Scotland 2012:  Wednesday, July 4th The scene: We've had all the possible weathers today several times each--sun, mist, rain, and a few more.  It rains so much here that even the horses have raincoats. Sightseeing and travel: We left Skye and traveled over the bridge to the mainland.  We visited the Eilean Donan Castle on a beautiful water setting.  Then we traveled back to Overtoun House.  We sang America the Beautiful to honor the success of our country's rebellion today! And had McDonald's burgers and fries for dinner with American flag table decorations. The work:  Tonite we will furnish and finish the library and have a short dedication ceremony. Tomorrow we will fly back to Raleigh.   We are blessed that we've had an enjoyable and safe trip and that God has enabled us to help our friends and their work at Overtoun House.  Thanks be to God and thank you team. MIssion accomplished.  See you back home!

Scotland 2012: Tuesday July 3rd

The scene: A beautiful cool dry day that was sunny for several hours. We actually used sunglasses! After a full Scottish breakfast we set out sight-seeing. First up was the Kilmuir Graveyard, resting place of Flora MacDonald. The Skye Museum of Island Life showed how the residents lived a hundred years ago in thatched cottages. The ruins of the MacLeod castle are on a cliff above the water that was an amazing viewpoint. We toured the northern penisula of Skye with coastal and mountain views that were gorgeous in the sun. We finished up assisting the local economy with a bit of shopping in Portree and Uig, small towns on Skye. Tonite we hear traditional Scottish music. More tomorrow!

Scotland 2012: Monday July 2nd We said tearful goodbyes to the Bob and Melissa Hill at the Overtoun House this morning. Our driver Allen and tour guide Kathy whisked us from Dumbarton at 8am off our tour. Briefly we rode alongside Loch Lomond and then the road to Glencoe--which the tour books call the most beautiful drive in Scotland and then on the Road to the Isles. A ferry took us across to the Isle of Skye. The weather improved as we traveled north and the drizzle ended when we arrived in Skye. The terrain of Skye was very beautiful changing from the moors to mountainous as we traveled north. Some gorgeous sights including sheep and native cattle. We arrived at our hotel and had dinner this evening. More tomorrow.

Scotland 2012: Sunday

The scene:  Cool but very sunny and bright.  Gorgeous sunset!

Brief summary of today:  We worshipped with Bob and Melissa's congregation today in the tea room.  Dr. Hailey gave the sermon .  Afterwards a group went to Dunbarton and Dunbarton rock for an excursion.  Some stayed and finished up work.  This evening we dedicated the finished dining room with a communion service.  Tomorrowam we leave "on holiday" for 2 days on the Isle of Skye.  We return Wednesday evening and will put the furnishings in the library.

Mickey and Riley Pleasants with the mantle they donated.