Bits and Pieces

As luck would have it, my husband's relatives offered us a place to stay in Glenrothes, Scotland. We were so excited to experience the authentic Scottish way of life! First, we were greeted and served with graciousness and hospitality of Alan and Marian Roy. With full crystal and china place settings, they offered us a delicious four course meal consisting of carrot coriander soup, salads, fresh potatoes, an assortment of deli meats(no haggis yet), and a delicious apple crumble dessert. We hadn't had such a feast in all the time we had arrived in Britain. Aunt Marian certainly showed us how to entertain in a royal way. As we ate and got to know one another, Aunt Marian's family arrived and the true Scottish brogue started flying. Alison, Gavin, Rachel and Andrew Milne entertained us all with stories of summer and holidays they had taken around the world. It was quite a riot trying to understand the true Scottish words we didn't know. I noticed Deb sitting quietly listening hard to make out new words, Sue stopped conversations midpoint for clarification, and mostly we smiled and laughed with everyone. It seems that the Scottish had just as much fun listening to all our different Midwestern accents as much as we did they say. Aye, aye, as they say!

Here are a few new words our Batty relatives back home may hear us say from time to time:
I am going to see my nephew play on the pitch. (a pitch is a field)
I would like my orange juice with bits. (bits are bits as far as we could tell)
Is Sue a wifey? (wifey is an old maid)
When is the hen do? (Sue heard this as hindu!)(a hen do is a bachelorette party)
Where is the stag do? (stag do is a bachelor party)


We didn't have long with our new distant relatives, but the time we shared was precious and long lasting. We now have new Facebook connections and emails that will allow us to stay in touch forever. What a bonus!