Somehow, it’s always a connection to Iowa that drives me to sit down and post to my blog. I send my apologies to those of you who continue to check back regularly – only to find I still haven’t updated you with a new post. Much has happened since I last sat down to write. To be honest, I’m not entirely sure where to start.

First, my connection to Iowa. I was at one of the local pubs after finishing at Deacons last night. As I was waiting to order at the bar, I heard a group of people with American accents order – “Captain and Cokes.” Their accents were enough to at least let me know they were form the US, but so was the way in which they ordered their drinks. Most Scottish folk would order a ‘Morgans and Coke.” A small difference, but considering many of my waking hours are spent working in a pub, this was enough to clue me in to their nationality. Curious as to where they were from, I asked them.

One of the guys in the group said, “We’re from Iowa. Do you even know where that is?” I chuckled and pulled up the leg of my jeans to show my Tigerhawk tattoo. “I’m actually from Iowa myself,” I told them. They were quite shocked and said, “What? But you have an accent!” I don’t think I’ve quite picked up a Scottish accent – but, I think it depends who you ask.

Since sitting down last, I’ve said hello and goodbye to my folks. They were here just about one month ago for two weeks. We had a terrific time and spent some of our time here in Edinburgh and some of our time traveling the Highlands of Scotland. It was fascinating to get out of the city and see other parts of this country which has been my home for the past five or so months. The Highlands provide breathtaking scenery at every turn – lochs (lakes), glens (valleys), and bens (mountains) are everywhere. We hired a car and were out of Edinburgh for just over one week. It was great to again see and spend time with my parents – it was hard to believe it was six months since I had last seen them last in Ireland.

I was glad they were able to spend some time in the city with me and see where I’d spent my time for the last five months. My home, if you will. They were able to stay in the flat with Brian and I – we branded it the M & B B & B (Matt and Brian Bed and Breakfast!). They spent some time with me in Deacons and were able to see me work one evening. I took them to many of my favorite pubs. And, they got to meet Nicole – a girl who I’ve been seeing for the past two months or so.

If you follow the below link, you will be able to see some photos from the week.

I’m still not certain what I’m doing with my life. I’m taking it day by day. I’ll have to leave Deacons at the end of this month as my visa expires. I’ll most likely head to mainland Europe for a week or so before coming back into Scotland on a temporary visa. Ideally, I’ll find some sort of employment and work through the end of August so I can stay in the city for the Edinburgh International Festival. But then again, who knows?