We’ve been away to the mainland for a couple of weeks holiday. It was such a lovely chilled time, staying with family, catching up with friends and doing a bit of sight seeing. It was very restful and I really felt as if I spent proper time with everyone.

I’ve already shared most of my pictures on my instagram account grid, or saved in the #summerweetspot highlight, but I kept a few for here.

Nowadays, I prefer visiting cities, when I’m on holiday. I love the buzz and vibrancy of an urban environment - a complete contrast from where we live. I hadn’t been to Glasgow for a long while, and we enjoyed strolling around the Merchant City area. There was a street food festival on at the time too, so a perfect day in the city.

We had a trip to St Andrews too - I worked out that I hadn’t been there for almost 20 years - far too long! It was delightful walking around, admiring the ancient university buildings, enjoying an excellent lunch and visiting the best bookshop I’ve been in for a while. I’m now trying to persuade James to study there when the time comes.

I also really wanted to see The Kelpies - and they didn’t disappoint. We arrived one evening, after the visitor centre had closed, so we could’t get inside. That didn’t matter, though. I was happy just to stand and gaze up in awe.

Then we spent a couple of days in Edinburgh, again - just wandering around. it’s always very busy at this time of year, but there are some quiet spots to be found, off the beaten track. This is Dean Village, one of my favourite parts of Edinburgh. (I may even have a Rightmove Property email alert for here…)

A visit to The Georgian House in Charlotte Square was also on my list. I can’t imagine why I haven’t been here before, but it was amazing. Such a fascinating story and the guides were so lovely and interesting.

I thoroughly enjoyed it and would definitely recommend a visit if you are in the city. I think the Georgian proportions and symmetry appeal to me, and the understated elegance of the decor - very inspiring.

And there may have been more book shopping… There were certainly plenty of good times, sunny days, coffee shops and eating out,. Lazy mornings, long conversations and reminiscences - perhaps even a few “cocktails of an evening” …

But all good things come to an end, and now we are home - trying to hold on to those last few precious weeks of summer. Hope you are having a good season xxx