-Charles R. Swindoll
I walked about 3 miles in the rain, smiling and laughing on my way- I only bought a couple things that I think my family will quite enjoy over the Christmas Holiday (Bringing one of my favorite places home). I went and grabbed a hot chocolate and ventured back to the house. On my way home, I was thinking- "this is my life- how cool!"
I have had a lot of these, "this is my life" moments over the past couple months. I don't think I have ever been in such a place to appreciate what my life truly can be. The other night, I took a walk through the city. The German Christmas Market is Amazing. I was listening to the christmas music, and found myself at the ice skating rink. There I was, watching families laugh, sing songs, skate around and I couldn't help but take in a deep breath and be thankful. Thankful, for every door that has swung wide open for me to get here.
(I should add that my moment was totally disrupted by this kid falling flat on his face, getting injured, the red shirts clearing the skating rink and calling for Emergency Services)
Yesterday morning, I headed out for a run. Much later than normal. I am not sure what has gotten to me the past few days not being the early riser I normally am. I'll blame the weather. Yet, everything works out for a reason. I ran up fountain bridge, made a turn onto a street I don't normally turn on, back up Morrison where I was coming to a light with another runner. I asked him where he was headed to. Next thing I know, we are running together headed to Arthur's Seat. My intended two mile run, turned into 6 and then hike up to the top of the most beautiful place.
(I should add that there were two naked men at the top of the seat taking pictures of their hiking accomplishments. Be looking for these photos to go viral soon.)
Over looking the entire city of Edinburgh, the ocean, looking out at Scotland, again… I had to stop and think, "this is my life". The city is breathtaking. There is no other way to describe it. So even with the wind, and the rain- you can't help but fall in love with this place.
My new friend and I met another new friend on the way down the hill. And why was I ever saying that people don't talk to strangers in this city- sure enough, you just have to meet the right strangers.
(I should add we met him after he slipped on some mud down the hill, I laughed - it was funny. he was ok. )
Walking back through the city, I couldn't help but laugh and be grateful for my adventure. No, I wasn't productive as I had planned, after what turned into being a 9 mile adventure.. but those of you who know me, and know my workaholic tendencies, I hope you are celebrating with me that I took some time to smell the roses, I took an unexpected journey to appreciate my life and embrace the present.
I don't know if I will ever see my new friends again. One was only on a business trip, and the other works outside of the city on an oil rig and is only here for a month or so at a time. Yet, these two gentlemen made a memory for me that will last a lifetime.
(I am blogging about it, so even if I do forget it, this is documented and will help my aging mind. I am turning 30… It's bound to happen.)
So even if the wind is howling, and the rain is coming down- its hard not to smile. I love Scotland. I can't wait for you all to come visit- because Scotland already has a huge piece of my heart and I can't wait to share that with you.