The Highlands of Scotland are some of the most weatherbeaten, chilly, and wide-open spaces on this planet. A harsh climate has grown a people of diverse origins. Picts, Brits, Irish, and Nordic Vikings came and went....many stayed and thrived, and built a country.

Americans remember their Scottish roots by attending Highland Games. Held in many parts of the country, these games are open to any and all for the price of a ticket. Shorts-clad or in full Highland dress, people come together for one to four days and eat Scottish food and drink whisky. They parade around in their plaids and armor, and watch young men (and women!) toss a caber, a heavy hammer, stones, and sacks of hay. Music of the Highlands fill the air. Bagpipers, drummers, and lassies in their dancing finery grab people's attention. Men strut with a dirk at their side, a sgian dubh in their sock, and a Claymore across their backs, while women cock an eyebrow and enjoy the view.

Want to visit Scottish Highland Games? Check out these websites:

http://www.gmhg.org     July 8, 9, 10, 11 2010....I will be there!

http://www.nhscot.org  Sept. 17, 18, 19  2010...I will be there!