8qwDjPU8vRYQp78NE5HXZrBQgbzmQypQR_EA2sfgN2EWBwrI_XanFlmLYTy7TTl3uofpEfdVD3pWHPGPICS6bEbxb10oVi0oYr2zzoomZr/s320/shutterstock_99782693.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Scotch Whisky. Used with permission.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div>How do we write effectively about Celtic Food? </div><div><br />
</div><div>I'm going to tell you, for certain, that I can't explain in one blog how to do that, nor do I intend to try. But I wanted to let you know that I do teach a class on this very topic. And I'm going to be teaching it this fall, for Celtic Hearts Romance Writers. Specifically on how to incorporate Celtic food and details into your writing. It will be right before the holidays, so we'll have to do some experimenting.</div><div><br />
</div><div>Maybe I'll give you my recipe for Scotch-Caramel Creme Brulee. It's heavenly. And if you enjoy whisky, you'll love it. Even if you don't, you'll probably love it. But you'll have to take the class to find out. Watch this blog next month to learn how to sign up. Or, watch my blog. </div><div><br />
</div><div>Either way, I hope to see you in the class! Come write about Celtic Food with me.</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-804523358579085211.post-24965164522324697512012-07-30T04:00:00.000-04:002012-07-30T04:00:07.994-04:00Scottish Dogs<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNWY1B8y6yBDYvhiF5fqT1RfZF6HHJkZmz63xowypwEYpH0PRTEfUFhdySJyu9tXSWQjd_hEbZ42Y9neLzA-EgO6L9gK_bL3O458gIgtgpVwsGhbENgFGmhJbEapli9P_7H29qaPg2GXQ/s1600/tara+north.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNWY1B8y6yBDYvhiF5fqT1RfZF6HHJkZmz63xowypwEYpH0PRTEfUFhdySJyu9tXSWQjd_hEbZ42Y9neLzA-EgO6L9gK_bL3O458gIgtgpVwsGhbENgFGmhJbEapli9P_7H29qaPg2GXQ/s1600/tara+north.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">By Dawn Marie Hamilton</span><br />
<span style="color: blue; font-size: large;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;">
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<span style="color: black; font-size: small;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;">Within the historical fabric of <st1:country-region><st1:place>Scotland </st1:place></st1:country-region>is weaved a dependency between man and dog. Though much loved, Scottish dogs were not fancy lap dogs but working dogs bred to help a hardworking people survive the harsh northern climate.<br /><br />The Border Terrier, Cairn Terrier, Dandie Terrier, Scottish Terrier, Skye Terrier and the West Highland White Terrier were developed to protect crops by eradicating mice, rats and other vermin, keeping the pests from destroying grain in the fields, grain stored for food, and seeds over-wintered for spring planting.<br /><br />One of my two favorites in this category is the Scottish Terrier, nearly a national Scottish symbol. The Scottie, often black, but also brindle and wheaten colored, has a distinctive profile with a hard, wiry, weather-resident outer coat. Though small, they are strong, alert and playful dogs. Just don't let them into your garden—they're diggers. Did you know Presidents Roosevelt and George W. Bush had Scotties in the White House?<br /><br />The compact, bright white West Highland Terrier is a friendly, strong-willed dog known for spunk, determination and devotion. Westies excel in conformation, agility and obedience trials. This frisky, little dog appeared in episodes of the BBC Scotland TV series <em>Hamish MacBeth</em>, filmed in the town of <st1:city><st1:place>Kyle</st1:place></st1:city>of Lochalsh. In the series, 'Wee Jock' kept the peace in the fictitious town of <st1:city><st1:place>Lochdubh</st1:place></st1:city> with Constable Hamish Macbeth at his side.<br /><br />The Bearded Collie, Border Collie, Rough Collie, Smooth Collie, and my absolute favorite Scottish dog, the Shetland Sheepdog were bred to protect livestock. If you attend a Scottish Festival this summer, you might be treated to a Border Collie demonstration. Working dogs to this day, they are famous for their sheepherding skills.<br /><br />My best friend for many years was a beautiful, longhaired, female tri-color Sheltie named Red Earth O'Tara for <em>Gone With the Wind</em>. Bred to a miniature size in the <st1:place>Shetland Islands</st1:place>, Shetland Sheep Dogs were farm helpers and home protectors, trained to watch over crofter's cottages, sheep and cattle. They are considered highly trainable and—mine was spoiled to the extreme—known as devoted dogs with great intelligence.<br /><br />The Gordon Setter, Golden Retriever and Scottish Deerhound were developed to assist in hunting. The extremely popular Golden Retriever and the Gordon Setter were birders, trained to hunt fowl. Scottish deerhounds were exclusive to nobility and—no one below the rank of an earl could possess the animals—bred to hunt game. One of my CPs is writing a Scottish historical series featuring a pair of Scottish Deerhounds as supporting characters.<br /><br />I think I'll write a Scottish dog into my next Scottish fantasy time-travel novel.<br /><br />If you are interested in owning one of these special breeds, please consider adopting a dog from a breed rescue group. You can find a breed specific rescue group in your area by performing an internet search.</span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-size: small;"></span> <br />
<span style="color: black; font-size: small;">Which is your favorite Scottish dog?</span></span></div>
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</span></span>Dawn Marie Hamilronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01366244357545585183noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-804523358579085211.post-53040504882911068262012-07-16T00:01:00.000-04:002012-08-03T23:46:41.633-04:00The Glenfinnan Monument<br />
<span style="color: blue; font-size: large;"><strong>By Alexa Bourne</strong></span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY64G-x4vUOsluFNETW8hBftok-n7cBxeFU9V8gRPzFXZ4_qLTbAdlPWJvc3OT9v36ElRxeMnlG21sMCIZcv19zY8Og91VvQTeEazD9PoajzaAQrbDXNzsHJ4B02fX8Dh5TqTxEDygWso/s1600/1088_11_58---Glenfinnan-Monument_web%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY64G-x4vUOsluFNETW8hBftok-n7cBxeFU9V8gRPzFXZ4_qLTbAdlPWJvc3OT9v36ElRxeMnlG21sMCIZcv19zY8Og91VvQTeEazD9PoajzaAQrbDXNzsHJ4B02fX8Dh5TqTxEDygWso/s320/1088_11_58---Glenfinnan-Monument_web%5B1%5D.jpg" width="213" /></a>Yes, folks, I'm taking you back to my "happy place", Glenfinnan, Scotland, one last time. Today were going to take a look at the Glenfinnan Monument.<br />
The monument sits at the northern end of Loch Shiel. It is a stone structure with an anonymous kilted Highlander standing at the top. I often thought about it as if he was guarding the lands. The monument was built in 1815 by Alexander Macdonald to honor the men who showed courage and walked with Bonnie Prince Charlie in his attempt to regain Scotland for his father. It also commemorates the site where the Bonnie Prince raised his royal standard in 1745, which marked the beginning of the rebellion that ended in the final defeat of the Scots on the battlefield of Culloden in April 1746. Now, the monument is in the care of the <a href="http://www.nts.org.uk/Home/">National Trust for Scotland</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-RdLTUAEdlBAlYnzXieurh73PfN_liLLisqVqazUtub8tLsBeLzTKbzWhcF4cL2KO9uoSjwXztSqF56v1s9AtTErO5hxv6FXMFs6OEy8pn_AY0oMXyKTmSMoceAiCR2u6hYU_1ZTwrYM/s1600/scotland05278%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-RdLTUAEdlBAlYnzXieurh73PfN_liLLisqVqazUtub8tLsBeLzTKbzWhcF4cL2KO9uoSjwXztSqF56v1s9AtTErO5hxv6FXMFs6OEy8pn_AY0oMXyKTmSMoceAiCR2u6hYU_1ZTwrYM/s320/scotland05278%5B1%5D.jpg" width="240" /></a>I had visited Glenfinnan a couple of times before I realized you could actually go into the stone structure, climb the stairs and come out at the top. It requires a small fee for a ticket, which you get at the Visitors' Centre nearby. I remember feeling very uncomfortable at the top. Yes, the view was spectacular and being close to the kilted Highlander stucture made me realize how much bigger it was than I'd thought. But the height of the monument and the small space for walking up top combined to make me dizzy. In reality, one person up there was probably okay, but two would have been crowding.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBoGyPSWJdtF9bUDR_anTIIWU1vNcq-5vZi8hKNt6aXTD5IZCIT1QUl2K9AxX-YDHbKYTWf57oi6mpi9Z3WVbvOtIwARoXK-_8aX_wbVVlqdjTNh15qlm7RLjA_cVvBTQsIKhTO4GPPHc/s1600/GlenfinnanMonument_s%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBoGyPSWJdtF9bUDR_anTIIWU1vNcq-5vZi8hKNt6aXTD5IZCIT1QUl2K9AxX-YDHbKYTWf57oi6mpi9Z3WVbvOtIwARoXK-_8aX_wbVVlqdjTNh15qlm7RLjA_cVvBTQsIKhTO4GPPHc/s1600/GlenfinnanMonument_s%5B1%5D.jpg" /></a></div>
The view of the Glenfinnan Monument and Loch Shiel is often photographed and used in various promotional materials. Too, if you remember, the view was used in one of the Harry Potter films. (Can you remember which one?) It is also the site where hundreds of Jacobite enthusiasts gather each year on August 19th to commemorate the raising of the royal standard all those years ago. For more details about Glenfinnan or the monument, <a href="http://www.undiscoveredscotland.co.uk/glenfinnan/monument/index.html">Undiscovered Scotland</a> has great information and pictures. <br />
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I hope you've enjoyed our virtual visit to Glenfinnan over the last few months. Next month, we'll be heading to a new location. Where, you ask? For that you'll have to come back!Alexahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15671871950908006851noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-804523358579085211.post-77630195014051705842012-07-04T15:45:00.000-04:002012-07-04T15:45:47.305-04:00Congratulations to the 2012 Golden Claddagh Contest Finalists!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<img border="0" height="96" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2jVjR50J5lI/T_SbHnYWS5I/AAAAAAAAMHs/JaCSJIsGN40/s400/CHRW+GC+contest.png" width="400" /></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: blue; font-size: x-large;">Celtic Hearts RWA</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: blue; font-size: x-large;"><b>2012 Golden Claddagh Contest</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: blue; font-size: x-large;">is proud to announce our list of finalists:</span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Contemporary</span></b><br />
1. Maisie McGrane: Meter Maid – Kristen Boe**<br />
2. Damn Enchanted Evening – E.J. Russell<br />
3. Together is Enough – Emma Barry<br />
<br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Romantic Suspense</b></span><br />
1. The Distance Between Us – Linda Bond<br />
2. Her Unreasonable Doubt – Anne-Marie Carroll<br />
3. The Scotch Baron’s Bride – Catherine Lawrence<br />
<br />
**The Dutch Kiss – Jo-Ann Carson<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Historical</b></span><br />
1. The Letter – Sandra Owens***<br />
2. Dagger’s Destiny – Karen Woodward***<br />
3. The Training of a Marquess – Sandra Owens***<br />
<br />
**The Colonel’s Pride – Laura Livingston<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Erotic</span></b><br />
1. One Night Stand – Parker Kincaid**<br />
2. Playing to Win – Sabrina Garie<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>FF& P</b></span><br />
1. Must Love Breeches – Angela Quarles<br />
2. Seer’s Blood – Leisl Leighton**<br />
3. Halo Book 1—The Angel Lord – C.T. Green</div>
<div>
<b style="background-color: white; font-size: x-large;"><br /></b></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Celtic</b></span><div>
1. For Love of Gracey – Eileen K. Barnes**<br />
2. Highland Escape – Derek Dodson<br />
3. The Stone Manor – Terri Hale<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Published*</span></b><br />
1. Wrath of the Tooth Fairy – Sarina Dorie<br />
2. Switch – Camryn Rhys<br />
3. The Missing Time – Sandra Clarke<br />
<br />
<span style="color: blue;">*Asterisk denotes unpublished work from a published author.<br /><br />**Asterisks denote best of category selectee based upon the average of all three judges’ scores. These entries will compete in the Gold Claddagh round for best-of-contest entry. (Published authors are not eligible for this category.)<br /><br />***Asterisks indicate tie for first place</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Congratulations to all the finalists and BEST WISHES in the Final Round!!!</span></b><br />
<br />
Rebecca Lynn, President<br />
Donna Goode, V.P—Programs<br />
2012 Golden Claddagh Co-Coordinators ~ and the entire Golden Claddagh team!</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-804523358579085211.post-49769217018949113802012-07-02T07:00:00.000-04:002012-07-02T07:53:35.824-04:00The Fachan from the West Highlands of Scotland<span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">By Dawn Marie Hamilton</span><br />
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One of my favorite coffee table books is <i>Faeries</i>, illustrated by
Brian Froud and Alan Lee. I love to browse through the pages and enjoy the
wonderful art.<br />
<br />
I flip to a new page, and a <i>fachan</i> stares at me through his single
eyeball positioned in the center of his forehead like that of the Cyclops, the
primordial race of giants from Greek mythology. Startled, I jump away, but keep an eye on the image glaring at me. The reddish-purple iris
surrounded by blood-shot white seems to watch me as I pace about the room. My
spine tingles with shivers.<br />
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Good thing I have a strong heart since reports claim his grotesque appearance
can cause a heart attack.<br />
<br />
He stands erect on his only muscular leg at about three feet of height. He
covers his egg-shaped body with a loose shirt made from blue-green feathers.
Although I can't smell him, others allege his stench is worse than that of an
ordinary ogre.<br />
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I imagine rotten eggs or a science project gone wrong. My nose twitches at the
thought.<br />
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A single short arm with a big hand protrudes from under his chin. I certainly
don't want to get close to his claw-like fingernails or the sharp teeth visible
when he opens his wide mouth.<br />
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Most of his skin is a dirty tan—except for the mottled green of his lips, his
bulbous nose and the tips of his large pointed ears. A few strands of wiry
black hair top his head, matching the hair at the tips of his ears.<br />
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Rumors abound that the unusual creature is extremely agile with its flat-footed
hop.<br />
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I cautiously approach the table and snap the book closed. My neighbors probably
hear my sigh of relief.<br />
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Many believe <em>fachans </em>live in the depths of caves in the West Highlands
of <st1:country-region><st1:place>Scotland</st1:place></st1:country-region>.
Since known to dislike humans, wise men and women are prudent to stay away.<br />
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Are there other Scottish creatures of legend you try to avoid? Tell us about
them.Dawn Marie Hamilronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01366244357545585183noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-804523358579085211.post-35051484974820894612012-06-18T00:06:00.000-04:002012-06-18T00:06:00.051-04:00Staying at the Prince's House<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhehQOJbnCUlPjwL_mTF0UT3y3dbwW5-nKKD_7gEhGrBXvVfp4PJH59w9bEk_v7TllbQGgdi2oZJ7ssdesq945m4L8TTNTNWTGatsWywQvbtNaBgNYikSsgOW5UgQTuwMIrY7cptFTs4k/s1600/3281433_1_b%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhehQOJbnCUlPjwL_mTF0UT3y3dbwW5-nKKD_7gEhGrBXvVfp4PJH59w9bEk_v7TllbQGgdi2oZJ7ssdesq945m4L8TTNTNWTGatsWywQvbtNaBgNYikSsgOW5UgQTuwMIrY7cptFTs4k/s1600/3281433_1_b%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhehQOJbnCUlPjwL_mTF0UT3y3dbwW5-nKKD_7gEhGrBXvVfp4PJH59w9bEk_v7TllbQGgdi2oZJ7ssdesq945m4L8TTNTNWTGatsWywQvbtNaBgNYikSsgOW5UgQTuwMIrY7cptFTs4k/s1600/3281433_1_b%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="274" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhehQOJbnCUlPjwL_mTF0UT3y3dbwW5-nKKD_7gEhGrBXvVfp4PJH59w9bEk_v7TllbQGgdi2oZJ7ssdesq945m4L8TTNTNWTGatsWywQvbtNaBgNYikSsgOW5UgQTuwMIrY7cptFTs4k/s320/3281433_1_b%5B1%5D.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">By Alexa Bourne:</span></b>
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Today I'm taking you to another location in my happy place, Glenfinnan, Scotland. This is the Prince's House. The hotel is located a short distance from the train station and you are sure to get a warm welcome the moment you step inside. Hosts Kieron and Ina Kelly and their staff are very eager to make sure visitors are quite comfortable.<br />
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The building itself dates back to the seventeenth century, when it used to be a change house for people traveling through the Highlands along the legendary Road to the Isles. (Yep, that 2 lane road is part of the Road to the Isles!) At the time, it had 1 room on the second floor with straw for bedding and fireplaces on each end of the room to keep it warm. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRzfvnHYKPTDAznRINORe5JCahK3W80bUdFrCYAdkyUSU5KaF4Ncph-PnKryZ4H2iR8odrLKj89Og1CPUS2hoErOolApNW7JBf23oZTYNdfh5sfOXAvsi6gdPj1dMWMpvz0OVaZ4xI_HQ/s1600/bed4%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRzfvnHYKPTDAznRINORe5JCahK3W80bUdFrCYAdkyUSU5KaF4Ncph-PnKryZ4H2iR8odrLKj89Og1CPUS2hoErOolApNW7JBf23oZTYNdfh5sfOXAvsi6gdPj1dMWMpvz0OVaZ4xI_HQ/s320/bed4%5B1%5D.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
Over the years, the house was expanded and now has 9 guest rooms, a lounge and a restaurant. Each guest room is individually decorated, and by far the fanciest room is the Stuart Room. This looks fabulous, doesn't it? This room is in the oldest part of the building and overlooks the fantastic hills.<br />
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In this hotel, you can enjoy excellent food in both the restaurant and the bar. Occasionally, you might even get a treat. This was where we sat in the lounge talking with the other tourists and the hostess when she asked a local musician to play a few songs for us. We all ended up having another drink and singing along! It was a fabulous evening, one I was sorry to see end.<br />
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When I stayed here with my mom for my first overnight trip to Glenfinnan, we did not stay in the Stuart room. Yes, it was (and is) beautiful, but it was also outside of our budget. The picture below was our room. Although it was small (by American standards), it was cozy enough and we still had a great view. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTPnygmmcv1H0J5_j14r4PYf-aKgoI4WmfubxTtvkTCYI0K-qFCIiuQfMvJhOPwDCKaw-LnYijUh6DxTUeuCD0AmSIzihB5lkH3tdlv_y4sn1s3wbnrLztSMd8-KETvY_kv-OYz3kQYuA/s1600/bed%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTPnygmmcv1H0J5_j14r4PYf-aKgoI4WmfubxTtvkTCYI0K-qFCIiuQfMvJhOPwDCKaw-LnYijUh6DxTUeuCD0AmSIzihB5lkH3tdlv_y4sn1s3wbnrLztSMd8-KETvY_kv-OYz3kQYuA/s320/bed%5B1%5D.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Something else I find interesting about this hotel is that they use locally grown produce as much as they can. Plus, their meats come from surrounding Highland estates. <br />
I'll say again that the price of the hotels here in Glenfinnan is not cheap. Part of me thinks it's because Glenfinnan is such a small place, there aren't a lot of options and it may be out of the way to some people. But, as with the Glenfinnan House Hotel from <a href="http://celtichearts.blogspot.com/2012/05/back-to-glenfinnan_21.html">my post last month</a>, it is definitely worth spending a night or two here if you can. To learn more about this fabulous hotel, visit their website <a href="http://www.glenfinnan.co.uk/index.html">here</a>.Alexahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15671871950908006851noreply@blogger.com4