Alaska Scottish Highland Games

Last Saturday, our family attended our first ever Alaska Scottish Highland Games.

Ray and I both have Scottish ancestry.  Ray loves the bagpipes.  I love seeing men in kilts.  ;  )

Actually, I love the spiritual feelings that stir when I hear the sound of the bagpipes; especially when they play, Amazing Grace or Praise to the Man.  

In fact, when a solo bagpiper started playing 'Amazing Grace,' the words "was blind, but now I see" pierced my heart as I felt my Grandma Lindquist saying:  "I'm still watching over you."  

The event was held at the Fair Grounds.  It was a huge crowd.  I was surprised to see so many people come out for this event in Alaska.  

Our first event, as a family, was the kilted mile run.  That's right.  You had to run a mile in a kilt.  They had some to borrow (which were way too big for the kids. ) But, Stephen was satisfied to wear a super long grown up one (he just hoped it didn't fall off while running. )  Ray decided his daughter must be properly dressed to participate in this monumental event.  So, he took off with McKinley 30 minutes before the race began.  He came back holding hands with his girl, who was wearing an adorable kilt that fit just right.  Good thing there was a vendor nearby.  

Ray ran with Stephen and I ran with McKinley.  My kilt was way too big and totally falling down.  I had to hold the waist band up while I was running.  As I ran by one of the spectators, I said:  "I sure hope my kilt doesn't fall off."  He said:  "I'd like to see that."  I said:  "I bet you would."  ;  ) Then, I began to run faster and hold on tighter to my kilt so that man's wish would not come true.

 McKinley and Stephen checking out some cool cars.

Tug-o-war competition.  It was fun to watch these tough guys.  I always remember how much fun tug-o-war was on field day (back when I was in Elementary School.  )

Stephen and McKinley give it a pull.  Do you think they look just a little competitive?  Stephen is now sporting McKinley's kilt.  Thanks for sharing McKinley.  McKinley won't have to share much longer.  Ray was so into the kilts, that he came home that night and special ordered all of us our own kilt (fit to size.)  He hopes to wear his at the Hatcher Pass Marathon this Saturday (if it arrives in time.  )  The kids and I will also wear ours as we cheer on all the runners.  Does anyone have any Scottish sayings to share that I could use for a cheering sign?   Of course, I will be making a "Touch here for Power" sign Mari.  ;  )

McKinley is flying high at the Scottish Games!  Almost time for cotton candy!  Sweet!

Stephen has a bounce in his step.  Boing!  Boing!

Bagpipe competition.  Several bands from around the state performed.  Judges were very serious as they observed and took notes on the best technique, unity, etc.  It was impressive to watch each group.  They all had a unique style.  We loved this band the most because there were young boys playing the drums.  They had soul and got the crowd into it.  Most of all, they showed respect to their leader (the man you see below.  )  

A great leader for youth.

Have you ever wanted to play the bagpipes?  

If the Scottish Highland Games ever come to your area, it's worth checking out.