UK Adventure Post - If You Don't Like the Weather...

During my first visit to Scotland a few years back, a man I met was quite apologetic about the weather, especially since he learned I was from Florida.

"Welcome to Scotland! If you don't like the weather, just wait 15 minutes."

  

I was reminded of that as I took the train for a light day trip into Glasgow and have a look around.  I had explored the city many times, but figured it would be nice to walk around Buchanan Street and George Square to see what's new since my last visit.  At the last minute, I decided to hop on a tour bus and check things out.  

It was cloudy and breezy sitting on the top deck of the bus, but I toughed it out and enjoyed it.  I was repaid in sunshine by mid-afternoon as I sat in George Square watching university students set up for a protest against proposed education cuts.  The Square is a great place to people watch, and I pulled out a few brochures I picked up at the nearby Scotland Tourism Info Centre.

I thought highly of the public transportation system... until my ride home during the early evening rush hour.  On the rail from Glasgow Queen Street Station to Helensburgh Central, the train stopped on Hyndland and passengers were told service was discontinued due to "technical problems." I stood on the platform with dozens of other passengers, in a chorus of groans as we saw the next train to Helensburgh Central canceled and other passing trains headed to other areas like Dalmuir and Balloch.  

I laughed a little when a woman started complaining about the ongoing "technical problems" (apparently she had three encounters in the last three days); she complained in a very polite way which I truly admired.  She wasn't rude or aggressive, and her voice hardly raised in more frustration than anger.  

Anyway, after nearly an hour on the platform, I finally got on one and made it home.

Thursday turned out to be another great sunny day, and this time I stayed closer to home.  We went to a local park in Helensburgh where the kids played on the swings and ran around soaking in some fresh air and sunshine.

We ventured down to the Firth of Clyde and sat by the water to soak up more of the sun.  This winter was especially harsh, so I was told everyone was excited to be outdoors.  We munched on McCoy's Crisps and drank my first Irn-Bru (which I definitely love!) while watching people.

I'll take it easy again tomorrowy... I leave for London on Friday night.