Why yes, we are still alive! And things have changed around here. For one, we have a baby now. But then, I suppose most of you knew that.

This past weekend we had the opportunity to attend our first Scottish Festival. "Anderson" is actually the 8th largest name in Scotland, but our Anderson's are not Scottish (rather, Danish). However, Tory also has Balentine blood, which is full-blooded Scottish. Unfortunately we didn't recall that fact while at the festival.

Above you can see my girls at the start of the festival, watching one of the pipe contests. This was a pleasure and it was fun to see the group. Notice anything different about Beth?

 The Scottish uniforms look good, but only if you pull them off right. Kilt, vest, and an appropriate cap, if any. Some people had kilts with regular t-shirts or baseball caps, and those just spoiled the look.

 Yes, they even had some women out in the group. They were looking very sharp.

 It turns out that the Scottish festival is a gathering for everything and everyone who is interested in European pre-Renaissance fantasy glory -- swords, skulls, corsets, hip flasks, long hair, beards, etc. Some of it sparked crafty ideas in Bethany.

 Yes, that guy had a real sword strapped to his back. Now, the edge wasn't sharp (of course), but it was a big sword! Nothing less would do for a true Scotsman, I suppose. This is definitely more manly than the Chinese stars in the tent you see there; like I said, gathering place for all kinds of stuff :)

Finally, some of the women's outfits were really cool. But oh, the scandal! As opposed to English sensibility, here the corsets are worn on the outside! What is this, Barbados?