Hairy Coos and Haggis

Over the past few years, my daughter has become somewhat enamored with Highland cows. When I saw a quilt featuring a Highland cow at last year's Box Elder County Fair, I did a Google search to identify the pattern. Fortunately, the pattern was reasonably easy to find, as was an accompanying kit. Despite the multiple pieces of various dimensions, the quilt went together much easier than I anticipated. With the help of a very skilled custom quilter, this quilt became my daughter's birthday present back in February.

To give you a sense of some of the unique sizes of the pieces in this quilt, here's a little close up look at the cow's face.

Here are a few other pictures highlighting the custom quilting work, courtesy of Darnit Dana's Quilting. 

I was even able to find some fleece for the backing featuring Highland cows. Here's a look.

Now, here are a few fun facts about Highland cows, or to be more correct, Highland cattle. 

• Highland cattle originated in the Scottish Highlands and Outer Hebrides islands off the northwest coast of Scotland as early as the 6th century. 
• Although the reddish coloring of Highland cattle is what we are most familiar with today, black coloring was originally the most common.
• Highland cattle have a double coat of hair giving them their fluffy appearance aka "hairy coo."
• Highland cattle can live up to 20 years.

About two months ago, I had the very good fortune to visit Scotland prior to a professional meeting in Dublin. Given that we had spent some time in Ireland seven years ago, my husband suggested spending some additional time in Scotland instead. Our day trip to the Highlands did include an opportunity to meet a hairy coo. Here I am feeding a potato to Honey. 

Before I bring this post to a close, here are a few comments about Scotland:

• If you have the opportunity to visit Scotland, take it.
• Edinburgh is absolutely beautiful and picturesque. Enjoy walking the Royal Mile and take the time to hike up to Arthur's seat.
• Don't be afraid to try haggis.

Before we left on our trip, a neighbor who had spent considerable time in Scotland told us to be sure to try haggis, neeps, and tatties - aka haggis, mashed turnips, and potatoes. I will admit that I've been somewhat squeamish at trying a mixture of minced sheep organs mixed with oatmeal, suet, and onion prior to its being boiled in a sheep's stomach. Our neighbor told us that, to him, haggis reminded him of his grandmother's Thanksgiving stuffing. With that perspective, we gave it a try. To be honest, it really was pretty good. The sage and onion seasoning along with the texture really did make it reminiscent of Thanksgiving. Here's how our haggis, neeps, and tatties were served at Deacon Brodie's Tavern. Deacon Brodie was quite a colorful character in Edinburgh history, but that is another story for another day.

Whether learning about interesting animals or visiting new places, I find our world a fascinating place. I will leave you with this perspective from King David.

The earth is the LORD's, and all it contains,

The world and those who live in it. Psalm 24:1