Escaping to Scotland

Hi Friends and Family,

How is the fall treating you? I hope you’re all doing well. I’ve returned from my ten day vacation in Scotland and cannot wait to go back! My sister, Rachell (Rach), and I had an incredible time…save for returning with COVID.

We started our vacation in Edinburgh, settling in the Old Waverly Hotel, which looks out at Princess Street Gardens, the Burns Monument, and if you peek to the east, Edinburgh Castle. There was so much history around every corner. I loved the views from the top, looking out at the city below, and learning about the people and soldiers who lived and fought there.

Rach and I visiting Edinburgh Castle at the battery site near the canons.

We even hiked up Arthur’s seat…after power-walking through a cemetery (eek!) in the misty morning. The typical road was closed due to construction. But once we hiked up the path, we were rewarded with stunning views of Edinburgh to the Firth of Fourth.

While in Edinburgh, I also had the pleasure of meeting one of my Scottish beta readers in person at Waterstones bookshop. She even chatted up the clerk, while I pitched my book, which the clerk mentioned she’d love to add to the inventory! Happy days.

Scottish beta reader, Fiona, and me at Waterstones after chatting and lunch.

From Edinburgh, we journeyed by train and taxi to the small town of Luss located on the western shores of Loch Lomond. Here, we rested, kayaked, explored, and grounded ourselves in nature. And guess what? I also opened my notebook for the first time since arriving in Scotland.

I was inspired! On the banks of Loch Lomond, I jotted down scenes to add to book three of my Scottish Stars series and even briefly outlined a full-length Christmas Romcom I’ve been thinking about for a few months.

The bonnie banks of Loch Lomond.

From Loch Lomond, we met our Scotland’s Wild tour guide and additional six carpool buddies for the next three days. On our first day traveling up the A82 toward Glencoe, passing Loch Lomond, James (our wonderful tour guide) told us the story behind the song ‘On the Banks of Loch Lomond.’ I remembered reading in my research that Scottish people conclude weddings with the song (you might find a reference to this song in an upcoming book), and it’s also sung during sports events as well. James confirmed and added great depth to the heroic, yet heartbreaking story. Hearing him tell the story with his Glaswegian Scottish brogue, my mind wandered to my main male character, Hugh Macrae, in book three, also from Glasgow. Then, and there I thought of a new ending for that book. It’s amazing how inspiration strikes! I quickly jotted notes in my app.

I also learned that country music and country bars are becoming popular in Glasgow. This also inspired a fun scene for book two, which is currently with my editor at The Wild Rose Press…now I just need to pitch a quick scene change to her. :)

During this incredible trip, we also visited places in The Stars of Scotland, journeying alongside my heroine, Brie. Glencoe and the Isle of Skye are two such destinations included in my novel. The first morning on the Isle of Skye, Rach and I took an early morning walk before our tour and were magnetized by the beautiful, colorful harbor—it was just as I’d imagined it! And the pink building was my favorite—just like Brie’s.

The colorful harbor city of Portree on the Isle of Skye.

The Isle of Skye, known as ‘the misty isle’ was gloriously sunny for the first two days of our visit. We explored the Fairy Glen and castles on foot, including Dunvegan Castle—the seat of the Macleods—with incredible gardens as well as the Quiraing and a few beaches. We were midge free until our final morning. One thing teeny-tiny biting bugs do is create laughter looking back. We were all standing by the fairy pools swatting them away, then running single file into the van with laughter filling the air.

Our Scotland's Wild group at the Hermitage in the highlands! Blessed with a fun, friendly bunch led by our energetic leader, James (in red on the left).

We also searched for some highland coos (cows). After four days, we saw two bulls on the side of the road, then the next day a group of mommas and babies. They were so cute and fuzzy!

Like Brie, Scotland offered me a chance to explore, rejuvenate, and remember to rest, fill up my cup, and get inspired again. I missed my family so much, but thanks to FaceTime and daily chats, our calls helped stem the longing.

Another wonderful facet of traveling is that I rediscovered that you meet and talk to people more than normal. I spoke to my tour group, strangers, servers, and even a wonderful woman on our return flight from Edinburgh to London. The Scottish have a way of finding everything about you in a few minutes (hi, Andrea!). I started getting more comfortable talking about being an author and my upcoming book. I handed out cards and bookmarks and received such an enthusiastic response! I went to Scotland hoping for an escape and some rest and adventure. I did, but I also found inner strength, wonderful connections, a revived passion for exploring, and incredible inspiration.

Where have you been inspired?

The Quiraing on the Isle of Skye.

Remember to get out and discover—even if it’s a few steps away. It’s amazing what a little escape from the ordinary will bring.

Until next time, I send you love.

xo

Erica Mae