Cubby’s Visit: September 29- October 8, 2006

Zoe’s dad, Cubby, embarked on a rare overseas trip to visit his daughter, meet Craig’s Scottish family, trace his celtic roots and celebrate his 60th birthday. He flew into Glasgow and took in some authentic Scottish countryside and wet weather on the 2 plus hour drive back down to Southerness. We spent a few days in Southern Scotland, seeing a few quaint villages, a sculpture installation by Andy Goldsworthy, abbey and castle ruins, having a swim and sauna and mostly just hanging out and talking. He passed the first day of his sixth decade at Carlaeverlock Castle, a brilliantly sunny and mild day (which according to Zoe’s superstition where birthday weather corresponds to the upcoming year, was a great omen for him.) In typical Cubby-style, he verbally abused all cats and children below 15, created new and imaginative nicknames for the Robertson family and generated a good deal of laughter. It was lovely to have time and space to spend with my dad and cross our interactions over to a new world. The trip was shared between Scotland and Ireland, hanging out “at home” and later road-tripping.