WCMS has a new friend, MetroGnome, who loves to travel and recently went to Scotland! Who knew a gnome could look so cute in a kilt?
“Perhaps you have seen me at WCMS … if not, please come by and say hello! My name is MetroGnome, and I’m the cute little guy sitting on the windowsill in the Executive Director’s office, looking out into the hallway. I love helping with lots of things at the School, but when work is done I love to pack my bags and travel!
In February, I had the opportunity to visit Scotland and jumped
at the chance. I was a wee bit nervous because
I’d never been on a plane before, but British Airways took good care of me between
Boston and Edinburgh, Scotland. After my
arrival, I donned a traditional Scottish kilt and had a nice cup of tea and a
shortbread cookie in a tea shop in Edinburgh – I felt like a native! Then it was off to the countryside for some sightseeing.
My first stop outside of Edinburgh was a village called Edzell, which has a 16th century castle (now in ruins) and a beautiful walled garden. The elaborate garden wall has wonderful carved panels depicting Liberal Arts, Cardinal Virtues, and Planetary Deities. I looked for the panel for Musica (music), but sadly it has been damaged. Nevertheless, Edzell Castle is amazing. It is such an ancient place compared with my home in America!
I also drove through some beautiful farm land and pastures and made friends with the local sheep. They’re very friendly to gnomes!
My first stop outside of Edinburgh was a village called Edzell, which has a 16th century castle (now in ruins) and a beautiful walled garden. The elaborate garden wall has wonderful carved panels depicting Liberal Arts, Cardinal Virtues, and Planetary Deities. I looked for the panel for Musica (music), but sadly it has been damaged. Nevertheless, Edzell Castle is amazing. It is such an ancient place compared with my home in America!
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| At one with the sheep! |
I also drove through some beautiful farm land and pastures and made friends with the local sheep. They’re very friendly to gnomes!
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| That's me, right there in the center! |
The final stop was a castle called Drumtochty, where I attended a traditional Scottish wedding. When they heard that I was a gnome from overseas, they treated me like a VIP and allowed me to sit on the parapet between the front towers. It was quite a treat!
I learned that the traditional Scottish bagpipe is the Great Highland Bagpipe, and that bagpipes are woodwind instruments with enclosed reeds. I’m planning to learn to play this instrument if I can find a REALLY small one.
At the end of my trip, I was sad to leave Scotland but hope that I can return. “Haste ye back” is what the locals told me!
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