I might be showing my age again, but pumpkins weren't a thing in the 70s in Scotland we made turnip (neep) lanterns, we dressed up and went round guising ( you had to tell a joke or sing a song) for apples (worst case) sweets or money ( best case) we went on our own round strangers houses and sometimes they asked us in ( it's a wonder we never got murdered) we also played games like "dookin for apples" and build huge bonfires and burnt effigies of Guy Fawkes.❤
Oh how the times have changed! We’ve just heard of “guising!” Neither of us have seen turnip pumpkins before, but we might just have to make some this year.
Love seeing all the great places that you’re exploring! Reminds me of places we’d take our kids when we lived in Kentucky and Long Island combined! But since Scotland is still a dream, I really appreciate your sharing.
If you're not afraid of heading west there is a lot to see in Ayrshire and along the Clyde coast. From Largs, you can take the short ferry journey to Cumbrae. You can walk around the island, stopping for lunch in Millport. You can also hire bikes, tandems and bikes with pull-along carts to cycle around the Island. Just outside of Largs is Kelburn Castle and Estate which is great for kids. From Ardrossan, you can get the ferry to the Isle of Arran. Labelled Scotland in miniature it is great for hikes and has lots to see and do, including a stone circle. Glasgow is good for a day out and for shopping. Very different vibe to Edinburgh
Thanks for the suggestions! Yes, we definitely want to make it west but aren’t as familiar with the different areas so having a rough guide and recommendations to work from is a huge help. Thank you! ❤️
Hahaha yes indeed, Finn is a trooper though, surviving in our house with 3 kids! The invention of click and collect must have been a man's invention...and that man should be hailed as a God 🤣🤣🤣
The hat and gloves made me giggle. As someone who stays near Falkland, this is still t shirt weather. Don't worry, you'll acclimatise soon 😂. Loads of great things to see and do all over the Kingdom of Fife!
Also, two things about the whole Halloween period in Scotland. 1. It's not called 'trick or treat' here. It's 'guising'. 2. Bonfire Night is on or around the 5th of November. Both of these are due to Guy Fawkes, who tried to blow up King Charles Stuart II a few centuries ago. He was caught and burned. There used to be an effegy of the 'guy' placed at the top of the bonfire when I was a kid. There will be one local to you I'm sure. There'll be stalls and fireworks too. Something to maybe consider.
Its still not cold yet..........so funny with all the gloves and hats. Been to that Hopetoun Monument 3 or so years ago, it was closed when I was there. Fantastic scenery you have there, enjoy your selves in the snow.
@SimpleScottishLiving Just a little warmer over here! Give Bostock Bakery in East Linton a try if you havent already. Lovely little shop that i visited last trip home.
Great video Annie and Zack! Canada has so much Scottish heritage (including my family!). We were basically settled by a lot of Scots. Explorers, trappers, Hudson Bay agents, etc., etc. please keep the videos coming!
Enjoyed the happy Scottish music during the drive though that town, it helped brighten my day. Enjoying the diversity in your videos, looking forward to the cooking, travel, and future crafting decor you have in store. Fin is growing so fast, love when he gets to run off leash and play. Take care, and stay warm !😊
When I saw the tower I thought for a moment that you had got lost, and it was the Broadway Tower in the Cotswolds! ;-) They loved their follies in those days, it must have been nice to have the odd few thousand going spare to build them.......
I've got the house and my desk at work decorated for autumn. (sunflowers, wheat, corn pumpkins gourds apples, berries,acorns and pinecones) The cats, ghosts etc. will be added closer to Halloween. I love this time if year. Walks in the woods, wild deserted beaches picking brambles and elderberries and making an autumn wreath
Thank you for showing us so many beautiful and interesting Scottish locations (I thought I saw two Outlander film locations). I’ve visited twice and it isn’t enough. A Gram from MO
Lovely to see Maspie Den - we tried to go on the way back from holiday a while back but the path was closed. We explored the palace gardens instead, which were stunning. Carberry woods and Humbie woods are great for collecting sticks and nice views 😊
Referring to Cullen Skink, I hope you venture up to Cullen some day. Beautiful little town designed by Thomas Telford. Try the Rockpool Cafe for a bowl of Cullen Skink, theirs is legendary and if Zack isn't fond of fish soup, their Tomato soup is the best! They also accept reservations. Cullen beach is a nice explore and Bow Fiddle Rock is close by. The kids will be delighted with a treat from Portsoy Ice Cream to end off the day of exploring the beautiful coastline. My husband and I were in Scotland last year. Delighted to have found your posts - it would be a dream to live in and explore more of Scotland. You are such a delightful couple!
I just discovered the app All Trails. Great for showing where all the local walks are and beyond. Shows length of walks, difficulty, kids/dogs friendly etc. Map/photos/reviews of each location and directions to get there. Small yearly subscription. I’m excited to go explore. Another wonderful video. Thanks for sharing 😊
What creative potion names your kids came up with! And what a beautiful video - I love seeing all the walks your family does. :). I am really looking forward to seeing next week's video of the Highland Games. I have been to one in the states and I am looking forward to seeing what one is like in bonny Scotland - how fun!!
Thank you! Unfortunately, we didn’t get as much footage as we’d hoped due to the crowds and our kids not feeling 100%, but it was still worth the travels and a great time. We’ll plan it better in the future and maybe try one of the bigger games as a date weekend getaway.
How gorgeous! Very smart decision to leave the US! If you are ever in the coastal area of Northumberland and Durham England, try a walk along the cliff tops....beautiful! ❤🇬🇧
That was one Beautifully Filmed Video, never new that Scotland was so beautiful. Thank You so much for opening our eyes, I'm sure your videos will be a great boost for Scottish Tourism. Great Family, Great Kids and not forgetting little Fin🤗 Stay Safe, Stay Warm. 🇬🇧🤓
Layers!!! Its still t-shirt weather! 😉 Wait till 'bone cold' hits - especially on the coast when the Haar rolls in. Theres some good dog walks at Binning Wood near East Linton & Butterdean at Gladsmuir.
Haha to be fair, there was a slight heat wave these past few days. Just learned what Haar meant. Still finding new terms even after being with Zach 16 years.
Your photography is really adding to the videos, nice to see drone footage of the countryside. Don’t peak too soon with the winter clothes Annie! It’s going to get a lot colder yet! Finn is a nice happy puppy, looks like he is getting on really well.
The Halloween concoction names are hilarious. So creative. What a beautiful walk. I must say, your filming seems so professional, you both learn quickly. You have such a cute and sweet family. I live in a small town in the mountains of Arizona, about 40k and we have quite a large Scottish population here. Our Highland Games are in about a week or two. Love them.
Glad you enjoyed! We loved the Highland Games but will have to try it again when the kids are a bit bigger and we invest in assigned seating to get the most of it! Will you be going this year?
@@christineduffy348 Awe, thanks so much! As long as the kids don't mind, and we're getting regular views, then we'd love to continue. It's nice having these to look back on as well.
Really enjoyed watching you out and about again this week- you were so lucky with the bright weather for the Hopetoun Monument visit, being able to see the extent of the views from the top! I love your Hallowe'en potions, you have made a stunning display of the kids' fun creations!
The Hopetoun Monument, colloquially known as the Garleton (or “Gally”) Monument is a special place for our family. Many spooky videos were filmed there by our sons with their grandparents 20 years ago. We used to love climbing the hill and the monument.
The hikes you took looked so wonderful! The views from the Hopetoun tower were incredible! My mother's maiden name is Byers, and my grandfather's family originally was from East Lothian. I noticed the tower was on Byre's hill.
I found you guys about 2 weeks ago and had to binge watch and get all caught up. I enjoy watching you and your family and as a dog lover of course little Finnegan only he isn't going to be little too much longer LOL. I would love to visit Scotland someday it looks absolutely breathtakingly beautiful and historic. My father has Scottish ancestry so it's calling my name. Thank you so much for all the enjoyment I get from watching your videos
Welcome and thanks so much for taking the time to comment! Yes, we adore the puppy phase but look forward to when he no longer has those awful needle teeth 😅
😱😱😱my face when I saw the table with no cover on it. Stormy night and cloud in a bottle are my favourites, boring I know. How are the kids enjoying school?
🤣It’s only because we plan to refinish it soon. We bought it second hand, and it definitely has seen some better days! Lots of life left though. Kids are loving school so far. It’s a bit further ahead with reading, but they’re doing well!
Hopetoun Monument -Tip - No joking, it is pitch black in places with bird nest debris on the narrow steps. Use the torch on your mobile phone, especially on the way down. As for the view, superb. In the spring when the yellow rapeseed fields are in bloom it is a patchwork of colour spread in front of you.
What beautiful places to explore and Finn is so cute tagging along. I’ve never been in to celebrating Halloween but I do love crafting with kids and it looked like they had a fun time making potions. I’ve never seen anyone do that as a Halloween decor and I think it turned out cute. Definitely would spark conversation with the potion names. 😊
Haha yes the potion names! They had a few more interesting choices in the mix, but I think they compromised and were quite pleased in the end. We love any reason for a craft!
Some Local walk suggestions, Community wood in Gifford plus a couple of great dog friendly cafes in the village. Also walks round yester estate and a play park in the village. Vogrie country park. Nice walks and a big adventure play park. Cafe on site too. Pencatland railway walk. Long but there are different places you can start from. Butterdean wood, great woodland to explore and close by.
Well zach climbing those stairs with you was exhausting I was on my hands and knees half way up 😂 lovely views though ..I live walking distance from that hobbycraft
no wonder its your favourite place its stunning. bit of triva for you medieaval spiral stair cases where thought to have been built to wrap around in a clockwise direction in order to disadvantage any enemies who might climb them. annie, when you next go to the library they will have a complete section of places to visit and walks in and around scotland and the area you live xx
It’s wonderful to tag along as you explore so many different places - I keep adding items to my list of things I’d love to see/do when I finally manage a trip to Scotland! At this rate it might be a 6 month visit, given I’m travelling from Australia!!
Haha you only live once…go for it! 😉 we’re traveling to the borders this weekend and up north the week after that, so hopefully, we’ll have more ideas for you soon!
Walked our dog up the Monument for most of my childhood. As an expat in Australia now, love seeing snippets of home each week!Thank you for making these videos 😊
@@SimpleScottishLiving Some other good nearby ones to explore, Gifford river walk. Through golf course to Amisfield walled garden. Aberlady Bay - through nature reserve out to the beach. Pressmennan Wood. 😊
Just wanted to say you all are creating some truly beautiful videos. The drone views, lovely walks, fun crafts, yummy food shots and the sit down narrative chats are really nice. I'm so happy I found your channel and look forward to seeing your videos weekly!
If you keep going up to past the waterfall and up to the road you can cross over and go up either the east or west lomond hill. Some great views from up there.
@@SimpleScottishLiving i've been a few times with my ex and the dogs , we used to go to the hermitage as well , i saw your video on that walk as well. Glen doll was another favorite walk we did. So all of these places were only an hour or 2 away. Dont think people appreciate the area around them here in scotland.
Did you see me waving from the Cairngorms when you were at the top of the monument? 🤣What fantastic views! Another great week and a warm (20c) week to come, it'll be taps aff weather, enjoy it while it lasts and have a great week!
Oh I am so jealous when I did my trip of Scotland two years ago none of the tours did the Highland Games. I am always watching the different pipe bands on UTube Rosie and I know all the tunes off by hand. Finnigan is just the cutest little dog sending hugs 💖💕
Thank you! The Highland Games were great, but it definitely deserves a re-do when the kids are a bit older and more time is put into the prep/planning! Happy to share our journey next weekend though ❤️
Scotland is just great. We will be there next week staying close to Pitlochry for the 4th year running. Can't wait to visit the bakery in Dunkeld. Another level!! Thanks for posting.
Lovely walk. Of course it’s Guy Fawkes next Nov 5th. I cannot say I have ever been into Halloween it’s like a made up thing I remember from when I lived in Canada. Just me but I think spooky stuff is weird why bring on dark frightening things with no reason for doing so ? Loving your explorations of walks in Scotland ❤Sticky Toffee pudding mmmm. Delicious
@@SimpleScottishLiving To be expected with Halloween so much a part of US culture, it has become more of a thing than it used to be, growing up in the 60's and 70's Bonfire night was the biggie, fireworks were something that our first dog did not appreciate, we had to get sedatives from the vet for him, lovely video yet again, enjoy the games.
South Queensferry ,Linlithgow and Bo'ness is a great place to visit, Linlithgow loch is great for the kids and Bo'ness steam trains and seaside walks are amazing, highly recommend.
Another fantastic video. Loved the views of East Lothian from the top of the monument. Never been there before and dont fancy climbing all those stairs. Glad you did it on my behalf. Enjoyed the kids' arts and crafts. Looking forward to your Highland Games video next week. Have a great week. 💜
Thank you and glad you enjoyed! The Highland Games was a great time but much more crowded than we expected. We actually left a bit early as our kids are all a little under the weather, and we didn’t think a late night would do us any favors!
He’s been doing great and takes lots of breaks as needed with occasional pick-ups from Zach :) Yes, we’d love to make it that way! Where would you recommend visiting first?
Absalutly a fantastic video. Those are two good recipes to try. Love Cullen Skink made with haddock, potatoes and cream. Sticky toffee pudding is a definite SWEET treat. A visit here to Stonehaven in Aberdeenshire has a great walk to the War Museum and Dunnottar Castle but would be best in the not so cold a d windy months … we are on the North Sea coast. However we do have the fireballs to bring in the New Year … that’s worth a goggle. I forgot why I started this comment … oh yes, how are the children adapting? 🏴 👍💕
Great suggestions! Will look into the fireballs as well! Kids are adjusting surprisingly well! They mostly miss their close cousins and friends, but as far as the lifestyle goes, they’re not complaining!
Wow I'm guessing that potions thing is very American? We never did anything like that. I had a Hallowe'en party once as a child (1960s!) and we did 'apple bobbing' where the apples are floating in water & you try to 'bite' them out, no hands allowed! We never did trick or treating but it's huge here now. Tower would have given me vertigo but I'd have collapsed be4 reaching the top 🤣 Lovely walk with the bridges. I don't know where you are but I'd say to visit 'Cream O'Galloway' if you are ever in that area. It's also known as the 'Ethical Dairy' and that farmer produces milk how all farmers should, without cruelty. Fabulous man.
Yes, I remember bobbing for apples at Halloween, our kids will be happy to hear that trick or treating is a thing here. We'll add Cream O'Galloway' to our list. We are just outside Edinburgh, in East Lothian but are always willing to drive for good ice cream :-)
Next time you go to Falkland eat at the Pillars of Hercules. It has an award winning food shop, playground and orchards., all set in a forest. You drove past the entrance as you left Falkland looking for an eatery. I know many people that will travel from Embra to Falkland to eat at the Pillars! Totally dog friendly.
@@SimpleScottishLiving The children can be in the enclosed playground while you eat at a table outside, so you can still see them but have lunch. You’re not yet hardy enough to do that outwith the Summer though! Next Autumn when you’re walking around in a thin sweater like the rest of us 😊
Some lovely colours in your video today, and the sun made it special. Annie has probably found out by now that dungarees (overalls) are not great when you are out of the home and wearing anything other than a t-shirt as it all has to come off for a trip to the ladies. Been there and done that!
It's funny, Halloween was invented here in Scotland, although, I do know in the U.S. it's a big thing. I liked the wee decor bottles you's created, that's nice. Much like your recent previous video, which partly reminded me of Chatelherhault country park near Hamilton, the large building reminded me so much of it. There are so many of those places I've honestly never been to or heard of and that's the thing about Scotland, because there's thousands of places you can visit and many that end up your favourite that you keep going back to. A place I went to when took my cousins dog was up at Loch Àrd Forest, although, we took the shorter walk which I'm sure was 4 miles. Honestly, there's hundreds. Don't know if you've ever visited New Lanark with the old cotton factories that has a walk, a walk, by the way, that was a famous trail William Wallace took to escape after an attack on a castle. Nonetheless, it looked like you guys have had a wonderful time with the walks.
Good suggestion, thank you!! It is crazy how much there is to do/see. Even if we found a new place each weekend, I don’t think we could even make a dent on the amazing spots across the UK. Feels like there’s something new around each corner.
Hi Zach and Annie another great video and camerawork! Go online and you can see how popular the Highland Games are in the U.S and all over the world. I'm sure you will enjoy the Games here in Scotland.
Hiya Annie & Zack, do you realise that "Halloween" is actually an ancient tradition started right here in Scotland 👍💙, would like to see you do a video on that 👍 as I'm pretty sure you have alot of American followers that don't know this 👍, Lynne.... Btw, pop into my shop here in Gullane to say Hiya anytime your passing 👍👋
Are you guys gonna go to Inverness? I don’t know how far that is from you guys. I’m a big outlander fan. Read the books binge the show about six times love it. That’s what made me go to Scotland two years ago, but you’re showing me things that I never saw there and from the vantage point that I didn’t see, so that just makes me wanna come back more thank you❤
Yes! We’d love to do a whole weekend to Inverness but need to get the timing right. It can be extremely cold and/or touristy where it might be hard to film. It’s on our radar though!
When the Weather man said Frost on Scottish Mountains. Thats when i Checked my Winter Coats hats Scarf and Gloves .Dont know why they haven't be Worn since last Winter .
Halloween wasn't a big thing for us growing up. Definetely an American celebration. Trick or treat is American without a doubt. Bonfire night is our next big thing traditionaly and then Christmas. Looking forward to your Winter vlogs :)
Lovely stuff,and well filmed/edited again. How are the kids adjusting to over here? they seem happy enough,....any things theyre struggling with,or pining for from the US?
Thank you! We think they’re adjusting better than we could’ve expected. Academics (mainly reading) are slightly advanced, but we knew that coming here and did our best to prepare. The biggest change is missing their super close cousins and friends.
Ps. If you are looking for somewhere to go the deer centre is worth a trip it has various animals not just deer..take lunch with you as the fish and chips we had were abysmal 😅
Annie kept her healthcare/education supervisory role and is a contractor for a U.S. based company, and Zach works for a company he previously had ties with but is not sharing the specifics of that publicly.
I might be showing my age again, but pumpkins weren't a thing in the 70s in Scotland we made turnip (neep) lanterns, we dressed up and went round guising ( you had to tell a joke or sing a song) for apples (worst case) sweets or money ( best case) we went on our own round strangers houses and sometimes they asked us in ( it's a wonder we never got murdered) we also played games like "dookin for apples" and build huge bonfires and burnt effigies of Guy Fawkes.❤
They weren't a thing in the 80s and 90s either! I grew up with turnip lanterns myself!
80's here it was defo a turnip! Bloody hard to empty out
@@williebauld1007 I can still smell the burt turnip to this day.😂
@@panchomcsporran2083 no burnt, just cuts as a young kid
Oh how the times have changed! We’ve just heard of “guising!” Neither of us have seen turnip pumpkins before, but we might just have to make some this year.
Finn is an amazing little guy, perfect for your family.
We fully agree! 🥰
Love seeing all the great places that you’re exploring! Reminds me of places we’d take our kids when we lived in Kentucky and Long Island combined! But since Scotland is still a dream, I really appreciate your sharing.
We love taking our kids on adventures. Thanks for watching!
Bingewatching all your videos since 3 am this morning as i cant sleep and loving them. Fellow east lothian person here x
Wow! Thank you neighbour! 🤣
Sticky Toffee Pudding!! Now you're talking. My favourite.
Yes, so good!!
Yeah it's just fab ❤❤
Hope tower what a view from the top
If you're not afraid of heading west there is a lot to see in Ayrshire and along the Clyde coast. From Largs, you can take the short ferry journey to Cumbrae. You can walk around the island, stopping for lunch in Millport. You can also hire bikes, tandems and bikes with pull-along carts to cycle around the Island. Just outside of Largs is Kelburn Castle and Estate which is great for kids. From Ardrossan, you can get the ferry to the Isle of Arran. Labelled Scotland in miniature it is great for hikes and has lots to see and do, including a stone circle. Glasgow is good for a day out and for shopping. Very different vibe to Edinburgh
Thanks for the suggestions! Yes, we definitely want to make it west but aren’t as familiar with the different areas so having a rough guide and recommendations to work from is a huge help. Thank you! ❤️
Such a lovely happy couple
Thank you!
Poor Finn. It’s hard learning all the scary stuff. Zack and I would be great shopping together- get in get out 😂
Hahaha yes indeed, Finn is a trooper though, surviving in our house with 3 kids! The invention of click and collect must have been a man's invention...and that man should be hailed as a God 🤣🤣🤣
The hat and gloves made me giggle. As someone who stays near Falkland, this is still t shirt weather. Don't worry, you'll acclimatise soon 😂. Loads of great things to see and do all over the Kingdom of Fife!
I’ve definitely become a bit of a baby after staying in CA for so long, but yes, I’m sure with time I’ll get used to it! 😅
Also, two things about the whole Halloween period in Scotland. 1. It's not called 'trick or treat' here. It's 'guising'. 2. Bonfire Night is on or around the 5th of November. Both of these are due to Guy Fawkes, who tried to blow up King Charles Stuart II a few centuries ago. He was caught and burned. There used to be an effegy of the 'guy' placed at the top of the bonfire when I was a kid. There will be one local to you I'm sure. There'll be stalls and fireworks too. Something to maybe consider.
@@robertwalker7896 It was James the Sixth and First(of England)!they tried to blow up in the 17th century - in 1605.
Its still not cold yet..........so funny with all the gloves and hats.
Been to that Hopetoun Monument 3 or so years ago, it was closed when I was there.
Fantastic scenery you have there, enjoy your selves in the snow.
Haha it’s all relative I suppose! Wait until you see me mid-winter. Likely in a full body ski suit and mask.
I love that you included bits of the drive to Falkland. I really like seeing the towns themselves so really enjoyed seeing that.
Thanks for the feedback! We’ll be sure to include more 👍
Great video, guys! I’m originally from Haddington but now living in Australia. This brought back so many fond memories of my childhood
Thanks! Australia, that’s quite the change!
@SimpleScottishLiving Just a little warmer over here! Give Bostock Bakery in East Linton a try if you havent already. Lovely little shop that i visited last trip home.
Will do! We appreciate the recommendation!
Great video Annie and Zack! Canada has so much Scottish heritage (including my family!). We were basically settled by a lot of Scots. Explorers, trappers, Hudson Bay agents, etc., etc.
please keep the videos coming!
Will do! Thank you for sharing :)
Enjoyed the happy Scottish music during the drive though that town, it helped brighten my day.
Enjoying the diversity in your videos, looking forward to the cooking, travel, and future crafting decor you have in store.
Fin is growing so fast, love when he gets to run off leash and play.
Take care, and stay warm !😊
Thank you for the feedback! We like mixing it up a bit and showing our daily goings, whatever that might be!
Finnegan, is probably so tuckered out by the end of the day you guys got him going everywhere with you. I love it.
He absolutely loves it! We do pick him up and carry him along the way 😊❤️
When I saw the tower I thought for a moment that you had got lost, and it was the Broadway Tower in the Cotswolds! ;-)
They loved their follies in those days, it must have been nice to have the odd few thousand going spare to build them.......
Seriously! At least we get to enjoy them now 😉
Great video, Roslin chapel and castle are worth a visit also great pub for Sunday lunch too👍
@@andrewscott5852 definitely a must !!
Good suggestions! Adding to the list. Thank you!
I remember when the Da Vinci Code was huge, a local farmer near Roslin had a sign at the side of the road saying "Da Vinci manure £1 a bag"😅
I've got the house and my desk at work decorated for autumn. (sunflowers, wheat, corn pumpkins gourds apples, berries,acorns and pinecones) The cats, ghosts etc. will be added closer to Halloween. I love this time if year. Walks in the woods, wild deserted beaches picking brambles and elderberries and making an autumn wreath
It’s the best time of year! So much to look forward to. A wreath is a great idea. Adding to our craft list!
Thank you for showing us so many beautiful and interesting Scottish locations (I thought I saw two Outlander film locations).
I’ve visited twice and it isn’t enough.
A Gram from MO
Glad you enjoyed it! It’s never enough!
If this is Scotland I want to live here. How absolutely beautiful.✨🙏🏻
It’s gorgeous! ❤️
@@SimpleScottishLiving forsure it is! I feel nostalgic✨
John Muir country park outside Dunbar is child and dog friendly and you can walk for miles through the woods or along the beach 😁
Thank you!! 😊
Lovely to see Maspie Den - we tried to go on the way back from holiday a while back but the path was closed. We explored the palace gardens instead, which were stunning. Carberry woods and Humbie woods are great for collecting sticks and nice views 😊
Good suggestions! Thank you! We definitely want to make a trip back for the palace.
Referring to Cullen Skink, I hope you venture up to Cullen some day. Beautiful little town designed by Thomas Telford. Try the Rockpool Cafe for a bowl of Cullen Skink, theirs is legendary and if Zack isn't fond of fish soup, their Tomato soup is the best! They also accept reservations. Cullen beach is a nice explore and Bow Fiddle Rock is close by. The kids will be delighted with a treat from Portsoy Ice Cream to end off the day of exploring the beautiful coastline. My husband and I were in Scotland last year. Delighted to have found your posts - it would be a dream to live in and explore more of Scotland. You are such a delightful couple!
Thank you for the great recommendation, we will have to give it a try!
I just discovered the app All Trails. Great for showing where all the local walks are and beyond. Shows length of walks, difficulty, kids/dogs friendly etc. Map/photos/reviews of each location and directions to get there. Small yearly subscription. I’m excited to go explore.
Another wonderful video. Thanks for sharing 😊
Yes, we just got that app as well. Love it!!
@@SimpleScottishLivingit’s so well done. Really impressed.
Thank you!
Which season do you like most?
This is hard! Too soon to tell I think. Check in with us after winter.
I think child snot was my favourite 😂 congratulations whoever thought of that
Haha that would be our middle child!
What creative potion names your kids came up with! And what a beautiful video - I love seeing all the walks your family does. :). I am really looking forward to seeing next week's video of the Highland Games. I have been to one in the states and I am looking forward to seeing what one is like in bonny Scotland - how fun!!
Thank you! Unfortunately, we didn’t get as much footage as we’d hoped due to the crowds and our kids not feeling 100%, but it was still worth the travels and a great time. We’ll plan it better in the future and maybe try one of the bigger games as a date weekend getaway.
@@SimpleScottishLiving I hope your kids are feeling better!
Thank you! Yes, everyone is on the mend!
Another great video, lovely to see you both having quality time with the kids. Take care, and keep smiling.
Thanks so much!
That was amazing!! The potions...awesome! So cute!!! You guys are awesome also. 😂 thanks for letting us all discover Scotland!!
Thank you, Lawrence! Happy to have you tuning in again ❤️
How gorgeous! Very smart decision to leave the US! If you are ever in the coastal area of Northumberland and Durham England, try a walk along the cliff tops....beautiful! ❤🇬🇧
Will do! Thanks for the suggestion!
I love your drone shots they're awesome 🤎💛🧡🤎☺️👍
Thanks so much!
Last time I went up the monument was in 1985. Stunning views.
They truly are!
That was one Beautifully Filmed Video, never new that Scotland was so beautiful.
Thank You so much for opening our eyes, I'm sure your videos will be a great boost for Scottish Tourism.
Great Family, Great Kids and not forgetting little Fin🤗
Stay Safe, Stay Warm.
🇬🇧🤓
Thank you so much! We are loving all the explorations and can’t wait to show more!
Layers!!! Its still t-shirt weather! 😉 Wait till 'bone cold' hits - especially on the coast when the Haar rolls in.
Theres some good dog walks at Binning Wood near East Linton & Butterdean at Gladsmuir.
Haha to be fair, there was a slight heat wave these past few days. Just learned what Haar meant. Still finding new terms even after being with Zach 16 years.
Your photography is really adding to the videos, nice to see drone footage of the countryside. Don’t peak too soon with the winter clothes Annie! It’s going to get a lot colder yet! Finn is a nice happy puppy, looks like he is getting on really well.
Thank you! I know 😅 I still haven’t had to bring out the long John’s, so we have some wiggle room yet.
@@SimpleScottishLiving I can see a future episode: The art of layering and Merino Wool!
Hahah yes!!
Lovely video with the walking and music and thanks for the drone shots and views. As otherwise I def wouldn’t see that :) !
Glad you enjoyed it! 😊❤️
The Halloween concoction names are hilarious. So creative. What a beautiful walk. I must say, your filming seems so professional, you both learn quickly. You have such a cute and sweet family. I live in a small town in the mountains of Arizona, about 40k and we have quite a large Scottish population here. Our Highland Games are in about a week or two. Love them.
Glad you enjoyed! We loved the Highland Games but will have to try it again when the kids are a bit bigger and we invest in assigned seating to get the most of it! Will you be going this year?
This has been my favourite vlog so far,family at play ❤
Glad to hear it! Thank you!
@@SimpleScottishLiving just keep doing what you like doing,your vlog is my go to on Sunday morning with my coffee 😊
@@christineduffy348 Awe, thanks so much! As long as the kids don't mind, and we're getting regular views, then we'd love to continue. It's nice having these to look back on as well.
Really enjoyed watching you out and about again this week- you were so lucky with the bright weather for the Hopetoun Monument visit, being able to see the extent of the views from the top!
I love your Hallowe'en potions, you have made a stunning display of the kids' fun creations!
Thank you! We did get lucky with the weather. The crafts are always a favourite!
Beautiful country and adorable family. Watching you guys is a palette cleanse from the news in the U.S.. 😊
Thank you! ❤️
The Hopetoun Monument, colloquially known as the Garleton (or “Gally”) Monument is a special place for our family.
Many spooky videos were filmed there by our sons with their grandparents 20 years ago.
We used to love climbing the hill and the monument.
Glad we could bring a little nostalgia for you! We loved it there and will definitely be back.
So good you keep your children protected in your videos.
Thank you! Its the only way we’d do this :)
The hikes you took looked so wonderful! The views from the Hopetoun tower were incredible! My mother's maiden name is Byers, and my grandfather's family originally was from East Lothian. I noticed the tower was on Byre's hill.
It is! Oh how interesting :) Thanks for sharing and for watching along!
I found you guys about 2 weeks ago and had to binge watch and get all caught up. I enjoy watching you and your family and as a dog lover of course little Finnegan only he isn't going to be little too much longer LOL. I would love to visit Scotland someday it looks absolutely breathtakingly beautiful and historic. My father has Scottish ancestry so it's calling my name. Thank you so much for all the enjoyment I get from watching your videos
Welcome and thanks so much for taking the time to comment! Yes, we adore the puppy phase but look forward to when he no longer has those awful needle teeth 😅
@@SimpleScottishLiving That's funny and I do remember my Yorkies razor sharp baby teeth!!!
😱😱😱my face when I saw the table with no cover on it. Stormy night and cloud in a bottle are my favourites, boring I know. How are the kids enjoying school?
Yep. They need a waxed cotton cloth.
🤣It’s only because we plan to refinish it soon. We bought it second hand, and it definitely has seen some better days! Lots of life left though. Kids are loving school so far. It’s a bit further ahead with reading, but they’re doing well!
@@SimpleScottishLiving They’ll soon catch up. They are lively intelligent children.
Yet another great vlog Zach and Annie. You are creating such amazing memories for your children ❤ Scotland is such a beautiful country ❤
Thanks so much! 😊 it truly is!
Hopetoun Monument -Tip - No joking, it is pitch black in places with bird nest debris on the narrow steps. Use the torch on your mobile phone, especially on the way down. As for the view, superb. In the spring when the yellow rapeseed fields are in bloom it is a patchwork of colour spread in front of you.
We’ll definitely be back to see that!!
What beautiful places to explore and Finn is so cute tagging along. I’ve never been in to celebrating Halloween but I do love crafting with kids and it looked like they had a fun time making potions. I’ve never seen anyone do that as a Halloween decor and I think it turned out cute. Definitely would spark conversation with the potion names. 😊
Haha yes the potion names! They had a few more interesting choices in the mix, but I think they compromised and were quite pleased in the end. We love any reason for a craft!
Some Local walk suggestions,
Community wood in Gifford plus a couple of great dog friendly cafes in the village. Also walks round yester estate and a play park in the village.
Vogrie country park. Nice walks and a big adventure play park. Cafe on site too.
Pencatland railway walk. Long but there are different places you can start from.
Butterdean wood, great woodland to explore and close by.
This is great! Thank you 😊
What a beautiful hike! Thank you for sharing your adventures!
Happy to have you along!
Well zach climbing those stairs with you was exhausting I was on my hands and knees half way up 😂 lovely views though ..I live walking distance from that hobbycraft
🤣 It was steep hence the heavy panting!
no wonder its your favourite place its stunning. bit of triva for you medieaval spiral stair cases where thought to have been built to wrap around in a clockwise direction in order to disadvantage any enemies who might climb them. annie, when you next go to the library they will have a complete section of places to visit and walks in and around scotland and the area you live xx
Good to know! We’ll check that out next time we go. Thank you!
It’s wonderful to tag along as you explore so many different places - I keep adding items to my list of things I’d love to see/do when I finally manage a trip to Scotland! At this rate it might be a 6 month visit, given I’m travelling from Australia!!
Haha you only live once…go for it! 😉 we’re traveling to the borders this weekend and up north the week after that, so hopefully, we’ll have more ideas for you soon!
Hi Annie those Halloween potions you have made with the kids are a great idea. Keep the videos coming, love them.
Awe, thank you! I gave them choices, and that was by far their favourite. A little early maybe, but it was worth it!
On holiday in Northumberland so just seen your video really enjoyed it as usual your such a lovely couple keep up the good work ❤
Thanks so much! 😊
Walked our dog up the Monument for most of my childhood. As an expat in Australia now, love seeing snippets of home each week!Thank you for making these videos 😊
Glad to bring some nostalgia! It’s been so fun exploring!
@@SimpleScottishLiving
Some other good nearby ones to explore,
Gifford river walk.
Through golf course to Amisfield walled garden.
Aberlady Bay - through nature reserve out to the beach.
Pressmennan Wood.
😊
Thank you!!
Just wanted to say you all are creating some truly beautiful videos. The drone views, lovely walks, fun crafts, yummy food shots and the sit down narrative chats are really nice.
I'm so happy I found your channel and look forward to seeing your videos weekly!
Thanks so much! Happy to have you joining :)
great video...lots to see and do in east lothian...north berwick is nice..perhaps a boat trip round the bass rock
Yes, we’d love that!
Falkland is where Johnny Cash's ancestors were from.There is a street with the name Cash Fues and the man himself has actually visited the town
Oh wow! Wish we would’ve seen that. Next time!
Walks look cool 😎! Yes,I've been to falkland, visited Palace & Gardens! Lots of lovely walks around Scotland!
Outlander filmed there as well.
Cash Fues is in Strathmiglo. The Cash Farm is between Falkland and Strathmiglo.
Lovely video, thanks! Scotland is amazing. Please visit some of the beautiful castles too!
We hope to soon! Have to plan in right so they’re not too crowded!
If you keep going up to past the waterfall and up to the road you can cross over and go up either the east or west lomond hill. Some great views from up there.
Putting this tip in the back pocket for next visit. We’d love to return! Such a wonderful area!
@@SimpleScottishLiving i've been a few times with my ex and the dogs , we used to go to the hermitage as well , i saw your video on that walk as well. Glen doll was another favorite walk we did. So all of these places were only an hour or 2 away. Dont think people appreciate the area around them here in scotland.
We’ll have to check that out! Zach says that all the time. He really didn’t know what he had until moving away.
Thank you for sharing your journey! The walk was beautiful!❤
Glad you enjoyed it!
Did you see me waving from the Cairngorms when you were at the top of the monument? 🤣What fantastic views! Another great week and a warm (20c) week to come, it'll be taps aff weather, enjoy it while it lasts and have a great week!
Oh that was you?!! 🤣😉 Looking forward to more taps aff weather before the weather changes for real.
Halloween is my favorite. Also, we decorated our living room last weekend. I loved all the crafts i'll have to do some of them with my kids.
Thank you! So many people thought we’re crazy haha. Halloween only brings back happy and festive memories for us!
Oh I am so jealous when I did my trip of Scotland two years ago none of the tours did the Highland Games. I am always watching the different pipe bands on UTube Rosie and I know all the tunes off by hand. Finnigan is just the cutest little dog sending hugs 💖💕
Thank you! The Highland Games were great, but it definitely deserves a re-do when the kids are a bit older and more time is put into the prep/planning! Happy to share our journey next weekend though ❤️
Scotland is just great. We will be there next week staying close to Pitlochry for the 4th year running. Can't wait to visit the bakery in Dunkeld. Another level!! Thanks for posting.
We were just in Pitlochry yesterday for the Highland Games! That area is unbelievably beautiful. Enjoy!
Aran, in Dunkeld, is a fantastic bakery. The short crust pastry is to die for.
Lovely walk. Of course it’s Guy Fawkes next Nov 5th. I cannot say I have ever been into Halloween it’s like a made up thing I remember from when I lived in Canada. Just me but I think spooky stuff is weird why bring on dark frightening things with no reason for doing so ? Loving your explorations of walks in Scotland ❤Sticky Toffee pudding mmmm. Delicious
Haha to each their own! It was always such a fun time of year growing up, so we want our kids to also share in those happy memories.
@@SimpleScottishLiving To be expected with Halloween so much a part of US culture, it has become more of a thing than it used to be, growing up in the 60's and 70's Bonfire night was the biggie, fireworks were something that our first dog did not appreciate, we had to get sedatives from the vet for him, lovely video yet again, enjoy the games.
I associate this time of year with Burns poems .for a walk consider the Binns above burnisland
Beautiful! Master Finnegan is gorgeous. Just old enough to make mischief.
Haha I love this and will now use Master Finnegan!
South Queensferry ,Linlithgow and Bo'ness is a great place to visit, Linlithgow loch is great for the kids and Bo'ness steam trains and seaside walks are amazing, highly recommend.
Thank you!! We’re looking at the Christmas Bo’ness steam train at the moment.
I live in FIFE you have put your heating on end of the month. Or put a jumper on.
We’re making do with jumpers and blankets for the most part. It’s just the early mornings that are a little chilly right now.
Another fantastic video. Loved the views of East Lothian from the top of the monument. Never been there before and dont fancy climbing all those stairs. Glad you did it on my behalf.
Enjoyed the kids' arts and crafts. Looking forward to your Highland Games video next week. Have a great week. 💜
Thank you and glad you enjoyed! The Highland Games was a great time but much more crowded than we expected. We actually left a bit early as our kids are all a little under the weather, and we didn’t think a late night would do us any favors!
Thanks again. My partner came from Fife and I step time there- so thanks for the memories x
Thanks for joining! Glad to bring back the nostalgia!
A great Autumnal vlog. x
Thank you 😊
So much fun watching your videos. It looks so beautiful there.
Thanks so much! It’s stunning. So fun to explore!
Love this video and love your channel. x
Thank you so much!!
That’s a lot of walking for a little pup. Great video. I lived in Stornoway for a while. Have you thought about visiting the islands?
He’s been doing great and takes lots of breaks as needed with occasional pick-ups from Zach :) Yes, we’d love to make it that way! Where would you recommend visiting first?
@@SimpleScottishLiving Skye is probably the prettiest and easiest to get to.
So many stunning walks guys! ❤
It’s been amazing getting to explore!
Absalutly a fantastic video. Those are two good recipes to try. Love Cullen Skink made with haddock, potatoes and cream. Sticky toffee pudding is a definite SWEET treat. A visit here to Stonehaven in Aberdeenshire has a great walk to the War Museum and Dunnottar Castle but would be best in the not so cold a d windy months … we are on the North Sea coast. However we do have the fireballs to bring in the New Year … that’s worth a goggle. I forgot why I started this comment … oh yes, how are the children adapting? 🏴 👍💕
Great suggestions! Will look into the fireballs as well!
Kids are adjusting surprisingly well! They mostly miss their close cousins and friends, but as far as the lifestyle goes, they’re not complaining!
Wow I'm guessing that potions thing is very American? We never did anything like that. I had a Hallowe'en party once as a child (1960s!) and we did 'apple bobbing' where the apples are floating in water & you try to 'bite' them out, no hands allowed! We never did trick or treating but it's huge here now. Tower would have given me vertigo but I'd have collapsed be4 reaching the top 🤣 Lovely walk with the bridges. I don't know where you are but I'd say to visit 'Cream O'Galloway' if you are ever in that area. It's also known as the 'Ethical Dairy' and that farmer produces milk how all farmers should, without cruelty. Fabulous man.
Yes, I remember bobbing for apples at Halloween, our kids will be happy to hear that trick or treating is a thing here. We'll add Cream O'Galloway' to our list. We are just outside Edinburgh, in East Lothian but are always willing to drive for good ice cream :-)
Try go to Wallace monument & climb up you love (historical next Stirling),they say could see battle bannockburn from there!!
Adding to the list!!
Next time you go to Falkland eat at the Pillars of Hercules. It has an award winning food shop, playground and orchards., all set in a forest. You drove past the entrance as you left Falkland looking for an eatery. I know many people that will travel from Embra to Falkland to eat at the Pillars! Totally dog friendly.
Good suggestion! We’ll do that. So many other places in and around Falkland that we need to visit still.
@@SimpleScottishLiving The children can be in the enclosed playground while you eat at a table outside, so you can still see them but have lunch. You’re not yet hardy enough to do that outwith the Summer though! Next Autumn when you’re walking around in a thin sweater like the rest of us 😊
Glad to hear the Pillars of Hercules is still going. Used to live reasonably close in Milnathort.
@@rosemarymee I used to live in the Crook of Devon, Rosemary! My mother in law stayed in Kinross, next to the Green Hotel.
@@botticellirejectbotticelli2668 I loved that area. Sorry I ever moved.
Annie, this is so cool. How did you think of this? I love it. You’re such such a good mom creative.❤
Awe, thank you! Not sure. We saw little bottles and thought that we needed to do something fun with them!
Always enjoying watching the videos
Thank you!
Some lovely colours in your video today, and the sun made it special. Annie has probably found out by now that dungarees (overalls) are not great when you are out of the home and wearing anything other than a t-shirt as it all has to come off for a trip to the ladies. Been there and done that!
You are right! 😅
That view from the tower and the tower. Might screenshot it and get my paint brushes out
You should! It was stunning!
Omg mushroom, I love it!
It's funny, Halloween was invented here in Scotland, although, I do know in the U.S. it's a big thing. I liked the wee decor bottles you's created, that's nice. Much like your recent previous video, which partly reminded me of Chatelherhault country park near Hamilton, the large building reminded me so much of it.
There are so many of those places I've honestly never been to or heard of and that's the thing about Scotland, because there's thousands of places you can visit and many that end up your favourite that you keep going back to.
A place I went to when took my cousins dog was up at Loch Àrd Forest, although, we took the shorter walk which I'm sure was 4 miles. Honestly, there's hundreds. Don't know if you've ever visited New Lanark with the old cotton factories that has a walk, a walk, by the way, that was a famous trail William Wallace took to escape after an attack on a castle.
Nonetheless, it looked like you guys have had a wonderful time with the walks.
Good suggestion, thank you!! It is crazy how much there is to do/see. Even if we found a new place each weekend, I don’t think we could even make a dent on the amazing spots across the UK. Feels like there’s something new around each corner.
Great adventure bring along💥
Thank you!
Hi Zach and Annie another great video and camerawork! Go online and you can see how popular the Highland Games are in the U.S and all over the world. I'm sure you will enjoy the Games here in Scotland.
Thank you! The Games were great this past weekend. Thoroughly enjoyed them but were taken aback by the crowds! Fun for the whole crew.
Hiya Annie & Zack, do you realise that "Halloween" is actually an ancient tradition started right here in Scotland 👍💙, would like to see you do a video on that 👍 as I'm pretty sure you have alot of American followers that don't know this 👍, Lynne....
Btw, pop into my shop here in Gullane to say Hiya anytime your passing 👍👋
We’d love to come in and say, “hi!” Gullane is a favourite of ours. Yes, we’ll have to add that tidbit in closer to Halloween. Didn’t know that!
I've been up two of the three towers, that one and the one just north of Cupar in Fife (Dunbar lad)
We plan to see the others at some point as well! Do you know where the third is?
Are you guys gonna go to Inverness? I don’t know how far that is from you guys. I’m a big outlander fan. Read the books binge the show about six times love it. That’s what made me go to Scotland two years ago, but you’re showing me things that I never saw there and from the vantage point that I didn’t see, so that just makes me wanna come back more thank you❤
Yes! We’d love to do a whole weekend to Inverness but need to get the timing right. It can be extremely cold and/or touristy where it might be hard to film. It’s on our radar though!
Zach - what is your favourite Walt Whitman poem and why?
To be honest, we didn’t study many American poets here. I don’t think I could name a single one of his poems despite working at Camp Walt Whitman 🫣
When the Weather man said Frost on Scottish Mountains. Thats when i Checked my Winter Coats hats Scarf and Gloves .Dont know why they haven't be Worn since last Winter .
Halloween wasn't a big thing for us growing up. Definetely an American celebration. Trick or treat is American without a doubt. Bonfire night is our next big thing traditionaly and then Christmas. Looking forward to your Winter vlogs :)
Thanks for sharing! What’s bonfire night? When does it take place?
❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
Lovely stuff,and well filmed/edited again. How are the kids adjusting to over here? they seem happy enough,....any things theyre struggling with,or pining for from the US?
Thank you! We think they’re adjusting better than we could’ve expected. Academics (mainly reading) are slightly advanced, but we knew that coming here and did our best to prepare. The biggest change is missing their super close cousins and friends.
Ps. If you are looking for somewhere to go the deer centre is worth a trip it has various animals not just deer..take lunch with you as the fish and chips we had were abysmal 😅
Good to know!! Thank you. Adding to the list!
Zak and annie . What jobs are you now doing to support your family.
Annie kept her healthcare/education supervisory role and is a contractor for a U.S. based company, and Zach works for a company he previously had ties with but is not sharing the specifics of that publicly.