Day 2 - 190 -- Strangers all around

The day began with some errands -- trips to the two grocery stores and the gas station. What should have taken an  hour took two. All places were busy today. It is Friday, but there was more to it than that. The gas station was training a new cashier and there were 8 or more of us crammed in the little place hoping to pay <smirk>. Once a second person took on those with credit or debit cards, the line moved along quickly. The grocery stores were very busy -- filled with many people who appeared to be visitors to the area. Groups of tourists are in town for the big cultural festival this week -- the Highland Games -- the ancient heavy games run this weekend as well as dancing and pipe band competitions. The others that were most visible were the old and young hippies and a mixture of colourfully dressed folks. These were all stocking up for an outdoor concert this weekend somewhere in the woods outside town. Walking down Main Street later there were many people taking photos of the area, some speaking languages not usually heard on the street. (All our downtown street signs are tri-lingual -- English, French and Scottish Gaelic).

This time of year is interesting. Meeting visitors, often to help guide them somewhere, can be fun. Learning where they are from can be enlightening. I've met people from Europe, Australia, and across North America. I guess I take this little town for granted sometimes and forget how unique it can be for visitors and residents alike. The summer repertory theatre opened yesterday and the multiple beaches in the surrounding area are ready for use. We also had a couple large conferences on campus this past week, with visitors from across the country. The population of 5000 people swells in the summer due to all the visitors. This economic activity keeps the local businesses operating.

A song that came to mind today speaks to the positive aspects of meeting new people as well it carries a hint of 'hippy-dom' <smile>. Enjoy!

Hats Off (to the Stranger) -- Lighthouse