Scotland 2025 – Day 5 – Deeply Indebted – Highland Folk Museum
I am deeply indebted to Kaz and Kathryn at the Highland Folk Museum in Newtonmore, UK for their information and answering a multitude of questions about 18th century life. Today, I was able to ‘time-travel’ to the 18th century with wearing my costume and delving into a village that would be correct for my character, Elen. We took hundreds of photos and copious notes as well as having a lot of fun and laughs with Kaz and Kathryn. Many of the museum visitors thought I worked there and Kaz, Kathryn, and I pretended to be cousins. It was so much fun. My brain is on overload in a very good way. I am extraordinarily grateful to donors who helped make this dream possible. The book is morphing with additional details and richness. When my brain calms down a bit, I can jump into writing. The book is ‘ripe.’
Tomorrow — Cawdor Castle. It’s appropriate for Elen’s time period and she likely crossed paths with the castle. It also has gorgeous gardens that will be featured in a future Meadowood Mystery book. Kilravock Castle is quite close, but sadly not open to the public. Bonnie Prince Charlie spent four days there prior to the battle of Culloden.
Many, many thanks to my friend, Alice Lundgren who created the bulk of my 18th century costume. It was much admired by museum staff and visitors for its beauty and authenticity.
