How I Fell In Love With Scotland
I can't remember a time when Scotland did not have a grip on my heart, mind and imagination. I do remember, though, how and through what means it began. Way back to the time when I was a teen (that was a long time ago) I was introduced to the books of the Scottish author, Dorothy Emily Stevenson. Born in Edinburgh in November 18, 1892, she is known by her legions of fans around the world as D. E. Stevenson. She lived in Moffat, Dumfrieshire, Scotland for many years, and wrote over 40 novels; most of her books were written while living there.
I began collecting her novels, and though I loved them all, the one that stands out most vividly is Smouldering Fire. Set in the Scottish Highlands, it tells the fictional story of Iain MacAslan, a Scottish Highland Laird who is forced by economic circumstances to rent his estate of Ardfalloch for the season to strangers, outsiders. One of the guests during that time is Linda Medworth, who is separated from her abusive husband, and her young son Richard. Iain falls in love with Linda and she with him, but the abusive husband becomes a threat to her son and to Linda and Iain's happiness. In a very powerful way, this novel portrayed this beautiful, wild land, its language, customs, and the heart and soul of the Highland people.
And that's the story of how I fell in love with Scotland.
Scotland - A Magical, Mystery Tour
You Tube Video
Scotland the Brave
Hint: To read along while listening to the song, right click on the link and select "Open in New Tab" or "Open in New Window" and the song will begin. Enjoy.
Scotland the Brave
Hark when the night is falling,
Hear! hear the pipes are calling,
Loudly and proudly calling,
Down thro' the glen.
There where the hills are sleeping,
Now feel the blood a-leaping,
High as the spirits of the old Highland men.
Chorus
Towering in gallant fame,
Scotland my mountain hame,
High may your proud standards gloriously wave,
Land of my high endeavour,
Land of the shining river,
Land of my heart for ever,
Scotland the brave.
High in the misty Highlands
Out by the purple islands,
Brave are the hearts that beat
Beneath Scottish skies.
Wild are the winds to meet you,
Staunch are the friends that greet you,
Kind as the love that shines from fair maidens' eyes.
Chorus
Far off in sunlit places
Sad are the Scottish faces,
Yearning to feel the kiss
Of sweet Scottish rain.
Where the tropics are beaming
Love sets the heart a-dreaming,
Longing and dreaming for the hameland again.
Chorus
In the same way as before, you can listen to a bagpipe rendition of Scotland the Brave.
Scottish Heritage & Culture Blogs Plexo
My own unabashadly biased selection of interesting and unique blog posts from Scottish blogs.
Bagpipes, A National Symbol - Scotland Blog
The bagpipe is the national instrument of Scotland more...1 point
Faeries in Scottish Folklore - Scotland Blog
Read all about the different faeries that inhabit more...0 points
The Thistle of Scotland - Scotland Blog
The Scottish National Emblem0 points
The Scottish Kilt: A Brief History - Scotland Blog
For anyone of Scottish ancestry, the kilt is a sym more...0 points
The Scottish Highlands - Scotland Blog
Few areas of the world provoke a sense of pride in more...0 points
Castles in Scotland
Scotland Castles on CafePress
Original, Art Card-Style Paintings by Sarah Bonczek
Product Information
Set off our decorative ceramic tile in its own stylish stained wooden frame - the perfect way to complete a decorative gift or keepsake. Rounded edges and quality construction make this Framed Tile the ultimate wall accent.
* Frame measures 6" x 6" x 0.5", with 4.25" x 4.25" tile
* Constructed of stained Cherrywood
* Two holes for wall mounting
Dunnottar Castle Framed Tile
Dunnottar Castle, Scotland. Painting of Dunnottar Castle in Scotland. December 2005
Framed Tile
Price: 13.49
Hermitage Castle Framed Tile
Hermitage Castle, Scotland. Mini watercolor painting, Dec. 2005
Framed Tile
Price: 13.49
Fairy Tale Castle Framed Tile
This fantasy castle is available on several products. An excellent design for both children and adults!
Framed Tile
Price: 13.49
Eilean Donan Castle Framed Tile
A beautiful painted representation of real Scottish castle.
Framed Tile
Price: 13.49
Fortress Framed Tile
I completed this water color painting in December(ish) 2004. A castle fortress held in the palm of solid rock. This fantasy castle image is available on several products, any of which make a unique fantasy gift.
Framed Tile
Price: 13.49
A Little Mood Music for my Scotland Lens
Selection of Traditional Scottish Tunes
As before, to listen to them without navigating away from the lens, simply right click and select "Open Link in New Tab" or "Open Link in New Window."
- Blue Bonnets Over the Border
(Solo Piper on Bagpipes)- The Flower of Scotland
The unofficial national anthem of Scotland, by Roy Williamson.- The Marquis of Huntley's Highland Fling
(Solo Piper on Bagpipes)- Come By the Hills
Instrumental - so pretty, I'm including the lyrics of the song as well.
Come By The Hills
Come by the hills to a land where fancy is free
And stand where the peaks meet the sky and the lochs reach the sea
Where the rivers run clear and the bracken is gold in the sun
And the cares of tomorrow must wait 'til this day is done.
Come by the hills to the land where life is a song
And sing while the birds fill the air with their joy all day long
Where the trees sway in time and even the wind sings in tune
And the cares of tomorrow can wait 'til this day is done.
Come by the hills to a land where legend remains
Where stories of old stir the heart and may yet come again
Where our past has been lost and the future has still to be won
And the cares of tomorrow must wait 'til this day is done.
Repeat first verse.
Welcome to Highland 2007
Fàilte Oirbh do Ghàidhealtachd 2007
a' bhliadhna a chomharraicheas Alba cultar na Gaidhealtachd
- Highland 2007 - Celebrating Highland Culture
"Highland 2007 recognises and celebrates the area's culture, combining traditional and contemporary Highland culture in a reflection on the old and a celebration of the new."- ARTS - EALAIN
"Art and music in all forms flourish in the Highlands, defining the uniqueness of the Highland way of life, responding to the wild beauty of the environment, the turbulent past and the vibrant modern life of the area."- ENVIRONMENT - àRAINNEACHD
"The Highlands are one of the wildest parts of Britain and the drama of the Highland landscape underpins many aspects of the region's culture. ...This amazing environment is good for both the body and the mind."- HERITAGE - DUALCHAS
"The Highlands have a rich and diverse historic, cultural, architectural and natural heritage which is truly inspiring. Woven into the Highland landscape is a history littered with evocative names - William Wallace, Rob Roy, Bonnie Prince Charlie."- LANGUAGE - CàNAN
"Gaelic is a vital and living part of modern Highland life and plays a major part in the culture and identity of the Highlands. Gaelic language and culture is undergoing a resurgence and acquiring a new cultural relevance."- SCIENCE - SAIDHEANS
"The Highlands have always been a breeding ground for innovative thinking with the wide open spaces and unique environment providing inspiration to many."- SPORT- SPòRS
"The Highlands offer a breathtaking outdoor venue for sporting enthusiasts whether you decide to participate or simply spectate. ...Sport helps to establish community values, to break down barriers and celebrate diversity."
Scottish Highlands YouTube Videos
Scottish Highlands by gee900
Scottish Bagpipe Music
CD's from Amazon.com
Celtic Traditions - A Highland Bagpipe Traditional Music CD
Product Description
Traditional Tunes on the Great Highland Bagpipes by Michael Hamilton
Track Listings
1. Amazing Grace
2. Danny Boy
3. Down by the Sally Garden
4. Flower of Scotland
5. Loch Lomond
6. Scotland The Brave
7. She Moved Through The Fair
8. The Flowers of the Forest
9. The Foggy Dew
10. The Irish Washerwoman
11. The Lark in The Morning
12. The Minstrel Boy
13. The Mist Covered Mountains
14. Auld Lang Syne
15. The Skye Boat Song
Release Date: 10/15/2005
Amazon Price: $8.99 (as of 10/07/2008)
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Land of Light
The music I want to hear when I'm dead, October 16, 2001
Reviewer: Chuck Smith (West Point, NY USA) - See all my reviews
An odd title for a review, perhaps, but true none-the-less. As I am lowered into the grave, let a solitary piper play "Dream Angus" and I will rest content. The Weavers have captured something on a very visceral level here; while some of the songs are tongue-in-cheek and some are quite energetic, all tap into an undercurrent of longing that is so much a part of the Celtic soul. If you want music that will make you misty-eyed, buy this album. If you want music that will make you dance with anticipation of what the new day holds, buy this album. If you want music that will make you want to cross the border and steal English cattle, buy this album.
1. Lucy Cassidy/The Bletherskate/The Smith Of Chilliechassie
2. The Scottish Settler's Lament
3. Donald MacLean's Farewell To Oban/Dunrobin Castle/The Wise Maid/Iain's Jig
4. The Rovin' Heilandman
5. The Yellow Haired Laddie/Dream Angus
6. Land Of Light
7. The Queen Amang The Heather/Mairi Anne Macinnes
8. Bustles And Bonnets
9. The American Stranger
10. Conon Bridge/MacBeth's Strathspey/Major David Manson/Mrs. MacPherson Of Inveran
Release Date: 01/05/1993
Amazon Price: $16.98 (as of 10/07/2008)
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Bagpipes & Brass
Get this CD!, March 12, 2003
Reviewer: Tony Owens - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)
Reviewer: Tony Owens from Northglenn, CO USA
Will be brief, but heartfelt! If there be but one drop of Scottish blood running through your veins, you will want this CD in your collection! The mix of the brass and the bagpipes is very stirring and both the Denver Brass and the Isle of Mull Pipe Band are up to the challenge! I dare anyone to listen to "Hector, The Hero" and not think back to the Highlands of Scotland and the call of pipes. This is my first review and have been buying from Amazon for years . . . but this was the first CD I ever had that prompted me to tell people to add this to their collection.
Track Listings
1. Highland Cathedral
2. Scotland the Brave
3. Girl I Left Behind Me
4. Hector the Hero
5. Far and Away
6. Green Hills of Tyrol/When the Battle Is Over
7. Lament for Jef AR Oenven/An Dro
8. Murray's Fancy
9. I Love My Love
10. Cabar Feidh/Farewell to Nigg
11. Ye Banks and Braes O' Bonnie Doon
12. Henry the Fifth Overture
13. Amazing Grace
Release Date: 10/01/2000
Amazon Price: $15.99 (as of 10/07/2008)
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Scottish Traditional Dance Videos
Highland Fling, Sword Dance, Scottish Country Dancing
Travel to The Real Scotland
Books on Amazon.com
My Heart's in the Lowlands: Ten Days in Bonny Scotland
Book Description
Best-selling novelist Liz Curtis Higgs invites you to take an entertaining journey through the South West of Scotland, known as Dumfries and Galloway. Without crossing the pond, changing time zones, or driving on the left side of the road, you'll explore quaint villages and crumbling castles, old bookshops and charming tearooms in the delightful company of a guide whose love for this quiet nook of Scotland illuminates every page.
The verdant hills and glens of the Lowlands are awash in history, rich with culture, and peopled with engaging characters. The setting for Higgs's acclaimed series of historical novels, Dumfries and Galloway also serves as her home away from home. Her decade-long love affair with this unique area of the world, combined with her award-winning storytelling skills, makes her the ideal armchair travel companion.
Warm, personal, and deeply evocative, My Heart's in the Lowlands transports you to an unforgettable corner of Scotland that will lay claim to your heart forever.
Amazon Price: $11.19 (as of 10/07/2008)
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The Most Beautiful Villages of Scotland
Book Description
An unprecedented treasure trove of delightful villages from the land of mist and mystery, of hidden glens and peaceful lochs.
In the dramatic landscapes of Scotland, beloved of Romantic poets and composers, lies a wealth of delightful villages, here revealed in Hugh Palmer's evocative photo- graphs and commentaries.
The traditional architecture and stunning natural settings of the Highland villages have long proved an attraction to visitors. Some of the most picturesque are former fishing villages, like Auchmithie, from which the herring fleet has long since departed, leaving the splendid harbor to the contemplation of visitors and a couple of lobster boats.
Lowland villages often have an air of quiet, well-ordered prosperity. Rows of stone cottages and a fantastic profusion of hanging baskets make places like Luss on Loch Lomond a charming stop on the road north. Here, too, is the extraordinary Dean Village-a complete, self-contained community surrounded by the city of Edinburgh. And among the many ravishing port-villages on the Islands is the little gem of Tobermory on Mull, where the reflection of a main street of brightly painted houses shimmers in the waters of the harbor. Altogether, thirty-five villages are included. Special sections on the Scottish castle and the monuments of the country's Celtic past round out the account, making this beautiful book one of the most complete pictures of rural Scotland in recent years. A Travelers' Guide listing places to visit, to stay, and to eat helps the reader to enjoy even more a visit to the Scottish Highlands, Lowlands, and Islands. 250 color photographs.
Amazon Price: $26.40 (as of 10/07/2008)
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Thistle Soup: A Ladleful of Scottish Life
Product Description
A brimming and lively broth of rural characters, drunken ghosts, livestock in bedrooms, and country superstitions.
Review
"Adept at re-creating the local dialect and, with gentle humor, animating the family and friends who made up his world, Kerr draws the reader into his vivid and fondly remembered past...A welcome addition to any collection where Peter Mayle's books have been popular." --Library Journal
Amazon Price: $21.95 (as of 10/07/2008)
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Curious Scotland
From Publishers Weekly
This fun book makes no claim to scholarly rigor, but is instead "an autodidact's anthology of neglected episodes in Scottish history." The stories were chosen, Rosie says, according to just one principle: "Really? How interesting! I never knew." And so Rosie, a Scottish journalist, playwright and television documentary maker, takes us on a diverting tour, down the short cuts, bypasses and cul-de-sacs of history rather than its highways, from the time of King Arthur to the present. A flavor of what Rosie offers is hinted at in his chapter titles, which include "The Glasgow Frankenstein" (about an 1818 medical experiment to resurrect a hanged man); "The Blasphemer" (about Thomas Aikenhead, the last man to be executed in Scotland, in 1697, for that crime); and "Operation Vegetarian" (Britain's wartime plan to poison German cattle with anthrax). Rosie even makes a few stops in America, where he tracks down John Ross, the Highland Scot and Cherokee who became "the Native American statesman of the early nineteenth century" and dealt with every president from James Madison in 1816 to Andrew Johnson half a century later. There is much that readers "never knew" about and will be glad to have been told. 11 b&w illus., map. (Aug.)
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Featured Lenses on Scotland & Great Britain
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National Tartan Week
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Celebrate the legacy of our shared heritage EVERY year during March and April--Tartan Week In the United States, there are more than 20 million people who can claim descent from Scotland, most of whom take immense pride in their Scottish heritag...
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Scotland
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Scotland boasts some of the most magnificent scenery in the world. From the low lying lands to the North to the Southern Uplands, there's a number of stark and varied contrasting landscapes to be surveyed. Scotland is also steeped in history and pre-...
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Another Scotland YouTube Video
I Can't Get Enough of 'em!
Scottish Fiddle Music
Featuring World Class Fiddler Bonnie Rideout
Celtic Circles
Product Description
Inspired by the Celtic circles of ancient Scotland, Bonnie paints a musical picture through time, joining the heavens and earth to the cycles of everyday life. Performed on Scottish fiddle with gold medal piper Eric Rigler on the Great Highland bagpipe, Scottish smallpipes and uilleann pipes. Eric did all the Bagpipe music on Braveheart and Titantic! Also accompanied by guitar, Celtic harp, viola da gamba, hammered dulcimer, bass and bodhran. Includes: North Highland tunes from The Patrick McDonald Collection, 1784, pipe marches, strathspeys, jigs and reels, laments and traditional favorites: Flo'ers o' The Forest, Gillie Calum and Prince Charlie's Farewell to Scotland.Praised by the Washington Post who says:"Time passes swiftly here, but also soulfully, elegantly and intelligently as Rideout's instrumental flair and emotional sensitivity on both fiddle and viola are consistently enhanced by her impressive scholarship. In exploring and celebrating her Scottish heritage, she unearths and unites a marvelous collection of ancient airs, reels, strathspeys and tales, adds a couple of her own tradition-steeped pieces, then arranges them all with a rare combination of thematic logic and orchestral grace."
Amazon Price: $14.99 (as of 10/07/2008)
Scottish Inheritance
Product Description
World-class Scottish Fiddler, Bonnie Rideout, presents the works of her mentors. The majority of the music on this CD has never been recorded. It includes several of Bonnie's own compositions as well as the works of Ron Gonnella, Bert Murray, Arthur Scott Robertson and the great (Scottish Paganini), J. Scott Skinner. This historic recording features Rideout's ensemble, "The Bonnie Rideout Scottish Trio", with stellar guitarist, Bryan Aspey and Riverdance's percussionist, Steve Holloway.
Amazon Price: $14.99 (as of 10/07/2008)
Scottish Fire
Product Description
With Scottish Fire, the shining star and internationally renowned leading female Scottish fiddler, Bonnie Rideout sets the standard for the millennium. Praised as "one of the world's leading Scottish fiddlers." (Bob Edwards. NPR's "Morning Edition"). Bonnie's fiddling of airs, strathspeys, jigs and reels ignites the fire and passion of Scotland in her breathtaking new release. From the driving opening track "Grant's Rant" to the soulful Gaelic air "An Gillie Donn," Rideout dazzles the listener with her sense of passion, pensive longing, vital beauty and poignancy. She is joined by some of the finest Celtic musicians performing today on Highland pipes and drums, guitar, cittern and viola da gamba. Musicians:BONNIE RIDEOUT Fiddle & Viola;JERRY O'SULLIVAN- Uilleann Pipes & Scottish Small-pipes;MIKE GREEN - Great Highland Pipes;AL PETTEWAY -Guitar;ROBIN BULLOCK - Guitar & Cittern;MAGGIE SANSONE- Hammered Dulcimer;TINA CHANCEY - Viola da Gamba;PADDY LEAGUE - Bodhran, Snare, Udu & Djembe;JON QUIGG - Snare & Bass Drums.
Amazon Price: $14.99 (as of 10/07/2008)
