Post Scriptum!!
In between the planned events of the tour, we all had free time to explore and have some fun on our own! Here are some tid-bits to enjoy!

Pictured is Urquhart Castle, built and added on to between the 13th and 16th centuries. Here I am in awe of the fact it remains partly standing to this day!

Visiting some of the friendly "hairy coos" (the Highland cows) at a local farm! Yes, they are as unique and cool in person as they appear to be in pictures!

Trying out the stoic face of this taxidermied animal, taken in Cawdor Castle, which we visited on our second day. I think he wears it better than me!

Touring another local whiskey distillery in Inverness with some of the other group mates! And yes, you guessed, we obtained another 'wee dram' of the good stuff!

Having a great meal of fish and chips with newfound friends made on the trip! I also tried oysters, mussels, and squid for the first time! I had to see what all the rage is about!!

Here I am viewing the Military Tattoo in Edinburgh, in front of the iconic Castle. It was an absolutely breathtaking experience, and I would highly recommend seeing it for those visiting Scotland in August!!

A hilarious sign I saw as I was about to make the climb up to Arthur's Seat in Edinburgh. And don't worry, I did not witness any zombies during my stay! Phew!

Made it to the summit of Arthur's Seat! Good thing I had all the hiking practice living in the Pacific Northwest, it's not a climb for the faint of heart! The view was absolutely spectacular!

The last thing I did on the trip by myself was to visit the Royal Yacht Britannia, the former Queen's most trusted sailing vessel, docked in Edinburgh. It was a sight to behold and tour!

As our tour guide Jeanie told me, "once you start traveling, you become addicted quite quickly. Be careful!" And she was absolutely right! But I believe it is a good thing, learning and experiencing about different people and cultures to gain perspective and understanding. I hope to go on another tour this upcoming summer, and you should too! See you there!