Me and my husband came to Scotland in March 2024 and we fell in love with Scotland . I love watching your videos imagining what life would be like if we could move to Scotland . Thank you so much for sharing your life in Scotland . It brings me peace and joy watching your adventures .
We made the move from London 12 years ago and haven't looked back. Apart from the distance from the rollercoasters we now visit all the time for my son's interests on our other channel.
Hi love watching your videos I am glad you love living in Scotland its just so different to anywhere else in world just the landscape just takes your breath away
I enjoy your videos very much, I was born and lived in the Lothians for fifty plus years. I now live in Canada in farming country, been here for twenty seven years. and I live in a pretty and peaceful small town but oh how I miss the variety and beauty of Scotland. Thank you and best wishes to all of you.
You find it chilly now.............wait another month or two, then tell us what you feel 🙂 Love that part of the Country. You guys are so lucky to live there.
@@davidmartin3947Yes I’d agree. The cold is manageable but the darkness can be very hard to cope with. Getting dark at 3pm took a bit of getting used to when we moved to the far north of the highlands.
@@thehighlandlife2023 Hr=ere in the south it gets dark at about 1600. So your only 1 hour ahead in darkness. Its now dark at about 1930 hours, but by Nov it will be 1600. What time of year is it for Scotland?
I was taking a walk near Muiravonside this afternoon, along the canal. Love it there. I've got some direct ancestors who lived and worked there back in the 19th century when it was an Estate. Great to see this vid pop up.
You are surrounded by some beautiful countryside- and you seem to be making the most of it! Having just been away on holidy within the UK, and spending a lot of time outdoors, I am now inspired by your video to get back out there later today instead of skulking around indoors as has become my habit. Thanks for sharing!
It’s funny because before we moved, a rainy day meant indoors only staying warm and cozy. Now, we’re just embracing it and getting wet. Otherwise, we’d never get out!
Muiravonside is a 'hidden gem' perfect for taking your dog a walk around or going for a run in. Love it. Oh, and you were literally about a 10 minutes drive away from California, Falkirk! A slightly different California 😂😂
Thank you! We wanted to try out something new and see how people responded to a bit of added history. We’ll keep adding snippets here and there if you like it!
I live in my campervan and have found a fabulous place on the east coast of Scotland to stay for the winter, called Glenbuchty, apparently there's always Orca and Minke whale's to spot, so looking forward to it 🤘👍
@@SimpleScottishLiving Absolutely, to be fair i just scan the coast on Google earth to see where the hidden beaches are, you'd be really surprised what you find on Google earth 🤘👍
You really can’t beat the scenery in Scotland, my family and I will be visiting soon, it will be our last visit to see friends before we move to Jamaica. Great video 😊
Love watching your weekly family trips! Reminds me of when we would take our two boys on similar outings (both at home in NJ and when we lived in Kent). And that meat selection!! So jealous.
Thank you! They enjoy it so much, and each adventure is pretty amazing. We’ll slowly venture further out, but we still can’t get over what’s available just outside our doorstep.
When I saw the title, I assumed Annie had started driving. 😂 I have been back in Scotland for just over a year and still can’t get used to the narrow roads. 💖
Thanks for highlighting another farm shop! 😋 It's always good to know where they are, for future reference. Those, and places for scones and/or sticky toffee pudding 😁
@@SimpleScottishLiving Sticky Toffee Pudding Ingredients (makes 8 biggies or 12 littlies) The Puddings 4 oz/125 g Chopped Dates 1 tablespoon Instant Coffee Granules ¼ pint/150ml Boiling Water 2 oz/50 g Butter 3 oz/75 g Soft Brown Sugar 5 oz/150 g Self-Raising Flour Eggs (beaten) 2 The Sauce 4 oz/125 g Butter 6 oz/175 g Soft Brown Sugar ¼ pint/150 ml Single Cream Arrange paper muffin cases in an 8-hole muffin tin. Alternatively, use paper bun cases in a 12-hole bun tin, and reduce the cooking time by 5 minutes. If the dates are large, dice them into even sized pieces, then put them in a heatproof bowl with the coffee. Pour the boiling water over them, and leave to soak and cool for about 10 minutes. Cream the butter and sugar together in a bowl until light and fluffy. (If butter is straight out of the fridge, zap for 10 seconds in the microwave). Add a teaspoon of the flour to prevent curdling, then beat in a small amount of the beaten eggs. Continue adding small amount of the flour and egg until all have been added. This will make a firm cake mixture. Stir in the date and coffee mixture, mix well, then divide between the paper muffin of bun cases. Bake in a pre-heated oven, 180oC (350oF), Gas Mark 4, for 30 minutes, or until well-risen and springy to the touch. Transfer the puddings in their paper cases to a wire rack to cool. To make the toffee sauce, combine the butter, brown sugar and cream in a pan. Heat gently until both the butter and the sugar have melted. Simmer, stirring for 2 minutes until the mixture looks like thin toffee. If serving straight from the oven, peel the paper off each pud, and place in individual dishes. Pour the toffee sauce over and around each pudding. A little cream may be poured over the puddings in addition to the toffee sauce, if liked. The puddings can also be zinged in the microwave (with the sauce in a separate container) if served later. Notes 1. Pre-packed chopped stoned dates do just as well as the fresh ones: stoning and chopping dates is a pain. 2. Anchor butter seems to make a more lip-smacking sauce: if using Lurpack, add a pinch of salt to bring the taste up a bit.
@@SimpleScottishLiving - It really is 'the one'. Don't do what I did, and assume it'll taste better made with 'real coffee'. Instant coffee really makes a better pud!
Oh we dont get the cold winters we used to..20 plus years ago, Oct was definitely hat, scarf,gloves and lots of crisp frosty days....now it seems more damp but milder though West Lothian can get a bit of snow..enjoying following your journey and seeing all the places Ive been to in my 60 yrs in Bonnie Scotland. We are very lucky
It’s been quite mild so far, and we’re hoping for a decent winter. The thought of snow is actually a happy one in our household! The kids have only witnessed it a few times.
Love watching your videos. I live in East Lothian and have never been to Gosford House. What a beautiful place. Aberlady is a lovely village. I had lunch in The Leddie last week, was very nice. Keep enjoying our local amenities and posting here. Thankyou
Watching you on a rainy Sunday morning in the south west of England. Stunning scenery on your doorstep; did not like the aqueduct though, made me feel queasy! Your gorgeous puppy makes me want one ☺
Glad you enjoyed it! Yes, we filmed on top of the aqueduct looking down, but the footage was out of focus unfortunately. As someone afraid of heights, it was 🫣😱
Curling Season starts soon here in Canada! It’s very popular across most of the country, but especially here where I live in the Prairies. Great video guys. Keep it up!
@@SimpleScottishLiving , most of our curling is indoors now. We have some quite large rinks where various bonspiels take place. We have the Scotties Tournament of Hearts (women) and the Tim Horton’s (a huge coffee chain in Canada) for the men. Those are the big ones but every province has its own bonspiels; with the goal being to get to the ones mentioned above.
ps,a lot of comments about how awful the weather is about to come. A bit exaggerated,...esp being on the East coast. Since 2011 weve only had a few snowy days during each winter,even frost is quite un common.Oct/Nov can be a bit squally/windy,but otherwise love a crisp Autumn/winter walk,you'll acclimatise/learn how to enjoy
Thanks so much! It’s been quite mild so far, so we’re holding out hope for a decent winter. Nothing some good gear and hand warmers can’t help though 😊
Hello Zach, Annie and family (little Finn too) thank you so much the overlay music you played at the beginning of your vlog made me feel emotional it was so beautiful, loved following you on your family walks 😊 Finn is such a gorgeous little puppy and he looks to be already doing so well with his recall, he enjoyed running between you both a very happy little contented puppy, have a great week to you all ♥️
So glad you enjoyed! We love searching for just the right music to set the stage and to emote what we were feeling. Wishing you well! Finnegan is a wonderful little pup, and we're so happy he's up for all of our adventures.
Finn seems so tiny, I can't remember how old you said he was. I know my pup was under 10 weeks when I got her & she had upset tummy, was too young to have left her mum, they often get weaned too young. Such a bright boy he's learning So quickly! That aquaduct would make me nervous I couldn't have walked across! Zac is an incredible handyman!
Scotland is beautiful, what a place on Earth you live. Taking your life at a slower pace is really showing on you. Life is for family and living not grinding yourself into the ground. I think Annie might have to invest into some thermal underwear and socks, the summer has truly gone 😢❤❤
Thank you for taking notice! We truly are loving this change of pace. It’s been so so good for the fam. And yes, the thermals will be on my next shopping list!
I enjoyed that! When we were kids we used to play on the aquaduct- even when some of the railings were missing - it all got repaired in 2000. Before Muiravonside estate was a country park, just a house and estate that belonged to the Stirling family
I went into a slight rage seeing the gate saying a permit was required. Sanity caught up with me quickly when I remembered where you were lol I love our roaming rights here in Scotland
@@SimpleScottishLiving Hello folk.I love your charming videos but I love your dog more. I was surprised to see a requirement/demand for payment to walk in the Policies. I may be wrong but I thought The Land Reform Act (2003) permitted free access to land as long as no damage is done and nobody's privacy is invaded. Asking for a donation for land management would be OK but requiring payment might be extortion. What do you think ?
@@archiejohnston498 Thanks for watching, yes it was a bit of a surprise to us as well. Not 100% sure all the details of ownership etc but it would be interesting to find out. Thanks for watching.
Loved your two outings, there is no better place to walk and appreciate the beauty of nature as Scotland. Finn seems such a chill little chap, he doesn't give out any mad puppy vibes at all, maybe they will come later 🤣You will discover that finding dog poo in autumn leaves is a very particular skill set, blink and its gone! Have a great week!
Great video. Another couple of places for you - 1. Almond Valley, great play parks, animals, wee train ride/tractor ride, and loads more, no.2 Pittencrieff Park, amazing play parks, peacock sanctuary, well, tower, loads to explore
Lovely to see you're enjoying the area. North berwick is good. Don't forget the tickets are on sale for the santa specials on the Bo'ness and kinneil railway.
You have a lovely family, I’m sure you’re going to love settling in Scotland, it’s a beautiful country as is the rest of Britain. (Outside of the cities)❤
Ah Muiravonside park and the Avon Aqueduct, 5 minutes from my house. Back in the 70's someone tried to drive their car along the frozen canal...didn't end well, but they did make it past the aqueduct 😁 Did you find the Stirling's pet graveyard whilst you were at Muiravonside? Next time check out Linlithgow, lovely Loch and Palace. If the weather is one of those crisp, clear days take a drive up Preston Road (West end of town) and go up to Cockleroy - there's a carpark - and have a short walk up an extinct volcano, the views are incredible.
Adding all of these to our to-do list! Thank you for sharing! We didn’t see the pet graveyard either. Gives us all the more reason to come back. Also, who would drive across that?! They must’ve been insane haha
We live in Dumfriesshire so not that far from you! I’m loving all the beautiful scenery and Instagram type pics . Scotland is really beautiful isn’t it? I’m from Ireland originally, you guys should put that on your list to visit as I think you would love it!!! Thanks for my ‘Selfcare’ fix this morning!!! Xx
@@SimpleScottishLiving Absolutely!! The kids would love ferry ! Stranraer to Belfast or Larne. Take your car and Finn. Antrim Coast best play to stay I think (I’m from Northern Ireland) , Lots of places if interest (Giants Causeway) Irish people are so friendly and their ‘sweet treats’ amazing Annie! X
@@deborahnicholson6053Scotland is just incredible isn’t it? We moved to the very far north of the Scottish highlands 2 years ago and feel blessed everyday. So incredibly beautiful. I share our adventures here in the Highlands in my channel if you wanted to check them out xxx
Been with you since you were living in California. How are the kids adapting? I guess good because the kids such a beautiful place you’ve brought them to such beautiful things to do beautiful store. You guys are so lucky.❤
Thanks, Claire! So happy to have you joining us. The kids are doing incredibly well and haven’t taken much time at all to adjust. They’re on rugby teams now, and our daughter is in local music class. It’s been a smooth transition so far.
I know a lot of people find the Autumn and Winter months challenging and a bit depressing, but I embrace the changing seasons. There is still so much to enjoy and relish even in the midst of our long (and often harsh) winters. But if someone could sort out the spider home invasions at this time of the year I'd happily bequeath them everything I own.!!! 🤣
I agree! Tbh since moving here to the far north of the Scottish highlands we have learnt to embrace all seasons. Even the dark evenings from 3pm it can get dark here in the Winter so we take moon light walks, star gaze and nighttime wildlife walks. Winters now my favourite time of year.
100% with the spiders!!! What are these monstrous beasts?! I’ve never seen spiders this big before. We also try to embrace the change in seasons! Each one has something to offer as long as you have the right clothes!
My husband was just offered a job in England near the Scottish border. Our goal is to be there by December. He's British so he's going home but it will be an adjustment for me and our kids. 😄
@@HeatherWhitlock-c5m Huge congratulations! Where will you be moving from? We fully understand the adjustment period, but I’m sure you’ll end up loving the change. My biggest worry was about the transition for the kids, but they’ve embraced it wholeheartedly ❤️
@@SimpleScottishLiving we'll be moving from Washington State. His parents live in Scotland so the kids are really excited to see Nana and Papa more often. 😄
Lovely part of the country. We visited the Kelpies and Falkirk Wheel when we were in Scotland a few years ago. You will need some kind of seat cover or small bed for Finn to sit on in the car, otherwise it will be ruined with muddy paws.
We are native Californians with Scottish ancestry. We spent two times living in Scotland for the length of our visitors' visa (three months). The first was on Skye (before the bridge). The second time was in highland Perthshire, mostly in Pitlochry and Aberfeldy. Now we live in a senior facility in Watsonville/ Santa Cruz/ Monterey Bay (depending on your knowledge of geography). We loved your videos of Dunkeld. Have you been to Loch o' the Lowes and the Osprey centre? Ar 85 we long to make the trip again, but for now we will depend on you tube and people like you.
Another enjoyable video thanks Aberlady is in my county . Have you thought about doing articles for the Eastlothian life magazine or The Eastlothian courier newspaper ?
It’s such a lovely area! We hadn’t quite thought of that and don’t even know how we’d start with such a venture, but we’d love to do something like that one day.
Beautiful scenery up there in Scotland. It's not the temperatures that will get you in winter since it usually hovers a few degrees above freezing - it's the high humidity that makes the air feel cold and wet.
Gosford House is the point where the Edinburgh marathon turns around and heads back to Musselburgh. For a lot of people it's basically a reminder of suffering :)
🤣🤣 Don’t think we’ll ever join that camp again! Zach’s last Edinburgh half marathon was met with raw nipples, and my Disney marathon was a one and only!!
Just put Gosford House on my ‘Places to Visit’. Not too far from Central Scotland & wish to try the newly opened The Leddie in Aberlady. Love your videos x
Fact: me and a friend walked the West Highland Way last year in the spring and there are posted signs that said farmers had the right to shoot dogs off-lead as they are a threat to their livestock. That was an eye-opener for sure. Hello from Toronto 🇨🇦 but born in London 🇬🇧
Don't forget you've got Tantallon Castle, Dirleton Castle, and Seacliff Beach, to name a few, for interesting video ideas. I drove down from Inveness last night, glorious sunshine all the way down, then fog.
Such a beautiful video and it sets off the Autumn season perfectly 🍂they have become a weekend treat to watch 🍂 we love walking in the woods of Wales and have plans to visit Scotland next year- it looks stunning💖 Would you mind us asking what camera you use, your videos are always fab and so crisp!
Thank you for saying that! We just use our iPhones and probably will keep doing it that way just for the ease of being able to get shots quickly and return to the adventures with the kids.
We live just outside the Linlithgow area, about 20 odd mile out of Edinburgh, it is always milder in Edinburgh than our part of the world in the countryside, we are surrounded by the fields, forests and peatbogs which keep everything damp so our winters are colder due to the dampness. We're only 3 miles from Muiravonside which will be really cold as the weeks come. Wrap up and enjoy your walk. Pop into Linlithgow it's a beautiful little Burra, it's West Lothians mini Edinburgh it has a Royal Palace where Mary Queen of Scots was born, it has some lovely eateries and a Loch where you can feed the ducks and swans (remember to take sime food for them, especially this time of year) kindness goes a long way.
Dad's cousins at one time farmed Luffness Mains , Aberlady , and Saltcoats , Gullane ( that's now built on). Mum's cousin was in Hoprig . Macmerry so this is so interesting ( again ! ).
The 'Hobbit hole' is surely an ice house. These were built underground, lined with straw, and filled with natural ice in the winter before there was refrigeration. The ice would last all summer... or, at least, that was the idea.
I spend most of my working day in a freezer that runs down to about minus 20 degrees.Anytime somebody complains about it being cold my response is "nah it's like a warm summer's day in Glasgow."
Please please do not ever let your dog be off lead down trails where there are farm animals, there are so many stories of walkers letting their dogs go and their dogs suddenly chasing the sheep (sometimes there is a little part of fence that is damaged and they get thru),nipping at them, it stresses them out. Causes the pregnant ewes to have stillborns. The Sheep Game has had this happen, give them a watch. love watching your new adventures.
Great scenery, makes me want to take walks in Scotland. What is curling? Thanks for showing the inside of shops and restaurants, always curious to see what it’s like inside. What is clothes shopping like near you?
Thanks for watching! Curling is a winter sport, sliding heavy stones along ice towards a target. It’s often showcased during the Winter Olympics. Glad you liked seeing the inside of places. That’s good feedback, which we’ll keep in mind for future videos. Clothes shopping in our local area is made up of lots of small second hand shops and a few boutiques. Just a few minutes drive is a shopping center much like you’d see in the U.S. but with UK equivalents to places like TJMax, H&M, Ross, NorthFace, and general department stores.
Could you talk a bit about how the schooling compares? Such as the school hours, holidays and lunch options and are the boys covering topics that they have already done or are they catching up?
It’s quite similar with minor differences. Academics are roughly a year ahead in the UK. Similar subjects across the board. Shorter summer holidays in the UK, but there are more frequent week or 2 week breaks throughout the school year, which we actually prefer. The days spent in school is equal by the end of the year. Our boys currently bring their own lunches to school as the school lunches provided for free are not items they’re used to yet (e.g., soups, curries, sausages, fish cakes, etc.). We’re introducing these items and home so that in time, they can get the school meals instead. The kids love school so far though, and the teachers have been accommodating and incredible.
Chilly?? No way, I'm just back from playing golf, t shirt weather - - - - cloudy, bit of a northerly gale, soggy underfoot........ wait till winter. or as we call it late summer, we only get 3 seasons here in Scotland, Early Winter, Late Winter, and Waiting for Winter
It's a foggy Monday morning here on the north Olympic Peninsula of Washington. I'm preparing dehydrated apples from my orchard, and enjoying the beautiful Scottish scenery, and very relaxing vibe of your walks with Finnegan and family! It's really heartwarming to see a couple who treasure family life, and are enjoying raising children, as well as adventures in Scotland! I'm hoping to visit Scotland next summer, and I definitely want to visit the aqueduct, and hike in the surrounding trails! What is the official name of the aqueduct? I rode a canal boat on the Ponctiscilly Aqueduct in Wales last summer, and the views from the aqueduct over the River Dee valley were beautiful too!
You won’t regret it! Such incredible sights. It was the Avon Aqueduct. You’ve inspired me to make some dehydrated fruit garland for fall. Hopefully, it turns out well. I’m a bit envious of your orchard!
@@SimpleScottishLiving I am very fortunate- I bought my house 23 years ago specifically because of the orchard. I have about 20 fruit trees, about half are apple trees. Luckily the apple trees ripen one at a time between the beginning of August and the end of October.
Gosh those are good prices for a glass of wine I read on the menu, we were out for lunch a few weeks ago in Prestwick two glasses of wine with our meal, 250ml £7.30 😳 175ml £5.70
Another excellent vid - have you tried the Steam Trains over at Boness?? Fantastic walk around Penicuik house if you want to take Fin on a gentle walk Glencorse Reservoir is another option with a bit longer walk. Im kinda in your area pm me if you want to vlog a wee special tour in the Boness area
We haven’t! Thanks so much for the suggestions. It’s nice to be able to go places that are just a few minutes from us during the weekdays and not spend so much time in the car.
Some other great walks I just remembered, Arthur's seat is obvious but if you go to Duddingston next to the 12 century kirk (where Jock Tamson was the minister, from the saying "we're all Jock Tamsons bairns" comes from ) you find Dr Neil's garden(voted the most peaceful spot in a UK city)Roslyn glen( Roslyn chapel),the hermitage/blackford hills/Braidhills south of Morningside, Flotterston about 7 miles south of Edinburgh (has a nice pub,with beer garden) Also I think your pup might have some greyhound in him. Only came on to make a corny joke, this got out of hand sorry.😅
🤣Love a corny joke! We appreciate all the walk suggestions. It truly helps us out so much, and it’s nice hearing from people who have an idea of the places we like to visit. Adding to the list! I did Arthur’s Seat right after we moved here with some of my friends that came to visit, but Zach and I will have to do it again while the kids are at school. A little too precarious at the top with the little one 😉
@@SimpleScottishLiving Dr Neil's garden is in Duddingston, which you can drive to( probably a bit too tranquil for kids/dogs, Blackford hill ( where we rolled our Easter eggs) has a car park not far from the top and a nice duck pond. And the Pentland hills regional park (Flotterston) is the proper countryside it has 100km of paths you can walk, wild camp, fish ( there are 3 reservoirs)cycle horse ride,ski (artificial slope) I was a ferrel child,so would camp up there from about 10 years old, apart from getting raided by a gang of sheep ( they ate all our vegetables early in the morning) it's very safe for kids/dogs. Sorry this turned into more waffle again, I'm bedridden at the moment so got time to kill, don't feel you have to reply I know you must be busy❤️
Another place that will be close for yous but a shorter walk will be newbattle abbey college,big estate grounds just follow the road down from esk bank or if coming in from dalkeith country park head past newbattle golfcourse entrance and turn left. Its a smaller estate walk, path runs along the river esk and newbattle golf course and can bring you out onto the main road or loop round through the estate grounds, they filmed an episode of the yv show TAGGART (scottish police crime show) there. Then you could add that in with a walk at melville castle grounds litteraly 5mins away . Elginhau farm, decent for what it is price wise and the carvery options.should try its all you can eat breakfast in the mprnings aswel. Something like £5.99 or £6.99 including a tea /coffee and has alot to offer. Place does need a revamp due to being busy alot of the time, fair few of the tables and chairs are wobbly and need replaced .just some touch ups etc
Me and my husband came to Scotland in March 2024 and we fell in love with Scotland . I love watching your videos imagining what life would be like if we could move to Scotland . Thank you so much for sharing your life in Scotland . It brings me peace and joy watching your adventures .
So glad you enjoy!! That’s how I felt the first time I visited as well. Always hoped to end up here ❤️
We made the move from London 12 years ago and haven't looked back. Apart from the distance from the rollercoasters we now visit all the time for my son's interests on our other channel.
You're both doing such a great job. Fin is going to be a brilliant asset to your family. it does my heart good to watch your videos. thank you.
Thank you so much! 😊
Hi love watching your videos I am glad you love living in Scotland its just so different to anywhere else in world just the landscape just takes your breath away
It truly is! We are so grateful to be here ❤️🏴
Fin is such a good boy!! Loved seeing him run back and forth. Thanks for sharing and what a great place to have a dog!!
He’s loving his life here! It’s a perfect place for a pup ❤️
I enjoy your videos very much, I was born and lived in the Lothians for fifty plus years. I now live in Canada in farming country, been here for twenty seven years. and I live in a pretty and peaceful small town but oh how I miss the variety and beauty of Scotland. Thank you and best wishes to all of you.
Thank you for sharing! Canadian farm country sounds pretty incredible too. Happy to have you joining along. The Lothians are pretty unbeatable! ❤️
Welcome to Scotland ❤
Thank you! Happy to be here!
You find it chilly now.............wait another month or two, then tell us what you feel 🙂 Love that part of the Country. You guys are so lucky to live there.
So true! At least we’ve invested in some good winter gear. Looks like it might be time to start unpacking those boxes.
Its not the cold, its the dark. You might like to book a week in the Canaries midwinter, just to get some light as a break.
But the Winters can also be beautiful 😍 but yeah very cold up here!
@@davidmartin3947Yes I’d agree. The cold is manageable but the darkness can be very hard to cope with. Getting dark at 3pm took a bit of getting used to when we moved to the far north of the highlands.
@@thehighlandlife2023 Hr=ere in the south it gets dark at about 1600. So your only 1 hour ahead in darkness. Its now dark at about 1930 hours, but by Nov it will be 1600. What time of year is it for Scotland?
I was taking a walk near Muiravonside this afternoon, along the canal. Love it there. I've got some direct ancestors who lived and worked there back in the 19th century when it was an Estate. Great to see this vid pop up.
It’s such a lovely place. Can’t wait to go back!
This was great!! FINN living his Best life!!! ❤
He is!! It’s been so fun to watch him taking in all the new sights and smells 😊
Zach and Annie, amazing video keep up the good content
Thank you! Will do!
Autumn 🍂 my favourite season 🍂 The UK has some of the most beautiful countryside.
Can’t wait to see more! We’re headed up north in a few weekends just with Finnegan, so hopefully, we get some wonderful Autumn landscapes!
I agree! Autumn is a stunning time of year. Especially here in the Scottish Highlands 😍
Wow it really is so beautiful where you live. It’s so great to have so many options for walking children and dogs! Thank for taking us with you 😊 xx
This will be my first winter in Scotland so looking forward to it. Another great video from you guys, look forward to them so much xx
Thanks so much! Ours too! Hope it’s not too brutal 🫣
Winter has become my favourite season since moving to the Scottish Highlands. Absolutely love the snow we get up here 😍
The moreI see, the more I want to go there! Thank you SOOO much for these videos! Scotland is the best!❤❤❤❤❤
It’s absolutely stunning! I hope you have the opportunity one day ❤️
Loving your channel so much. Thanks for taking us along on your adventures.
Thanks for watching! It’s been so fun to explore and share these adventures.
So good to share with you folks !! Seeing my country through different eyes !
Thanks for joining! It’s been pretty incredible so far.
Wow!!! You visit the most gorgeous places!! It's a truly stunning part of the World
It’s breathtaking! We feel incredibly lucky.
There’s nothing better than an early Autumn walk
It was lovely! Cant wait for more ❤️
You are surrounded by some beautiful countryside- and you seem to be making the most of it!
Having just been away on holidy within the UK, and spending a lot of time outdoors, I am now inspired by your video to get back out there later today instead of skulking around indoors as has become my habit. Thanks for sharing!
It’s funny because before we moved, a rainy day meant indoors only staying warm and cozy. Now, we’re just embracing it and getting wet. Otherwise, we’d never get out!
Beautiful countryside. So fun watching Fin running around 😊
Glad you enjoyed it
Wow I can’t believe you were at Muiravonside Country Park, I’m up there almost every day walking my lurcher. ❤
I'm sure we'll be back! You're so lucky to have that on your doorstep. Your pup must be in heaven :)
Muiravonside is a 'hidden gem' perfect for taking your dog a walk around or going for a run in. Love it. Oh, and you were literally about a 10 minutes drive away from California, Falkirk! A slightly different California 😂😂
We loved it, that was our first time and it seems like there is still lots to explore!
Aww we love walking at Gosford too 🍁🍂🥰 Butterdean Wood is beautiful this time of year as well x
Haven’t been there, but we’ll add to the list! Thanks for the suggestion ❤️
What a fun adventure! Thank you 😊 puppy is so adorable 🥰
It was a great week! Just got back from our latest adventure to another lovely country park. Cant wait to share!
Thanks for another beautiful video. Loved the added information on Aberlady! Adds another layer to virtually exploring with you.
Thank you! We wanted to try out something new and see how people responded to a bit of added history. We’ll keep adding snippets here and there if you like it!
Lovely wholesome family ❤❤❤
Thank you!
Great video as always guys 😁
Stunning scenery 😁 - keep up the great work 🖖
Thank you!!
I live in my campervan and have found a fabulous place on the east coast of Scotland to stay for the winter, called Glenbuchty, apparently there's always Orca and Minke whale's to spot, so looking forward to it 🤘👍
That sounds incredible! We need to make a trip! Let us know which spots are must-sees.
@@SimpleScottishLiving Absolutely, to be fair i just scan the coast on Google earth to see where the hidden beaches are, you'd be really surprised what you find on Google earth 🤘👍
Oh what a great find!
We have been lucky to see Orca here in the far north of Scotland. Fingers crossed you get to see some too 🤞
Ooh good hack! We’ll have to try that.
You really can’t beat the scenery in Scotland, my family and I will be visiting soon, it will be our last visit to see friends before we move to Jamaica. Great video 😊
It’s absolutely gorgeous! Glad you’re going to be able to make the trip!
Love watching your weekly family trips! Reminds me of when we would take our two boys on similar outings (both at home in NJ and when we lived in Kent). And that meat selection!! So jealous.
Thank you! They enjoy it so much, and each adventure is pretty amazing. We’ll slowly venture further out, but we still can’t get over what’s available just outside our doorstep.
Fantastic video although colder still ble skies
Thank you! Yes, the blue skies against all the green is a lovely combo!
Lovely video thanks again for taking me around with your family 👍
Happy to have you joining!
Very nice 😊
Lovely to see you 💐
Thank you 😊
After a really crappy day , I watched your video and suddenly I'm back in a happy place, thank you😤😁
Glad to hear it! Thanks for watching ❤️
When I saw the title, I assumed Annie had started driving. 😂 I have been back in Scotland for just over a year and still can’t get used to the narrow roads. 💖
Almost! Sent in for my provisional license a week ago, so that’s definitely in the works 🫣
The roads are so different to anywhere else! Taken a lot of getting used to since we moved to the far north of Scotland x
Thanks for highlighting another farm shop! 😋 It's always good to know where they are, for future reference. Those, and places for scones and/or sticky toffee pudding 😁
Yes to scones and sticky toffee pudding!!
@@SimpleScottishLiving
Sticky Toffee Pudding
Ingredients (makes 8 biggies or 12 littlies)
The Puddings
4 oz/125 g Chopped Dates
1 tablespoon Instant Coffee Granules
¼ pint/150ml Boiling Water
2 oz/50 g Butter
3 oz/75 g Soft Brown Sugar
5 oz/150 g Self-Raising Flour
Eggs (beaten) 2
The Sauce
4 oz/125 g Butter
6 oz/175 g Soft Brown Sugar
¼ pint/150 ml Single Cream
Arrange paper muffin cases in an 8-hole muffin tin. Alternatively, use paper bun cases in a 12-hole bun tin, and reduce the cooking time by 5 minutes. If the dates are large, dice them into even sized pieces, then put them in a heatproof bowl with the coffee. Pour the boiling water over them, and leave to soak and cool for about 10 minutes.
Cream the butter and sugar together in a bowl until light and fluffy. (If butter is straight out of the fridge, zap for 10 seconds in the microwave). Add a teaspoon of the flour to prevent curdling, then beat in a small amount of the beaten eggs. Continue adding small amount of the flour and egg until all have been added.
This will make a firm cake mixture. Stir in the date and coffee mixture, mix well, then divide between the paper muffin of bun cases.
Bake in a pre-heated oven, 180oC (350oF), Gas Mark 4, for 30 minutes, or until well-risen and springy to the touch. Transfer the puddings in their paper cases to a wire rack to cool.
To make the toffee sauce, combine the butter, brown sugar and cream in a pan. Heat gently until both the butter and the sugar have melted. Simmer, stirring for 2 minutes until the mixture looks like thin toffee.
If serving straight from the oven, peel the paper off each pud, and place in individual dishes. Pour the toffee sauce over and around each pudding. A little cream may be poured over the puddings in addition to the toffee sauce, if liked. The puddings can also be zinged in the microwave (with the sauce in a separate container) if served later.
Notes
1. Pre-packed chopped stoned dates do just as well as the fresh ones: stoning and chopping dates is a pain.
2. Anchor butter seems to make a more lip-smacking sauce: if using Lurpack, add a pinch of salt to bring the taste up a bit.
I spent a whack on a cookbook 30 years ago for this one recipe! Totally worth it!
You are an angel!!!! Can’t wait to try this. I think it would be a perfect addition to an autumnal video as well ❤️
@@SimpleScottishLiving - It really is 'the one'. Don't do what I did, and assume it'll taste better made with 'real coffee'. Instant coffee really makes a better pud!
Oh we dont get the cold winters we used to..20 plus years ago, Oct was definitely hat, scarf,gloves and lots of crisp frosty days....now it seems more damp but milder though West Lothian can get a bit of snow..enjoying following your journey and seeing all the places Ive been to in my 60 yrs in Bonnie Scotland. We are very lucky
It got to minus 10 winter last year here in the far north of the Scottish highlands. Winter had become my favourite time of year since moving here. X
It’s been quite mild so far, and we’re hoping for a decent winter. The thought of snow is actually a happy one in our household! The kids have only witnessed it a few times.
@@SimpleScottishLivingthe snow is beautiful!
Really great vlog this week,shows different areas of Scotland to an advantage 😊
Thank you!!
Love watching your videos. I live in East Lothian and have never been to Gosford House. What a beautiful place.
Aberlady is a lovely village. I had lunch in The Leddie last week, was very nice. Keep enjoying our local amenities and posting here. Thankyou
Thank you! Yes, the Gosford House is well worth a visit. Just a shame they no longer have the cafe.
Watching you on a rainy Sunday morning in the south west of England. Stunning scenery on your doorstep; did not like the aqueduct though, made me feel queasy! Your gorgeous puppy makes me want one ☺
Glad you enjoyed it! Yes, we filmed on top of the aqueduct looking down, but the footage was out of focus unfortunately. As someone afraid of heights, it was 🫣😱
There’s a lot of rainy walks for many of us here in Scotland 🤣😍Buts it’s the most magical place on earth!
Love your videos and love seeing the area I am so familiar. Now living in Yorkshire. xxx
It’s been fun exploring! Any wait to visit Yorkshire as well! Any suggestions?
We love your videos. Scotland is beautiful and we cant wait to visit. Little fin is so adorable.
❤️❤️❤️
Curling Season starts soon here in Canada! It’s very popular across most of the country, but especially here where I live in the Prairies.
Great video guys. Keep it up!
Thank you! Yes, looks like we still have awhile before it’s cold enough for any outdoor curling here. Would love to go watch!
@@SimpleScottishLiving , most of our curling is indoors now. We have some quite large rinks where various bonspiels take place. We have the Scotties Tournament of Hearts (women) and the Tim Horton’s (a huge coffee chain in Canada) for the men. Those are the big ones but every province has its own bonspiels; with the goal being to get to the ones mentioned above.
Im from Mull...you need to head west to the islands one day ❤
Thanks for watching! We’d love to make it your way at some point. Definitely in the plans!
Nice vid,well filmed,groovy music,easy Sunday viewing.thanks again👍
ps,a lot of comments about how awful the weather is about to come. A bit exaggerated,...esp being on the East coast. Since 2011 weve only had a few snowy days during each winter,even frost is quite un common.Oct/Nov can be a bit squally/windy,but otherwise love a crisp Autumn/winter walk,you'll acclimatise/learn how to enjoy
Thanks so much! It’s been quite mild so far, so we’re holding out hope for a decent winter. Nothing some good gear and hand warmers can’t help though 😊
@@MrSilverbirch Winters mr favourite time of year here in the Scottish Highlands!!
@@thehighlandlife2023 Me too.Do a lot of winter hillwalking.The light and clarity on a winters day can be awesome
Wow! You must love water.
Gosford Bothy is always worth a visit 👌
Agreed!
The scenery was so beautiful and who wouldn’t love a wooly coo. Finnegan is so darn cute. So, did Annie find the poop, LOL
Yes, but it took a while 5 minutes! He’s stealthy!
Hello Zach, Annie and family (little Finn too) thank you so much the overlay music you played at the beginning of your vlog made me feel emotional it was so beautiful, loved following you on your family walks 😊 Finn is such a gorgeous little puppy and he looks to be already doing so well with his recall, he enjoyed running between you both a very happy little contented puppy, have a great week to you all ♥️
So glad you enjoyed! We love searching for just the right music to set the stage and to emote what we were feeling. Wishing you well! Finnegan is a wonderful little pup, and we're so happy he's up for all of our adventures.
Love your vlog. Benn with you since the first one and hope to see 100’s more.
Thanks for following along ❤️ we hope to keep them coming. It’s been great sharing with everyone!
Entertaining video. Thanks for sharing! Finnegan is my favourite "online" dog at the moment! 😎
Ah yes he certainly is a very cute dog! Such a great time when they are puppies!
Glad you enjoyed it! He’s our favourite too 😉
Adorable little Finn he is a very lucky little doggie I just wish all dogs in the world were so lucky ♥️
Finn seems so tiny, I can't remember how old you said he was. I know my pup was under 10 weeks when I got her & she had upset tummy, was too young to have left her mum, they often get weaned too young. Such a bright boy he's learning So quickly! That aquaduct would make me nervous I couldn't have walked across! Zac is an incredible handyman!
That he is! It’s all trial and error. And the aqueduct was truly terrifying for me, but the kids had no problem with it.
Scotland is beautiful, what a place on Earth you live. Taking your life at a slower pace is really showing on you. Life is for family and living not grinding yourself into the ground. I think Annie might have to invest into some thermal underwear and socks, the summer has truly gone 😢❤❤
Not quite yet,...20oC here in Aberdeen yesterday.
We have had some nice early September weather here in the far north of the Scottish highlands!
Thank you for taking notice! We truly are loving this change of pace. It’s been so so good for the fam. And yes, the thermals will be on my next shopping list!
I enjoyed that! When we were kids we used to play on the aquaduct- even when some of the railings were missing - it all got repaired in 2000. Before Muiravonside estate was a country park, just a house and estate that belonged to the Stirling family
Thanks for sharing! Love hearing a bit more about the history. As a mother, I’d have nightmares seeing my kids playing up there 😅
Lovely xxx
It was gorgeous out!
Live in Edinburgh but love Aberlady, Gullane, North Berwick. Great videos
Thank you! Those are some of our favourites as well ❤️
I went into a slight rage seeing the gate saying a permit was required. Sanity caught up with me quickly when I remembered where you were lol I love our roaming rights here in Scotland
It's only £1 though and goes towards the upkeep of the grounds...
🤣 It was nice and cheap so not too bad!
@@SimpleScottishLiving Hello folk.I love your charming videos but I love your dog more.
I was surprised to see a requirement/demand for payment to walk in the
Policies. I may be wrong but I thought The Land Reform Act (2003) permitted free access to land as long as no damage is done and nobody's privacy is invaded. Asking for a donation for land management would be OK but requiring payment might be extortion. What do you think ?
@@archiejohnston498 Thanks for watching, yes it was a bit of a surprise to us as well. Not 100% sure all the details of ownership etc but it would be interesting to find out. Thanks for watching.
Loved your two outings, there is no better place to walk and appreciate the beauty of nature as Scotland. Finn seems such a chill little chap, he doesn't give out any mad puppy vibes at all, maybe they will come later 🤣You will discover that finding dog poo in autumn leaves is a very particular skill set, blink and its gone! Have a great week!
Haha he has his moments! His little razor blade teeth are quite impressive. 🫣 navigating Autumn poop sounds awful. Thanks for watching!
Great video. Another couple of places for you - 1. Almond Valley, great play parks, animals, wee train ride/tractor ride, and loads more, no.2 Pittencrieff Park, amazing play parks, peacock sanctuary, well, tower, loads to explore
Thanks for the tips! This is great. We really appreciate it and are adding to the ‘to do’ list. 😊
Lovely to see you're enjoying the area. North berwick is good.
Don't forget the tickets are on sale for the santa specials on the Bo'ness and kinneil railway.
Thanks so much for the tip! We’ll look into that, especially because our younger son is obsessed with trains. 😊
Chilly? No,wait till January 😮 I'm still wearing shorts& v tops! Autumn 🍂 just round the corner, wait till you see the lovely colours 😊
Yes January is cooold! But the snow is beautiful 😍
Can’t wait!!
So looking forward to seeing snow again!
You have a lovely family, I’m sure you’re going to love settling in Scotland, it’s a beautiful country as is the rest of Britain. (Outside of the cities)❤
Thank you! We’re definitely feeling settled now and love exploring all the incredible locations!
Ah Muiravonside park and the Avon Aqueduct, 5 minutes from my house. Back in the 70's someone tried to drive their car along the frozen canal...didn't end well, but they did make it past the aqueduct 😁 Did you find the Stirling's pet graveyard whilst you were at Muiravonside? Next time check out Linlithgow, lovely Loch and Palace. If the weather is one of those crisp, clear days take a drive up Preston Road (West end of town) and go up to Cockleroy - there's a carpark - and have a short walk up an extinct volcano, the views are incredible.
Adding all of these to our to-do list! Thank you for sharing! We didn’t see the pet graveyard either. Gives us all the more reason to come back. Also, who would drive across that?! They must’ve been insane haha
We live in Dumfriesshire so not that far from you!
I’m loving all the beautiful scenery and Instagram type pics .
Scotland is really beautiful isn’t it?
I’m from Ireland originally, you guys should put that on your list to visit as I think you would love it!!!
Thanks for my ‘Selfcare’ fix this morning!!!
Xx
Glad you enjoyed, and yes, it’s breathtaking here! We would love an Ireland visit! Any suggestions on must-see places?
@@SimpleScottishLiving Absolutely!!
The kids would love ferry ! Stranraer to Belfast or Larne. Take your car and Finn.
Antrim Coast best play to stay I think (I’m from Northern Ireland) , Lots of places if interest (Giants Causeway)
Irish people are so friendly and their ‘sweet treats’ amazing Annie! X
@@deborahnicholson6053Scotland is just incredible isn’t it?
We moved to the very far north of the Scottish highlands 2 years ago and feel blessed everyday. So incredibly beautiful. I share our adventures here in the Highlands in my channel if you wanted to check them out xxx
Thank you!!! Adding to our list. Cant wait to get that direction. What time of year do you think would be best for a visit?
We love catching up on your channel! I’d highly recommend it to anyone here ❤️
Been with you since you were living in California. How are the kids adapting? I guess good because the kids such a beautiful place you’ve brought them to such beautiful things to do beautiful store. You guys are so lucky.❤
Thanks, Claire! So happy to have you joining us. The kids are doing incredibly well and haven’t taken much time at all to adjust. They’re on rugby teams now, and our daughter is in local music class. It’s been a smooth transition so far.
Really enjoyed this video 😍😍
Thank you!! It was a fun one to put together!
Well if we ever make it back, a visit to Muiravonside park and that bothy shop will be on the cards for sure.
Glad to hear it! You won’t be disappointed!
I know a lot of people find the Autumn and Winter months challenging and a bit depressing, but I embrace the changing seasons. There is still so much to enjoy and relish even in the midst of our long (and often harsh) winters.
But if someone could sort out the spider home invasions at this time of the year I'd happily bequeath them everything I own.!!! 🤣
I agree! Tbh since moving here to the far north of the Scottish highlands we have learnt to embrace all seasons. Even the dark evenings from 3pm it can get dark here in the Winter so we take moon light walks, star gaze and nighttime wildlife walks. Winters now my favourite time of year.
100% with the spiders!!! What are these monstrous beasts?! I’ve never seen spiders this big before.
We also try to embrace the change in seasons! Each one has something to offer as long as you have the right clothes!
I love the thought of moonlit walks. Sounds stunning! We’ll have to make a highlands visit in the winter.
@@BelfastDave spiders are harmless
@BelfastDave my chickens go to bed alot earlier, in winter,about 3.30pm as in summer about 10pm
My husband was just offered a job in England near the Scottish border. Our goal is to be there by December. He's British so he's going home but it will be an adjustment for me and our kids. 😄
@@HeatherWhitlock-c5m Huge congratulations! Where will you be moving from? We fully understand the adjustment period, but I’m sure you’ll end up loving the change. My biggest worry was about the transition for the kids, but they’ve embraced it wholeheartedly ❤️
@@SimpleScottishLiving we'll be moving from Washington State. His parents live in Scotland so the kids are really excited to see Nana and Papa more often. 😄
@@HeatherWhitlock-c5m Awe, we were similar! It’ll be worth it!
Lovely part of the country. We visited the Kelpies and Falkirk Wheel when we were in Scotland a few years ago. You will need some kind of seat cover or small bed for Finn to sit on in the car, otherwise it will be ruined with muddy paws.
We plan to head that way hopefully soon! Yes, we are working on a better set-up for him in the back :)
We are native Californians with Scottish ancestry. We spent two times living in Scotland for the length of our visitors' visa (three months). The first was on Skye (before the bridge). The second time was in highland Perthshire, mostly in Pitlochry and Aberfeldy. Now we live in a senior facility in Watsonville/ Santa Cruz/ Monterey Bay (depending on your knowledge of geography). We loved your videos of Dunkeld. Have you been to Loch o' the Lowes and the Osprey centre? Ar 85 we long to make the trip again, but for now we will depend on you tube and people like you.
We’ve not been to either of those but would love to! I wouldn’t be opposed to retiring in Perthshire one day ❤️Thanks for watching!
Another enjoyable video thanks Aberlady is in my county . Have you thought about doing articles for the Eastlothian life magazine or The Eastlothian courier newspaper ?
It’s such a lovely area! We hadn’t quite thought of that and don’t even know how we’d start with such a venture, but we’d love to do something like that one day.
Beautiful scenery up there in Scotland. It's not the temperatures that will get you in winter since it usually hovers a few degrees above freezing - it's the high humidity that makes the air feel cold and wet.
Very true! We’ve finally invested in some appropriate winter gear though, so we’re hoping it doesn’t hit too hard!
Gosford House is the point where the Edinburgh marathon turns around and heads back to Musselburgh. For a lot of people it's basically a reminder of suffering :)
🤣🤣 Don’t think we’ll ever join that camp again! Zach’s last Edinburgh half marathon was met with raw nipples, and my Disney marathon was a one and only!!
Just put Gosford House on my ‘Places to Visit’. Not too far from Central Scotland & wish to try the newly opened The Leddie in Aberlady. Love your videos x
Thanks so much! Yes, definitely worth a visit. You should grab a steak pie from the bothy after. You won’t be disappointed!
@ingridclark5802 I had lunch at The Leddie last Thursday. Food was lovely and great atmosphere. I will certainly be going again.
Little Finnegan is a lovely pup. It would be healthier and better for his throat for him to wear a harness. Your videos are very good 👍
We’ll look into it!
Fact: me and a friend walked the West Highland Way last year in the spring and there are posted signs that said farmers had the right to shoot dogs off-lead as they are a threat to their livestock. That was an eye-opener for sure. Hello from Toronto 🇨🇦 but born in London 🇬🇧
We’ve seen some of those signs! Definitely won’t be letting Finnegan off lead there!
Was wondering who Annie reminded me of, realised it is skier Michaela Shiffrin!
I’ll take that compliment any day!! 😊❤️
Don't forget you've got Tantallon Castle, Dirleton Castle, and Seacliff Beach, to name a few, for interesting video ideas. I drove down from Inveness last night, glorious sunshine all the way down, then fog.
Great suggestions! Those are close so would be easy for a simple day out. Thank you!
Irony, the local wildlife probably think the kids are raptors 😊
So true 🤣
Such a beautiful video and it sets off the Autumn season perfectly 🍂they have become a weekend treat to watch 🍂 we love walking in the woods of Wales and have plans to visit Scotland next year- it looks stunning💖 Would you mind us asking what camera you use, your videos are always fab and so crisp!
Thank you for saying that! We just use our iPhones and probably will keep doing it that way just for the ease of being able to get shots quickly and return to the adventures with the kids.
You will love it here in Scotland, I don’t know many who don’t fall in love! Especially here in the beautiful Scottish highlands xx
We live just outside the Linlithgow area, about 20 odd mile out of Edinburgh, it is always milder in Edinburgh than our part of the world in the countryside, we are surrounded by the fields, forests and peatbogs which keep everything damp so our winters are colder due to the dampness. We're only 3 miles from Muiravonside which will be really cold as the weeks come. Wrap up and enjoy your walk. Pop into Linlithgow it's a beautiful little Burra, it's West Lothians mini Edinburgh it has a Royal Palace where Mary Queen of Scots was born, it has some lovely eateries and a Loch where you can feed the ducks and swans (remember to take sime food for them, especially this time of year) kindness goes a long way.
Thank you for the wonderful suggestions! We’d love to make the trip back there soon, especially for the swans!
Toughen up and like it all but please remember the car will rust quicker in Scotland
Dad's cousins at one time farmed Luffness Mains , Aberlady , and Saltcoats , Gullane ( that's now built on). Mum's cousin was in Hoprig . Macmerry so this is so interesting ( again ! ).
You have so many familial connections to these areas - it’s impressive!
The 'Hobbit hole' is surely an ice house. These were built underground, lined with straw, and filled with natural ice in the winter before there was refrigeration. The ice would last all summer... or, at least, that was the idea.
So interesting! Thank you for sharing 😊
I spend most of my working day in a freezer that runs down to about minus 20 degrees.Anytime somebody complains about it being cold my response is "nah it's like a warm summer's day in Glasgow."
😂
🤣
Please please do not ever let your dog be off lead down trails where there are farm animals, there are so many stories of walkers letting their dogs go and their dogs suddenly chasing the sheep (sometimes there is a little part of fence that is damaged and they get thru),nipping at them, it stresses them out. Causes the pregnant ewes to have stillborns. The Sheep Game has had this happen, give them a watch. love watching your new adventures.
Good point! I’m sorry to hear that. We try to be extremely careful with this.
You should visit hopetoun house in south Queensferry, it’s got a nice walk and good area for kids to run about.
Adding to the list! We love getting suggestions from people who’ve already been there. Helps so much cut down on the planning time!
Great scenery, makes me want to take walks in Scotland. What is curling? Thanks for showing the inside of shops and restaurants, always curious to see what it’s like inside. What is clothes shopping like near you?
I wondered what curling was too?!
Thanks for watching! Curling is a winter sport, sliding heavy stones along ice towards a target. It’s often showcased during the Winter Olympics. Glad you liked seeing the inside of places. That’s good feedback, which we’ll keep in mind for future videos. Clothes shopping in our local area is made up of lots of small second hand shops and a few boutiques. Just a few minutes drive is a shopping center much like you’d see in the U.S. but with UK equivalents to places like TJMax, H&M, Ross, NorthFace, and general department stores.
@@SimpleScottishLivingmost curling stones used worldwide come from Ailsa Craig, an island off the west coast of Scotland.
Could you talk a bit about how the schooling compares? Such as the school hours, holidays and lunch options and are the boys covering topics that they have already done or are they catching up?
It’s quite similar with minor differences. Academics are roughly a year ahead in the UK. Similar subjects across the board. Shorter summer holidays in the UK, but there are more frequent week or 2 week breaks throughout the school year, which we actually prefer. The days spent in school is equal by the end of the year. Our boys currently bring their own lunches to school as the school lunches provided for free are not items they’re used to yet (e.g., soups, curries, sausages, fish cakes, etc.). We’re introducing these items and home so that in time, they can get the school meals instead. The kids love school so far though, and the teachers have been accommodating and incredible.
Chilly?? No way, I'm just back from playing golf, t shirt weather - - - - cloudy, bit of a northerly gale, soggy underfoot........ wait till winter. or as we call it late summer, we only get 3 seasons here in Scotland, Early Winter, Late Winter, and Waiting for Winter
That’s so true! But I have to say I love Winter and the snow here in the far north!
We love the snow when we’re prepared for it! I think that’s the difference with living in CA. We never had the right gear for cold days!
🤣 Luckily, we have the right clothing now. We just have to find it in our attic!
It's a foggy Monday morning here on the north Olympic Peninsula of Washington. I'm preparing dehydrated apples from my orchard, and enjoying the beautiful Scottish scenery, and very relaxing vibe of your walks with Finnegan and family! It's really heartwarming to see a couple who treasure family life, and are enjoying raising children, as well as adventures in Scotland! I'm hoping to visit Scotland next summer, and I definitely want to visit the aqueduct, and hike in the surrounding trails! What is the official name of the aqueduct? I rode a canal boat on the Ponctiscilly Aqueduct in Wales last summer, and the views from the aqueduct over the River Dee valley were beautiful too!
You won’t regret it! Such incredible sights. It was the Avon Aqueduct. You’ve inspired me to make some dehydrated fruit garland for fall. Hopefully, it turns out well. I’m a bit envious of your orchard!
@@SimpleScottishLiving I am very fortunate- I bought my house 23 years ago specifically because of the orchard. I have about 20 fruit trees, about half are apple trees. Luckily the apple trees ripen one at a time between the beginning of August and the end of October.
Ah, The good old days, 3 kids, a stroller and a puppy
🤣 We’re getting close to being able to leave the stroller behind now. Definitely the good days!
Gosh those are good prices for a glass of wine I read on the menu, we were out for lunch a few weeks ago in Prestwick two glasses of wine with our meal, 250ml £7.30 😳 175ml £5.70
We thought so too! Yikes £7.30? Pure thievery!
Another excellent vid - have you tried the Steam Trains over at Boness?? Fantastic walk around Penicuik house if you want to take Fin on a gentle walk
Glencorse Reservoir is another option with a bit longer walk. Im kinda in your area pm me if you want to vlog a wee special tour in the Boness area
We haven’t! Thanks so much for the suggestions. It’s nice to be able to go places that are just a few minutes from us during the weekdays and not spend so much time in the car.
Some other great walks I just remembered, Arthur's seat is obvious but if you go to Duddingston next to the 12 century kirk (where Jock Tamson was the minister, from the saying "we're all Jock Tamsons bairns" comes from ) you find Dr Neil's garden(voted the most peaceful spot in a UK city)Roslyn glen( Roslyn chapel),the hermitage/blackford hills/Braidhills south of Morningside, Flotterston about 7 miles south of Edinburgh (has a nice pub,with beer garden)
Also I think your pup might have some greyhound in him.
Only came on to make a corny joke, this got out of hand sorry.😅
🤣Love a corny joke! We appreciate all the walk suggestions. It truly helps us out so much, and it’s nice hearing from people who have an idea of the places we like to visit. Adding to the list! I did Arthur’s Seat right after we moved here with some of my friends that came to visit, but Zach and I will have to do it again while the kids are at school. A little too precarious at the top with the little one 😉
@@SimpleScottishLiving Dr Neil's garden is in Duddingston, which you can drive to( probably a bit too tranquil for kids/dogs, Blackford hill ( where we rolled our Easter eggs) has a car park not far from the top and a nice duck pond. And the Pentland hills regional park (Flotterston) is the proper countryside it has 100km of paths you can walk, wild camp, fish ( there are 3 reservoirs)cycle horse ride,ski (artificial slope) I was a ferrel child,so would camp up there from about 10 years old, apart from getting raided by a gang of sheep ( they ate all our vegetables early in the morning) it's very safe for kids/dogs.
Sorry this turned into more waffle again, I'm bedridden at the moment so got time to kill, don't feel you have to reply I know you must be busy❤️
That’s one lucky puppy having all these amazing adventures! Joining Historic Scotland might be worth a thought. 😊
We’ll look into this! Thank you!
in Scotland you are free too walk on anyone's land! I have never heard of needing a permit to walk through the woods!
Took us by surprise too! I think they actually have quite a bit of manicured grounds, so it was worth the £2 for upkeep. Beautiful place!
Another place that will be close for yous but a shorter walk will be newbattle abbey college,big estate grounds just follow the road down from esk bank or if coming in from dalkeith country park head past newbattle golfcourse entrance and turn left. Its a smaller estate walk, path runs along the river esk and newbattle golf course and can bring you out onto the main road or loop round through the estate grounds, they filmed an episode of the yv show TAGGART (scottish police crime show) there. Then you could add that in with a walk at melville castle grounds litteraly 5mins away .
Elginhau farm, decent for what it is price wise and the carvery options.should try its all you can eat breakfast in the mprnings aswel. Something like £5.99 or £6.99 including a tea /coffee and has alot to offer.
Place does need a revamp due to being busy alot of the time, fair few of the tables and chairs are wobbly and need replaced .just some touch ups etc
Thank you! This is a great suggestion. Likely an upcoming video :) Agree with Elinghau Farm. Tasty enough food though!
Zach your accent is definitely returning.
Thank you! Happy to hear that!
@@SimpleScottishLiving Haste you back. Ha ha