England & Scotland

I mixed a little business and pleasure this past week. I visited friends in northern England, made my way to Scotland (my 31st country), met co-workers and customers in London, and took the train back to the Netherlands. It felt great to be back on the road.

Friday I flew into Manchester, England and took the train to Oxenholme station where my girlfriend Ipek picked me up. Ipek and her husband Mike live in England's Lake District, which is in the middle of nowhere but beautiful. Friday night they made me British pies for dinner and we drank wine, laughed, danced, and talked non-stop. 

Saturday we woke early and jumped on a two-hour train to Edinburgh (pronounced Edin-brah) so I could visit Scotland. It was a relaxing day that included searching for round manhole covers (none to be found), visiting the Edinburgh castle, eating haggis neeps and tatties, tasting some whiskey, and enjoying way too much yummy food at the Christmas market. Edinburgh is a beautiful city.

Sunday morning started with Ipek making us yummy soup and walking the fields around their beautiful 300 year old home. In England they have marked trails that go through private property including stairs to walk over fences. 

That night the food and wine theme continued as the two of them prepared an 'English Sunday Roast' for me that turned into a Christmas dinner including Christmas Crackers with hats, and so much yummy food. I feel so fortunate to have such wonderful friends (that cook so well for me).

Monday morning I said my sad goodbyes to Mike and Ipek and jumped on a train to London. That afternoon I visited members of my team that I have worked with over the last seven months who I consider some of the smartest. We went out for dinner and stopped at a couple local pubs. On the walk home I caught a glimpse of Big Ben. 

Tuesday I visited customers and had dinner with a previous manager which included a walk around the city at night which allowed me to see all the holiday lights. London is such a beautiful city, especially during Christmas.

Wednesday morning I opted to catch the Eurostar train directly from London to the Netherlands, which I enjoyed because I was able to work the entire time and I love the calmness of riding the train. 

Unless something changes, this will be my last trip of 2024. My home renovation took over a bunch of my time this year but that is coming to a close so I can get back on the road in 2025 including my first trip to Asia! I cannot wait.

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