Happy Hogmanay… eh, umm, I mean New Years!

Happy New Year All!

As many of you (hopefully) realize, it is now 2015! And last night was New Years! Here in Edinburgh Scotland it is not referred to as New Years but as Hogmanay. And it is no small deal here!

The celebrations began a few days ago with the torchlight procession we attended and culminated last light with a street party, concert & fireworks display over Edinburgh Castle at midnight.

The city closes down the main Edinburgh high street (Princes Street) which goes through the city center and directly under old town & the castle. The road is then transformed into a massive street party (ticket holders only) and the gardens below a concert viewing area. The show last night was Lily Allen.

To say there were rather alot of people would be an understatement with news this morning estimating 75,000, but due to amazing organization on the city's part and pleanty of open space it didn't feel opressive at all! We actually managed to find a remakably open space directly under the castle making for perfect viewing.

In the hours leading up to the fireworks the big screens set up all down the street were playing music videos and some quintesential Scottish favorites!

We were lucky enough to meet up with Lili's classmate Zoe and her friend Georgia, the company was great and made the last chilly hours go much faster! But we deffinitly lucked out with the waether, dry, clear and remarkably mild!

When the show did get started the firworks were stunning, they have really gotten it down to a science, and it shows. The Castle makes for a beautiful background and we had brilliant seats!

After the fireworks it is traditional for the group sing of Auld Lang Syne. Overall it was a great time.

The city busses run for free on New Years so we were able to get home with remarkable ease and placate a neurotic beagle!

We have been truly blessed this past year and none of it would have been possible without the love and support of our families and friends, so thank you so much and we love you all!

Have a safe and prosperous New Year!

More soon!

-L&A