I've Seen The Sun...And It Was Good

The sun surely does shine in Scotland.  I saw it today - albeit briefly - but it was there.  I mentioned yesterday that I have walked quite a bit, although my walking has been confined mostly to Old Town (our flat is in New Town).  Edinburgh, however, is quite large, with the population hovering around 490,000 people.  It is the second largest city in Scotland (Glasgow is the largest), and it is the capital of of the country.  Geographically, Scotland itself is roughly the size of South Carolina.


Today was my first official day at the Institute.  Having been introduced to many interesting people from several countries, I found that the IASH is indeed a vibrant place and a haven for academics, especially those historians interested in Scotland.

National Library of Scotland

I also visited the National Library of Scotland - located on George IV Bridge Street - where I will spend quite a lot of time researching.  Before being allowed in the library, you are required to register as a user, present proof of address in the UK and submit a photo ID.  

Rose Street Mosaic

After spending the day at the Institute I began my walk to our flat on Rose Street, which takes approximately 20 minutes.  By this time the sun had all but disappeared and the wind was gusting, and I happened to spy this piece of art someone tactfully placed outside the University of Edinburgh library:

Well, it did crack into the 50s today, so this might be a slight exaggeration...

I think even honey badger would run...

My good friends the seagulls are back.  Not that they ever went anywhere, but seagulls in Scotland are different from those in the states.  For one thing, they are mean.  And loud - they sound like excited monkeys.  And big.  I should say about the size of a large cat (Sweetness-sized).  I witnessed one this afternoon destroy a bag of garbage and make off with a milk jug.  Why a seagull needs a milk jug I have no idea...At any rate, I was called into action when that same gull returned and attempted to fly away with a poodle.  No, not really - I realize you are not that gull-ible.

Does Danger Mouse live under this phone box?