This morning I returned from a weekend away with Alan and his girlfriend, Zita. We spent a weekend away at a cute cottage in Methven, Perth. Our cottage was an interesting structure that was almost split in two. This worked out perfectly, giving the two lovers and myself privacy. With a pretty garden and a summer house, it was an enjoyable break.

Alan and Zita sitting down for supper
Alan and Zita sitting down for supper

Upon arrival, we unpacked the car and settled down to a quick meal enjoying in each other's company. As it often happens, we found ourselves in a deep discussion about some topic or another. Gradually the light faded and we retired to bed having planned an exciting weekend of plans.

Waking early the next day, we packed a lunch and set out. Having decided to drive to Loch Earn, I was looking forward to the scenery that Scotland often satisfies me with. Being a water lover, I was not disappointed. Driving along the windy road following the loch we saw a beautiful body of water encapsulated by rolling green hills and the sun streaming through to fall lazily upon the shimmering water. Despite how much I dislike the weather in Scotland, it does give us some breath taking sights. We ate our lunch on the banks of the loch entertained by a group of friendly ducks - one of whom bit me when I wasn't paying attention!

Loch Earn
Lunch on the banks of Loch Earn

That evening we headed down to a local pub for supper. We stayed late chatting and eventually were only one of two tables remaining. The couple at the other table was curious about Alan's word board and got chatting to us. I found them rather interesting as their first reaction - as is a lot of people's - was to speak louder to Alan and use over exaggerated gestures. They meant well, but I couldn't help but stifle a giggle at their gestures.

Our last day in Methven greeted us with your typical Scottish day - wet and cold. Choosing to not let it stop us exploring the surrounding areas, we ventured out in search of a river that Alan remembered as a child. Driving through Crieff we paused only long enough to ask for directions as we were on a mission! After much searching, many beautifully winding roads with breathtaking views, we eventually stumbled upon a a bend of the River Tay that had rapids in the village of Grandtully. Sitting on the terrace of the Tay Inn enjoying a steaming hot chocolate it wasn't long before the weather pushed us inside but we were still able to watch the water rushing down the river, dodging all the rocks.

Returning back to the cottage we enjoyed our last night there, relaxing in the lounge before retiring for the night. Overall it was a very enjoyable break and reminded me once again why I like living in Scotland.

Last month I was visiting two of my dear cousins in Texas. Having grown up with them since I was aged four, they are more like siblings to me than distant cousins. Being similar ages our lives are often similar 'chapters' and this past visit made me think quite a lot about the current stage of our lives.

At aged eleven and nine (Craig) we had big hopes for our futures when we first left Zimbabwe and moved to America. Having returned to the States three times since leaving I have felt the change in all of us towards our career paths. Each year our plans would get more detailed and centred around a more specific area. In so many ways, our family has shaped us and the career paths we are currently pursuing. Our original goals for our careers have changed quite considerably since our arrival in Texas but what stood out more from the visit was that we had finally reached the next chapter of our lives. During my two-week visit the 'next stage' was frequently brought up in conversation. With Kirsten and I at University now and Craig due to start next year it was no surprise really but it seems like only yesterday we had high hopes for the future that seemed like it would never come. Well, we're in that 'next stage' zone now.

At aged nineteen, I am now thinking about post-university life and thinking of possible positions I can undertake as a career. Thinking back to that young, naïve child eight years ago I realise just how far I have come. I'm not sad to be growing up, our lives are just getting more exciting but part of me misses that mystery of what I pursue as a career. Not that what I want to do is set in stone, it's just that time seems to be speeding up and already I can see the pages turning as the next chapter of our lives are in sight. I guess I'm just surprised how quickly we have reached this stage as I wonder what the next stage of our lives will bring us.